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

[jeanneg]

Thanks, Sandy.......you're such a sweetie to continue to monitor our list! You can add Denise and (I think) Hope as well as Doreen to the parasailing at CC. Which reminds me.......did anyone get a printed confirmation regarding the excursions? I haven't received anything but I did get a verbal from the CM. Last year I recall getting a mailed or faxed confirmation for our Tulum trip.

Oh and BTW, Sandy, I changed my St Thomas excursion from Buck Island to St. John when I discovered it was not the same Buck Island we went to in St Croix.

[jeanneg]

Originally posted by gometros
[
WHo's going to bring me back a chocolate souffle? :) [/B]

You know I would if I could!

[jeanneg]

Welcome home, Shelley. How was the wedding? I take it Jay didn't have to wear his Follies costume and perform in drag........!!

I am also thoroughly confused about choosing a Palo night. When the woman calls (or you can call her....I have the # somewhere) ask if she knows what the themes are for each night. They used to do the ordinary rotation the first three nights, but I just saw something on Barb's site that said you will have the first rotaion restaurant menu on Sat, the next on Monday and the next on Wed. You still go in the same order (LAPLAPL, etc) but they put some of the specialty menus in between now. I don't want to miss the first night because it's kinda rude to not meet your wait staff and tablemates, and I definitely don't want to miss lobster tail night (Captain's Gala). This will be Nikki's first time cruising with us so I'd like her to experience the Animator's show and also Tropical night......OK, so how will I know which night is safe for Palo? The kids are coming with us this time so if we're not there they won't be either. We don't have the REAS this sailing but I'd like to know so I can do the ressie dash (with Denise!) as soon as we get on board. Eating two dinners (as some posters have suggested) is definitely NOT an option! I will be eternally grateful for whatever light anyone can shine on this subject!

[sbennett]

Jeanne;
The wedding is next Saturday, July 10th, also Kristofer's 11th Birthday.
I will try my best to find out what rotation we have and what nite is what and let you know.

[wendym]

Sandy - how I wish I could send you a souffle or cook you one in person! Thank you for doing the list.
Jeanne - how I envy you being packed - I haven't even thought about it yet! However Mum has been buying chocolate for the children and she did buy maramlade for the weeks before the cruise - don't ask why!
Haven't got a clue about the rotations and expect they will change things for this first cruise - it could be anything. Read somewhere we are going to be met in San Juan by folklore dancing and rum samples - sounds like a great day!
Wendy

[jellybungsters]

dats us!!! woohoo our 1st disney cruise!

[eye R.N.]

For the new folks, there is a 12 year old daughter in our family, they should all be in the same group.

Wendy, hope you have a pic of the RAF outfit.

Dis brunch is Monday at 11:30 for anyone who would care to come along, just PM me the number of folks and your room # and I'll take care of that reservation.

I was thinking the DIS meet could either be on Deck 10 during the sail away, Secret deck 7 before the lifeboat drill, or with so many young folks, we could have them wear their swimsuits and meet at the Goofy pool at about 3:00 to 3:30. What are everyone's thoughts?

Jeanne, I am so jelous you are organized. We are having a yard sale next week and I haven't got that going yet, packing seems light years away.

[MBFergie]

SBennett-I would go ahead and call Debbie to make your reservations for the REAS. She is wonderful to deal with and had no problem with me calling her directly. With the popularity of the package, it would stink to pay the $$ and have conflicts because so many others had the opportunity to schedule before you. I posted her # a few pages back.

[jeanneg]

Wendy: glad you survived your camping experience! That sounds wonderful about our reception in PR.....I forgot, are we actually the first cruise to have the new itinerary? If so, nobody has a clue as to what the menu schedule is. MBFergie: when you made your Palo ressie, did they say anything about it? Shelley: please try to find out what you can when you call. I can't do it because my REAS is for the 10/2 sailing which has a different itinerary.

Denise: I'm still leaning towards the deck 10 meeting place during sailaway. I think 7aft is too far from the action and the Goofy pool is probably too close. Also it's probably not a good idea to do it before the safety drill. Some people arrive a little later and have to deal with spa, Palo and Flounders ressies in addition to unpacking. Last year one of our bags was mysteriously missing until after sailaway and we were busy with trying to track it down. We would have been unable to do much of anything during that time. I think the deck 10 location is good because we can be part of the whole sailaway party without being engulfed by it.

[sbennett]

Jeanne: We vote for Deck 10 during the sailaway party. I'll call Debbie (REAS) tomorrow. If you have the number: PM it to me. WE'll have the same Lime Green Mickey heads as at the last cruise. We picked up new ones at Home Depot, so we're ready. Are we doing dinner in port on Friday night somewhere? Let us know! It will be great to see you all again. :bounce: :wave2: :Pinkbounc

[wendym]

I am prettty sure we are the first to officially go to San Juan. I would vote for Deck 10 for the Sailaway also.
Wendy

[mom2missmous]

Sooo many things to think abou! Just trying to catch up.. I understand people are planning a get together during sailaway? Sounds like fun can anyone come? If so, I'll have to run that by the rest of our little crew. I hope they can let us know ahead of time what the special menus are as we can't do the reas pkg (dh and myself not doing spa treatments this time. only dd is ) so we will be doing the ressie race at boarding ( I hope they leave SOME spots open for us poor non- reas folk!) Also, We plan on doing the walking tour of old San Juan: is anyone else booking this?

[wendym]

Everyone is welcome! It will be so nice to put faces to you all. We aren't doing REAS either - don't fancy romance with my mother! We are planning doing the easy rainforest tour but hope to get time to wander round old San Juan later.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Yes, yes, the sailaway party is for everyone. Please come one and all so we can put faces to names, as Wendy said. Nobody is obligated to "hang" with anyone, but it's nice to walk into a lounge or theatre or even an excursion and recognize a familiar face. Last year we were about 20 families that posted and about half of us showed up for the sailaway get-together. Some we never saw again, but others we seemed to run into all the time and friendships were formed. When you're sailing with several thousand people it's nice to see a familiar face now and then. But nobody is going to drag you into an activity you don't want to do.
So please show up, meet everyone, and then go about spending your vacation however you desire.

Shelley: I think Denise said something about doing dinner on Friday at Grills which is right near the port. I think I will try to find their web site and see what I can determine. We will be driving down Thursday so it's a little harder to plan for that evening since one never knows what situation may be encountered on the road.
We definitely want to do that Dixie Crossings restaurant again, but at this point I don't know if we'll do it before we check-in like last year or backtrack after we arrive at the hotel. I think it's about 30 minutes north of the port.

Donna: When you go into Beat Street (or wherever you go to make ressies for dinner) you will see a big presentation board that lists all the scheduled themes for each evening. It used to be that the first 3 nights were regular rotation only, but I understand it's recently changed. Unless you have REAS or a concierge room, there's no way to pre-book your Palo night, but you can certainly plan ahead and try to determine what night you wouldn't mind missing. I'm willing to forego the regular Lumiere's, regular Parrot Cay, Master Chefs or Tastes of the World as long as they're not the first, last or formal night! I'm hiring Shelley (she works for conch coolers!) to see what she can find out when she calls.

[smahoney6]

Hey- for Shelley- when I called Debbie to make our reservations- she said that they have not decided the best dining rotations for kids/large groups yet so I made my palo for mon night hoping it works out......go ahead and call though because some times were already booked for the spa.....
:)

[mom2missmous]

Thanks Jeanneg and everyone for the advice! Yes, we are headed right away to deal with our ressies as soon as we board (this is our third cruise, but our first seven day! so have been through some of this). What concerns me is that it seems a lot of spaces may be booked for reas before we even board! I fear that no "good times" will be left! We already have an idea (as you suggested) of what we are willing to miss, but I hope they leave some spots open for those of us who need to book as we arrive (last time reas did not book ahead except for palo dinner, and the pkg was not nearly as popular back 'then"). I talked to dd (20) and dh and they would like to meet up with everyone at sailaway. We might want to join other times too that I think I recall seeing mentioned here on the board; if there is still room and it fits with our plans. Tea sounded great ,but I hate to leave poor dh out as he has never had a chance to do the tea either (I understand it is a ladies only thing for the group??) Looking forward to "chatting more with you all and meeting you soon!

[jeanneg]

Donna: I wouldn't fret about getting a good Palo ressie. I've never been very far forward in the front of the line (I've sailed twice before and I've been on the second and third queue) and have never had a problem getting the evening and approximate time I wanted. I'm more concerned about choosing the wrong evening for what we'd like to do. Different people have different preferences. And remember there are so many more opportunities on the seven day. I think the spa treatments are harder to get because they can only accommodate a limited number of people at any given time. As long as you're in line before they start boarding you should be fine.

BTW, all the activities listed are open to everyone. I don't think the group Palo dinner is going to happen.......I opted out of that a while back and I think some others did also. We basically decided that one night of Palo was too much food to do twice within a week.

About tea.......I am not the one to say who can and can't come. Last year we began ladies only and some of the husbands wanted in so we opened it up to everyone (18 and older). If the guys want in again, it's fine with me. I personally think it's the sort of thing that's more appealing to the ladies but then again, I ain't making the rules. Please do bring your DD to the sailaway.....my 2 daughters are 20 and 22. Jen(20) has sailed with us twice before but this will be the first cruise for Nikki (22). Last year she was studying abroard in Great Britain and the previous time she was enrolled in summer classes and working.
My daughter has always done fine meeting people on the ship. My son (19) is now claiming that we'll have to pry his fingers off the dock to get him on that "that boat"....he is quite shy and finds it very difficult to meet people in this type situation. Maybe now that he's a college kid, he'll be a bit more confident.

[sbennett]

I will do my best to find out what night is what....will call tomorrow from work. Conch Coolers or those Cocoloco's are good!
Dixie Crossings sounds really good for Friday Night. You could get in touch with us at the Radisson and we could meet you there. Grills sound good too which ever one is fiine with us!

Since we have a Disney CM (Sorry I forgot your screen name but I know it was funny) joining our group this time around is there anything you can find out ahead of time?

I feel slightly better now, I've packed for my niece's wedding for this weekend, whatever we don't wear WILL stay clean and pressed until the cruise....or mommy won't be happy!!! And I think we have enough clothes for the cruise since I've sorted through stuff and the kids both got new clothes for their birthdays. Not bringing tuxedos for Jay or Kristofer or gowns for Courtney or myself this year, too much stuff to bring. We'll just have nice clothes to wear Jay's got a sports coat for Palo's Dinner.

Hope everyone had a Happy and Safe Fourth of July!!

Won't be long now!!!!

[mom2missmous]

Belated happy 4th of July to everyone too! It is nice to have "someone" who undersatnds our excitment over Disney! Thanks again, Jeanne and sbennet for the info; we plan to be at port asap that day. It sure will help, though if we all have an idea of what meals are planned on which day before hand! We are planning on spending the night before the cruise at POR (we are driving down from ct as soon as my class dismisses at 3:30 pm:( ). Sooo, we will need to put on some serious mileage to get there in time ; but we have made the trip many times in the past so hopefully it will work out. TTC is picking us up from resort in am around 10 (I think I will switch it to 9:30), so hopefully we will make port at right time ( will park van at BCV awaiting our return there after the cruise, already cleared that with resort:tongue: ) My DD says she would love to meet up with the other young people( although she is a bit shy;! at first)

[jeanneg]

The correct names are Dixie Crossroads and Grills....you can find both online. The menu for Grills is very nice and it's close to the port. They even have a 10%off coupon that you can print from your computer. Either one is fine with me, but I suggest anyone who is interested take a look for themselves.
About high tea........any other men interested?

Shelley: I just may follow your plan and leave the long dress at home. I'm so much more comfortable in my Chico's pants and I can always dress them up with a piece of jewelry. There's a wide range of what would be acceptable formal wear and I think I'm going to go with comfort. Speaking of comfort, I ordered my bathing suit today......what an ordeal.....finally settled on one with a little skirt.......I've become my mother at last!

[sbennett]

Unfortuneately couldn't find out much information from Debbie when I called for the REAS reservations except that they believe that Captain's Night will be Sunday.
Since it's a new itinerary it's all subject to change and she said she gets daily emails from the head mouse about schedules.

I tried really hard to get as much info as I could.....sorry. I really wanted to know too since I too didn't want to miss any of the special nights. We booked Palo for Wednesday which is San Juan at 6:30 so if there is a special that night we could still check it out.

[jeanneg]

Thanks for trying.....

Guess we'll have to wait until we get onboard to know for sure. Now, I don't want to throw a monkeywrench into your plans, but according to the old schedule, Wed is the WWTBAM show. We need all the support we can get in the audience just in case one of us gets the hot seat. If you have an early dinner you'll end up with the later show. BTW, I just got a reply from someone who just got back from the most recent Eastern and she said the Captain's Gala was on Thursday on SEMI-formal night (which was what we had last July). As I said, guess we just have to wait and see when we get on the ship.
BTW, did you choose the full body treatment or mini-massage with facial? I was leaning towards the latter, but Debbie said the other one was much better so I chose that. Now I'm scared because I've never had a massage before and am very concerned about getting naked! What can I tell you, it's the 12 years of RC schooling in me!

[sbennett]

Jeanne,
Debbie was pretty sure that Captains Gala was set for Sunday but they were still working out the other specials.
We're going for the wellbeing full massage. Your fully draped for the massage (at least the last one I had I was) I even remember leaving underpants on no bra though, but that was just so the back massage wasn't hindered in any way. I'm sure if you are uncomfortable about undressing all the way they make adjustments. My first massage was by a guy from our church who got his massage license and gave me a coupon for a free massage any time so I took him up on it when I was having problems with my back last year.....it was wonderful....a little nervous since I knew him but he was very professional about it.

