Christmas 2003 - Who's sailing (20-27 Dec 03)?

[Ginny]

We're looking forward to "Enchanted Holidays" aboard the Magic!! There will be 4 of us (Myself, DH, DS (16) and DD (8 - turns 9 on New Year's Eve!!). This will be our 4th cruise (1st Western) and we are so excited. We booked 2 years ago (through DU)!! As of today, we have less than 150 days until sailing!!

Our last cruise was Halloween '01 and we had the most incredible group of DIS'ers who really helped make it a very special cruise!

Anyone else joining us for Christmas 2003 aboard the Magic?

[hawkrn]

Yea! We finally have a thread! I was beginning to feel like there were only a few of us on this cruise! (maybe there are??) This is our 2nd cruise-we did the Wonder around Xmas last year so I know what the decorations are going to be like. It is just my DS, soon-to-be 10, and myself. Last year when we went on the Wonder, the Magic was quarantined for a week at the port, so hopefully there won't be a repeat of the Norwalk virus this December!

[Ginny]

Hi, Julie -

We are so glad to know there are others going, too. How exciting for you to be able to be a part of that holiday magic all over again!! I have been checking the boards from time to time to see if a thread had been started but this morning I did a search and couldn't find one so decided to jump in.

We are flying down on Friday the 19th and can't wait. We were on the waiting list for SOG for a few days after our return on the 27th but since they have delayed the re-opening, I think we will be heading home full of 7 days of great memories without adding park time.

I hope there will be many others joining us for what promises to be a great week!!

Ginny

[LynnTarrant]

We'll be there too myself and my DH, first time cruisers flying in from the UK, I just can't wait
See you on board:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[Ginny]

Lynn-
Congratulations on your first cruise and welcome to the DIS! These boards are full of great information on everything from excursions to packing tips to special inside information. I learn something new on each cruise. Plus, there just seems to be something special about the people on this board.

My next plan is to go back to a couple of other favorite links (Dave from Marietta and Barb and Tony's sites) and check out the latest Navigators and start researching the Western excursions.

It should be fun!!

[hawkrn]

Hi Ginny and Lynn! What cabins do you have? We are 2066. We fly in the 18th and are going to ASMU for those 2 days because my son has to see the Haunted Mansion over and over again, then we are going to Mickey's Christmas Party on the 19th until midnight. But we'll probably be in the port about 1100. When we did land and sea last December we didn't get to port until 1245 and then it took another hour to get on board and I felt rushed to unpack, eat and do the safety drill. So I want to get there early. Plus we didn't see much of the terminal! Ginny, I have stayed at SOG too and have been wondering about the renovations. It has been taking them forever! Lynn, I hope you're flying in the day before to recover from your flight! Talk to you soon!

[LynnTarrant]

:o We are flying in on the 19th, we arrive at MCO at 3pm and I've booked tickets for MVMCP!! We'll be absolutely shattered but I couldn't miss such an opportunity. The last couple of times we've come over the pond we've managed to stay up until about 10pm to start to get our body clocks adjusted. We're staying at the Poly, We won't have a problem getting up the next morning but I hope we can stay awake for the safety drill, I think we might be caught napping LOL.
We are in 7502.
Speak to you again soon.
Lynn

[Ginny]

Julie -

MVMCP sounds like a great idea and what a way to start your cruise! I am so jealous!! MVMCP was just wonderful last year. We spent 6 days at WDW in mid-December and stayed at the Contemporary. Although it rained almost the entire week, we had such a good time that night with no rain. The fireworks were awesome! During the parade, Santa leaned over and looked right at DD and said "Hi, its so good to see you again. So glad you came tonite." The look of magic in her face and smile will stay with me forever!! What a night.

I think we are going to stay at the Hyatt on the 19th and head to port the next AM...............at least that is tonight's agenda. You never know - Now you've got me thinking about MVMCP. :Pinkbounc

[hawkrn]

Ginny, originally we were going to fly in the 19th and stay at the port, but then I priced ASMU at $60/night and got a good deal on a rental car so we went with that. We also went to MVMCP last year on the 1st night and it was COLD! They almost cancelled the 2nd parade because it was so cold and the fireworks never went off. They were having "technical problems". So hopefully now that we are going the LAST night of MVMCP everything will be running. And Lynn will be there with bloodshot eyes! You'll have to be American and drink coffee! I hope they have the new coffee bar on the Magic for our trip. I could use a real fattening latte during our cruise!

[LynnTarrant]

Julie
Now ther's something good to come over from the US. Yummy latte, when is this coffee bar open?
We were in Disney for the very first time last Christmas, it absolutely poured on Christmas eve and all the parades were cancelled. Then to add insult to injury it poured on New Years eve too. Oh well it made us feel right at home. Better luck this year!!
Lynn

[Ginny]

Julie and Lynn -

Well, great minds must think alike.........even across the ocean! Your idea got me thinking and I talked to DH and he thought it sounded terrific to go down a couple of days early and hit MVMCP, too, instead of staying after the cruise. So, we will see what happens!!

I've looked at the excursions for the Western and the one I really wanted to do was the 12 Meter Regatta but it looks like they don't have it anymore. I will have to do a search and see if I can find out why. Since we booked this in August of 01, I haven't done much research in the last 18 months and need to get to work!!

DD reminded me yesterday about Tea with Wendy and the Mickey 200 (families build "racecars" using potatoes and carrots) so I will be checking out the latest navigators to find out about the different activities, now!!

Lynn, I'm not sure if this is your first cruise ever or your first DCL cruise but there are several REALLY helpful threads about what to pack, best DCL cruise ideas and others and the advice is priceless (extension cords, over the door shoe holders, etc). DIS'ers are very creative and I print out those ideas from time to time. Many of the ideas save on space and "hunting time" because you aren't searching for stuff. Hope they are helpful. Here is a link to a summary thread which also has a link to the original with all explanations (which I think one of our fellow cruisers pulled together):

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=388591&highlight=%2BIDEAS

And, a second one:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=397151&highlight=%2BIDEAS

Gotta run - the clock is ticking to get ready for work but I wanted to check in!! Have a great day.

[LynnTarrant]

Thank-you Ginny for all the links. It is our 1st proper cruise ever and one of my hubby's long awaited dreams. I tend to be a little active for him on holidays, but he's found that when I'm on a ship I calm down *** I know I'm going somewhere so he gets some peace and quiet!
Of course once I'd agreed to the cruise he left it to me to organise so Disney was an obvious choice after the amazing holiday we had there last year.
I've been to quite a few sites to get info for this holiday so if there's anything I can help you with as well please ask away. it won't be 1st hand knowledge but what I've managed to pick up.
Great that you are thinking about MVMCP I hear it's alot of fun
Lynn

[hawkrn]

are either or you going to swim with the stringrays? We want to (although my son probably won't get in the water) but I can't decide which company to go with. Everyone has their definite opinions on this boards! I'll probably go with DCL since I feel "safe" with them and I also want to go to the seven mile beach. We're doing Tulum in Cozumel which sounds like a good way to burn off all the food I'll be eating!

[LynnTarrant]

We wanted to do so much in Cayman that I couldn't fit it in using the Disney tours, so...
We're doing snorkeling and Stingrays with Capt Marvin very early the short trip. Then hiring a car we hope to drive to Hell and the Turtle farm and then stop for lunch and afternoon snooze on the beach for a couple of hours before heading back to port and doing the Sub tour ( booked this ourselves as the time fitted in better). Have been told that in Cayman you drive on the correct side of the road LOL, and apparently the distances aren't great. It will be a busy day but I figured we're only likely to be there the once!
Does that help?
Lynn

[Ginny]

Julie - I know DS (16) and DH will be doing some scuba diving in Cozumel. That is one of my "boys'" grand plans. They have it all worked out!! :) I haven't made any further excursion plans although I think I will start really looking this weekend. We swam with the Dolphins in Nassau on our own on our second DCL cruise in Jan 00 and it was such a great experience (cold but great).

Today, I was able to get ressies at Wilderness Lodge through SOG for a few days before we sail (guess I ought to mention that to my new boss) so now I have to get serious, pin everyone down and make some decisions. It looks like it is time to pull out my handy-dandy WDW/DCL Excel Spreadsheet that I developed after I started reading these boards 4 years ago!!

[hawkrn]

oh wow! SOG is at WL now??? How lucky!

[Ginny]

Julie -

I'm sorry I confused you.......Disney is still allowing SOG to homebase in the Contemporary until the SOG renovations are complete but because they were booked and the SOG waiting list was full, I asked for "roll-over" rates to one of the WDW hotels. I was really lucky because they had space before and after Christmas. We have always wanted to stay at Wilderness Lodge so we thought we would try it this trip. POR will always be our favorite but because our children are growing up, double beds just don't work as well anymore.

I just can't wait to walk into Parrot Cay and have some nice jumbo shrimp and head to our stateroom and quickly unpack before DD's favorite activity (not), the lifeboat drill. She is truly so mellow about everything in life but one of the few things she really hates is standing there with her lifejacket on. She understands why it is important, she is very cooperative but she simply hates it!! It has become a family joke!! And, then it is off to the sail-away party!! What fun.

[hawkrn]

we love POR too! But we would love to stay at AKL &/or WL someday. Next we're staying at the Dolphin because I got a nurses rate. Does anyone else think those life jackets are difficult to fasten? There were too many cords, etc. And yes, I love the shrimp too. Last December, the staff was serving the buffet food so I didn't want to seem like a pig and tell them to load up my plate. Hopefully we can serve ourselves this year!

[Ginny]

Julie and Lynn -

Julie, Congrats on the great room rate at the Dolphin - I have always thought it looked beautiful - especially at night! I vote with you on the self-serve wishes.

Lynn, your schedule in Cayman sounds awesome!! I could never keep up with you! LOL But, you are right - you may never get the chance again and as we have always said: You can sleep in your next life!! Other Dis'ers booked the Atlantis sub tour themselves on our Halloween 01 Eastern cruise and had much more room (trip was definitely not full), better schedule and paid less than we did. So, we will be thinking about trying different things this time.

Have either of you read of any changes after dry-dock? I know they are moving Common Grounds to the ESPN Skybox and building the new coffee bar but I wondered if there had been more discussions on itineraries and shows. Since this is our first Western, I am happy witht he current itinerary but thought I read somewhere about potential changes. Also, I have enjoyed all the shows but the one I can watch over and over is Disney Dreams and I can't wait to see it again.

Uh-oh, it's 4:30 - I'll turn into a Pumpkin if I don't start getting dressed for work! Have a great day.

[hawkrn]

hmmm. Maybe we will have the cruise to ourselves! ha ha. I KNOW other people have signed up on the cruise list. I was under the impression from my AAA TA that Xmas cruises are popular!

[Ginny]

Hi, Julie -

I'm so glad you bumped us back to the first page. I hope other Christmas cruisers will jump in but, if not now, certainly as we get closer.

Now, that we have been able to really commit to doing this I am getting very excited. My schedule has been the challenging one because of world events but we are in full planning mode now. I booked our flights last weekend down to Orlando on the 16th and returning on the 29th. Julie, you got me thinking about the MVMCP and I have to tell you that even DH said, let's go. So, instead of staying longer on the back end, we will be starting our trip earlier.

I have been going to Dave from Marietta's site and Inkkognito's site to look at the latest excursions and navigators. It looks like they have added things to the 8/9 y/o Oceaneers Club and DD is thrilled. DS loves Common Grounds and so we aren't worried about him. We know what we like to do at the spa, although this time I will try to do some special things with DD if they open things up to young ladies of "almost 9." Both children are great about time for us at Palo's so we usually choose the night and they know that its "our night!"

From the current schedule, it looks like our second day at Sea will be Christmas Day. How really memorable. I hope it stays that way but I can adjust to most anything as long as I am surrounded by my family, nice people and a little Disney Magic.

[Msteg]

Hi

We will be on the Magic this Christmas! We have two cabins on Deck 6 for our family of six. Wife and I have the verandah and the kids (girls 16, 14 and 10; boy 12) will have an inside cabin across the hall. This will be our third Disney cruise and the first Western itinery. We will fly in from Pennsylvania on Friday afternoon. We were not planning on doing anything that night but your discussion about the Christmas Parade sounds interesting. Can someone give us more details: cost , time, etc. Thanks

Mike

[hawkrn]

yea Mike-glad you responded! If you go to Disneyworld.com you will find ticket prices for MVMCP. The last day is 12/19-it's a hard ticket event, in other words you have to have a ticket to get in. They close MK to other guests at 6pm and then the party starts for the ticket holders. They have 2 parades, stage shows, rides are open, fireworks, etc. You'll probably find more info in the DIS boards under theme park attractions or on WDWIG.COM. My son will be 10 for the cruise although he's currently not interested in "playing with girls". Maybe he'll change his mind for the cruise!