[jeanneg]

OMG, the thought of taking off my bra and letting those mommas loose is enough to make me cancel the whole REAS! You mentioned a GUY masseur......do they have those on DCL? I'll need a paper bag over my head so as not to hyperventilate! maybe I can just pretend he's Johnny Depp........

[sbennett]

:earseek: :earseek: :earseek: :earseek: :earseek:
Jeanne, Jeanne, Jeanne, Jeanne....oh how you make us laugh
:cloud9: You'll feel like you're on cloud nine when you're done.
I don't know what type of massage people they have on the ship, maybe Denise knows.
Johnny Depp is a good thought though I'm trying to think who I'd imagine it would be......:scratchin

[DonnettaR]

Just wanted to know if anyone has received their documents yet. I know that tomorrow is the 30-day mark, but just wanted to know. Thanks

[sbennett]

JeanneG has and we're all jealous!!

Hi Donetta are you new to our little group? Make sure you supply your info so Sandy our web guru can add your info.
Who's traveling and ages, cabin#, seating for dinner, late or early, excursions. etc.

Welcome!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

No documents or excursion info.!

Has it been decided exactly where we are meeting on Deck 10 and at what time?

I vote for meeting before the safety drill (around 3:00PM or 3:30PM) because afterwards, everyone with early dinner seating will be rushing back to their rooms to get ready.

[wendym]

Oh Jeanne Mum and I are in stitches! I am sure the costume will be lovely and nothing like you are describing! Mum had the same worries you have about massages but she now loves them. However I wouldn't recommend going for what I have just had done - I went for a spray tan but not like the one Ross had done in Friends, this one the lady sprays you (with you being as naked as you want to be!) with an airgun! I couldn't trust myself to operate the booth myself but this was rather embarrassing! The lengths I am going to for my friend's wedding:earseek:
As for documents I read on the boards that somebody else in the UK got theirs for the week after us but no sign of mine - won't panic yet but we leave on the 19th!!!
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Hmmmm....about the documents......maybe Mickey just wants us to sail with him more than anybody else! Actually, I just checked the dates to make sure they have me on the right cruise and it's fine. The funny thing is I have the docs for John and myself but the ones for the kids cabin (right next door) haven't arrived yet either. Go figure......

Wendy: please be careful with those fake tans.....Jason used something right before his prom and ended up orange! We don't need an oompaloompa for a dining mate!

Disneycruiseluvr: most don't have their documents but the excursion info came weeks (months?) ago. I would definitely call about that.

[wendym]

Jeanne
No danger of me being an oompaloompa - I am far too chicken to get a darker tan! It just looks like we have actually had some sun for a couple of days and as it has been raining non stop for days I couldn't leave it to mother nature.
Hope everybody's documents turn up soon.
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

Ok here's the deal. Taylor is not coming, it's a long story and those that know him can ask me on the cruise. I might be able to laugh about it by then.

Now I have two rooms and four people. It should be no problem to drop a room and move us all to the catagory 8 right? Wrong! The ship is now closed to parties of four. The only way it could happen is if I am now quoting Tammy

"It is a bit complicated, but it can be done. It would involve the other
party you are traveling with (according to DCL). The ship is closed to
parties of four people at the moment, so we would have to move you into the
Category 8 with Andy and Chelsea. This would bring the price of that
stateroom to $3797.80. This price does not account for any payments made to
date on the reservation or our rebate offer. Then you would have to book
Hope into the stateroom with the other party you are traveling with on this
date. The cost to add her to their stateroom is $652.60. Since that other
stateroom is not booked through our agency, that person would have to
request the addition of Hope on their reservation with DCL. I was advised
that DCL would transfer the money from your Category 11 reservation to their
reservation to cover Hope. Then you could all stay together in the Category
8, as the stateroom you are assigned to will accommodate four people.

I don't have a clue who they are talking about. My doc's came today and between work, driving 6 hours round trip to pick up Hope and this. . . I don't even feel like opening them.

Thanks for letting me vent guys.

[jeanneg]

Denise: Take a deep breath and calm down......we'll find a way around this. I read your post 3 times and I still have no clue what's she's talking about, but what I think it might be is that they will let you have Hope in your room as long as she is listed on someone else's reservation ....... probably one of the people tied together for dining. I called about a month or so ago and asked about the possibility of adding our older son Adam to the cruise. At that time there were still a few availabilities for cabins of four, but the price was astronomical. My 3 kids have a Cat 9 and it would have cost over $1200 to add him to their room. She warned me that I really had to act quickly because they were filling up the foursomes fast. We could add him to ours because we're only 2 in the room but it's a Cat 6 and that price was several hundred higher. The price she quoted you seems very reasonable. Is this Tammy from DCL or another travel agency? If you ask, will she tell you who she's referring to? Honestly, I wouldn't mind adding an additional person to our room if I knew it was just a paper reservation....the only tricky part would concern tipping the room steward, however if both groups had the same one, it would be no problem at all. Call her back and see if you can get more information.....there's got to be a way this can be done. Regarding Taylor......he's a teenage boy......you don't have to explain....been there, done that. I'll say a prayer it all works out.

[wendym]

Denise
Hope could be added to our reservation as we are in a category 11 which sleeps 3. I've sent you a pm which has telephone numbers of our travel agent and other details in it. Of course I would be leaving in a couple of hours time and Mum doesn't use the PC but she has my full authority to do what she can to help!!! (And of course as soon as I explained it she said the same as I did!)
This will all work out!
Wendy

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Denise,

I'll be keeping you and your family in my prayers too.

[gometros]

Damn, wish this all happened a month ago, before I cancelled our reservation. We had a four person cat 6. I'm so sorry that your plans are getting complicated at the last second, but I am sure it will all work out.

If Elana wasn't going to Israel, I'm sure she would have loved to help you keep the two room by joining you guys and keep Hope and Chelsea company :)

[eye R.N.]

We'd have loved to have Elena to replace Taylor.

I've done the math, now that I'm calmer. With that lovely $400 stateroom credit we will be giving up, the cost difference in doing all this swithching is just not justified.

Chelsea will be thrilled. Hope is a sound sleeper, so 2AM room service won't be waking anyone.

Thanks for the support guys, you are the best!!!!!

[EPCOTgrl1]

well... i am glad that we are in 2 rooms... I mean my dad just told before i got on here. and i have a feeling that hope will be awake!

[jeanneg]

Hi guys,
I went to the movies today and they showed a trailer for "Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement" which opens up on Aug 11th! Seems to me that will probably be our red carpet movie. BTW, it looked like it was a really cute movie. "King Arthur" is another one that will probably be shown on the ship along with "Around the World in 80 Days". Looks like I'll be spending some time in the movie theatre this sailing!

Denise: Glad everything worked out for you. Having a room for just you and Andy will be very nice, I'm sure. This will be the first time we'll have a room to ourselves and I am SO looking forward to it. I don't mind having the kids so much as I mind dealing with their mess.......last time we tried ordering roomservice breakfast on the first day and the poor waiter couldn't find a clutter-free spot to put it down! Never attempted it again for the rest of the trip.

[wendym]

I am so glad it has worked out Denise. I can just imagine all the math going round your head!
I also think Princess Diaries will be Premeared at Sea - I love that type of film. Went to see Shrek 2 the other night and that was hilarious!
I've finally got my digital camera - cannot figure how to downlaod pictures yet but Mum and I have been having some fun with my new "toy"! Hopefully by the time of the cruise I will have it sussed!!
Wendy

[EPCOTgrl1]

O good another premear on the ship! remember last cruise PotC came out? and they had that camara set up outside... and the annoying little kids doing stupid thing? did i mention that one of the boys was my friends little brother? o well.... i am exicted!


So as mommy said we got our paperwork in.... problem is they mispelled my name! does anyone know what to do? like who do i talk to to change it?

[sbennett]

We're back from the wedding and stuck between our screen door and front door were our papers! Can't believe they left them without us having to sign for them!
The wedding was wonderful....my niece was GORGEOUS! It rained (outside wedding) but we moved everyone into the covered pavilion and had the wedding where the reception was.
Courtney caught the bouquet! It was the first wedding she's ever been to, so she had no idea what to expect!!! It was soooo funny, the little boy (around 10 years old) who caught the garter, ran up to her as she was sitting in the chair in the center of the dance floor and THREW the garter at her and ran away. Everyone cracked up!

Chelsea (hope I spelled it right!) just call DCL and they should be able to correct the spelling in their computer and probably have corrected documents at the dock when you check in. Glad your mom got things straightened out.

[luv2boys]

Hey everyone. We are leaving on Wednesday and will be on the July 22 Wonder. Nicholas is doing good. Keep the prayers going!!!

[sbennett]

Hi Amy,
Have a wonderful trip and glad to hear the good news about Nicholas. You'll all remain in our prayers.

Say Hi to Mickey for us!

[gometros]

Shelley - Sounds like a nice wedding. I can't believe you had rain. We had a gorgeous weekend up here.

Amy - have a GREAT time! I'm so jealous.

Can I ask a favor? If they still have the DCL July 4th pin, can you pick me up two? I'll gladly reimburdse you for the cost and the shipping. If not, don't worry about it. Thanks.

Elana was in Once On This Island this weekend. She played Erzulie, the Goddess of Love. She was wonderful (of course). Today they start casting for the next show, Starmites. Btw, Sara is working as a production assistant there.

[smahoney6]

Has anyone else realized that we're going to miss the start of the olympics? Should I even care?? I am kinda sad even though I know I'll see the good stuff sat night.....(maybe that will make me not so sad to be off the boat :teeth: )

[jeanneg]

Sandy: I'd be happy to pick up the pins you wanted. However since I am not a collector myself, can you tell me where to find it? (i.e., souvenier shop or special event thingy?)

Speaking of Olympics, we watched 2 of Jen's team mates swim during the trials on Sunday. Both were from her YMCA teams- one from her former team in NJ and the other from here in Raleigh. Neither one made it to the Olympics, but the butterflier placed 6th and the breaststroker, 10th. Really quite amazing.......

Having lots of trouble with my internet connection....had to go through a back door to get on line and the darn thing keeps freezing up on me.....

Shelley: glad you had a fun time at the wedding. I hope I'm totally finished with college expenses before we have to deal with weddings. John always tells the girls that if they'll elope, he'll spring for a really nice ladder.

Amy: have a FABULOUS time! be sure to tell us all about it!

[luv2boys]

Sandy,

I made myself a note to look for the pins. I kicked myself for not getting one last year too.

[wendym]

Amy - have a wonderful time although we wish you were with us!
Sandy - we'll look out for the pins too - mum collects them.
I'm sad about the Olympics but would much rather be on the cruise!!! I think one of my ex pupils is going to be on the GB swim team.
Jeanne - my dad made me the same offer of a ladder! Your wedding Shelley sounds as good as the one I was at but debbie didn't throw her bouquet - I would have been positioned right at the front!
And yes we got our documents today - had to get them specially delivered as we fly out next monday - Mum is breathing a big sigh of relief!!
Having major problems with my PC - having to do this at school which doesn't allow me to access me hotmail and aol emails - I hope they mend my PC fast!!!
Wendy

[gometros]

Amy - if there are any left, they'll most likely be at the pins tation in the lobby (which is usually open from 7:30 - 8:00pm, or in Mickey's Mates. You can ask one of the CMs if there are any left. Thanks.

[sbennett]

Where is everyone.....packing? That's what I've been doing all evening....just Jay's stuff left to go then sort and weed out extra stuff.
Got our car back from the Auto Body Shop....thank God...it rides soooo much better than the loaner cars we had. We're taking it to FL when we drive down so I'm glad it's back.
Corey's been accepted at Kid's Peace, now just waiting for the school district to send them the packet they need and I guess we'll be making a trip to PA to take him down there. I've told them we CANNOT do it from 8/1 to 8/16 since we'll be out of town/country.
We're having a severe thunderstorm here now so I'll be signing off until it passes.

:umbrella: :umbrella: :umbrella:

[jeanneg]

We've had some really bad storms 4 nights in a row and I think something happened to our lines. Yesterday it took me 45 minutes to open up 2 emails and I had to go through a back door to get into those. If the lines don't dry out by the weekend, we'll have to haul our server into the shop for some diagnostics. It's awful how much we rely on computers. At least in the new house we won't have dial-up. We are now 60-90 days from closing so I did the mortgage thing this week....still don't have the present home on the market yet, which is making John crazy, but I really can't deal with it until the kids are back in school. What I'd really like is a cleaning lady, but I'm the type that cleans for the cleaning lady so that kinda defeats the purpose!
Shelley: good news about Corey....I hope it all works out this time. Does he know the rest of you are going on the cruise and how is he dealing with that? I've decided I don't want to take my large suitcase, so now I've also got to eliminate some items so everything will fit in the mid-size one. Last year I packed too many nice things and not enough stuff for just bumming around in.

[sbennett]

Jeanne
No Corey doesn't know we're going yet...or at least I've never told him we were. I'm not sure how he'll handle it so that's why we hope they transfer him soon to PA and then he can be there getting acclamated an we can stop there on the way back up to Long Island.
He was frustrated when we saw him on Tuesday....got the attitude "why should I try to earn a higher level (privilege) I'm getting out of here anyway!" We tried to tell him it would look better if you maintained the good behavior and went to Kids Peace with some positive things rather than going there with severe restrictions....he just doesn't get it.
Don't you just hate packing ....you think "I'll need this and that" and then you go and use half of what you brought. I've cut way back from last year and know I've still overpacked.
Jay's taking a sportscoat and that's it (jacket-wise....don't think he's only going to be wearing a jacket!!) no tuxedo this year.
I don't see why we can't wear nice shorts to dinner most nights...
I hate to lug 5 or 6 dresses nor do I want to wear the same dress everynight! And since Jay and I are going to be losing more weight (alot more to go ....I don't want to talk about it...I've given up on it for now until after the cruise) I don't want to go out and buy new stuff.

[eye R.N.]

This weeks yard sale has been consuming all my attention. Other than getting out the snorkle gear, and filling in paperwork, nothing is really done. They spelled Chelsea's name wrong so that meant a call to DCL

Wendy and Mum, have a great flight out and a wonderful time before we see you.

[wendym]

Hi all
PC is finally back and working (for the moment!!). Denise, you have probably done more than we have - haven't filled out our paperwork yet but will do that tomorrow. Our cruise case is packed - we have tried to cut down but I don't do light packing!!!
Shelley, we will both be praying for Corey and that everything works out.
Jeanne - I would go for the cleaning lady definitely but then I don't do cleaning unless I have to!
So looking forward to meeting both old and new friends. Although we fly off on Monday I will check on this thread now and again. Mum sends her love to you all.
Wendy

[gometros]

Wendy - if I don't log on before you leave, have a safe flight and a great trip.

[jeanneg]

Wendy and Doreen: Have a safe journey. Enjoy the first part of your holiday, but remember the best is yet to come. I can't wait to see you guys again. Now that some of us are already departing for vacation, it makes the cruise seem that much closer for the rest of us. See you soon!

[wendym]

Thank you all for your good wishes - we cannot wait to get some sun! We haven't managed to sit outside all summer so far. But of course the best bit will be seeing everybody again - Sandy I am getting the hang of my digital camera so will be able to post the evidence of what we get up to - who is warning the dining room staff?!
Now let me see if I have got everything straight - meet at the sail away on Deck 10 (although I am sure we will bump into some of you checking in if not at Grills the night before), Palo Brunch Mon at 11.30 and High Tea on Thurs? I will check in on this post a couple of times but don't worry if I don't post - we don't have a lap top - still trying to convince Mum she would use it!
See you on the 7th!
Wendy

[sbennett]

What time are we meeting at Grills and who all is going? Can we make reservations?

Are we still doing the high tea and is it ladies only or are the guys coming too now, I forgot....sorry. I'm writing everything down now.

We've gotten our snorkle stuff all set now....Jay still hasn't figured out his clothes, but now he's talking about taking his tuxedo! (he got used to wearing it for the show!)

Kids are deciding what they want to do at WDW for the 3 days we're there before the cruise. Aug 3,4,5.

Chelsea, question for you. How is Mission Space? Is it really wild or can you close your eyes or something if it bothers you. Jay's not sure if he want to go on it or not, of course the kids do.I figured since you have all the connections down there, you'd be the one to ask what the ride was like. Jay gets motion sick, Star Tours didn't bother him but Primevil Whirl at AK did.

[sbennett]

Just got a call from my youngest niece (22) sister of the bride from last week.....she's engaged. They plan on a summer 2005 wedding. They live in Burlington NC. Jeanne do you know anything about Burlington? My sister says there's some kind of China/Crystal/Silver place that has replacement items for all patterns. It's apparently 4 hours from Edenton where my brother & sister in law live and 4 hours from where my newly married niece lives in WV. My brother says "you couldn't give us some time to recoup from your sister's wedding?" I told her you gave them a week!!
We all knew it was coming just not when. Everyone was betting on a Christmas engagement.

[eye R.N.]

You can close your eyes but you'll still feel the G forces. Andy can't do virtual rides so he tried it once and passes now. I've done it several times. My advice, take their advice, don't look sideways during the ride. I did to answer Hope's questions and it triggered a migraine. I've ridden since looking straight ahead and have been fine.

If Jay doesn't do the ride have him meet you at the game in the post show area. Chelsea, my sister and I really had fun playing it last time.

BTW, we made enough in the yard sale today to pay for Ron Jon :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[wendym]

Shelley, I am so glad that somebody else couldn't keep up! I couldn't remember if we decided to meet up the night before or not but Mum liked the look of Grills so we will be eating there - probably head there about 6.30 - 7.00ish. I tried to make reservations the last time but they wouldn't take them but I am not sure if that was because it was the 4th July. I think we decided that High Tea would be for anyone over 18 but again my brain is mush!!!
wendy

[jeanneg]

I've had terrible computer problems and we weren't able to get to the repair place today so it will be a few more days before I'm up and running. I 'm using the kids' old computer right now and nothing is cookied so everytime time I post it won't go through.
Sorry about not doing a better job organizing the tea. This is the LAST REQUEST for interested parties. Since the reponse has not been overwhelming, let's keep it ladies only and let me know if you're interested. I'm going to aim for Sunday at around 3:30pm since we are going to try and meet for lunch on Thursday at Parrot Cay and Monday is the brunch. If we have close to 14, I'll try to get the private room; if it's fewer, as I anticipate, I'll make the ressie when I get onboard. So far it's me, Wendy, Doreen, Denise, Chelsea and Shelley. Also please let me know if you're interested in having lunch on Thursday at Parrot Cay at 12 noon. I need a fairly accurate count of the # attending so I can give a heads up to the wait staff the evening before and maybe they can set aside some tables together. Grills sounds good for Friday night. Wendy, if you have a chance please let me have the name and phone # of your hotel so we can confirm with you. Likewise Shelley.....I know you'll be at the Radisson but when do you arrive? Should we exchange cell numbers by PM? Anyone else out there interested in joining us is definitely welcome! Keep your fingers crossed I can submit this post.....I keep losing everything I type....Grrrrrrrrr!

[sbennett]

Jeanne
Just pm'd you with cell numbers

[eye R.N.]

Pre-Cruise get together Grills Friday night 6:30 or there abouts.

Sailaway DIS Meet
Deck Aft During the sailaway party
I'll bring the bubles for whoever is interested

High Tea Sunday 3:30@ Palo Respond to Jeanneg

Palo Brunch Monday 11:30 or as close as I can get the ressies Respond to eyern on board or as PM

DIS lunch Thursday Respond to Jeanneg here or on the boat by Wednesday?

[wendym]

Mum has asked me to thank you all for your kind wishes - she thinks it is wonderful that you are thinking so far in advance and of course I think it is wonderful too!
Roll on 6.50am flight tomorrow!
Wendy

[wendym]

Denise and I must have been posting at the same time! If you bring the bubbles, Denise, tell Chelsea I will be bringing the Cadbury's chocolate - if it hasn't melted by that time!
Wendy

[EPCOTgrl1]

WOOT i get Cadbury Chocolate! i get Cadbury Chocolate! :) i am sooo happy! i pray that it doesnt melt!

Ok so there was a question for me and my mom answered it. Just to add on to what she said... if Jay is going to meet you at the game he will be going through the gift shop. Tell him to make sure that there isnt a cast memeber standing by the door. you really arnt suppost to go in that way! they game is really fun!

[sbennett]

Chelsea,
Can't you get Cadbury Chocolate in MD? They sell it up here in the grocery stores.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Have any families from this group cruised together before? Just curious.

[sbennett]

Yes! Most of us cruised last year on the Magic. We had a fantastic time and so we are cruising again! Join the group, it's a blast! You will never find a group of more welcoming people.!:earsboy:

[sbennett]

I'd be happy to try to make arrangements for Grills on Friday night if I have some idea of a head count... or if someone else hasn't already done so.

Jeanne,
You have me down for High Tea on Sunday, and all of us for Lunch on Thursday? (maybe the kids will do Oceaneers...but better put them down just in case)

Denise,
You have both of us for Brunch right or is that the Ladies only one?
Deck 10 for sailaway right so we're looking over the pool area, or are we going all the way aft?

Pardon my stupidity, but I'm trying to get all this settled so if we get a call between now and then to take Corey down to PA, I'll have everything settled. School district sent improper paperwork (IEP was expired) and we're now pushing them to get them the right one. Time's getting close and the drive to PA will probably end up being a 2 day excursion with admission and all so we'll really be cutting things close. We intend to leave here 8/1 to drive to WDW for 3 days first then to the port for the one night then cruise. If it doesn't work out, his admission will have to wait until after we get back.

I see my husband posted under my name before.....gotta watch him!
:magnify:

[gometros]

Originally posted by sbennett
I see my husband posted under my name before.....gotta watch him!
:magnify:

Lucky that he didn't say anything that would get you into trouble :eek:

Disneycruiselvr - do not let the fact that some of the cruisers know each other from a previous cruise. I had the pleasure of travelling with them last year and a friendlier bunch you cannot find. Heck, we even shared a jacuzzi together :)

[sbennett]

...and we all wish that Sandy & Judy were able to cruise with us again this year!
:grouphug:

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Thanks gometros, I could tell this was a close bunch! I'm looking forward to meeting everyone.

We'll probably be going to Grills on Friday night, but I can't commit to a time because I don't know what we'll be doing that day.

We'll definitely be at the DIS meet on deck 10 Aft during the sail away party. I guess if I see bubbles and a young lady eating a Cadbury bar ... I'll know it's you guys!!

[sbennett]

Are we doing the Green Mickey Heads again? It would probably help the new people find us. For the new people, Home depot has Disney paint chips and they come in the shape of Mickeys head, pick up the lime green ones. We put our names, screen names and cabin number on them last year and wore them to the sailaway party.

[EPCOTgrl1]

I would just like to say that the candy is better from over sea's.... trust me i have tried it. :) but dont count on me eating it the first day... i will wait!

[jeanneg]

I still have mine from last year and it's already tied to my day bag. I don't expect anyone else in my party to wear them!
Our ranks have just increased........my oldest son, Adam, will also be joining us. It turns out one of his projects got sidetracked and he'll be free the week that we're sailing. Our cruise is fully booked but the CM said if I called several times a day something would come through because they don't take from the wait list until they close for the day. So if someone cancels it remains open inventory until the end of the day and you just have to hit it at the right time. I called today and sure enough they had an opening. It's costing a small fortune, but it's one of those "priceless" experiences. We're going to fly him into MCO the day before (red eye) so we can take him to the outlets and make sure he has something decent to wear! Now 2 of my kids will be cruising for the first time and the other 2 for the third. At least Jason is a little happier now that he has a buddy!

Anybody know if they'll show "The Village" on the ship? I think it opens the week before we sail, but it might be too scary for a Disney cruise. Shamalyan's movies are usually PG-13 though, so maybe we will get it.

[gometros]

Originally posted by EPCOTgrl1
I would just like to say that the candy is better from over sea's.... trust me i have tried it. :) but dont count on me eating it the first day... i will wait!

So, who's going to save me a bar so I can put that to the test? ;)

We decided as compensation for missing the cruise this year, we're going to make a long weekend out of taking Sara to school this year. I've never seen the Inner Harbor and I want to get down to DC one day to see the new WWII memorial and visit the Museum of Jewish Military History.

[EPCOTgrl1]

Darn all!

well first i will be happy to see if the candy makes it to the ship.... then if it does i will be sure to save you some! Second to bad we (well my mom and i) are going to be on the cruise.... then we could have met up with you all! but everything that you want to see is very nice.

[sbennett]

Jeanne,
Congrats on getting your son on board! Persistance pays off!!

Sandy,
We drove past the WWII memorial a couple of weeks ago, since it was raining and getting dark, we didn't get out and walk around and we had Jay's 83 yr old mother with us. She wanted to see it too, since Jay's dad served in WWII and they contributed to the Memorial. We were very impressed by it. Someday we'll stop and walk around DC too....maybe next year! My youngest niece is getting married in NC in August so we're planning our vacation around her wedding. May not be doing a Disney vacation next year....unless the offers on the ship are really good again!!:earsboy: :earsgirl:

[gometros]

Chelsea - actually, we're not taking her down to Towson until the weekend of the 27th.

[jeanneg]

Shelley: You'll have to come visit us when you come to NC next year! BTW, I have some info on that china replacement place....I just have to find it. When i do, I'll bring a copy of it with me on the cruise. I've never been there but I have used their mail-order service. The one I'm thinking of is about halfway between Raleigh and Greensboro because we were driving to my daughter's apt (she just moved to Greensboro) and I noticed the billboard marking the exit for it. I recall making the comment that we had gotten our replacement pieces from there and someday we should stop and take a look. I think the actual name of the place is Replacements.

[EPCOTgrl1]

Sandy- i am assuming that is the 27th of aug. I was just thinking how late that school starts. I start the 25th. which is a little strange cause that is a wednesday. o well!

[eye R.N.]

Been a busy week

Shelly, Brunch is open to anyone over 18 . I have both of you down as going and would love to see some of our new friends, heck, we had never laid eyes on each other till last year. Keep pushing for the IEP. I know how frustrating that can be.

Sandy, I'll be sure Chelsea doesn't eat all the chocolate. Once we get back, let me know your plans, we can meet at the inner harbor, so I can deliver it. By then we should have pics to share.

Can't believe I'm down to the details. The girls will be getting their hair done pre-cruise. All it is costing me is snacks. Dog sitter is arranged. I still need to call the credit card company, after last year I'm not taking chances.

As for Grills, Chelsea and DH will be at EPCOT all day on friday, (imagion that) so it depends on what time they get back as to what time we'll be there. For DisneyCruiselvr, if we are there you won't be able to miss us. We'll be the ones with two young ladies with cornrows.

[MBFergie]

:Pinkbounc :bounce: It's finally hit me, in 15 days we will be on the Magic!:bounce::Pinkbounc

So who better to share my excitement with then my fellow cruise mates!!