[Ginny]

Hi, Mike!!

Welcome to our "small but select" group of Christmas DIS'ers!!
The cruise sounds terrific and I loved Julie's idea of getting in the spirit by attending the Christmas Party......so now we are, too! Here is the link to the Special Events page and you can purchase tickets on line from there or call if you decide to go:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/waltdisneyworld/parksandmore/parkevents/parkeventrootindex?id=ParkEventsRoot

We went last year and had a great time.....................all the rides were open, there were lots of "special activities" throughout the park, no waiting in lines for your favorite rides, everything looks so festive with all the decorations, the fireworks were awesome and with music playing, we really got into the Christmas spirit!!

[belle&beastcrazy]

Hi put my family on the Christmas Magical cruise. Myself, husband and two daughter's 19 and 13. We to are thinking of doing the MVMCP but have to wait till our oldest daughter get's back to college the end of August and see's when her final's are. I have my fingers crossed that they finish up the 17 or 18th. We will be driving down from Virginia and have plans to stay 6 days after the cruise for New Year's Eve. This will be our second Disney cruise the first was a 4 day Wonder last Aug. I can't wait just keep counting the day's. I know Disney World is Magical at Christmas so the curise should be great. I will keep in touch . KIM:D

[LynnTarrant]

Hi Mike and Kim
Its good to speak to some other folks , the really nice thing for me is that you've all cruised before so you must have had a good time to want tot come back!!:D
I'm also going to MVMCP before we cruise. I'm staying at the Polynesian for three nights on our return and then moving to the Royal Pacific for three nights.
We went to Disney for the first time ever last Christmas and New Years it was magical.
Speak to you soon
Lynn

[jgalecpa]

GLAD I FOUND YOU!!!

I've been waiting for this thread.

We are first time DIS cruisers (My wife and I have cruised often), we have DD's 12 and 15.

We are so looking forward to this!

We have only really decided on Captain Marvins for Sting rays, and no other excursion (Unless the bring the fishing back to CC).

I was away when this thread was started so I'm glad it got bumped.

We are staying on Deck 2 (rooms 2646-2648 [I Think], adjoining rooms)

Jim

[LynnTarrant]

Hi Jim
I think we're all really excited. Have you booked your capt Marvin's excursion yet? We are booked on the one at 8:30am, It sounds like alot of fun.
Lynn

[jgalecpa]

Dear Lynn,

We have booked the 1030 era time, I think. (we're at our beach house and don't have the actual data).

My DW and DD's could be ready that early.

Looking forward to It!

Going to Don Sanchos(Sp?) at cozumel and planning the key west trolley.

Any one else into fishing????????

[Ginny]

Welcome Kim (belle&beastcrazy) and Jim (jgalecpa)!! It is so nice to see our group expanding!! I am getting more excited by the day about the cruise.....and time with my family.

Jim, DH and I make the drive in to DC every day from Virginia. It is so beautiful to watch the sun coming up over all the memorials with the faint pink and lavender hues. It never ceases to catch my attention -(not that I am not paying attention to the road while applying mascara, using my cell phone and drinking my soda simultaneously) LOL

Kim, it looks like you are to the west of us!! It is so very pretty out there!

Any info on CAPT Marvin's is welcome. We've started looking at excursions but no real definite plans yet.

[belle&beastcrazy]

Wow Ginny and Jim we seem to live very close to each other. I work here in the valley and my DH drives to Dulles each day. I am just now looking into excursions. The trolly in Key West, some string ray/beach in GC. The girls want to play min-golf at Sally's place. KIM

[hawkrn]

Lynn, you'll have to tell me how Royal Pacific turns out-we're staying at HRH next June. What's with all these teenage girls on this cruise? My DS, 10 wasn't at the kids club much on the 3 day so I was hoping he'd have a change of heart this time! We're doing the Tulum Ruins, the Key West Trolley (on my own) and leaning towards the Stingray City and Rum Point Beach Adventure through DCL.
Jim, we're right down the hall from you in 2066. Hoping being down low helps my stomach (got queasy the first night last time)

[LynnTarrant]

We'll tell you all about it Julie, I'm really looking forward to the express line privilege for on site guests.
I'm glad more people have joined the thread, the ship would have been a little empty with just us 3 on board LOL
You can read about my mad Grand Cayman day further up the posts, but here is the link for Captain Marvin's for Ginny

http://www.captainmarvins.com/

In Key West we'll do the trolley tour and get on and off as the fancy takes us.
In Cozumel I have booked the Sea Lion swim and Dolphin swim in Chankanaab, but not through Disney will probably spend all day there.
Speak to you soon
Lynn

[Ginny]

Just checking in -

Julie - We are staying at HRH the 27th and 28th of December so we can spend a day at IOA (or 2) before heading home. When I told them we might be checking in around 11AM, it was not a problem. So, we will see how it goes. I thought DS would love it as a close to our vacation. I also got a LoewsFirst card and will see if that provides any extras. When we went on our first DCL trip in 9/99, we were on a great adventure due to Hurricane Floyd and missed all ports except they threw in Key West. We had a GREAT time at the Hard Rock Cafe in Key West. The staff were just terrific to us.

Lynn - Thanks so much for the link to CAPT Marvin's - it sounds great. Are you doing the all day (09-3PM?). I did a search before work this AM and all the reports on CAPT Marvin's sounded great. So, I will forward the link to DH and DS for them to think about. DD will be happy with anything we do as long as we are all together!! We were also thinking about the Dolphin Swim in Cozumel.

Kim - I hadn't heard about Sally's mini-golf until your post so had to look for that info, too. It sounds like lots of fun and we really love mini-golf.

I didn't realize how out of touch I was not having really read any of the Western info until now. I have alot of studying to do! LOL.

[hawkrn]

I thought about doing Captain Marvin's too but I really want to go to the beach afterwards. I suppose I could get a taxi. What's everyone else doing after the stingrays? The beaches sound too good too miss! Ginny, I also got a Loews card (or I should say a number, haven't seen the card yet and it's been 2 months) and am looking forward to cookies and milk!

[LynnTarrant]

Julie and Ginny, I'm doing an 8:30am trip for 2 hours with Captain Marvin.
Julie i'm sure I read in one post that the family had been dropped at 7 mile beach on the way back and then just took a taxi back to the ship later.
We are hiring a car and going to Hell and back! LOL and then taking a sub ride.
Ginny here is the link to the company who organises the dolphin swims in Cozumel:-
http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/home.htm
What is a LoewsFirst card should I try to getone for my stay at RP? Cookies and Milk sound good!!
Lynn

[hawkrn]

Lynn go to loewsfirst.com (i think) and sign up for the free card. You get little gifts when you check in, etc. Definitely sign up for it. There is a universal resorts dis board too with a lot of info. I guess it increases a chance for an upgrade too.

[LynnTarrant]

Okay Julie, I went to that site and guess what I must ahve signed up for a card when I booked, It was so long ago I'd forgotten!! I have a number but like you I don't have a card, still I've made sure my number is connected to my ressie so the cookies and milk should be waiting for me:D
Thanks for your help
Lynn

[Ginny]

What a wonderful night! One of things I love about summer is thunderstorms!! And, it is really coming down at our house now. I love the air when it just smells like rain.

Started vacation today and am going to be a counselor at DD's Girl Scout Camp next week!! They are doing a Nickelodean theme so it should be fun!! The camp is only from 6-9 at night so we have the days off together..................and can do lots of different fun things and lots of planning for our trip. DD is my very best assistant planner.

We "happened" into my favorite children's clothing store this afternoon and found her the most incredibly elegant dress for formal night. She just looked so lovely...................and so much the young lady instead of the little girl (but not like she was trying to be 8 going on 18). It hit me how fast she is growing up!

We really decorated our room for Halloween on our last cruise (we brought one of the "Disney Halloween In A Box" from the Disney Store and other decorations and it was great). We are planning to do the same for Christmas - I am thinking about calling Shirley at the Perfect Gift and see if she has any ideas. She has done baskets for us before and they were just incredible. Is anyone else planning to decorate?

[LynnTarrant]

Hi Ginny I'd like to decorate abit. I saw on one site the idea of printing things on the computer and sticking small magnets to them, apparently the cabin doors are metal I thought the corridors would look really festive done like this!
I worked on a girl scout camping programme in Maine. It was called Camp Nataswi and we were based in the woods outside the small town of Millinocket, at the foot of Mount Katahdin. It was so pretty there and I made some really good friends sadly I haven't kept in touch with any of them and it was over 20 years ago!! But I still have good memories
Lynn

[hawkrn]

decorations sound great! Window clings for our window, maybe? The magnet door sounds great-you can get those cardboard decorations at the store, they've had them since I was a kid. We have several to tape on our windows at home. Glad somebody has rain-we're so dry here. Everyone's yard is a nice shade of brown. It was 98 yesterday too. But I prefer that over snow! I just had an icy mocha from Panerra-hope the Magic's new coffee bar has something like that! I'm addicted!

[belle&beastcrazy]

Hi kim here I haven't been on all week. Shopping, getting my oldest ready to take back to college. I bought a small tree that has lights , on it to put in our room for Christmas. Also some cut outs that have a suction cup to put on our door 6514. Magnets sound great too I will have to look for some. My DH said if I want to decorate I have to carry it but since I do all the packing he will never know what he is carring. KIM

[Ginny]

HI All -

Lynn - Isn't it amazing how all the memories stay with us? Your time at camp sounds great. We just finished making 100 swaps (50 for Erin and 50 for me) - we had a little production line going. And, to understand how truly remarkable this feat is........one must understand how truly "un-crafty" I am. My Art Professor in college asked me to drop the course since I was holding everyone else back!! :crazy:

Julie - DH is betting on that new coffee house as well. I can see him now - up at Sunrise and first in line.

Kim - I was thinking the same thing about packing all the decorations and have a lot more room now - I really scaled back my clothes packing since the first DCL Cruise - I can laugh at myself now!!

All these decorating ideas sound great!! I love the cling-on ideas and the magnets.

Last December when we went to WDW for a week, one of our dear friends (a DIS'er we met on the Halloween Cruise- MCazer) sent a package to us at the Contemporary......a little tree with ornaments and tiny garland & little red stockings with our names. We came home after day at the park to find this wonderful package waiting for us - it was such a completely unexpected and thoughtful surprise. We had such fun decorating our little tree!! It really did "make" the room and that night when the water parade went by, it was just really special.

[LynnTarrant]

Oh Ginny You've really raised a smile here when you said about your art prof, I was asked to leave art lessons at high school, because the teacher felt, my time and energies would reap better rewards somewhere else, and I tried so hard!!! LOL
Lynn

[Ginny]

So glad to see I am not alone in the "art-challenged" department....although, Lynn, your instructor sounds a bit more charitable than mine!! LOL

I survived Girl Scout Camp and although last night we "enjoyed" one of those rousing thunderstorms I foolishly mentioned liking so much - we all had a great time! I am sore in places I didn't even know I had muscles and sure wish I could head to the Spa for a full body massage! I wonder if I will miss the scent of Avon "Bug Guard?"

Now, it is back to concentrated trip planning. DD and I haven't seen much of DH this week and he was full of ideas and suggestions last night when his two "drowned rats" got home at 11PM.

Hope all are well!

[jgalecpa]

Back in town full time now. Schools a-startin'.

couple of quick things:


As to decorating, we are planning to do the door with decor, as well as window/porthole stick-ons.

Belle&Beast Crazy:
I bought a small tree that has lights , on it to put in our room for Christmas.
Just make sure the tree can be secured so the rocking doesn't keep knocking the tree over.

NOW FOR THE BIG QUESTION (for those who celebrate):

What are you doing to allow SANTA to visit the cabin?

We have adjoining rooms, so we will set up the sitting room area of our cabin, we will bring small stockings, and a few small items. We may bring pictures of their large gifts, but that is just a thought.

What are others doing help speed Santa in?

[hawkrn]

I just plan on bringing small gifts that we can easily lug home with our other souvenirs. Yes, Santa will come to our cabin even though my son no longer "believes". Didn't I read somewhere that all the kids get a gift from Santa on the ship? Or maybe that's Santa Goofy!!!!

[jgalecpa]

Our kids no longer believe, but that magic of Xmas supercedes even the most sceptical teenager.

Wait til they have a two year old of their own. They'll believe again.