Since my DH & DS were offered incredible seats for the Florida Marlins Baseball game on August 6th we've decided to drive to the ship Saturday morning, about a 3 hour drive. Please say prayers that we have no problems!! Thank god I booked REAS and won't be freaking about reservations.

My body is aching to lay on a deck 4 chair and feel the breeze as the ship cuts through the ocean. I can't wait to stick my fork into the chocolate souffle at Palos. The thought of chocolate chip cookies 24/7 makes me smile. Haha, nobody can bug me on my cell phone (too bad work)! Lastly, I'm looking forward to receiving some BINGO LOVE!!

Hopefully we will get the opportunity to meet everyone at the sail away party. In the past my kids liked to be on the dance floor so don't know if we will get up to deck 10.

:wave: bye bye for now

[sbennett]

Hi everyone,
Well we're 3/4's packed.....just Jay's stuff left to do, he's got to go through things and decide what to take.
We'll have plenty of room now too....we just bought a new Freestar Van (picking it up today). You know how they say after an accident the car's not the same even though it's been fixed like new? Well they're right! Started having idling problems the car kept stalling out and then the CD player died and who knows what's next.....since we're driving down, we didn't want to have to worry about breaking down somewhere especially in the middle of the night along those long lonely dark roads in the Carolina's & GA.
We're assuming Corey going to Kid's Peace won't take place until after the trip, since we're still waiting for the acceptance letter and corrected IEP and then they have to go through NY State Compact to approve the transfer etc.
Can't wait to jump in the van on 8/1 and head south. We'll be stopping in 2 spots (1st night will be slightly south of Washington DC probably...next night who knows where depends on how much driving we want to do) to spend the night since our ressie at WDW isn't until 8/3.
:hyper: :goodvibes :jumping1: :goodvibes :hyper: :jumping1:

[FLGalInTN]

Woo Hoo

First, I must apologize for introducing myself, asking a few questions and then seemingly bugging out on this thread. I have been so busy at work I can barely see straight. But I have been keeping up with all your posts. lurk, lurk, lurk

The documents are all filled out and the last arrangements have been made (kennel for the pooch, mail held at P.O., etc). Best of all, I found a fantastic cocktail dress (sexy black beaded sheath) at a boutique for only $53!!! I still need shoes, but that won't be too tough. I have a hair appointment next weekend for a cut and highlights. I have not even begun to pack because I'm leaving on Sunday for a business trip to Germany. Can you believe it? I'll be gone for 5 days. Then the frenzy begins...

EyeRN - Do you recommend calling the credit card company before we leave? What was your horrible experience?

MBFergie - Did your son like the clubs? Mine is such a social animal. I think he will like them, but who knows.

Does anyone know if the schedule has changed because of the different itinerary? Is formal night still on Sunday, semi-formal on Thursday, etc.? I'd really like to know this as it will help me in planning when to make reservations for Palo. We decided not to do the REAS since neither DH or myself were interested in the massages (crazy, I know). The only excursion we booked is the 5-star St. John Snorkel.

So, you get the green Mickeys from the paint sample cards at Home Depot? I won't be shunned if I show up with one at the sail-away party will I? You'll all be saying "Yes, that's her. The Lurker".

I am getting so excited. I can't wait to be sailing!

[MBFergie]

FLGalInTN - My son LOVED the clubs. On our last sea day last year we went to the clubs about 4 times to see if he wanted to come with us to the pool, lunch, bingo, ect.. and he kept saying go away!! When we made hime go to the show and dinner he was not a happy camper at first. This will be his first year in the lab and he's excited!! How old is your son?

When I spoke to Debbie she said as of then (3-4 days ago) their were no changes in the schedules. She didn't know if they were doing anything special for the first time the Magic would be in San Juan, PR. She wasn't sure if there would be a tropical night..and if there is what night it would be.

[FLGalInTN]

MBFergie - My son is 8 going on 16! Well actually he'll be 9 in September and starting 3rd grade this fall. Maybe we could introduce our guys at the sail away party and your son could fill him in on the clubs?

Chelsea - I noticed from your messages that you are a fan of Cadbury chocoloate. So am I (total chocoholic here). Next week I will be in Germany on business and I plan to bring back some of that country's best chocolate. It's pretty darn good. If you have any of that Cadbury's left we'll have to do a comparison tase test.

I look forward to meeting everyone. I'll be the one with the stupid smile on my face and the drink of the day in my hand!

Cynthia

[wendym]

Hi all!
Sorry this will be quick but others are waiting to use the email machine!! Anyway having a great trip - weather is warm but no rain which is unusual for this time of year. We did mission space - i loved it and thought was that it - mum however came off quite badly and took the rest of the day to recover - but she wasn't sick!
Jeanne - thanks for the number. Sandy - I will get you some chocolate!!! Haven't time to check the rest of the messages today but will another day - apologies for the spelling is there any typos - see u in 2 weeks and 1 day!!
Wendy

[wendym]

Got our green mickey heads with us! And please don't worry about us knowing each other - we are really friendly!!!
Wendy

[smahoney6]

flagalintn- ( did I get that right??) I have an 8yr old son who thinks he is ready to go try out for the atlanta braves....we need to try to introduce them at the club. Won't it be nice to get over jet lag on a cruise! See you 2 wks from today!

[eye R.N.]

Great I won't be the only one with a beaded dress. You are my hero.

Last year we used our card in Mexico in a non Disney recommended shop. Several weeks later we got a call from the company. Someone was charging dinner and car parts on our number. The next statement I found about $500 worth of other charges that got through before they caught it.

They issued a new card but this time I'm not taking chances.

I'll pick up some extra Mickey heads at home depot, so anyone who wants can make name tags.

Have fun in Germany.

[eye R.N.]

Tell Mum sorry about mission space. Can't wait to see you.

[MBFergie]

Hey Smahoney6-We definetly have to hook our kids up. My son is obsessed with Baseball. Playing it, watching it and spending all his communion money on buying baseball cards!! Hopefully the boys can all meet at the dismeet.

[jeanneg]

Welcome Cynthia,
Glad to have you join the group! Do you know your cabin #? Early or late dining? We're also doing the 5 Star St John excursion.....it will be nice having people we "know" on the trip with us!
MBFergie: Please come and join us on Deck 10 even if it's only for a few minutes....at least this way we can put names to faces. Then if your kids want you to be on Deck 9 for all the action it's perfectly fine.
Shelley: that place in Burlington where you get the china/crystal is the same one we pass on the way to my daughter's home. I have a card from them and I can either bring it to the cruise or fax it to you. Just let me know which you prefer.

Finally got my computer back from the shop....it's so good to have it back!

We had the first showing of our home today. Maybe it was a good thing I had no computer last week......it enabled me to clean house with a vengance! We have a few people that are interested in seeing it before we list and if that doesn't result in anything we'll sign with a realtor before we leave. This way they can show it all they want while we're away. Selling a home is never pleasant....I've done nothing but scream at my kids all week and they' must surely hate me with a passion right now. I definitely need this cruise!

Less than 2 weeks to go!

[sbennett]

Anybody else have problems getting on disboards yesterday and today?

Went to the Neurosurgeon today....I'm going for my Third ESI
(Epidural Steroid Injection) Wednesday morning at 7am. The doctor wants me to be the best I can for the cruise, and since I'm still having slight pain and diminished nerve response in my left leg, he feels this will help. He also wants me to walk every hour during the drive down, at least around the van a couple of times so I'm not sitting for hours on end (my end!)
Courtney & I are getting our hair done on Thursday and I'm getting my nails done so we're all set to go.

Shelley :flower1: :flower:

[jeanneg]

Shelley: When will you be leaving?
Denise: what about you?
Anybody else staying at the Ron Jon resort?

[sbennett]

We're leaving Sunday right after Jay's Mass ends....around 1:oopm. We'll probably drive until about 9 or 10pm depending on weather and traffic and how my back feels.
We're staying at the Radisson again this year..but will meet you all at Grills on Friday around 6:30ish. Are we going to try to make reservations or just wing it. We plan on going to Kennedy Space Center on Friday with the kids after having left WDW that morning.

[EPCOTgrl1]

we are leaving Aug. 4th! that is a wednesday after my mom and dad get off of work. That will leave my sister and i to get all the odds and ends done that day! well will get to florida sometime on the 5th. and then grills on the 6th! o man 7 more days till we leave!

[jeanneg]

Chelsea: your mom said something about you and your dad going to Epcot and maybe not getting back in time for Grills. If we schedule it for around 6:30, will that work? We'll be 6, Shelley,4, Wendy, 2 and 4(?) for you guys. That makes 16 not counting any new people who would like to join us. I haven't been there before so i'm not familiar with the set-up or if they even take reservations, but I can certainly call and let them know we are coming. Is anybody else interested?
Shelley: Kennedy Space Center is awesome....and you can even do lunch at Dixie Crossings which is located in Titusville (but save room for Grills later on!)

Denise and Andy: meet you by the pool on Thursday evening....I already have the wine chilling!

[sbennett]

Last time Jay & I were at Kennedy it was BC (before children) so it's been 11 years. Hopefully they've made some improvements. We were a little disappointed...we took the bus tour, and it was hot the AC wasn't working right and it kept dripping on us from the ceiling of the bus. I don't remember them having the IMAX theatre then. Thought the kids would enjoy it, seeing things upclose.
Had my steriod injection this morning in my spine....ouch! It hurts a little more than it has in the past post-injection. But he says I should feel like I'm 18 again for the trip.....look out!!!

[EPCOTgrl1]

We will leave the park so we can be to dinner by 6:30. It isnt a problem. I am just going there to say Hi to everyone! and to catch up with everyone cause a lot has happened since the last time i have been there. and my dad is going cause he doesnt want me to drive up there alone!

[jeanneg]

OK, I will call next week and ask them to set aside a table/ section for 16 at 6:30. If anyone else is interested, let me know.

[luv2boys]

Hey everyone,

I'm back. Sure did miss you guys. Never met the two or three people I talked to on the boards.

The three day did not go by as fast as I thought that it would. However, I noticed a huge difference in service and friendliness of the crew. Our wait staff in the restaurants were not very good. We were spoiled last year with the best.

Sandy- I did not find the pins. I looked and asked everywhere and they were all sold out. Might want to have someone check on the Magic. I talked to someone on Castaway Cay who knew Andrea and Zorn. They have both left the ship and are expanding their stores that they own. Sandor is still on the Magic.

[sbennett]

welcome back Amy & Family ....sorry you didn't meet up with people from the boards and that the servers weren't as good as they should have been....hope you had a great time anyway.
But then again how can you not have a good time with Disney!

[gometros]

He told me that he may go back to Hungary and focus on their business. Good for them.

Sorry about your servers, but as Shelley said, I hope the rest of the cruise was wonderful. I'm curious how it was after doing the 7-day.

Elana called me from home and said that there was a package from Wendy mailed from Orlando. What did she do now! :bounce:

I'm a disaster. I have this bad habit of getting some kind of stupid injury right before we go on vacation. NNow, I know we weren't going this time, but somehow my jinx didn't get the message. Last week I got mad at a vending machine that wouldn't release the item I was buying and I tried to body-check it jar it loose. I guess I hit it too hard, cause I felt something pop. It started really bothering me on Tuesday, so I went to the orthopedist. He said a fractured a rib. Like I said, I'm a disaster!

[sbennett]

Sandy...Sandy.....Sandy.....
What can we say? Hope you mend quickly! So what did you get from Wendy? Cadbury chocolate?

[eye R.N.]

My to do list isn't getting shorter, the more I do, the more I remember I need to do. LOL I am brining two bottles of wine, one for Ron Jon's and one for the ship, once the vacation starts I will drain them both!!!

Sandy, did you at least get your snack?;) Seriously I hope it heals quickly.

Shelley, have a safe trip. If you need to stop between baltimore and washington you can always hang out here. Someone will always be home between now and the time we leave. Andy is offically on vacation now. I have to wait till tues.

Back to my to do list. Safe journey to all. I can't wait to meet both old and new friends.

[jeanneg]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by eye R.N.
[B]My to do list isn't getting shorter, the more I do, the more I remember I need to do. LOL I am brining two bottles of wine, one for Ron Jon's and one for the ship, once the vacation starts I will drain them both!!!

LOL on this end as well........I'm also bringing wine.....we'll be in fine party mode by the time the cruise begins! I invite anyone in the area to join us at Ron Jon's Thursday and Friday evenings. I'd like to do a Carlos and Charlies re-enactment with Doreen!

Just a few things......."the Village" is now playing on ther Magic.....can't wait to see that one!

Denise: sent you a PM awhile ago but it's still unread so I guess you never got the notification. It's mostly old news, anyhow.....

Shelley: I know you're heading out after Mass tomorrow.......have a very safe journey. Enjoy the scenery on I-95....you know, "chile today, hot tamale!" and "I never sausage a place"....makes me ashamed to admit I live in that state!!!!!!!
Tell Jay I'll be disappointed if he's not in drag......real kisses and hugs to both of you in a few days!

sandy: sorry about your battle with the vending machine! BTW, what was your pre-vacation injury last year?

[musicalSaranader]

Hey dad, you told us you didn't want it to leave the house how you broke your rib...now you're posting it on the internet?? :rolleyes:

[sbennett]

Thanks for the invite Denise, I'll be fine. All we have to do now is load the van, everything's packed. Kids have their movies picked out to watch and games to play while in the car so they'll be quiet and happy....yeah!!!

Love those South of the Border signs...but what a tourist trap. Last year we stopped there with the kids so we could see what the deal was.....we weren't impressed.

Hate to disappoint you Jeanne, but Jay won't be in drag! I know Johnny's not in "The Village" so do you have a new boy toy?
I've heard mixed reviews on the movie....might consider seeing it obviously without the kids!

Hope everyone's saying their prayers re: the weather for the cruise. What happens if there's a problem? (I won't mention the "H" word).

See you all at Grills on Friday nite at 6:30. We'll be checking the boards up until 1pm tomorrow...then we're on the road.

[wendym]

Shelley et al have a great time - we may bump into you in WDW!! The weather here has been hot but really very little rain. Sandy has got some chocolate! Glad the package got there - trust your post more than ours!! Sandy - please take care of yourself!!!
I'll tell mum about the carlos and charlies reenactment - at the moment as she is doing the driving (being a non driver has its advantages!!!) she is not drinking although I have left her in the villa with a glass of wine. We are bound to have forgotten something for the cruise but as long as we have our documents, passports and credit cards we will be fine!!
See you Friday night
Wendy
x

[eye R.N.]

evryone is packed but epcotgrl1 and she is on her own;)

What is the name of the rock shrimp place in titusville? I'm thinking dinner there on thursday.

[sbennett]

45 minutes or so and counting, just waiting for Jay to get home from playing Mass and he'll get changed and we're out of here. Hope we miss most of the rain they're predicting, but figure we'll be heading right into it.

I think it's either Dixie Crossings or Dixie Crossroads....Jeanne has posted it to me before but can't think of it right now....toooo exxcited!!!!!!!!!!

See ya'll soon.

[FLGalInTN]

It's Dixie Crossroads! If you guys get there, have some rock shrimp for me. I was born and raised in Titusville and I really miss that place (the restaurant, NOT the town).

Well, I'm back from Germany. What a trip. I might be over the jet lag by the time the ship leaves the dock on Saturday. I want to apologize for not answering questions in a timely manner, but I had no internet access on this trip (horrors!). I got home late Thursday and it has taken me this long to read all my e-mail and get caught up on laundry. DH kept the house clean and the dog and kid fed, but the laundry was piled sky high.

Eye R.N. - Thanks for the tip about the credit card. Car parts?!?! Oy. I'll let Discover and Visa know we will be on vacation next week just to be safe. Yay! You have a beaded dress too. Now if I could just find shoes for the darn thing. Why did I leave that until the last minute? :confused:

smahoney6 - It would be great to get our sons together. My boy likes baseball but it is football he is truly crazy about (Tennessee Vols and Tennessee Titans, to be exact). My SIL and her family live in the Atlanta area so my DS roots for the Braves to be supportive of his cousins. :D

MBFergie - My DS spent all his first communion money on something called Crazy Bones. Has that fad hit your area? He's already talking about bringing them on the cruise with him but I keep telling him there is so much to do on the ship he won't need much outside entertainment.

jeanneg - Thanks for the welcome. Our family is in stateroom #7512 and we have late dining. We won't be able to join everyone for dinner at Grills on Friday night as we are flying in to Orlando later in the evening and spending the night at the Marriott. I'll be driving us over to the port the next morning. I can't wait to do the 5-Star St. John excursion and yes, it will be nice to "know" someone for me too.

I'm already starting to wake up in the middle of the night thinking of new things to put on the "to-do" list. :rolleyes: Thank goodness my son is spending the week at his grandmother's. I might even manage to get the packing done by the time he returns on Thursday. I am SO excited! I look forward to meeting everyone.

Cynthia

[jeanneg]

Oh man, what a day.....I just spent almost 6 hours in the ER passing kidney stones.....not fun! The only good thing I can say about today is that I'm SO THANKFUL it happened this weekend and not next. By the time I had my cat scan, all but a very small one had passed, but the microscopic results confirmed their presence earlier. It is so nice to be pain-free once again. I'm supposed to see a urologist in 5 to 7 days, but we know where I'm gonna be, so it'll have to wait. They gave me a script for some meds just in case I have another flare-up, but if I have to take them it's curtains for the conch coolers! Now if I could just remember to drink my 8 glasses of water a day, maybe i wouldn't be in such sorry shape.

Denise:The restaurant is Dixie Crossroads at 1475 Garden Street in Titusville. If you dot-com their name you'll find everything you need to know.

[eye R.N.]

I hope Shelley and co. are already past DC today. I expect 95 is going to be a nightmare. We usually take a back route and avoid it till somewhere close to Richmond

Gail, I'll have a rock shrimp in your honor.

Jeanne, Oh girlfriend, you have my sympathy.

Now I have to remember to pull out all the insurance cards, and AFLAC paperwork to have with me.

Having Taylor stay at home is turning out to be a large hassel, maybe I need to get another bottle of wine.

[EPCOTgrl1]

I would just like to say that the only reason i am not packed is because i have been working A LOT the past week or so.... cause out of a store that had 8 people we had 5 leave and one go on vacation this weekend..... and one person was fired so we have to cover his shifts too! so i havent been home that much!

[gometros]

Jeanne - sorry about the kidney stones. I've had them and I know how not fun they can be.

Sara - looking for sympathy fom a few close friends is NOT posting it on the internet. I wasn't getting any sympathy from home, so I had to get it from somewhere :)

To add insult to injury, I did not get what I wanted. I had to buy another one just to get it! But I learned my lesson. No more battles with iimovable forces.

And the injury last year wasn't so much an injury, but a bad blister from too much walking in the parks.

Wendy not only sent me chocolates, but a book on Celtic Rangers (a Scottish Football Club) and a book about a famouse Scottish cartoon character whose name escapes me a t the moment.

Elana is all packed and ready to leave for Israel today. Boy, I wish I was going with her.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Jeanne - Wow! Passing kidney stones sounds like it would be a <b>very painful</b> experience!! You're right, it was a real blessing that this didn't happen while you were on the cruise. I'm happy to hear that you're feeling better and I will keep you in my prayers for you to have a "pain-free" cruise and that you will be able to enjoy those conch coolers!

My kids have their packing lists ready and we're slowly getting organized for this trip. Not quite there yet. DH packs the night before. I went through the whole "Best tips" list (that took quite a while!) and found some new ideas that were very helpful. It's definitely worth checking out. Like someone mentioned before, my "to do" list seems to be getting longer instead of shorter!! I know everything will get done somehow.

Hope you all have an event-free week and a safe trip down to the port.

See you all soon!
Linda

[jeanneg]

Thanks for the well wishes.......I'm feeling fine now. Kidney stones are kinda like childbirth: once it's over you feel great!

Linda: are you flying or driving down? When do you leave and are you staying anywhere beforehand?

What happened to the folks from California? (Charles1011) Haven't heard from you guys in a long time.....still going?

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Jeanne,

We're flying down on Thursday and staying near Downtown Disney. We're going to catch the Cirque Del Soleil show that night. I've heard great things about it so that should be interesting. We're going down to Port Canaveral on Friday and we're staying at The Radisson. Not sure what our plans will be for that day.

We want to check out Grills, but I can't commit to a time. If we're there around 6:30PM, we'll definitely look for you all. I think Denise said that her girls will have their hair braided, so I'll try to look for them if we make it their on time.

[jeanneg]

Linda: You're going to love Cirque du Soleil! Shelley and her gang are also staying at the Radisson. I hope you can make it to Grills. I'm going to call tomorrow and give them a heads up regarding our group. Someone said they don't accept reservations, but maybe if they know we're coming, they'll try to set aside an area. See ya soon!

[EPCOTgrl1]

We did get our hair done today! my sister has corn rows for half of her head and the rest in braided and i have my whole head done! it took the girl 3 hours to do just me.... and a little less then 2 hours to do my sister! your butt starts to hurt after that!

[eye R.N.]

I second what Jeanne said about Circque. It is amazing, if you need a place to eat at Downtown Disney, try Portabello Yatch Club. They have a roasted garlic and bread that they put out on the table that is to die for.

We are driving instead of flying, so we leave tomorrow. Keeping one eye on the weather.

See you all real soon!!

[EPCOTgrl1]

so i am thinking... and that is hard for me to do at 7 in the morning but if there is a hurrican then we will be out at sea longer because they will be trying to go around it.... staying on the boat longer then a week doesnt sound to bad to me!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Chelsea,

We may end up doing the Western Caribbean cruise instead if there's a hurricane!! That doesn't sound bad to me either.

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Denise,

Thanks for the tip on where to eat in Downtown Disney. That's an area I'm not very familiar with when it comes to restaurants. The only place we've eaten at there is The Rainforest Cafe'. It'll be fun to try something new.

Chelsea, one more thing, don't forget to take <b>clear</b>, spray-on sunscreen for you and your sister. It will protect your scalps from getting sunburn.

I hope you all have a safe and fun trip.

[jeanneg]

I just checked the weather maps and Hurricane Alex is not going to be anywhere near us during the cruise, although it may be a nuisance during our travels down to the port. Unless there's another system developing right behind this one, we should be fine. Please take care traveling everyone!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

I just checked the weather forecast for Orl. on Thurs. & Fri. (8/5 & 8/6). On Thursday there is a 30% chance of isolated thunderstorms. On Friday, for Orlando and Cape Canaveral, there is a 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms.

[FLGalInTN]

Those thunderstorms are most likely to occur between 3 and 5 PM. It's pretty typical for this time of year. It's worse in Orlando than it is on the coast where the offshore breezes can keep those thunderstorms at bay. Good thing is they don't last long (just long enough to get things nice and steamy). At least there don't seem to be any tropical storms brewing in the Carribbean at the moment.

[MBFergie]

Okay..maybe not "Official" but this is what the CM told me today. She also said it didn't seem as if any thing would be changing as far as formal/semi nights. Wouldn't say if there is anything special going on for the first time the Magic arrives in PR. I wonder if we are still having tropical night, and if the menu will be the same? I am sooooo ready to get out of here. The thunderstorms down in Sth Florida have been awful!! Drive safe!!

around the world in 80 days
broher bear
confessions of a teenage drama queen
finding nemo
hildago
home on range
alamo
lady killers
village
miracle
pirates of caribean
raising helen
princiness diaries II

[EPCOTgrl1]

I can not fine the spray in sun screen anywhere... its ok... i dont remember anything getting burned last year! anyway i would like to get my hair done on formal night!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Chelsea,

If we see some while we're out and about tomorrow, I'll pick some up for you. You may find some in Fla. too. I love that we'll be getting down there early, so if we forgot anything at home, we have plenty of time to drive to store to get whatever we need. This is definitely the way to go!

[EPCOTgrl1]

Awww thanks! i think that it will be eaiser to find in florida then it will be here to fine! o well... but it isnt in our neck on the woods.... maybe we over looked it.

Anyway has anyone hear about the new hurrican?

[eye R.N.]

At this point anything I've forgotten can stay forgotten. I am so ready to get on the road.

As for the weather and our cruise, if the new tropical depression decides to make things interesting so be it.

A mystery cruise vacation might proved very interesting.

[jeanneg]

Have a safe journey, Denise and company! We're leaving tomorrow early a.m. right behind you. Can't wait to see the old friends and meet the new ones!

[MinnieMart]

have been periodically keeping up on all of your posts. have a great time. hope everyone stays healthy and their families too.

guess what? we just booked dcl for next summer, july 2nd, out of california! used major pts from dvc. we could only book 11 months out and then there were no more 4 person rooms left. we got two rooms. and we will see disneyland a few days prior too! thanks for talking us into becoming dvc members!! annaS from statin island is also going!!! its a small world after all!!!

well can't wait to hear all about your fun times ! have fun!
lisa and dana.

[wendym]

Hi all!!
Sandy - glad you liked the books, wonder if you will be able to understand the Broons book and their dialects!! Certainly a challenge - it is what I grew up reading every sunday in the funny section of the paper. As my dad worked in newspapers we read a lot of papers!
Amy - so sorry to hear about your servers - but glad the rest of the cruise went well.
Jeanne - hope you are fully recovered by the time we meet up - it sounds painful!
Thanks for the list of movies - we have avoided seeing any in Orlando (we usually catch a few here - well I do - Mum sleeps through then!!!)
Looking forward to seeing everybody - take care on the drive/flights down.
wendy
PS Minnie mart - mum and I will be doing the californian cruise 2 weeks after you - pity it wasn't the same week - we will miss you this time.

[jeanneg]

Signing off now....next time anyone hears from me it will be from the Magic! It's nice hearing from you, Lisa.......glad to know you're still keeping up with us.

Goodbye, Sandy.......how I wish that you, Judy and the kids could join us again.....we'll miss you greatly. Thanks a million for maintaining our list through it all. Talk to you from the Magic.

Safe travels to everyone else!

[gometros]

To whomever is left...

Bon Voyage and have a great trip!!

[MinnieMart]

say hi to your family. wishing alana a safe and fun trip to isreal. so sorry to hear about your dad. hake care of your ribcage too! laura is in another play this summer, josesph an the amazing tech dreamcoat. opening fri. alison is barely gettin hrs at bath and body wks in the mall. i', m waiting to hear about a permant school nurse position. and dana is still commuting to nyc and has lost 48 lbs, on the south beach diet. talk soon lisa!

[wendym]

Sandy and family
Just want to say how much Mum and I are going to miss you all this cruise and to thank you for doing everything with the cruise list - we are going to cruise again together I hope!!
You take care and we will be in touch!
To anybody else left - see you at the Magic and or Grills on friday night!!!
Wendy and Doreen

[gometros]

I'm impressed about the loss. Way to go Dana.

Elana's there and having a great time. What would we do without cellphones.