I have heard (and saw on an old XMAS navigator) that all the "kids" get a gift from "santa"

[Ginny]

Santa will definitely be visiting our cabin as DD has already voiced her concerns that Santa won't know where we are!! DS gets a big kick out of helping Santa do magical things for his sister!! I'm not too sure on the finer points but we are bringing a couple of small things with us.

[LynnTarrant]

Doesn't believe!!!!
I believe I believe...... my hubby and I are often away from home at Xmas, reassure your children that he has never failed to find us. Our stockings will be at the end of our beds on Christmas eve and I fully expect to find them lumpier and bumpier in the morning. anything is possible if you believe.

I've been a tad busy with 5 new arrivals our Lionhead bunny had babies on Wednesday. They are so cute.
Lynn

[hawkrn]

I'm bumping this so grumpy's mom can find us-we were quite a few pages back!

[Grumpy's Mom]

We have two daughters who will be 17 and 13 on this cruise - first time for all of us. Decorating sounds great - hadn't really thought of that! We hadn't planned on stockings and presents - I sold my husband on this trip by promising to use my Christmas budget, etc.

When is the Christmas party someone mentioned above? How do I find out about other special things that are not listed on the office disney cruise site? Thanks!! Grumpy's Mom

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie - thank you soooo much for moving this thread - I was obviously thrilled to see it!! Great ideas from everyone for the holiday! Looking forward to this cruise more than any vacation we have had in years (except last trip to WDW)! Bonnie

[LynnTarrant]

Welcome to the thread Bonnie, it certainly seems like this will be a girl's cruise!! Yhe Christmas Party refered to earlier is Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, which doesn't take place on the cruise but at the Magic Kingdom, the final night of the party a ticketed event is the 19th Dec and some of us will be going along. I haven't been before myself but it sounds alot of fun. Are you planning to visit Disney pre or post cruise at all?
Lynn

[hawkrn]

Bonnie-how old are Grumpy and Malificent?

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie and Lynn - thanks for the warm welcome! Maleficent will be 17 September 24, and Grumpy (hormonal) 13 on September 25.

I am right in the midst of planning the pre cruise portion of our trip. I have a feeling that even though my husband will be off the full two weeks, he will want to jump in the car as soon as we get off the boat and head for home.

Maleficient is a junior, and the week of 12/15 is finals for her. They don't know about this trip -- it is their Christmas present this year -- so I have been trying in a roundabout way to find out exactly how long she has to be in school that day and whether she has to take a final in her fourth period class (which would be on Friday). She told me today she didn't think she would have to - spanish class - progress reports today with an average of 105% - so I think we are safe there.

So, right now I am trying to convince Doc to drive, put the airfare towards some excursions that we might otherwise pass on, drive down Thursday night, and go the parade Friday night. I hate to say it, but I really do think I love all this more than my girls do!!

I have to say that I am so glad I found this board - there is so much information here - and it will make our trip so much more enjoyable in so many areas!!

Hope to meet you both either at the parade or on board. Booked a Cat 8 and praying for an upgrade!

Bonnie

[Ginny]

Welcome, Bonnie, to our thread and the Christmas Cruise!! I hope your DD's will enjoy Common Grounds. DS (16) has had great times there and really enjoyed the couselors working with the teens.

All -
I have such fun planning our vacations and this one is no exception. We did book MVMCP for 19 Dec but all the ressies for Liberty Tree Tavern were gone for dinner (until 7PM) so we'll have dinner at Wilderness Lodge and catch the boat over or just go early and have hotdogs in Tomorrowland.

I am going to snag DH over this long weekend to look at different excursions including CAPT Marvin's or DCL excursions. Also, I read an interesting post about Jeep Tours in Cozumel which sounded fun and other reviews were very positive.
http://www.travelnotes.cc/cozumel/links/todoreviews/jeep.html
Many of these reviews from folks who scheduled it privately with the company vice the ship excursion. Anyone else heard anything about these Jeep Tours?

[Magic8540]

Getting ready for our 4th cruise, second one this year. We took our first Eastern in May and cannot wait for our second Western, especially a Christmas cruise. We are also spending some time at Wilderness Lodge after the cruise and through NYE.

:bounce:

[kyravw]

Me and my husband will be joining you all on the x-mas cruise this year. We are from holland and it is my second disney cruise. The first one was two years ago with my mother, and now I'm bringing my man. No kids, just us....

[hawkrn]

yea-more people! Kyrawv-how long of a trip is it to get to Orlando? Hope you come early and rest! Magic-who's coming on the cruise with you? You are definitely a cruise pro!

[jgalecpa]

Welkomen, Kyravw

Here is some music to put you in the mood:

http://web.inter.nl.net/users/R.Hiddinga/kids/muz/sk/dzvsk.mid

I expect bringing you DH (Disney Husband) will make for a different experience than your mother!


Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, thanks for the warm welcome! I also read the ppst about the jeep tour - several, in fact. Seems like a really fun excursion, and good way to see everything. I am definitely putting that one on my list to consider.

I know that one port has horseback riding on the beach - has anyone tried that one? I am thinking the DDs will love that!

[kyravw]

Thanks for the warm welcome,
The flight to orlando is about 10 hours and we arrive a day early. US internal flights are notoriously bad organized...( last time the part from chigaco to orlando took more time than the intercontinental bit!) So we decided to give them an extra day to get us there. I am afraid that I dont have a disney husband, he's not into the "stuff"at all, but he loves ships and travel. If it was up to me I'd cruise every year with disney but I am afraid that with US prices that is impossible for allmost any european!

Kyra

[Magic8540]

This trip, as with all, it is only the two of us. We have no kids, however, my wife and I are DVC members and love everything Disney. Especially the cruises. The Western cruise is great and with our day a sea on Christmas day it sould be a special treasure.

Can't wait to start counting hours instead of days.
Milt and Ann Laughlin

[jgalecpa]

Coming soon:

The Double Digit Dance!

[hawkrn]

Milt, what excursions did you do on your last Western? Give us the good,bad and the ugly!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Hi Julie, hope you are enjoying your Sunday!

Milt, I would also be very interested to hear what you did on your last Magic Western trip - and what your thoughts are about Christmas on a sea day- having never cruised before, are you looking forward to Christmas on a sea day because it will be calm and quiet not being in port, or are there more/different activites onboard that day, do you expect?

Thanks, Bonnie.

[Magic8540]

Well here goes.....

In Key West:
Conch Republic Tour and Museum. This was a great tour since we had never been to Key West before.
Western Union Schooner Sunset Sail. This was a great experience and we had to help raise the sails. The music onboard was great and we are doing this again in December.

In Grand Cayman:
Atlantis Submarine Expedition. It is a real sub. You dive 75 to
100 feet and the view is breathtaking.
Grand Caymen Island Tour: Again never been there, so this was a good way to get in all the sights. The December trip we are going to do Singray City.

In Cozumel:
Xcaret Eco Archeological Park. It was a good trip and experience, however, it was on the mainland and took all day. It also was really hot the day we went. We are going to do the Atlantis Submarine Expedition in Cozumel for a comparsion to Grand Cayman.

I am looking forward to the day at sea, especially Christmas Day. Disney does have alot of activities you can participate in when at sea, and I expect Christmas day will be filled with extra activities.

Knowing Disney, it will be a great way to spend Christmans.

[Ginny]

I am with Milt on the idea of an "At-Sea" day for Christmas. That, to me, will make it all the more special. Having been "At-Sea" for Halloween, I wouldn't have traded it for anything. It was much more fun that I ever anticipated and having dinner in costume had everyone chatting and meeting new people.

In fact, if the truth be told, I think both DH and I always prefer at-sea days over the ports. We just love the ship and all it has to offer and how truly relaxed we are as soon as we board.

Jim - I am anxiously awaiting that double digit dance~~

[hawkrn]

Milt-are you doing stingray city thru DCL or someone else? I am still undecided but I know we are doing it! I'll be the one screaming!

[Magic8540]

We always make our shore reservations through Disney. You can now make them through the DCL web site on or after 10/21 for this Christmas.

I normally print out what is available then Ann and I have a meeting to discuss who wins what......You can only guess that I normally lose, but after 27 years we both see eye to eye on what we want to do.

All for now.
Milt & Ann

PS: I am kinda new at this chat stuff, but has anyone suggested that we all try and meet onboard sometime after we sail? It would be a pleasure to meet everyone and share some discussion without having to type.

[Msteg]

Hi Christmas Cruisers!

We will be in Cozumel on 12/24. Does anyone know if there is any change to the standard excursions on Christmas Eve?

[Magic8540]

Have not seen anything to date on any changes to Christmas Eve. I think we leave port late so not sure if Disney is planning anything after we board. Just need to say in touch and watch the web site for any activity.

Milt and Ann Laughlin

[LynnTarrant]

Hello there Milt and Kyra
I've been away from the boards for a while I have 5 new arrivals to coo over ( don't panic they are baby rabbits!!) :-)
Kyra, my hubby and I will also be flying in from Europe, the UK to be precise. I wouldn't worry about your man not being into Disney It only took a day to convert mine last Christmas (the Princesses helped).
Ginny I'm also looking forward to spending Christmas day at sea, I'm sure it will be a special day.
Milt, I'm glad you recommend the Atlantis sub as we've earmarked that, I'd be interested to know more about the schooner sail, did you miss dinner or a show? was it worth it or should we do dinner and the show since it is our first time?
and Jim, I can't wait for that double digit dance!!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :p

[hawkrn]

milt-your idea of a meeting is great! I bet you have that Nashville twang! hee hee.

[Ginny]

Lynn - Congratulations on the new additions.

Milt - I am with Julie - I think a DIS Meet would be great~~

I just finished reading Verandah Man's Trip report!! Four Kleenex tissues later - I finished. What a magical cruise for a truly lovely man. But, what really touched my heart were all the anonymous Dis'ers who had purchased credits for him. What generosity of spirit!!

It is a delightful read with all sorts of special delights from the DCL.

His memories just put me in the most terrific mood and I just had to share with "my fellow Christmas Dis'ers."

[Grumpy's Mom]

Milt, Julie and Ginny - we would love to have a Dis meet too - have only been on the boards for a few days, first cruise, would love to meet some new friends - that always makes the experience so much more enjoyable. It would be great for our teens to meet too!

[Grumpy's Mom]

I have a couple of questions ....

Does anyone know what the Dis Store T's will look like? Will they be available to be in our hands by 12/20? Do Dis'ers ever wear any kind of identifying garb when they meet?

Second, we asked for the late seating, since I think that is the time recommended for families with children 13+. What did you all request in terms of table size? I really didn't know what to do about that. Does DCL honor requests to sit together with other named guests? Have any of you who have cruised before and have been on this site for a long time gotten together with other Dis'ers for dinner as tablemates?

thanks!! Just made our reservations at WL (got a great rate on AAA) for the 18th and 19th, working on air arrangements, and then will be on to the excursions - Looking forward to visiting all of the resorts to view their decorations!!

I Just can't wait for this!!!!

[Ginny]

GrumpysMom -

I saw your post at work (I checked while eating my lunch) so you were first on my list this evening.

I don't know what the DIS's new T-Shirt will look like but there was a long thread on the Community Board with suggestions for the new store and LOTS of suggestions for the T-Shirts!!

The traditional color for DIS folks has been lime green. I remember that being the color way back when I first joined in 1999. I don't remember the reason but wearing a lime green ribbon was one way for DIS members to identify each other. On our Halloween Cruise in 01, one of our fellow DIS cruisers actually designs and manufactures T-Shirts so he designed one for our group and I still love it to this day. Unfortunately, because of understandable copyright hoops, he wasn't able to continue to make that shirt but it was great. Another cruiser made us matching lanyards and another one made us cool buttons. All of them just because they made the time to do something special!! Many folks wore their Lime Green Tee-shirt for boarding and without planning, 4 DIS families were all in a row in our Boarding Line.

Also, some folks go to Home Depot and pick up Mickey ICONs from the Disney Paint section in lime green and do something really creative
with them, but as I addressed in earlier posts, I am "Craft-Challenged" so although I picked some up, they're still sitting on my kitchen counter!!:p

As to dinner: You can request a table size and they will try to accomodate you but they won't guarantee it. We always ask for a table of 4 so we can spend some real time together as a family. We have always had our request honored and been assigned a table to ourselves. I did e-mail Donna from DU about 6 weeks ago because I had forgotten to request the table for 4 and she reminded me that you can make a request but there are no guarantees (which is certainly understandable).

You can also "link" your seating together if you would like with other family or other DIS'ers who would like to sit together. Many on these boards do that and it works beautifully. You just need to know their stateroom number and last name. If it is several families all wishing to be together, they may place you at different tables in the same area. Our DS (16) actually lives with his Mom in Chicago (I'm just his very lucky step-mom) so our time with him is pretty precious. Again, that is just us and lots of people love to mingle with other folks and do it all the time.

We are also staying at the WL - I am so excited. We have never stayed there before but I have always wanted to in the past so this is a treat.

I hope I answered all your questions. One of the things I love most about the DIS is passing along the kindness and wisdom of others from whom I learned so much. So, feel free to ask away!!

[hawkrn]

grumpysmom-what was your rate at WL? I have AAA too but decided to go cheap and go with ASMU since my son is a musician. But we love the WL! Maybe I could change? We are only going to MK so that would be more convenient! We have early seating for dining and we requested a large table which is a given since there are only 2 of us.

[Ginny]

Julie -

You may already know about Mousesavers.com but I find alot of great info on discounts on that site. Here is info I copied from www.mousesavers.com about AAA discounts:

AAA and CAA packages are not usually discounted. However, there are AAA/CAA "room only" discounts. You can generally save about 10-20% at the Disney resort hotels, depending on the season.

In general, the discounts run as follows:

** During Value Season you can get up to 15% off at the Disney Deluxe and Home-Away-From-Home resorts, or 20% off at the Value and Moderate resorts and the Ft. Wilderness campsites.
** During Regular Season you can usually get up to 10% off at the Disney Deluxe and Home-Away-From-Home resorts, or 15% off at the Value and Moderate resorts and the Ft. Wilderness campsites.
** During Peak Season you can usually get up to 10% off at the Disney Deluxe and Home-Away-From-Home resorts, or 15% off at the Value and Moderate resorts.
** The only time AAA/CAA discounts don't usually apply is Holiday Season (around Christmas).

AAA/CAA discounts are not always the best rates available; if discount codes are active, they usually beat these rates. However, sometimes the AAA/CAA and Disney Club discounts are the only ones available for certain popular times of year. (See the historical trends chart for more details, to get an idea when deeper discounts won't be available.)

I could be wrong but I think up through 19 December may be considered Value Season. The salute to the U.S. Military runs through 19 December which is why we got the great rate we did. On 20 December, I think they go to Holiday rates. I hope this helps -

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny - thanks for all the good information - I have done so much crafting for girl scouts that I am sure I can come up with something - the icons at Home Depot are a good idea. I had planned on asking for a small table with the same thought in mind -- it would probably be the only time we see our girls - they are pretty independent and unless they need something (aka $$$) I will not be expecting to see much of them while we are on the ship.

My DH actually suggested we stay at WL, which we have not stayed at before. I initially wanted to stay at the GF for the decorations, but a cruise was not #1 on his list of choices for this vacation, and he has graciously granted me mine. After reading all of the great things about WL on the boards, I thought that we would probably enjoy it more than the GF for this trip.

Julie, my rate is $186 (+ the taxes, etc.) for a woods view. I tried over and over to get this rate to go through on AAA's website for one night, the 19th, and couldn't. When I tried to get a room for the 18th and 19th, I got kicked to the $215 rate, but still couldn't get the reservation to go through. This was about 1:00 a.m., and I wasn't sure if I wasn't getting my credit card number down correctly, or what!! I called the AAA travel agent in my area the next morning - she was soooo nice and called Disney directly, got me the $186 rate for both nights. This was about the max I was willing to spend for a room for this trip - we only booked our cruise a two weeks ago and are paying dearly for that. I was thrilled that I could find such a good rate. (I hope it is a good rate, it seemed to be quite a bit less than anything else I saw, except for the Swan/Dolphin, and unfortunately we don't fit into any of the categories that can claim the discount - even though I did ask DH if his ID for the local county hospital would suffice as an employee ID!! He informed me that that particular hospital does not require medical staff to wear ID's.)

Anyway, last night I spent a considerable amount of time on the boards learning what others thought about WL, the decorations, best rooms, etc. and I am really glad he made that suggestion - it will be a totally different experience for us.

We are planning on eating dinner at Tony's in MK on the 19th and then enjoying MVMCP -- I think during the day we will either just relax, or resort-hop -- we always spend at least one night doing this on our trips to WDW, and it will be such fun to see the decorations at the other resorts.

I am thinking about decorations for the cabin - I actually saw some really cute small Polish glass fish ornaments that would be really cute on a tree in the cabin -- but can't figure out how to get a tree anchored, or what to anchor it to!

Can't wait!!

The one thing I haven't looked into yet and I keep turning over in my mind is transportation - from airport to WL, from WL to PC, from PC to airport - any suggestions?

I can't tell you how much more enjoyable planning (and schemeing) for this trip is with you guys!!

Don't forget 9:00 p.m. on the Travel Channel tonight!!
Bonnie

[Ginny]

Bonnie -

Your rate for WL sounds great!! I hope Julie can pull that off if the rate works for her! The very best rate we could get for the week after the cruise was 289.00 a night. So, we flipped our extra time to before the cruise and will do two days at Universal after. Timing is everything!!

I have to say that the WL lobby was just beautiful last year. We were staying at the Contemporary but friends had told us what fun one of the restaurants was for kids so we booked dinner there. We were just in awe over the massive tree in the lobby. GF was also very pretty and had an almost life-size Gingerbread House that was all hand-made by their chefs. It may be an annual tradition - so I hope you have a chance to see it.

We are using Happy Limo from the Airport to WL and from WL to the Port. Same thing on the flip side. We used them on our last cruise and were very happy. We heard about them from Inkkognito (Barb and Tony). Many folks also rent cars from Avis and then drop them at Avis at the Port and then pick up a new one after the cruise. Others use Disney transfers but IMHO those buses get you there later than I like. I want to be there no later than 1100 and know we're there and relaxed.

Bonnie, did you make PS for Tony's for dinner or are you eating in the late afternoon? I thought only Liberty Tree Tavern was open for dinner. All the PS times were already booked until 7:15. The CM that I spoke to said that the last night of MVMCP is usually booked because many of the locals come out on Friday night. But, I will try for Tony's if you had luck there~

I've been sorting through some of my Christmas decorations (only because after 5 months in our new house it is about time I finish all the unpacking) and found some great peel off window stickers and other things I had forgotten I had. I will also call Shirley at the Perfect Gift to see if she has suggestions. She is just awesome!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, I didn't think I could make a reservation for Tony's until 60 days out -- so I hadn't tried. I was going to try for 5:30 - that way we can eat a relaxed dinner and be in the park for the beginning of the party - from what I understand, if we have the hard ticket for the party, we can get into the park early. In my past experience, even though a park may close early evening, there have always been dining reservations available up until the time of closing, and sometimes up to 1/2 hour later.

I had looked at Happy Limo, and thought about a car probably being less expensive - looked at AAA, but they "prefer" Hertz or Alamo, and I could not get a PC drop off on their site, so I will try Avis - good suggestion!!

Will be getting air reservations this morning - just wish my Disney Visa card would come through - I did this by telephone hoping it would be faster than online, but I think I have to go ahead and get the airfair - got $167 roundtrip from Greensboro, NC on Delta which is darn good!

Once again, I have found that it is much less expensive for the way my family likes to do things to do each portion of our disney trip individually as opposed to a package.

I also think twinkle lights will add quite a bit to the staterooms - maybe around the mirrors and/or windows?? My husband will just be glad not to see any Radko or Dept 56 villages!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, I just called Disney - PS's can't be made until September 20 - although I will try September 19 - he said it used to be 120 days out, and they changed to 90 days (took the 120 and 60 and merged everything). He could not even tell me if there were any reservations left. I should have asked what time they open - as I am a 5:00 a.m.'er. LOL!!

Did you just move to the DC area or just to a new home? I know how that unpacking is - we have been in our "new" home for 6.3 years -- still have some boxes of stuff in the attic that need to be unpacked, and plenty of art that has not been hung - I told my husband when we moved in that until I could figure out what colors I wanted to paint (everything is builder beige - we bought a spec house about 2 months away from being finished, so got to pick some things, but the paint was already on the walls) I was not hanging anything. Since I haven't decided YET what colors to paint the downstairs, my husband has given it up and hung some of the art himself - you know, at eye level - the 6'4" eye level??? LOL!! He was actually born in Falls Church, and his grandparents moved to SC from Alexandria. Do you and DH work in the government?

Thanks for all your great advice - I can't wait to meet you - what year is your DSS? What does he like to do?

Going to check Avis now ----

[Magic8540]

Julie: No "Twang" here, we have been in Nashville for close to 10 years..before that 15 in Los Angeles.

Lynn: The schooner sunset sail is well worth the time. We normally eat at the early seating and we did miss our schedule. We got something to eat when we got back on board.

The WL at Christmas is great. We were there a few years ago. This time we are spending NYE at Disney after the cruise and at WL

All for now. I have yard work to do.

[Ginny]

Bonnie -

You've made me feel much better. I am usually all unpacked and organized quickly since we've moved so many times but since we see ourselves here for quite a while, I'm planning carefully (please read as stalling). We bought this house in March but have been back in the DC area for 3 years now. The house is about 25 years old, on a great treed lot on a cul-de-sac with a wonderful mixture of original owners and new younger families moving in. We are very happy.

DS turned 16 in June; loves music, his new driver's license and plays both soccer and golf. He has been on two previous cruises and really likes Common Grounds and the folks he has met there. We don't really expect to see much of him besides excursions and dinner. LOL

Milt - The sunset sail sounds wonderful to me. I love to sail and it sounds like such fun.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, sounds like a great neighborhood! Hard to find in that area, I am sure.

My eldest DD will be 17 the end of this month - she LOVES music - has an awesome voice, and used to play club soccer. As a freshman she ran track, but didn't have time last year, and probably won't this year either.

She went to Governor's school for six weeks this past summer in voice, and had a great time. She plays piano and wants to take violin, (the younger plays the viola), but between school, her music internship/job at church, boyfriend, community theater and clubs at school, there seems to be little time for more lessons and practice. She's a junior, and I keep reminding her that she really has to do well this year - this is what colleges look at -- and she is sooooooooooo tired of hearing that from me!

My DH plays the classical, blues and electric guitars - and quite well, I may add, but not in public! I can't play and I can't sing -- LOL, and often am looking for a little peace and quiet. I am just hoping that my DH does NOT bring the portable, digital electric guitar I bought him for Xmas last year on the cruise - though I don't think I have a prayer for that wish -- we keep trying to get him to plug the headphones in, but he refuses! He will have to, though, if he chooses to bring it on the trip (the neighbors). Maybe it can get lost somewhere!!

[hawkrn]

grumpysmom-I know how you feel-my son plays the drums. One of us is going to need a hearing aid soon! As for transportation, I got a rental through Budget a while ago after seeing a walmart code on mousesavers. $60/day. Then we're going to take the Disney bus from the Port back to the airport. I decided to stay with ASMU since we are not really going to be in the hotel except to sleep. We saw WL last XMAS and it was great (AKL was awesome)-all the XMAS decorations are great. I have been pricing airfare and it stinks! Unfortunately 12/27 is a blackout date for some of the airlines. Airtran is my best option and it will be $350. Plus they don't have check-in at the port which is a nice touch when you have tons-o-luggage!

[Grumpy's Mom]

OMG - there are two things I hoped my children never wanted to do - 1 swim team (didn't want to get up at 5:30 a.m. in the summer) and 2 the drums!!

Julie, how do you arrange for the Disney bus? We have plenty of time between the time we disembark and our flight (3:00 p.m.), so that would work out well. I didn't want to take it from WL on the 20th after looking at the posted pick up schedules - no ressies at Palo's for us if we were to take that route.

Do you know if the rental companies have shuttles back to the Port?

What kind of car did you rent? I am on the National site now, with the AAA code, can get a Premium car for two days at $121.00 (includes everything) - but am still looking. I am going to go downstairs and get my Sam's card to see if that will help!!

[hawkrn]

grumpysmom-I got a one-way bus trip by Disney from Port to MCO. You have the option of round-trip or one-way. Since I was renting a car anyway, we'll just drive to the port and drop off the car at Budget. Budget and Avis have shuttles to the port from their offices. If you go to Dave's site http://www.dcltribute.com/, he has a list of rental places and if they shuttle. I tried AAA, but I think there was a shuttle problem or something. And then I saw the mousesavers code and picked that one. My flight back home won't probably leave till 2:30 either, which means about 5 hours of sitting in MCO. We sat 3 hours last time. YUK!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie, thank you! That page on Dave's site saved me about five more phone calls.

How do I get more information about the Disney bus? I am sure there is probably a charge, and that I will need to make ressies - can do this on the Disney site? If so, where?

Right now, it is looking like a toss-up between a rental car and a town car for the first two days of our trip - mco to WL to PC. Just trying to figure out the last day -

Maybe we can have a spades tournament at the airport!! OR, even better, figure out who spent/saved the most!!