She was in two plays this summer - Once On This Island and Starmitez and had a great time. Tell Laura to break a leg!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

We're here in Florida and the weather is beautiful ... for now anyways. We arrived yesterday with no problems. We saw the Cirque Du Soleil show last night and it was incredible!! We would love to see it again someday. We'll be heading down to Cape Canaveral today and my DH wants to go to Dixie Crossroads for dinner tonight, so looks like we won't be making it to Grills.

See you all tomorrow!!! :Pinkbounc

[FLGalInTN]

DisneyCruiseLvr - Eat some rock shrimp for me!!!! This poor little old TItusville girl won't be able to get back to her home town in time for dinner. We are flying out later today. See you tomorrow at the sail away party!

Cynthia

[jeanneg]

Hi Sandy,

Well we really missed your great organizational skills yesterday at sailaway party. I forgot how vast and crowded the deck is. We were vague about the meeting place and paid the price. Shelley and I were on the opposite side. I approached 2 different people that were in lime green, but they just looked at me like i was crazy. We finally made it to the other side and met mom2missmous (Donna) and family, who had these GREAT tropical Mickey outfits! Earlier I had met disneycruiselover (Linda) when we were making our Palo reservation and again when we wre waiting for our room. Those green Mickey heads really worked last year, but this time none of us wore them.

We have APL rotation and it's SO NOISEY.....lots of crying kids!
Our server is Felipe and he seems like a really great guy. The first night is always a bit hectic and we were so tired. I think things will be alot better tonight. We have 2 tables of 8, so we're all together.

Thanks again for the lovely basket. The others have also asked me to pass along a message of gratitude as well. Wish you guys were here with us. That's it for now.

[AnnaS]

Well hello Sandy, jeanneg and, wendym and minnimart - this is
Anna from NY from our last year's July 03 cruise. If you guys check your e-mail while on board the Magic - you guys better re-book and meet us for our July 2nd, 2005 cruise out in CA. WendyP., her parents, brother, minniemart and my family are booked. Perhaps they are offering some incentive again. Enjoy, have a great time. We are leaving for WDW next week.

[jeanneg]

Hi Anna,
great to hear from you!

If anybody wants to get an update on some of the things that are going on right now, please check the 10/2 cruise meet thread ("Antigua or Bust" started by papa).

best wishes to all you landlubbers!

Jeanne

[eye R.N.]

We made it home around 3AM. No weather delays, but a couple of accidents slowed us down.

[FLGalInTN]

Anyone make it back yet?

Our flights out of MCO were cancelled due to the devastation of Hurricane Charley but we were lucky to get a rental car at Melbourne Airport. We drove home to Tennessee and got in around 1:00 this morning.

Driving back through Orlando was awful. The damage from this hurricane is unbelievable. MCO was closed and all of Orlando is without power. There were roofs torn off houses, trees down everywhere, and metal signs ripped to shreds. We knew it was going to be bad when we were told Friday afternoon that Disney World was closed and that our arrival in Port Canaveral would be delayed. For awhile CNN was blacked out onboard (coincidence?) but after we were finally told about the magnitude of Hurricane Charley, the news coverage continued. Many were glued to their televisions and checking out the storm via the Internet.

The Magic stopped at Freeport, GBI, to take on fuel due to the closure of Port Canaveral. We stayed there around 4 hours re-fueling and waiting out the storm. We arrived at PC at 9:00 and but were not allowed to disembark until 11:30. My only complaint was that we were told nothing about why it was taking so long to disembark. No one knew that PC was without power and the baggage was being sorted by hand. There were lots of very hot, anxious, antsy people wedged into the atrium and all over levels 3 and 4. Everyone was on their cell phones scrambling to get flights, cars, and hotel rooms to wait this thing out. It wasn't until I called Northwest Airlines that we knew our flight was cancelled and the airport was closed. We were told by NWA that it would be Tuesday at the earliest before we could get a flight out. I scrambled and started calling rental car companies to secure a car for the drive home. The nearest full-size car available was at Melbourne Regional Airport. We got a taxi as soon as we got off the ship. It took us about 12 hours to drive home.

I realize now how incredibly lucky I am to be sitting home in my nice, comfortable house right now. We had a terrific cruise. Getting home wasn't easy but at least we have our home and family intact. Many in Florida aren't so lucky. We saw hundreds and hundreds of trucks and emergency responders from all over the southeast heading south on our trip back up I-75. May God be with the people of Florida who have been affected by this terrible storm.

Hoping that everyone gets home safe,

Cynthia

[eye R.N.]

Lots of trucks heading down to help. I'll have to admit I was very happy to see our car in the parking lot at Canaveral.

[jeanneg]

Got in around 11pm last night......bad traffic and devastation in the Daytona area. Otherwise the journey was quite smooth with the exception of a few patches of very heavy rain in FL and GA.

Cynthia:
Where were you all week....did you try to make the sailaway? I realize there was some confusion as to exactly where we were supposed to meet. Were you the one going on the 5-star voyage to St John? If so, what was your opinion? I'll post more on that later, but I did not feel it was a Disney quality excursion. I saw quite a number of people totally freaked out by the jellyfish and both my daughter and I got stung (very small and not serious, but unpleasant nonetheless). Will post more about this later.

[wendym]

We're home too! Arrived back in Aberdeen at 10am this morning. We were very lucky to get our flights although check in took 3 hours. I felt so sorry for the workers at the airport and my first question was always if they and their families were ok - from their reaction I think I was one of the few to ask about them. It was the people on the cancelled friday flights that had it worse with British Airways - they had to go standby and may not get back until tuesday.
I think another reason for the delay in leaving the ship was immigration. All non US citizens and a lot of the crew have to clear that before anybody can leave. As we are from the UK we usually have to be up at 6am to go through it - this time they couldn't get on board until 9.30am so everything took longer. Also the people sitting the atrium didn't help matters - it really blocks things up if people stay there which is why Brent kept asking them to move. We found a seat in Diversiosn and stayed there until about 11.20am when we left - going to the Walt theatre was not an option with the hand luggage!
Best wishes to all.
Wendy

[MBFergie]

Sorry I didn't get to hook up with anyone. As I expected my kids and I were dancing away at the sailaway party and before I knew it the party was over.

We had a great time and has arrived home safely. I for one enjoyed the extra few hours on the Magic Saturday. We played ping-pong with out the wind blowing the ball away every minute.

Did any of you do the night clubs. Tim and I were on the dance floor every night. On the last night we went to the pub night and I was the embarassed gal in pink bouncing up and down during the bonnie lies over the ocean song. The skit they did was sooo funny!

We booked onboard again but for a phanton date. I was shocked how many dates were already sold out in 2005. Every week that would have worked with school and sport schedules was already booked. We are going to reschedule for Summer of 2006. Not in August though! I felt very safe on board with the hurricane out there but was a bit freaked out about my family, friends and dog back home. My internet charges were high, and thank god for instant messanger. I had various friends call my parents to tell them our status since $7 a minute to call was a bit high for my wallet.

[luv2boys]

Glad everyone had a good time and back home. Just a FYI, that Nicholas' MRI is on Tuesday at St. Jude. We will be there all day, so I will let you know how it went on Wednesday. Thank you to those for the prayers!

Amy

[wendym]

You will be in our prayers all the more on Tuesday Amy.
Wendy

[FLGalInTN]

Jeanne - I tried to find everyone during the sail-away but I think I was a bit late. I got caught up in the fun and dancing (I might have been bumping into Marie for all I know) and by the time I realized I should be looking for people we were already out of the port chasing after the Carnival Glory. I was a bit disappointed in the 5-star St. John excursion. DS really enjoyed the bouncy boat ride (up until the poor little girl right across from us on the boat tossed her cookies) and I thought St. John was beautiful. The snorkeling time was much too short for my taste and the jellies were a bit disconcerting (DS was totally freaked out). Not much you can do about jellies other than try to avoid them. They are to be expected this time of year. I think DH and I are going back to the USVI though not on a cruise (probably rent a condo or stay at the Westin on St. John).

Wendy - We stayed out on deck 4 watching the offloading of the luggage and then later sat down on the aft stairs between decks 3 and 4 to wait it out. I was starting to think that some of those people in the atrium might lose their cool. A few announcements from the crew about what was going on might have helped calm some tempers. We drove past the airport on our way home in the rental car. It looked so eerie and dark with absolutely no planes in sight.

I did finally meet Shelley and Denise very briefly when I recognized Shelley's name at a DVC presentation on Thursday(we are now DVC members :D ). I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to meet and get to know everyone.

The family is unanimous - we loved the cruise and would do it again in a heartbeat. DH is totally addicted to Palo and cruising (and has the waistline to show for it).

Cynthia

[jeanneg]

Cynthia:
We made it to Rockin Bar D several evenings, but didn't go to the British Pub nite. I was the one on the 5-star who moved to the rear of the passenger section just behind where the crew made their announcements. I saw one little boy who freaked out so badly because of the jellyfish that his dad had to bring him out of the water. I think my husband only lasted a few minutes and then went back on the boat. I was the one with the 4 older kids....we swam to the beach and had a great time, but I absolutely HATED the boat ride there and I thought they should have warned you about the jellyfish. Is there a particular season when they're plentiful because I never encountered a problem like that before?
I also thought the crew was rather sullen and looked so bored with their jobs.......not what you would expect from a Disney vendor.

We didn't disembark until after noon. We found some wonderful comfy chairs on deck 5 and caught up on our reading. The drink station on 9 was open and Scoops had a selection of whole fruits.
When we finally made our way to the atrium they were serving warm chocolate chip cookies. The rush was over and we breezed through luggage and customs. A CM spotted us on Deck 5 and said that we had the right idea....apparently it was a madhouse down below, but we missed it all.

Amy: prayers and pixie dust to you and Nicholas.

[gometros]

Glad you guys made back safely. We were wondering how Charley would affect the cruise. From what Wendy tells us, you had great weather the whole week, excpet that the parasailers were grounded at CC.

Amy - we're thinking of you guys up here in NY too. Please let us know how it goes.

[wendym]

Cynthia
So glad you joined DVC - I am sure you will enjoy it! We were spoiled at Diversions while waiting to get off as Ben (the landlord!) kept us all up to date.
Jeanne - Deck 5 sounds a great place to wait it out. However I hope we don't need to do it again - twice out of four cruises is enough - the first was on our first cruise when somebody had a heart attack at castaway cay and we had to wait for a helicopter to airlift the gentleman - luckily he was ok.
Wendy

[luv2boys]

Nicholas' MRI was unchanged, but it is a cyst on top of the tumor. Will have another MRI in December. Go back tomorrow to meet with psychologists to talk about school issues.

What is going to happen to this group since the cruise is over?

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Nicholas and his family are will be in our prayers for sure.

We got home last night and it feels so weird to be back. It felt like this vacation was never going to end! We were away for 12 days and that was just the right amount of time. Not too short and definitely long enough.

We stayed at The Beach Club Resort until Tuesday. We asked a few castmembers around the parks how they were fairing after the storm and they shared some of these stories with us. Gas stations either didn't have power or they didn't have any fuel. Shipments of all kinds couldn't be delivered. Some grocery store shelves were empty. Some people weren't going to have their power back for at least another week. Yesterday, we were told that there wasn't one bag of ice to be found in Orlando.

We feel very blessed to have had such a wonderful vacation and we will also be keeping the people who are struggling in Orlando in our prayers as well.

[wendym]

Amy
All our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Wendy and Doreen

[sbennett]

Amy,
Likewise Nicholas will remain on our prayer list here at church and in our own personal prayers as well.

Shelley

[jeanneg]

Ditto for us, Amy.........we trust and pray all will go well for Nicholas.

[eye R.N.]

Taylor is leaving tomorrow with my brother and some cousins, Andy & I will depart on friday to salvage what we can from my parents home. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers, I expect this won't be easy.

Amy as always your family is in our families prayers.

[jeanneg]

Whoa, Denise, did I miss something? Were your parents affected by the storm? If that is the case, I'm so sorry. Of course we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Have a safe journey,
Jeanne

[sbennett]

Denise,
How badly affected was your parents house? One of the people I work with has property in Port Charlotte and he was told they only lost one dead tree.

Your in our prayers too.

Shelley

[gometros]

I thought I missed something too. Where do your parents live, Denise? I hope they weren't hit too hard.

[wendym]

You will be in our thoughts, Denise. I know it will be difficult but as you said yourself you have to keep remembering they could have been in the house. People here are slowly realising what a hurricane can do.
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

no shingles, part of the roof missing, no intact windows 3 inches of mud throughout. I'll let you know what I find when I get back. Things can always be replaced.

[charles1011]

Greetings Everyone,

I joined this thread a long time ago and then became a lurker as time went by. We were doing our own family reunion thing on the cruise (there were 13 of us) so I just read the advice from the rest of you.

This was my first Disney cruise. I have been on three other cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Crystal). The Disney experience was comparable to the others with two notable exceptions -- food and debarkation procedures.

While I have no complaints about the quality of the food (it was good enough for me), the food in the regular restaurants (regular means everything except Palo) was not as good as the food in the regular restaurants of other cruise lines. On the other hand, the food in Palo is comparable to the best food on any ship or any restaurant I have patronized. We were able to get a reservation for 10 and were absolutely spoiled by the food and the service.

What is the "normal" debarkation process at Disney? I recognize that my namesake (Hurricane Charley) seriously disrupted all of the usual processes, but even without the hurricane, I didn't see any scheduling associated with exiting the ship. Do they normally send 2700 people off the ship at the same tme?

Up until that Saturday morning, we had a fabulous time on the cruise. The shows, the bars, the silliness (my brothers, sister-in-law, and nephew were recruited for one of the skits in the adult Golden Mickey after party), the games (our family specialized in coming in 2nd in most of the trivia contests), the spa, the Bingo, etc. -- they were all great. "The Walk the Plank" game was perhaps a little too silly, but we actually "won" that one. I don't have a St. Thomas complaint because we didn't snorkel in St. Thomas (or St. John) because we signed up for shore excursions too late. We did the Water Island bike ride and had a great time.

In San Juan, we had arranged a private tour, because we were going to the other end of the island to see what remained of the Air Force Base and our old house. It had nothing to do with Disney, but it was a success, nonetheless.

On Castaway Cay, the high winds made the snorkeling conditions poor and it delayed the hair braiding, so the members of our group (who had reservations) were thrown off schedule. That was annoying in a small way. After reading this thread, I was expecting a magical experience from the Konch Koolers, but mine was pretty watered-down. On the other hand, the Tropical Depression, which looks like grape Koolaid and destroys enough brain cells so you can only act like a kid, was very potent (and magical).

All of my major complaints are related to that last morning. Some of our group were flying with DCL selected transfers and flights -- others were separately arranged. I had arranged my own flights and transfers using FLTOURS (based on this website). Kudos to FLTOURS -- they were great. When we finally got of the ship, they were waiting for us. Saturday morning, I called my airline and was told that my flight out of Orlando was cancelled. The next soonest available flight out of Orlando would be Tuesday. If I was willing to fly out of Miami, then I could leave Sunday morning. I booked the flight and booked a rental car at the Orlando airport. Done. We had some small adventures driving from Orlando to Miami, but nothing terribly distressing.

For those on DCL arranged travel, they were told that their flights were delayed. No one helped to reschedule their flights. No one coordinated any problem solving for them. They just got dumped at the airport. One brother got "lucky" and ended up on an evening flight that eventually left him in Salt Lake City. The following morning he flew the last leg of his flight. Another brother spent the night in Orlando; drove the following day to Atlanta; then flew to the west coast and finally got home around 2 am Monday morning.

I am very sympathetic to those people who were affected by the hurricane. I have lived in communities that have had to recover from tornados, flooding, and earthquakes. (It wasn't all in the same place. These were all different communities. And, it covers a lot of years. It's not like plague and pestilence follow me around, even if the hurricane was named after me.)

Here's what I think Disney should have done:

1. While we were waiting, instead of showing the Olympics Opening ceremonies (repeatedly), they should have given us local news on the impact of the hurricane. I understand the need to get everyone out of their stateroom -- we were good sports, we waited in the Disney Theatre -- but give us useful information on what is waiting for us outside.

2. While Orlando was hurricane damaged, surely the airlines (primarily Delta) have reservation centers outside of Orlando who could be busy re-assigning people to new flights. If Delta was unwilling to provide someone to coordinate people at the airport, Disney should have supplied personnel. Disney sells it as a complete service -- check your bags at the port -- and when there are natural disasters they should step up and help their customers.

Sorry for the rant at the end. I want to thank all of you for posts prior to the cruise. They were very helpful and informative.

For those you still cleaning up after the hurricane, you are in my prayers.

Good luck,

Charles (aka "Hurricane Charley")

[jeanneg]

Hi Charles,
Sorry we didn't get the opportunity to meet , but I'm glad you had a good time. Everyone who has sailed on another cruise line usually agrees with you that the Disney fare is simply not up to par. Not having sailed with them, I personally can't comment. However as a domestic godess, I can assure you that anytime someone else shops, prepares and cleans up after my meals, it's going to taste mighty good to me! Furthermore, I try very hard to watch everything I eat during the rest of the year, so just the fact that I allow myself to have dessert and other treats is sheer ecstasy. As far as I'm concerned they could unwrap a Snickers bar, put it on my plate for dessert and I'd be in heaven!

If the disembarking had gone according to plan, the majority of the ship's paperwork stuff would have been handled before most of us were even awake and immigration for non-US citizens would have been held at 6a.m. Because we arrived so late, that all had to be done while we were waiting. Normally, while the second dining group is having breakfast, the early group would already be leaving the ship. There'd be power at the port and the escalators would be working. All these little things would have eased the entire process and prevent it from being the cattle call we saw last Saturday. I'm very sorry to hear that Disney did not do more to ease the plight of the people who had their flights cancelled. Without internet and a fully charged cell phone, there's very little you can do on your own and it seems to me that they should have been a little more accommodating.

Unfortunately, I didn't catch any of the shows that you and/or your family members were in, but my 19 yr. old son was drafted for the sexy legs contest at the adult pool. (He got the Prince Charming award!)

[jeanneg]

I saw you and your hubby speaking with the DCL rep on the last evening.........have you guys rebooked a future cruise?

[FLGalInTN]

Hi Charles!

I just wanted to say I had a similar experience with those Tropical Depressions. I had one late in the afternoon and it made my walk back to the ship most interesting. It sure was tasty but I'm lucky I didn't face plant on the sidewalk!

This was our first cruise so I have no standards by which to compare the food. I found the food to be good, but not great. It is amazing that it is as good as it is considering how many people the kitchen cooks for at one time. Palo, on the other hand, was outstanding. I would easily compare it to some of the best upscale restaurants I have visited.

I would be interested to see how you compare the regular dining room food with that on Carnival and Royal Carribbean. I have heard a number of people comment that Carnival has greatly improved over the past few years and Royal Carribbean has declined.

We completely enjoyed our cruise and will be cruising again. Most likely our next cruise will be with DCL but I forsee a day in the not too distant future when the clubs will no longer appeal to my son. Then I might like to give Carnival, Royal Carribbean or Princess a try. They seem to have a great deal more activities that appeal to teens.

Thanks for your input.

[FLGalInTN]

Jeanne - That was your son in the sexy legs contest? Hey, he's cute! DH and I watched it while drinking margaritas up on deck 10. It was a hoot!

[jeanneg]

That was Jason....my "baby"! He spent most of his cruise time either at the workout room or jogging around Deck 4. Ahh,youth!

[charles1011]

Hi All,

(Two posts in one day -- I can't claim to be a lurker anymore.)

I think the food on the Disney Magic is good -- it's just not outstanding. I enjoy outstanding food, but I am also happy with good food. I didn't mean to complain -- I was just comparing DCL to other cruise lines. I know there are food "snobs" who choose their cruise itinerary based on the cuisine that is on board. I would not expect those people to be happy on a Disney Cruise, unless they were allowed to eat in Palo every night.

As far as Carnival is concerned, I sailed on the Carnival Spirit in June 2002 in Alaska. The food was great. I didn't pick that cruise for it's food. In fact, I didn't pick that cruise. It was another family thing -- my in-laws were responsible for that trip.

Oh, and I drank my Tropical Depression around lunch time on Castaway Cay. I can't imagine drinking it on an empty stomach and attempting to return to the ship!

Gastronomically yours,

Charles

[sbennett]

Okay, since everyone's giving their opinion, here's mine:
I've cruised on Scadanavia Cruise Lines, Carnival, Premier and now Disney twice. I personally think the food was great, like you said Jeanne, if you don't have to make it or clean up - what could be bad. I think your tablemates have a lot to do with your enjoyment of the meals as well as your servers. I liked our servers last year better than this year's but we couldn't beat our tablemates.....they were the BEST!
Last year's disembarkation was smooth as silk...this year's wasn't bad either, we sat out on deck four and watched the supplies being brought aboard and the luggage being taken off. When we finally decided that we'd get off the ship, we virtually had no lines leaving the ship at around 12:20. The porters in the terminal were great. WE LOVE DISNEY CRUISE LINE, and highly recommend it to everyone. Our 10 & 11 year old children loved everything and that's very important to us....if they're happy then we can relax and be happy too. Love those massages!!!!!

:wizard: :love:

[FLGalInTN]

Our tablemates showed up the first night of the cruise, barely spoke to us (even though we attempted to start conversations a number of times) and never returned. We felt like outcasts. The one comment I remember one of our tablemates making was that she liked the Wonder so much better than the Magic. The Magic seemed "old" to her. Whatever. I thought the ship was wonderful. Our servers were great and so were the vast majority of people we met on the cruise. Maybe next time we'll get lucky and be seated with friendly people.

Frankly, I'm having a very hard time adjusting to the fact that I'm back to cooking and cleaning up after my family again. I miss the Magic!!!!

[gometros]

Sounds like a Tropical Depression leaves you anything but depressed :)

Sorry you guys had so much trouble on debarkation. Too bad, because sometimes the most lasting impressions are the last ones. Trust me, it usually goes much smoother than it sounds like you had it last Saturday. From experience, we've learned to take our time getting off the ship. We eat at Topsiders and are usually one of the last to leave. No lines and it makes it easier to find our luggage and car.

Jeanne - had to laugh at that snickers comment. Rreminds me of a M*A*S*H epsiode where Colonel Potter asks for a Snickers and Radar asks him with or without nuts. When the reply was without, Radar mutters "Mars bar".

[FLGalInTN]

I thought a Snickers without nuts was a Milky Way. OK, that did it. Now I'm hungry.

[jeanneg]

Originally posted by FLGalInTN
I thought a Snickers without nuts was a Milky Way. OK, that did it. Now I'm hungry.

Me too! (The girl knows her candy!)

Note to self: Must try a Tropical Depression in Oct.! I love anything extreme!

Shelley: you just mentioned something about watching them load and unload the ship and it reminded me of something: WHAT WAS THE DEAL WITH ALL THE MATTRESSES?!? Someone said thay actually replace each and every one after each sailing, but I find that hard to believe. Sine it was a Disney cruise, could all those discarded ones be peepee'd? YOWZA!!!! They were obviously being discarded by the way they were just tossed into the dumpster with other garbage. I'm sure lots of homeless shelters could have used them (esp. during the aftermath of the storm). Does anyone know anything about this?

[gometros]

Nope. A Milky Way has chocolate nougat. Mars Bars and Snickers have a white nougat center. If you were Wendy, I could see the confusion since in the UK a Milky Way is known as a Mars Bar and Snickers is known as a Marathon Bar.

I know my candy bars :)

[FLGalInTN]

I stand corrected. I had no idea about the differences in nougat. You are truly a candy bar connoisseur Sandy. Now if they would just make a Milky Way with peanuts...

[wendym]

And if you want to add more to the confusion (this is what I live for of course!!) in the UK we have Milky Way's which have no caramel in them, Mars Bars which as Sandy says are your Milky ways and boy am I impressed you know about Marathons.
About the food - I love Palos and I enjoy the restaurant food but I am sure other cruise lines could be better. I love the fact we rotate restaurants although I am not keen on the seats in AP - they are so heavy! However as Shelley said tablemates make all the difference and yes, this year they were awesome!
As for debarkation, I've done two which have been perfect and 2 not so. I thought they did amazingly well in the circumstances but we were lucky in that where we were we were kept up to date.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

In that case, I too stand corrected. That said, I'll have one of each, please!

[charles1011]

As I remember (and I lost a few brain cells during its consumption), the Tropical Depression included vodka, rum, (gin?), blue curacao, grenadine, and a splash of Sprite, all shaken and served on the rocks. The blue curacao and the grenadine combine to provide the grape Koolaid color.

If you're experimenting at home, be sure to work in a well ventilated space.

I can't comment on which candy bar (US or UK version) is most appropriately consumed with this beverage, but I suggest that it should not be administered on an empty stomach.

Cheers,

Charles

[FLGalInTN]

My husband commented that the Tropical Depression tasted like the Castaway Cay version of a Long Island Iced Tea. I suggest consuming something a bit heavier than a candy bar before partaking of this particular beverage. I was giggling all the way to the tram (DH insisted I take it back to the ship) and one of those babies was all it took. What can I say? I'm a cheap date.

[wendym]

Well the Apple Madras at diversions finally did me in - boy was that powerful!
Jeanne, if you come on the 23rd July 2005 cruise I will take 1 of each!
Wendy

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Jeanne,

No, we didn't book another cruise. We never sat down at the "booking desk" on the 4th floor. I don't know who you saw talking to a rep, but it wasn't us.

I was teary-eyed leaving Castaway Cay because this time we didn't know when or if we'd ever be back. I hope we'll be able to do another DCL cruise in the near future.

I'm so jealous that you all will be cruising again in October!!

[jeanneg]

Sorry Linda, I must have just had a brain fart! Now that I conjure up the memory, it was a couple I met on the 5-star St John excursion that was talking to the DCL rep. She was a very nice lady....just like you.....and I must have gotten you guys confused! What can I tell you....ever since turning 50, my brain has been mush!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

Jeanne,

You are too funny! I sure did enjoy talking with you on the cruise. You are such a sweetie-pie!

I'm not having fun getting back to reality!!! How about you guys?

Denise - I was so sorry to hear about your parents' house. I hope your folks are doing well and recovering from the hurricane.

[eye R.N.]

We are back with a van load of the really important stuff, wedding albums, birth certificates pictures, and whatever else was still in one piece. I don't think I ever want to see that much broken glass and stagnant water again in this life.

The parents house has been deemed uninhabitable, and will probably have to be gutted if the amount of water pouring through the ceiling and mold on the walls in any indication. Still everyone is safe and physically unharmed. They have a place to stay and the money to rebuild. We are truely blessed.

Thanks for the kind words and thoughts.

[FLGalInTN]

Oh Denise. I'm so sorry to hear about your parents' home. Having survived a hurricane when I was a kid (we lost half of our roof), I know how devastating it can be. We were lucky that we had the means to repair our home and family to live with while the new roof was being put on. Your family will be in my prayers.

[sbennett]

Denise,
Glad you're home and your parents are safe, and fortunate enough to be able to rebuild.