Thanks for your help!!

[hawkrn]

You can book the DCL bus thru whomever you booked your cruise. I went thru AAA. If you did it on your own, you can just call them directly. I don't remember the charge per person for one way. Another reason we will rent a car is to stop at the grocery store in Port to get some bottled water to take for our excursions and we also wanted to look for the manatee area over by the Radisson. People have posted about seeing manatees there. If you decide to rent, don't forget to take $$$ for the tolls. Dave's sight also gives you a map and how much money the tolls are.

[Ginny]

Bonnie and Julie - Between the two of you, perhaps we could start a band. What talented families!! Julie, God bless you and the drums!! That is way out of my league with "mother-love!!" Bonnie, we will be happy to help if you need a "neutral country to excile the guitar!!"

So glad to see I am not the only one who enjoys mousesavers.com. What a great site. Your rental car rate sounds great. We opted to go with the towncar because we are staying 5 days, we got bumped to a weekly rate which was much higher than the towncar. I much prefer having a car when we are at the parks but it just worked out better with Happy Limo this time.

Bonnie, should I mention that Christopher Radko did an ornament of the MAGIC/WONDER that is exclusive to the ship (or eBay, of course)? LOL It is just beautiful. I am bringing bubble wrap and some peanuts with me to cushion my new one - I dropped mine last Christmas so need a replacement.

Also, great news about LTT and the Christmas Party. I posted over on the Theme Parks board and asked if anyone had already booked PS for those dates so I'll know which CM was correct. I'm crossing my fingers for Bonnie's answer.

With the time between flights - It is just a thought but is there enough time to do a quick stop at the Space Center before your flights. I have read lots of posts about doing that and it sounded fun.

We are off to visit my mom - they are having a "Grandparent's Day" celebration at her Assisted Living facility so DD and I will make a day of it. Have a great Sunday!!

[Ginny]

Dan Murphy, such a nice man, already responded to my question on the other board. Here's the link:

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=4129666#post4129666

I will dialing on the 19 and 20th, too.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, thanks for checking on the other board - yes, I have found the people on these boards to be wonderful!! I don't think we have been to the LTT - why is it just that restaurant that was available for early PS's, I wonder? I was thinking Tony's because we have always had great service, excellent food, and my girls are particularly fond of it - "Lady and the Tramp" was the first video my eldest DD (should that be EDD?) watched at two years old. She called it "Doggies". When she went to Governor's School this year, the only things she wanted to take for her dorm room to put on her bed were her stuffed Lady and Tramp!! It has become a tradition for our family to eat there!

Jim -- what did you think of the Key West charter? I have a friend here in town whose family manufacturers toilet paper and the holders - he does most of the marketing (they have their toilet paper in every WalMart in the country) and does a lot of these trips out of Key West to entertain customers. As a matter of fact, their house burned down 3 years ago, and while I was sitting outside it with his wife in tears, he was on a boat fishing down there with customers. (I only just thought of him this AM). I will check with him this week to see if he has some good suggestions - are you "Thegales" in the chat room on Friday nights? This will make a good birthday present for DH in October!

Anyone else interested in fishing?

[jgalecpa]

Grumpy's Mom,

a tree in the cabin -- but can't figure out how to get a tree anchored, or what to anchor it to!

This sounds like a job for Duct tape. There will have to be something that a small piece of tape can affix to.

Besides the tape, I also will probably have a travel size can of wd-40, which is great for remove tape goo off of things (as well as a marital aid.)

Jim -- what did you think of the Key West charter?

We have early seating (6pm) for dinner and since sunset looks to be about 545 that night, we will probably opt out. More like stay on deck, take out pictures and than high-tail it to eat. Probably go back out to town after dinner.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - sounds like a plan. I will continue to check out the charters for DH. We have the late seating and I think us girls will let Dad have his day and we will figure out something else to do - they will love the sunset and Mallory Square, I know, at night.

As for the WD-40...after 27 years of marriage, that might spice things up!!

Bonnie

[Ginny]

Jim - I laughed right out loud! You are too much~


Bonnie- LTT is utilized (I think) because of where it is located.....they have to clear out the parks of that day's visitors before allowing the MVMCP folks in, they section off the park. The sit-down character restaurant is LTT or you can opt for Tommorowland and fast food. As Tony's is right at the front of the park, it might be more difficult for the CM's to maneuver folks out and in.......that is purely speculation on my part. We love Tony's, too!! It broke my heart when they stopped having Lady and Tramp sign the autograph books but we still love the food.

Gotta run to Home Depot - we don't have any WD-40~~

[hawkrn]

If you're already at MK for the day, you can grab a wristband for the MVMCP in the park and then they will send you to Tommorrowland while they "clear" the others out of the park. Last year we got some fast food about 5pm (at the place by the ice cream shop) and had our cookies and cocoa later and we were fine. Tired, cold, but fine!

[p3guy]

Hi folks,
Please add 4 more to the fray. First family cruise. Planning to kill two birds with one stone...XMAS and the big 20th for the wife and me. Really looking forward to it. Bringing our 15 year old DD and 8 year old DS along for the ride. Thanks for all the great information!
Greg

[Grumpy's Mom]

Welcome Greg and family!! The more the merrier - looks like we will have scads of teen girls!!

Had a thought today - anyone ready to start their diet?? I am thinking I could do without 16 pounds by cruisetime!!

[LynnTarrant]

Welcome Greg
Bonnie I started mine on the 1st september(diet), I've bought an outfit for formal night in the sales 3!! yes you heard 3 sizes too small. I guess I've got alot of work to do.
I'm stll torn over the sunset schooner trip, we have asked for late seating so it will probably be the show we miss, what do you veterans think.
Sorry I haven't been around for a while but we have a young friend who is like a son to us, he is in the RAF and was home on leave before being posted to Iraq, so I've been a bit distracted, of course 5 baby bunnies are great time wasters too!
Our group is certainly growing, we'll be in for a meet of some sort for sure.
BTW my DH plays Bass guitar so the band is growing!
Speak to you soon
Lynn

[Grumpy's Mom]

LOL Lynn - that is a mighty ambitious goal!! But in four months, it should be doable. I guess you will have to watch out for the early December parties!! I just need to get out and get some exercise and I will get rid of what I need to. That would bring me down about 1 1/2 sizes, which would be perfect. Just want to get a new bathing suit -- but then, the summer clothes won't fit anymore, and where will I get more of those in December??

You must be saying your prayers for your young friend in the RAF. We have some good friends who will be leaving for Iraq in a kind of piecemeal way this year. Dad, who is with the FBI, is leaving in October. The rest of the family will be leaving when school is out, and with their eldest daughter being sent to boarding school in Switzerland, eldest son a freshman at The Citadel, and then three youngers (the younger daughter is Grumpy's best friend) will be leaving with Mom to live on the compound in Iraq. It will be quite an experience for their family - we are very, very sad to think of them going.

Congratulations on your new brood!! (are they a brood, a litter, or what?)

As for the guitars -- what about that secret area aft on Deck 7?

Better yet, what about the talent show???

Do they still have a talent show, does anyone know?

[Grumpy's Mom]

Check you emails for a message from Disney either yesterday or today - starts out with "Here is Disney's most out-of-this-world offer..." I called the number and saved myself $100 on my WL reservation!! Courtyard room for $156 (which includes all the taxes, etc.) for 12/18 and 19!!

There has been a lot going on on the main board over the last 24 hours, so let me just say that before anyone says this is off topic (and I notice that I have a tendency toward that), there are several of us in this thread that are staying there before the Magic sails.

[LynnTarrant]

Well! are you all excited we've made it to double digits!!!
The countdown continues....


:jester: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :jester: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :jester:

[LynnTarrant]

BTW Bonnie
Baby rabbits are called Kittens and my husband has dubbed ours 'a cuddle of kittens' cute eh, but very off topic sorry!!

[Ginny]

Good morning all -

Greg, welcome to you and your family AND to the DIS Boards. It looks like our little D.C. Metro area group is growing!! I think we are up to 4 families right now on this cruise. What an incredible 20th celebration for you and DW. If you have any questions about anything, we are happy to help!!

Bonnie - congratulations on that great rate at WL!! That is incredible!

Just a thought about a DIS Meet - On our Halloween cruise, we planned two different DIS activities: Cabin to Cabin Trick or Treating for all the DIS kids (which was incredible) and an adult DIS meet at the Palo Brunch on a Day at Sea. Palo's has a private room for about 15 (I think) but we had about 18 and they just placed us at several tables.

Any other thoughts, suggestions or diabolical plans?

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny - Brunch sounds great! Since we haven't cruised before, I don't really have any other ideas, but I will think of something.

We could come up with a treasure hunt for the kids - I would be glad to coordinate (we would probably have to have an adult at each location giving out clues, so that they were not picked up by other guests), but the mapping would have to be done by someone who has been on the ship before. I have done this before at GS camp, and it was really fun - figure out which children will be involved, either pair them up or group them in 4-5, and give each a different route (stopping at most of the same places and depending on age) and have the groups directed to one of mayybe 2 or 3 different "Treasure Chests" with age-appropriate "Treasures" at the end.

Or, we could do a Scavenger hunt with digital cameras, etc. (I don't know how how much stuff we could compile into a list for them to retrieve, for example, are there printed cocktail napkins at each retaurant, etc.) but it would be fun to make up clues, etc. for that, too.

This could be fun, and could be as intricate or simple as we choose to make it. The only downside is what other activities are happening at the same time, and do other parents want to commit?

I wonder if DCL has something like that put together already that might be available to us, or if that is something that might already be done in the kid's camps.

JIM - I didn't see anything on the DCL site about fishing being reinstated -- congrats on the tag, BTW!! The tag fairy is clever isn't he/she??


What kind of fish and where did you catch it?

[p3guy]

Ginny,
Thanks for the welcome. We're really looking forward to it, especially me. I need a break from the I-66 commute from Centreville to the 5-sided wind tunnel and back each day. I just broke the "news of the cruise" to the family last night. They're excited! I'll be turning over the research duties to my wife Tina and 8-yr old DS. My 15 -yr old DD will be focused on make-up and clothes so she'll be of no use :rolleyes:
Thanks for the offer of assistance and I did mention to Tina that I knew some folks near us were going on the cruise so she may be seeking your advice since this is a first for us. We'll just be heading straight down and back since I only managed to get a week off. There is so much information out there!
Thanks again!!
Greg

[jgalecpa]

Dear Greg,

Welcome to the cruise group!

Here's a link to a thread "all the best tips summarized" I compiled a while back. I printed it out, highlighted the ones I liked and have filed it away. I will re-read it when time gets closer. Some good tips in there. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=388591

I have a 15 yr ol DD as well as a 12 yr old DD (God must really have a sense of humour)


I think the scavenger hunt sounds good.



Rieann (DW) is a little hesitant around people she doesn't know (the ying to my yang) so it may take convincing for a Palo's brunch, but a get together would be a ball and see where it goes from there.


Grumpy's Mom:

You are right, the CC excursion still does not list the bottom fishing as an excursion. After someone posted they did get a trip booked, I called last night and DCL excursion desk did confirm that it was back on as of yesterday (9/12).

The fish is a striped bass. Around here we call 'em rockfish because they tend to hang out around rocks and other submerged structures.

I caught her this may in the Chesapeake bay opposite the mouth of the Choptank river.

She tastes really good, especially grilled and topped with some crab imperial Rieann makes with crab we catch ourselves on
our dock in OC, MD.


The trip is really coming up fast now. In the next few weeks we'll be paying the final, then in early Nov. the docs will come.

Question (To those who celebrate XMAS) are you decorating your homes for XMAS the same way since you will be away?

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - do your girls know about the cruise? Mine don't, and I am not sure when we are going to tell them - maybe Thanksgiving, because the elder DD will need more advance notice re the boyfriend etc. This is their Christmas present from us --

Decorating - that is a good question. I hadn't really thought about it yet. We usually get our decorating done the weekend of Thanksgiving -- we really do it up - last year we had 6 trees (big Radko collection, Ginny), three of the Dept 56 villages, candles, etc. I am not sure I want to go to all the work and take the amount of time to do this, as we will be leaving on the 18th.

In past years when we have gone on vacation over the holidays, we have at least put up a fresh tree in our family room, so that we have some feeling of the holidays in the house - but to be gone almost ten days makes me a little nervous with a live one in the house, and we would have to have one of the neighbors water, and then, of course, there are always the cats -- they have a tendency to go psycho both with all the decorations (and trees to climb) and the fact that there is no one home. Then, there is the outside of the house which we finally got started on last year (yes Ginny, we have been in the house 6 years, and just got started on the outdoor decs!!). I had planned to add to what we did last year this year, but I had to give the DH the solemn promise that my ENTIRE Xmas budget was going toward the cruise --

We do have one very small tree that I have saved for the last 15 years - it was a year that we had very little and it was all we could afford - it is about 2' high, and Maleficent (Megan) and I made dough ornaments to put on it. We put it up every year on our breakfast room table. It is a good reminder to us of how blessed we are, how hard we worked, and the need to share our blessings with those less fortunate in our community (our unemployment rate hit 10+% last month), as we have been in their shoes -- That will definitely go up, if not to the ship with us.

Are you still bringing the duct tape??

How many trees do you think I can get in a Cat. 8??

Jim, my DH (Jamie) will have the same reservations as your DW - I always try to prep him with information about who he might be meeting, others with similar interests, etc. Between the fishing and the music, I think he will very much enjoy himself!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Forgot to add that the fish recipe sounds fantastic!! Where (or what) is OC?

[Ginny]

Hi, all -

I mentioned Bonnie's Radko collection and holiday decorating extravaganza to DH and I think his heart palpitations may pass in a while!! My decorating really began when DD was about 2!! I wanted every holiday to be memorable. Bonnie, how exquisite and magical your home must be!! DH will definitely be at brunch...... just to monitor any ornament conversations and for self-protection!! :)

Seriously, we too were a bit hesitant last cruise about meeting folks we had only conversed with on the DIS but we really had a great time!! It added to the whole experience to see friendly faces all over the ship, CC and on excursions.

Greg, both DH and I share your pain with the commute.......and we can both assure you that as soon as they announce your family boarding, the stress is left on the dock! Hopefully, you won't be required to bring cell phones, blackberry's or other evil tools meant to tether us to our work. Based on your user name, I suspect our families may have even more in common. Please let Tina know we are all happy to help. I strongly recommend the list that Jim started and gave you the link to as there are lots of great suggestions and I have bookmarked it for myself. Also, the two sites I gave in the first few replies on this thread are two of the best (Dave's from Marietta and the Platinum Castaway Club).

As to decorating, I've already started putting up my Fall decorations which will morph into Halloween decorations then roll into Thanksgiving decorations and, yes, I will be doing Christmas decorating with DD. It is a special tradition for us and she is growing up so very fast. By the way, Jim, St Patrick's Day is a big event in this house as well!!

[p3guy]

Jim,
Thanks for the great link. I'm working on my hurricane checklist as this point but will get to the Disney checklist soon.

Ginny,
Thanks for the offer of help. DW may be seeking assistance as cruise time grows closer. Looks like we have kids about the same age. Nice to hear we may have some other things in common too. Hopefully we'll get to meet you and some of the other nice folks on this board at some point.

Greg

[Ginny]

Hi, all,

Well, it was 4 years ago today that our family boarded the Disney Wonder and began our 4 day mystery cruise................which really started this "cruise" thing in our family. Six days earlier, we "snuck" out of Jacksonville, NC at 9PM at night as it seemed Hurricane Daniel was surprising all the experts and circling back to land after already hitting us once and we didn't want to get stuck with a repeat performance.

As they announced us boarding the Wonder on the 16th, Hurricane Floyd was barrelling in, there was already talk of closing WDW (which they did) and, for the next 4 days, we were never sure from one moment to the next where we were going.....but we had such an incredible time. It was an unbelievable adventure in every way from rescuing the Castaway Cay residents to being bused back to Port Canaveral from points south. The staff were so professional, most of the passengers were good sports and it was obvious that the Wonder's Captain knew exactly what to do. I wouldn't have missed a minute!!

So, tonite as we finally (and quickly) cleaned out the garage so we can get two cars in, restocked the Hurricane Locker, the frig and finished all the laundry. I have to be honest...................a hurricane party with Mickey is MUCH MORE FUN!!

I can't wait for Christmas!!

[hawkrn]

Ginny and Greg- good luck to you!

[jgalecpa]

Grumpy's Mom:

Yes, Our girls know. DD-15 doesn't have a boyfriend at the moment, so no problem there, and maybe an opportunity.....

Rieann is ambivalent about decorating too much, as well.


OC is Ocean City, Md. It is (for now, pending "isabele") a lovely beach resort on a barrier island on the Atlantic.

We have a place on the bay behind the island, where there is lovely boating, fishing, crabbing, and clamming.


We boat 5 miles south to Assateague Island, which is the setting for the wild ponies from the book "Misty of Chincoteague". We beach our boat there, usually with only about 35 other people total. Horses will be right around you as you walk, clam, etc.

Pending Isabelle.

Awaiting Christmas

Jim

PS. Curiously, my mom's name is Isabelle. This week we are to put her in an assisted living facility, somewhat against her wishes. Quite ironic that there could be two hurricane isabelle's around here the same week!

PPS: Who's going parasailing on CC?

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny and Jim - We will be watching and waiting with you, and praying - we are too far inland, I think (read hope), to get much more than torrential rain.

We did survive Hugo in Columbia, SC (had to rethink the 3-year-old birthday party the next day - no power or water at Chuckie Cheese, or anywhere else, for that matter), and Hurricane Bonnie while at Kiawah - she only came within 40 miles of shore, and I was bound and determined to stay unless the authorities kicked us out - the next day was the most beautiful day I have ever experienced on a beach anywhere.

Jim, my thoughts are particularly with you this week - my mother is 87, and still able to manage fairly well in an apartment in a retirement community in Dallas. My sister spends every Saturday morning helping her get showered, taking her shopping, to the bank, etc., and we have someone come in twice a week in the afternoon to take care of household chores, bathing and some cooking. She is still extremely bright and full of mischief, and loves to keep up with the girls. She finally lost her driving privileges (and her car - a Datsun 280Z) four years ago when she had a stroke while driving, and drove into a house. This will be a difficult week for you, but you know, I am sure, that you are making the right choice for her. In the back of my mind I know that day is coming for us also ---

Ocean City sounds absolutely lovely-- my husband's grandfather had a place on the Cheasapeke (sp?) and he has many fond memories of spending summers there. They sold it the year before we married, and I know Jamie regrets not having been able to take our dds there.

Both of you (and P3guy), please check in with us so we know you are okay - you will be in our family's prayers over the next few days. Hopefully, she will lose some momentum over the next 24 hours, and the front that is coming (it is here already --62 degrees at 8:00 p.m. tonight) may push her just a wee bit further out to sea.

Will be thinking of you --

[LynnTarrant]

Hurricanes are just things we hear about on the news over here so i've no idea what you will be experiencing, but I'll be thinking of you and echo Bonnie's plea to let us know you're safe and well

[Ginny]

To all -

Thanks so much for your kind wishes and prayers. You know, I never cease to be amazed by how much this DIS group has in common on many, many different fronts.

I am just now home from visiting my mom. I wanted to check on her and restock everything for her just in case the roads were a challenge post-Isabel. We moved her here from San Diego almost 2 years ago (right after our last cruise) and she celebrated her 88th b'day on the 4th of July. Though originally she was living in Fairfax (at an Assisted Living on the campus of DD's school), we recently moved her to a little higher level of care in MD. It is more of a drive for me but half as far for my sister.

Jim, besides Isabel (and your lovely getaway in Ocean City), you are truly in my thoughts and prayers for the changes with your mom as you begin this journey. Hopefully, she will adjust quickly and flourish in her new environment. There have been many times in the past two years when I wondered what else was in store........and, then, there are times like tonight when she is so happy to sit quietly and hold my hand and I feel such peace. Of course, that sweet interlude was followed by the staff explaining that they had moved her temporarily because she had left the water running with something in her sink and flooded her room and.............the dining room on the floor below. And, I just had to laugh out loud and then mom laughed and the staff started laughing (while questioning my mental status, I'm sure). For some reason, it simply struck me so funny - here we have Isabel coming and the floods will ensue but my Mom beat her to it. Mom's new care providers are so wonderful - we are very blessed.

So, we are holding on tight to thoughts of our cruise.............and rest........and relaxation...........and Studio Sea............and the Rainforest.............and Mickey Bars..................and pin trading and all the other fun things in store!

Edit (9/18) - Originally, I had asked if anyone had heard from Julie (HawkRN) as I somehow missed her post on the 16th. She always has such great ideas!!

[jgalecpa]

Many thanks to all for your caring words.

We are battened down here, ready to ride out whatever may come our way.

We prepare for the worst, and pray for the best.

When put up against the trials some on this board have been up against, a few days of bad weather is not all that bad.

Weather permitting, we'll be checking in soon.

God Bless.

Jim

PS, If you wonder what being in a hurricane is like, ask BD what his worst day of marriage is like and you'll get the idea!

[hawkrn]

Ginny, thanks for remembering me! To tell you the truth, the reason we are going on a XMAS cruise is because my dad died Dec. 28 last year and my mom has been gone since 94. So I really wasn't in the mood to spend XMAS here in Iowa this year. So hang on to your mom while you can! I know you, Jim, and Greg dread the word "hurricane", but I'm sorry to say that I find them fascinating. I've been watching those guys on the Weather Channel today whenever I got the chance! I know they're scary (we have tornadoes here) but for someone who doesn't get to experience them....Hope all is well and you have power!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie, I am so sorry about your mom - a hard time of year for that to occur. Hopefully your trip will provide just the right amount of distraction and yet allow you the 28th to be home and reflect on your mom.

I have been through both hurricanes (Hugo) and many tornados, having lived in Birmingham, AL for five years. I have to say that they are both very similar in the amount of destruction they can do, but the tornados are by far the scariest. At least in B'ham, they come up sooooo quickly -- you know that if you hear the sirens, you had better take cover quickly. They are in and out so quickly, and leave such a path of destruction. Hurricanes are very similar in terms of what one actually experiences in the house while sitting through them, but at least you have some warning and ability to prepare for them.

Glad to see you are doing well --

Ginny, Jim and P3guy --- where are you???????????

[Ginny]

Julie -
I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Losing your dad must be so very hard for you and it is a challenging time of year to lose someone dear. No matter how old we get, our parents are very important in our lives.

I had really missed your posting and am glad to hear from you!! And, I agree with you, I think these storms and the power they pack are really fascinating. We try very hard to be as prepared as possible and hope for the best.

We lost power from 4PM until 9AM this morning. Bonnie, my luck ran out :) - regardless of the outcome, thanks for the PM and looking out for us!! That really made my day yesterday.

I am pretty tired as this was a particularly noisy storm and we lost many, many big branches that were thudding and clunking on the roof, windows and doors as they flew by. Plus, I camped out in the family room with DD (because her survival guidebook said to) and my back will need intense therapy to recover!! Mother-Love!!

We had pre-chilled the house to 64 so were comfortable all night. We have no tap water at all - all Virginia water treatment facilities are without power. But, we have about 20 gallons of bottled so are fine.

The clean up on this one will take days but, to be honest, the biggest casualty is the DH and DD missed the 90-minute Season Premier of Survivor. It was really touch and go around here last night as 8PM came and went with no power. But, we regrouped and ended up playing Disney Monopoly by Lantern.

I still stand by an earlier post, hurricanes with Mickey are much more fun!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny - glad to hear everything is okay - tell DH not to feel bad, we only got to see the first one hour of Survivor, as I had no idea it was a 90 minute show and only taped 60!! Waiting for a friend to tape off her satellite tonight at 11 - maybe that would be a solution for your family??

Having only lost your power for a few hours, you did quite well, I would say!!

Haven't heard from Jim or p3guy yet - Ginny, what is p3???

Am still waiting to hear from my gf in Woodstock, MD.


I guess we can compare notes on our PS's -

Bonnie

[Ginny]

Hi all -

Well, Jim checked in on the main board which is great news. We got our water back by about 2PM this afternoon though we will still need to boil it. Spent 5 hours on clean-up............and that was just the front yard. We will tackle the backyard another day (or millenium)!! Many neighbors with major damage due to downed trees and flooding. Our next door neighbor had extreme basement flooding and another family lost their entire deck with significant damage to their second floor.

Now, we just need to hear from P3Guy and Belle&BeastCrazy (Kim). I saw some pictures of Front Royal and they say that the Shenandoah River will crest again tonight bringing renewed and even more intense flooding. So, Kim, if you can read this, I am sending lots of pixie dust your way.