[wendym]

Denise
I am so glad you got the important things - our thoughts are with you all.
Wendy

[jeanneg]

Denise: so sorry to hear about your parents' misfortune. Where exactly did they live? It sounds like a horrible mess, but at least they're alright. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[gometros]

Denise - so sorry about your parents situation. I hope you were able to sdave nything that was important to your family.

On a side note, I'm sure you guys have seen the posts about the fire tragedy in PA. I saw something mentioned today that seemed to suggest that they were on your cruise. DO you know if this is correct?

[FLGalInTN]

Sandy - As far as I know, the family of EmmasGrammy was not on our cruise. She had taken her granddaughter on a cruise back in June. There was a woman who posted about the tragedy that was on our cruise. I think she was expressing her sympathy upon finding out about the fire. Such a tragic loss. I have checked all of our smoke detectors at home and will be going over our escape plan this weekend with the family.

[eye R.N.]

Sandy will you be in Towson this weekend? I have something for you and I'd rather deliver it person then send it (Have I got you curious yet?)

[gometros]

Denise - I'm here in Towson, but our schedule is pretty hectic. We're moving Sara in today, then meeting my aunt and cousin at the Inner Harbor tomorrow. Not sure what we're doing Monday or when we're leaving.

[sbennett]

Has anyone heard anything about how the Magic and Castaway Cay are surviving Hurricane Frances?
Jay has a co-worker who's on the Magic this week. He starts school today, obviously she won't be there. I'm sure she'll have some stories to tell.:worship: :bitelip:

[gometros]

Shelley - there's numerous threads on the DCL board about it, incluing a live from th Magic thread. I hear that since they are closing the port today, the Magic will stay at sea one exra day and next week's sailing will be a six-day cruie.

[catjammies]

those folks on this week's cruise get to stay on 2 extra days - making it a 9 day cruise----- Lucky ducks, from that perspective.......

We're you all on when Charley hit / Aug 7th cruise????

We were...... were surely hoping for extra time ---- got 3 extra hours waiting to go thru Customs hahaha.......

Anyway, we drove to Orlando afterwards & saw so much debris.

I can't believe it 's happening again!!! I feel so sorry for those Fla folks!

[DisneyCruiseluvr]

I would've been THRILLED to have two extra days on the Magic!!! I'm so jealous!! However, I feel the pain of the people who have been waiting for the next cruise and have a shortened itinerary.

I'm always amazed at how well DCL works around weather problems.

[AnnaS]

Friends/dvc members of ours from Staten Island are on the Magic. They were scheduled to also take the autotrain back tomorrow, 9/4. Can't wait to hear their story - as long as everyone is safe.

[jeanneg]

Just thought I'd pop in and say "hello". We close on our new home next week, but the bad news is that we've had virtually no interest in the sale of our old home. Please send some pixie dust my way. Carrying 2 mortgages as well as an equity loan (functions as a bridge loan) will be very painful! It's a good thing our next cruise is totally paid for!

I'm still waiting to finish 3 different rolls of film so I can get my photos developed. Anybody have any good ones?

Denise: Did you ever send out that package? I hope things are improving with your family in FL.....did they feel any effects from Ivan?

Hope everyone is doing well......I miss you guys!

[sbennett]

tons & tons are heading your way, as long as your namesake doesn't blow it away (he-he)

Shelley:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :wave: :wave: :wave: :wave:

[MBFergie]

HeyFLGalinTN

I've been meaning to email you a quick note to ask it you happen to be next to us at dinner. You mentioned you had Sonny and Matilda, then Jean at Palos. We sat next to a family of 3 with a son who didn't like going to dinner with mom and dad or was just to tired to be eating dinner at 8:30pm. They were suppose to have table mates but they only showed up on the first night and didn't seem sociable. I said to my DH that I wished we had table mates, it would have been a nice change. Then on the last night the same couple was at Palos in Jean's section.

Was that you? If so I am really bummed I didn't know. I am having cruise withdrawls!!

Marie

[eye R.N.]

The package did go out, I'm surprised we haven't heard anything. For reason's best left unsaid, I have no clue how the house in Fl is now. Dad is having health issues and spending time with us while he is tested at the balto VA.

Sending a ton of realator pixie dust your way.

[FLGalInTN]

MBFergie -

Yes, Marie, that was us! Our son much preferred spending time in the club to eating late with us. He is an early diner at home and the 8:30 dining didn't suit him at all. He usually went to the show with us, then we ordered room service for him and off to the club he went. It was kind of nice to have dinner alone with my husband, but we think we missed out on the "cruise experience" by having tablemates at dining. Our original tablemates were very displeased to have to share a table. They left after the first night and we never saw them again. That was fine by us because they were some of the most un-friendly people I have ever come across. I can make conversation with ANYONE (just ask my husband) and they refused to even talk to me. I wish I had known that your family was right next to us. Oh well, maybe next time. I am having cruise withdrawal too!

[wendym]

Jeanne - hope a buyer comes along soon.
Denise, hope everything works out ok with your Dad.
Three weeks today we are back in Orlando - cannot come soon enough!
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

What are the dates

I am feeling a need for a weekend somewhere else. Maybe I'll join you

[wendym]

We'll be at the Hard Rock from 10th Oct - 12th Oct, Pop Century 12th - 15th and then my timeshare for the next week. We would love to have you join us!
I've booked to do the Segway tour and I've booked parasailing from the Contempary for Mum - she doesn't know this yet. Also doing a wine pairing and MNSSHP.
Wendy

[MBFergie]

Cynthia..the funny part is I requested All Seas to put us with another family. From what I remember of the other family they seemed miserable sitting at the table. I hope they still remembered the servers even if they never were there. I would assume they spread out the guest amount the teams to keep the tips somewhat even.

Sorry I didn't open my big trap and say hi...

Marie

[eye R.N.]

It's real tempting, I'll look at finances and pray for cheap air fares.

[wendym]

We would love to see you - it sounds like you could do with a break. Of course we could always join Jeanne and John on their Magic cruise on Oct 2nd!!!
Wendy

[eye R.N.]

Well it's offical chelsea has been accepted into the college program and will be in FL from Jan to Aug 2005. Looks like I'll pass on the October trip in favor of a Jan, help my daughter move trip.

Please remember to visit her on any upcoming trips :p

[jeanneg]

That's awesome.....does she know where she'll be working? I can see Mom and Dad going to visit.....often!

[musicalSaranader]

Congrats to Chelsea! I really want to do the college program, but won't have time to take a break from school. So I spoke to a representative who was on my campus one day last year, and he told me I can do the program the semester after I graduate...and that's exactly what I plan to do!!

[gometros]

Originally posted by musicalSaranader
and that's exactly what I plan to do!!

Really? We need to talk about this ;)

[eye R.N.]

A great woman once told me, never stand between a child and thier dreams.

All I know right now is that she will be in "operations" this means anything from the parking ticket booth to parking lot (all day on a segway) to rides to shows. If I know her she'll be campaigning for Innoventions house to tomorrow and TAPI.

[gometros]

Originally posted by eye R.N.
A great woman once told me, never stand between a child and thier dreams.

Denise - you missed the wink :)

If she will be there through the summer, we may be able to say hi, since once I get Judy to cimmit to a date, we hope to be there sometime this summer.

[musicalSaranader]

Originally posted by gometros
If she will be there through the summer, we may be able to say hi, since once I get Judy to cimmit to a date, we hope to be there sometime this summer.

What happened to the idea of DL? We haven't been there since I was 6 weeks in the womb. Don't get me wrong, though, I miss WDW more than you can imagine :earsgirl: (well, ok, maybe you can imagine...but that's besides the point...lol)

[gometros]

Originally posted by musicalSaranader
What happened to the idea of DL? We haven't been there since I was 6 weeks in the womb. Don't get me wrong, though, I miss WDW more than you can imagine :earsgirl: (well, ok, maybe you can imagine...but that's besides the point...lol)

Not to bog down this thread with a family discussion, but I'm still waiting for your mother to say she'll do it.

[jeanneg]

Yes, Judy, I'm also waiting........the West coast itinerary is very appealing....... as is a cruise to Alaska, but Sandy assures me he's not interested in driving coast to coast!!!!!!!!

[wendym]

Denise please tell Chelsea how thrilled we are for her - we'll be there June 30th till July 16th 2005 so will be sure to see her then!
What can we do to convince Judy to fly?!
Wendy

[gometros]

Originally posted by wendym
Denise please tell Chelsea how thrilled we are for her - we'll be there June 30th till July 16th 2005 so will be sure to see her then!
What can we do to convince Judy to fly?!
Wendy

Tell her Richard Gere is going to be on the flight http://*******************************/images/infinityandbeyond/smileys/roflmao.gif

[jeanneg]

....hopefully he's traveling with Johnny Depp!

[EPCOTgrl1]

Thank you all! i cant wait to go down. i am getting all the paper work i need ready! Wendy i cant wait to see you again.... how great. :)

[wendym]

Now that's a plane I want to be on!!!
Chelsea - cannot wait to see you in action at EPCOT!
Wendy

[EPCOTgrl1]

I dont know if i will be at epcot... i hope that i will but it is all still up in the air! i will know the day that i get down there.

[sbennett]

Chelsea

I envy you...I think it would be sooo cool to work for WDW. I know of a couple who worked in Hotel Management at the Grand Floridian for 3 years and loved it (except for the snotty, demanding people)

Best of luck...don't think we're going to make it there in 2005, but are planning for 2006!!!

Shelley

[sbennett]

Just checking to see if the ticker changed....

[wendym]

Wherever you are Chelsea we will find you!
Wendy

[luv2boys]

Just had to report that Nicholas had a great report card!! His lowest grade was an 85%. I knew he had it in him, he just needed a little help getting it out. Ritalin has really helped his processing of information that was damaged by the radiation treatments and brain surgery. The best things are that he does not get frustrated, likes to do work - well at least doesn't get frustrated - and loves to read now (now that he can remember what he is reading). Just wanted to share.

Miss you guys!!!! No cruises in my future. Out of DVC points for a while taking my SIL and BIL and nephews with us last time.

Anyone passing through Memphis, let me know!!

[gometros]

Great news, Amy!

jeanne is working on getting us to join her on the 10/14/06 cruise. Judy was looking at the 11/11/06, which has the same itinerary (double CC), but the 10/14 is cheaper, so who knows?

[EPCOTgrl1]

STORY!

I was calling up my mom and ask her if someone could come over and spend the night. Well she said yes but she also told me that i needed to keep the week of thanksgiving 2006 open. I DONT EVEN KNOW WHEN THANKSGIVING IS IN THE YEAR 2006! but i have to keep it open cause we are cruising.

you parents are weird!

[sbennett]

Hey Guys...
We're cruising 07/22/06 with double CC....anyone joining us?
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :bounce: :bounce:

[jeanneg]

Amy: that's fantastic news about Nicholas!

Shelley: I sent your items yesterday by priority mail (I actually went to the PO on Monday. Since schools were open here I totally forgot it was Columbus Day!!!! ......like I could EVER forget it if I still lived in NYC!!!!!!) I included a little note telling you we booked for the 10/14/06.....what can I do to get you to pull the kids out of school so you can join us?

I saw both Felipe and Moni this past cruise. They were on a different rotation and are no longer working together. Moni actually spotted me first and I was very impressed that she remembered me by name. The head server, Nadiche(sp?) was also in our dining room but didn't have our station. We said hello several times but I don't think she had any idea she had serviced our table in August.

Denise: that's great about cruising during Thanksgiving 2006! Is it on the Wonder or Magic?

BTW, Adam is presently filming a documentary about ninjas in Japan! Again, I'm not sure if he's getting paid, but they're feeding and housing him very well and he's even picking up a little Japanese! Sayonara!

[sbennett]

We can't do October because not only are the kids in school, but Jay's teaching school.....that would be like Andy taking off from school. Are you sure you guys don't want to do July??
Thanks for mailing that stuff, I'll send you the check, I hope you enclosed your bill !!

Amy...ditto on the great news....Ritalin does work wonders on some kids.

[sbennett]

Hi again.
Has anyone been to DVC's Hilton Head Resort???
We were thinking of going there for a few days before my niece's wedding next August and were wondering if anyone has any thoughts about the resort.

[jeanneg]

We've never been, but I hear it's very nice. Exactly when are you planning to be there? Maybe we could take a mini vacation and join you there!

[sbennett]

Jeanne,
we were thinking about the 12th -17th of August ....maybe. My niece is getting married on the 20th and for a few days before they're planning a family reunion in NC. So we thought we could scoot down to Hilton Head first for a few days then go to the family reunion and wedding.
I've invited my sister and brother-in-law to join us with their 21 yr old son, not sure if the guys can get the time off since it's boating season here so they'll be very busy, but she might join us. Thought it would be good for her since she's going through soooo much right now with the recent breast cancer diagnosis.
She's scheduled for another biopsy of her right breast on Monday. She's definately having a left mastectomy and depending on the outcome of the biopsy on Monday, possibly a bilateral total mastectomy. I thought a nice vacation next summer would be just what the doctors ordered. Keep her in your prayers please.

[gometros]

We wanted to do the fall, sinc the rates are cheapar and in 2006 we will be empty nesters.

We've stayed at HH twice and love it. It's so different from a vacation in the parks. It's relaxing and fun.

[jeanneg]

Shelley: so sorry about your sister......I'll be sure to keep her in my prayers. I'm certain she'll really appreciate a few days at HH when the "ordeal" is over with.......how nice of you guys to include them.

Sandy: read my lips......WE LOVE BEING EMPTY-NESTERS!!!!!!