Take care -

[p3guy]

Hi folks,
Well, we survived!:) Lost two trees in the font yard but that's not so bad because we never lost our electricity or water. We are boiling drinking water but that's OK too...at least we can take showers! Most of our county lost water and electricity, at least for awhile. Some are still without. DM-in-L and DF-in-L (??) in Annapolis are still on generator and downtown is a swamp! Never drove around before with stoplights not working, that's not much fun. Hopefully we'll be back to normal in a couple of days. Time to start getting ready for the cruise!!
Greg

[Ginny]

Greg - Glad to hear all is well. Saw the pics on the news of
downown Annapolis. Amazing!! Spoke to dear friends out there who remain on generator after 36 hours but otherwise did great. I agree about the showers - the 19 hours w/o power was fine but I was never so thrilled to see running water coming out of my faucet again than after all that clean-up yesterday.

I am calling today to make reservations for Happy Limo and for LTT for dinner. On with cruise fun!

[belle&beastcrazy]

Its's been a hard few weeks for us. I have not been able to talk to everyone, but we are back on track now for our Magical Vacation. Welcome to all our new X-Mas crusiers. It's great to see our group growing . Well we got our DD back to college for her second year. Sad news then her last final isn't untill Friday at 8:00am so no MVMCP for us. We are picking her up at school and driving to the port. So I talked DH into staying 6 days after the cruise through New Year's. Got a room at the Caribbean with an airline discount {thanks mousesavers.com} Second bad news I was bit on my left food by a Brown Recluse Spider. It has taken 2 weeks for the swelling to go down. I can now walk without pain. During this DH had to have surgry on his Achelles Tendon. He is off his feet for 10 weeks. It will be a year recovery. He is home for the next 7 weeks from work. This is putting a damper on any excursions for us.

Now to answer some questions:

This will be our Third Disney Christmas as for gifts my family always get's new PJ'S on X-Mas Eve so they will come wrapped along with something small for X-Mas Morning. Then they girls get to buy something from a gift shop on X-Mas Day that they have had their eye on.

Bonnie-your Grumpy and my Tink should get along great both 13 and hromonal. My Tink fits her name Mood Subject to Change Without Notice.

Bonnie and Ginny- My BIL and nephew to the Jeep tour in July and said it was great. Thier advise was wear something old, they had to throw their tee shirts away.

Everyone- a DIS meet would be great and somthing for the children on X-Mas day would be fun, even the older ones.

Jim- I still put up a tree at home and put maybe half of the outside stuff up. Hope your Mom is adjusting well. We put my Great Aunt in a home 4 years ago against her wishes. It was a ruff few months, but she finally aadjusted put on weight and made friends. Any damage at O.C. for the storm.

Julie- Sorry to head about your Dad-I know that first year is hard you keep thinking last year at this time we were doing this. Being away will help .

Ginny- Not much storm damage at our house. Lost some tree limbs, the wind nocked over an arber that my morning glories were on and lost a butterfly bush. The creek stayed in it's bank on it's way to the Shenandoah. We drove over to the river yesterday, I think it was up more after Fran. THANKS FOR THE PIXIE DUST.

KIM

[jgalecpa]

Hey guys,

I';m back, sort of. We are on generator power. I have one PC hooked up (DW's, off course. She is in the middle of an on-line class for here 2nd masters. )

We had no real damage at all. Small stuff down.

No Damage At OCEAN CITY!!!!!

Boat and house are both fine. I hear Kent Island on the way to the beach really took it hard, though. One worker was killed their trying to restore power.

[It does get on my last nerve when people are expecting the biggest storm since 1933 to be cleaned up in 5 hours or less.

They are looking for someone to blame, and her name is Isabel.]

Gotta limit my time on-line, so will check out now.

We can get through this!

(To do my bit, I'm taking my DD-12 to the Redskins game today. Go Skins. Sorry NY Fans.)

Jim

[Ginny]

Kim -
So good to hear from you and that you survived Isabel so well!! Your last couple of weeks sound very tough - I hope you (both) continue on the mend. Glad to hear your DH is doing well post-surgery though it sounds as if rehab will take a while!!

Good info on the Jeep tour. DH is looking at the info as I write this note.

Jim -
So excited that your house and boat did so well. That is great news and a big relief I'm sure. I hope things continue to improve over the next week and that the Redskins game is fun for you and DD.

Since we will now be staying put in the DC area, my two big wishes are for a generator and a snow blower. DH said he would see what he could do!! :) No one ever seems to realize how vital they are (or smart you are for buying them) until you need them.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Glad everyone is okay - and surprising that out of a diverse group of people, no serious damage!! Must have been enough prayers and pixie dust!!

Ginny - got my PS at Tony's for 5:30 - had to wake everyone up in the hotel room with a wakeup call at 6:50 - then made my phone call on DH's cell from the bathroom - no problem!! hope you got yours at LTT!!

Kim - funny - my DDs always get new PJs on Christmas Eve - something I started when they were very little to make sure they would look "presentable" for Xmas morning photos! I am glad you mentioned that, as I would not have thought about it. Having just gotten back from the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, and Grumpy extremely frustrated that she could not go to the spa (have to be 18), will be thinking about the spa packages as gifts for them. Sorry we are going to miss you Friday night, but will look forward to seeing you Saturday!

Jim, hope you are off generator power soon - I am sure it is no fun in a family of one man and three women to prioritize what needs power at any given moment! What is your DW working on for her Masters? What was her first?

Well, we are under the 90 day mark now - time for some serious planning - DH is even getting into the act - still looking for fly fishing!

Bonnie

[Ginny]

To all -

How about arranging a wonderful Palo's brunch as a DIS meet on Monday (our first day at sea) at 1000 or 1030? Depending on how many adults there are, we can try for the private room or, if not, different tables in the same general area. Those that would enjoy it, can get together and share good food and make new memories. I am happy to pull the brunch meet together but you will need to Private Message me your names and stateroom numbers so I can make the reservations. The brunch charge will be automatically made to your KTTW Card.

We can certainly plan other meets but thought this might be fun. Please let me know if you are interested..................I promise no hurt feelings if folks would rather be lounging at the spa or pool.

Bonnie -

You won't believe it..................LTT was all filled up so I asked about Tony's (thanks to you) and got PS for 5:45PM. So, maybe our paths will cross there.

The best part was when I told DH, he said he was much happier because he really loves the food and atmosphere at Tony's. So all is well that ends well. Thanks again for trying to get PS for us! That was just great and, definitely, above and beyond. I hope you had a wonderful time at the Grove Park Inn.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny -- great idea!! We would love to do that. Don't have a cabin room number yet - booked a "guaranteed" so hoping for an upgrade to a 6 when docs come. I think brunch would be great - my DDs will likely still be asleep -- so that would be a great time!!

Thrilled to hear you will be at Tony's -- Someone posted on the restaurant board how much they enjoyed eating on Main Street during the holidays because of the decorations. That should also be a great spot for us to see the "snow", and for both families to meet.

My dds' birthdays are this week - Maleficient (Megan) will be 17 on Wednesday, and Grumpy (boy, was she this weekend) will be 13 on Thursday. I am toying with giving them just the dates and that we will be at WDW, and telling them that we will be staying in several different resorts this year -- maybe even Vero Beach??? I can imagine their faces when we drive up to Port -

Still cannot decide whether better to surprise them or let them have a hand in the planning/chosing their excursions. I know that someone posted that they thought most of the fun was in the planning --


Bonnie

[jgalecpa]

"I've got the Power"

Finally. Got a call during the game that the girls school was out today AND the power was on.

Rieann (DW) and friend plus two girls in the car when they heard no school (started the cheering) and then they started noticing streetlights on as they got closer.

Came to our neighborhood and........LIGHTS!!!!!!!!

R said it was a party in the van.

Gotta store "Jennny" the generator today. She deserves an extra fond pat for her good service. (So does R, for that matter.)


Thanks for all the good wishes over the last few days.

Bonnie:I know that someone posted that they thought most of the fun was in the planning My girls are really enjoying the excursion planning.



Talk to you soon.

[LynnTarrant]

Hi Ginny
Would love to meet you all, but from the reseach i've done I found out that 2 adults are likely to be on the LAP rotation and with the late dinner seating that would probably mean it would be our character breakfast on that morning at 9:45am so i'd say count us out of brunch.

We thought we might do brunch on Christmas Day as probably most groups with families will want to be with their children on that day and it will make it special for us.
Lynn

[Grumpy's Mom]

OMG - Jim - look at your tag!!

[jgalecpa]

YEAH, BABY!!!!

That Tag fairy really has his/her act together.

The tags are really right on time.

(The mystery that is the tag fairy is really quite intriquing.)

Thanks a million Bonnie. Last time it took days for me to notice.

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Welcome!!

The TF must be as addicted to these boards as I am finding I am - I keep wondering what will happen after the cruise -- does it get worse??

Bonnie

[jgalecpa]

Just Paid my final today!

(I know it's almost a month early, but it has to do with my cash back from discover, etc, and I want to make sure I can call right at the 60th day to do excursions)

Hope everyone is fully recovered from Isabel.

Jim

[Ginny]

Jim -

If it will help with your cash back from "Discover," I'd be happy to let you go ahead and pay our final amount!! I always like to be helpful when I can!!

Okay, Okay..........you can't blame a girl for trying!!

[jgalecpa]

Ginny,

I truly appreciate your generous nature.

However, I have enough trouble keeping up with my own DF's (Disney Females) generosity.

And no, you can never blame a girl for trying.

Jim

[Ginny]

Jim -

It is always nice to see a gentleman who appreciates his DF's!!

Well, my boss signed my vacation request for two weeks yesterday and after the post-Isabel "catch up" week at work AND the ever-popular end of the FY madhouse...........I am really counting the days!!

Chuck (DH) and I took a quiet moment to talk about excursions. We have read the DCL excursions and read the different websites. CAPT Marvin's sounds like what we would enjoy for Grand Cayman. We really like the sailing challenge in Key West. We are still looking at Cozumel although we both like the idea of heading out to play mini-golf! And, we want to give DS the opportunity to go on the Teen Cruise, if he would like.

We also want to do parasailing on CC but want to make sure that DD is big enough to tandem with her dad. This would be a great Christmas surprise for her!!

[jgalecpa]

Ginny,

We are definitely planning on letting DD-15 do the teen cruise. also. We felt that allowing that freedom (under Disney's control) would be good for her and us.

In the Caymans we have the 1115 am capt marvins booked. We will probably do seven mile beach and shopping

Key west will probably be just looking and shopping.

Coxumel will be Mr. Sanchos, the teen cruise for Caitlin and shopping

(Do you notice any theme that runs through each?)

I think the time now is just going to fly.

[Ginny]

Jim -

I do detect that shopping appears to be an ongoing theme!! Now, are you an active participant in the shopping marathon or the sweet, generous DH who holds the bags and allows the women in his life to raid his wallet (once they've cleaned out their own)??

Is your trip with CAPT Marvin's one of the 7 hour ones or a shorter cruise??

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny -

Do you actually have a husband who LIKES to go shopping??

My DH is not a shopper -- not even for his own clothing! I think he will fall into the latter category, if he joins us shopping.

We have not yet talked about excursions, although I know he is thinking about scuba. The girls will go on the teen cruise and do some snorkeling somewhere and of course, shop.

They had their birthdays this week and received nice checks from Grandma - I actually went to the Disney Store and bought Disney Dollars and a T-shirt for each one, to give as a gift, with Maleficient's card noting that she had a reservation for Tony's on 12/19, and Grumpy's card noting reservations at the WL -- but at the last minute couldn't get it together to give them to them. Hadn't had a chance to talk with DH about it, and didn't want him left out of the loop.

Their birthdays (Wednesday and Thursday) were just a riot - I have never been sooo unprepared in their lives. I was shopping until 10:00 the night before Megan's, and then after taking her and her BF and Grumpy out to dinner (DH at work), I left to try to finish up Grumpy's shopping at 8:00 - mall closes at 9:00 - got locked in the mall, still had to get home and finish frosting birthday cake, we had cake at 10:30 p.m., and so it goes - this having a business out of one's home is not all it is cracked up to be sometimes---

Anyway, now that those are over, hopefully we will have some time next weekend to sit down and look over everything, and perhaps give the girls their Christmas present so that they can participate in the choices.

Oh, I forgot - I took the DDs to see Pirates of the Caribbean last night - hadn't seen it - Grumpy's fourth time - swooned the whole movie over Johnny Depp - if you have seen it, is the island that Jack was left on Castaway Cay? It sure looked like the pictures I have seen!! I'm hoping that Pirates and Haunted House will be playing the Magic during our week!

[jgalecpa]

Ginny,

I am the passive participant.

I do like to go at least once in every port to see what kind of wares they have.

I would rather find a fishing excursion while they shop.

As to cleaning out my money, I thought that was DF's do best!

Rieann is truly a world class shopper. She has convinced jewlers to open early in Santorini and found $15 dresses on the Via Veneto in Rome. SHe can get wonderful things in spectacular places at tremendous prices.

As to Capt Marvins, we are doing the 2 hr tour (ala the SS minow).

Jim

[belle&beastcrazy]

How is everyone doing? Counting down the days. My girls are. My oldest came home this weekend from college and we all sat down to talk about excursions. Due to DH foot recovery we will have to take it slow. Trolly in Key West {DD-13 English teacher loves Hemmingway}, GC- city tour and string ray and Cozumel mini-golf. Shopping in all ports a must. Thinking of renting a wheelchair for DH then we can push and he can carry all the packages.

Jim, I made my final payment this week also, my bouns cheek came in and went straight to the curise line.

Bonnie, My DD-13 loves Johnny Depp too. I am trying to get her to do the teen cruise too. She is so shy.

Ginny, if we don't have the character breakfast DH and I would love to do the Palo's Bruch. Our room is 6514.

Kim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Kim - Grumpy (Mackenzie) turned 13 on Thursday. Going to the movie with both of them was very interesting - Megan was on one side of me muttering about how "hot" Orlando (Legolas) is, and Mackenzie was swooning with a big smile on her face during the entire movie!

Mackenzie is not particularly shy, but can be a bit hesitant in new social situations where she doesn't know anyone. My older DD is anything but shy, loves meeting new people, etc. As long as her big sister is there with her, I know Kenz will have a great time. It is far enough into the cruise, too, so that the kids will have had a chance to meet others their own age and make some friends, which at 13 would make all the difference.

If we introduce the two 13 yo's and perhaps mention that they have the Johnny Depp thing in common, they will probably hit it off! I find that the younger DD much prefers the companionship of her own age group right now than Mom and Dad. The older DD many times seems to enjoy spending time with us as much as she does with her friends (we still take a back seat to the BF, however).

Good to hear from you! I guess I am going to have to tell them soon ---

[jgalecpa]

Dear Grumpy's mom,

I could never have held out so long.

DW and I just went to see "Under the Tuscan Sun" for her birthday and we're already scheming to get back to Italy again (without the kids!)


Jim


PS I would say the movie was not really a chick flick but a date movie. There are definitely things guys will enjoy.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - I will have to let DH know that --

Interesting you should mention Italy - that was Plan B for this Christmas - but decided to go with Plan A because of the weather --

Neither of us have been to Europe -- Italy is our first choice when we get the chance - hoping next summer -- putting the cruise on my Miles One card - have one ticket to Europe already, trying to see if I can spend enough money to get three more!! (DH will LOVE to hear that one!!)

Bonnie

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim -- PS, nice birthday event!

Bonnie

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

Due to familial connections, I have lived in Europe and visited more time than I can count.

As a visitor, I would not go the first time, in the winter, though.

Spain and Italy are gorgeous and a wonderful, fascinating place to visit. GREECE is amazing, though. In terms of history, sun, (Shopping) it is fabulous. The bargains in Greece have to be seen to be believed.

[My travel agent said it is the most Romantic place she'd visited and I'd agree].

A would thoroughly recommend a Med. Cruise for the first time visitor to that area.

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim -

A cruise sounds like a great idea - we could see several different countries and not have to hassle with lodging, transportation, etc. When I was initially trying to pull together a budget for an Italy trip, I knew it was going to take a lot more time and energy than I had at that moment to plan an itinerary - so I started on expedia to see which city I could get the best airfare to, and then thought I would go from there. A cruise would be sooo much easier!!

Have you done a med cruise?

Do you have any suggestions as to a cruise line? (Maybe Disney will have one by the time we are ready to go.) We are trying to take some special trips with our DDs - the oldest will be on to college in a year and a half, though she is talking now about applying to the North Carolina School of the Arts for her senior year, which would take her from us this summer. That is part of the reason for our Disney cruise -

Where have you traveled in the US that you particularly liked??

Bonnie

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

We cruised summer 2000 with Royal Olympic. We took a cruise that centered around the Greek Island, and also included a stop in Turkey as well as stops in Scicly and Rome (Citavechia).

RO is the official Greek cruise line. It was very nice, but the ships in the line can very from older to more modern. We took a smaller 40,000 ton ship (Triton) that being smaller, could go places the larger ones couldnt'.

On the Med Cruises, I would definitely say the ports decide which cruise lines to look for.

Eastern Cruises can go the Italy/Greece route
Western can go the Italy/Spain route.

Italy= Beautiful and Expensive; Spain = beautiful, reasonable priced. Greece= Beautiful and cheap.

From what I remember, Costa cruises are very big over there, as are princess, etc. LOTS of lines do European Cruises.

I always recommend at least three nights before /after the cruise being allowed for flights, work stoppages, recovering from jet lag, AND decreasing the cost per day of the flight.

When booking a cruise, I would find out what % of people they have that are English speaking/american. RO was primarily Italian and other Europeans, so there we probably met fewer people on that cruise than ever.

We did Athens to Athens and what an experience. We fell in love with athens, did the Plaka (one of the best shopping districts ever) and learned the prices. Went to various Island,s etc and if something was cheaper in Athens waited till we got back to buy it there.

In this country, We haven't done too much. We just got back from Seatlle/San Juan Islands area of WA and it was beautiful.

We did San Fran. and it is one of my favorite cities in the US.

A friend is President of Texas A&M so we love Texas (Gig 'em Ags!).

We do NYC every year for at least one show.

Rieann has done the US much more than I.

One of Rieann's best friends turned 50 next year and has never been out of her Time zone. Shannon (DD-12) is already into her 2nd Passport.

We love to travel!!!

jim

[hawkrn]

ok, I bought my DS,10, a black suit for formal/semi-formal nights. Our clothes are ready! Kim-we are going to do the trolley tour in Key West also-apparently you can get tickets there instead of through DCL and can get on anywhere. My friend has been to Key West a few times and she has told me of a good restaurant with the best conch fritters and key lime pie so we are going to go there for lunch first. (I'm a key lime pie addict) It's right by where all the fishing boats come in and go out and she said it's interesting to watch. other than that, we are doing Tulum in Cozumel and probably stingray city and rum point beach adventure, both DCL excursions. I guess I need to call my TA to make my final payment if I need to do that before booking excursions. What is the actual date we can book them?

[jgalecpa]

Hawkrn:

If you book the trolley tour on-line, you save another 10% and only pay $18/adult.

http://shophta.com/acb/stores/15/keywestprod.asp?SID=15&Category_ID=7

What's the restaurant's name, if you don't mind???

I Believe the first day we can book is Tuesday October 21.

Anyone have any different info on this?

Jim

[LynnTarrant]

My TA said it was the 21st too Jim.
We're wanting to do the trolley tour in Key West as well,although we fancy the one where you can get on and off so we can stop en route.
Julie I'm interested inthe restaurant as well if you don't mind passing that info on. I feel another DIS meet coming on.
Jim it's interesting to hear all about your travels, Ialso have itchy feet and my longsuffering hubby comes along.
I lived in Kenya for 2 years, we've holidayed in many European countries the latest being Slovinia but we also share your love for the Greek Islands. We toured for a week on a small Greek Caique (fishing boat) with just 16 others and had a fantastic time. we've also stayed on the Islands.
I've been to the States twice and we had a wonderful 3 week holiday a couple of years ago in Western Canada.
It would be good to compare experiences on the cruise sometime.
Lynn

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim and Lynn - I am in awe of your travels!! Our ports will be my first trip off the continent of North America. Have been to all of the major cities in the US, lived in San Francisco for ten years -
lived in Birmingham, AL (that might impress someone) for five years --

Julie - would also like the name of the restaurant - something about conch fritters and key lime pie that makes my mouth water -should we call ahead??? Dis meet sounds like a possibility!

Speaking of eating - Lynn, how is the diet coming? Mine is at a stand still. I guess tomorrow would be the day, first of the month and all, though not a Monday -- I keep thinking I have three months!!

Jim - is it 60 days from the date of sail or 60 days from the date of the activity? I have no idea, haven't researched that at all.

I got confused trying to make PS's for the 19th at MK, forgot about October 31 --

Bonnie

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

It is 60 days from the day the ship sails. That way you can book them all at once.

Lynn,

Luckily, Rieann and I both love to travel. we also have this deal where about every 4th major trip, we take it for the parents alone. We ship the kids someplace good and we go somewhere we've never been. That way, if we like it we can take the kids back. If we don't, we still had some togetherness time and saved some $$$.

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Thanks, Jim.

BTW, did anyone read the thread started by imgoingtodisney regarding ability to talk to server before the cruise? I think it was posted yesterday -- It seems to have disappeared .... I was curious as to whether she responded ....

[hawkrn]

The restaurant is called Conch Republic Seafood Co. They have a website http://www.conchrepublicseafood.com/home.htm. It is located 2 blocks from Sloppy Joes in the wharf area. Apparently they have a large outside eating area. My friend said that if you just want key lime pie then the best place to go is Crabby Dicks (!) but this is next best in the key lime department. Another friend went on Carnival this year and stopped there for a burger and I saw the picture of her trying to eat it-it was huge! Jim, thanks for the advice on the trolly tickets!

[hawkrn]

sorry, try this link!http://www.conchrepublicseafood.com/

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie -- thanks for the link. What a great place! Our family will definitely be stopping for a meal. It looks absolutely delicious - did you see the key lime mustard??

Bonnie

Where is Ginny???

[jgalecpa]

Hawkrn,

Thanks! Printed out the menu, etc. Sounds definitely like a stop.

Conch fritters with Key Lime mustard? Hmmm hmmm good!

Anyone know a good place to get Gator? (I mean to eat not catch). We love it!

Jim

[Ginny]

Hi, all -

I had to go all the way to page 6 to find our thread!! I've missed you all. Life has been very colorful for the last week and I have so much on my mind, I am waking up with "to do" lists for my "to do" lists. But, at 2 AM the world is pretty quiet. The 16th of December just keeps dancing in my head!

I am in awe of all the travel lovers we have although I personally think the fact that Bonnie lived in Birmingham for 5 years should win!! :)

Having lived in Okinawa, Japan twice, my travels have been more in the Far East: Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo. Everytime I tried to go to the Phillipines..........they overthrew the government so never got there. Funny how those insurrections can change a girl's plans. DH has really had the opportunity to travel all over the world although sometimes not in the most plush conditions! He has promised to take us to Paris and Ireland............two places he absolutely loves and to which I have always wanted to go. But, our travels for the past 4 years have really centered on Disney, Disney and.....well, Disney!! Anyone sense a theme??

Made our final payment on Monday and Donna, our DU agent, sent us the internet link to download the DU excursion paperwork. It said the first date to call or fax to pre-register is 21 October so that sounds pretty consistent based on what you all have said.

Julie, your restaurant sounds great. When we ended up in Key West on our first DCL cruise (the Mystery Cruise), we had no idea where to go or what to see. We just went to the Hard Rock Cafe and they were so great to us there. Then, we just went shopping along the little streets by the dock. I am going to send Shirley (Perfect Gift) an envelope to see all the materials she has - she is so wonderful and her baskets are awesome!!

Also, DH just mentioned last night that he would like to book the New Year's Cruise for 2005/06!! Since the 2005 dates are out through April, it shouldn't be too long before they close out the year. We booked this Christmas cruise in August of 2001 and are so excited it is finally here!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Hi Ginny - we missed you this week.

Thank you, thank you, for being impressed -- the really impressing part was that I actually AGREED to move there. In retrospect, Birmingham turned out to be a wonderful place to live and raise children, and is sadly still carrying the stigma of the 1950's outside of Alabama (which was what I expected to find and why I did not want to move there). We found a very large, very fine medical center, with an extremely diverse popluation of people studying at the Univeristy graduate schools. Our DD's elementary school had children from 27 different countries attending. We had wonderful holiday celebrations!

My Disney Visa should be arriving in the mail today, so we will be making final payment with TA this afternoon. Then, transferring balance over to the Miles One card (working on number two europe airfare - hopefully for cruise, although the New Year's 2005 sounds enticing).

Have bought snorkel equipment on clearance at Target which DH says I should take back. I spent $20 per person, which I think is less than what it would cost us to snorkel at several places, even CC, if I remember correctly. I told DH I have a thing about using the same mouth piece used by thousands -- he says that he is certain they have figured out by now how to sanitize, sterilze, etc.

Ginny, have you seen the new Radko Island Christmas ornaments? I got an email yesterday that C. Radko is actually coming to a store in Los Angeles - can't muster the enthusiasm for that trip with the cruise coming up. Did get some great buys on Easter Radko yesterday at Marshall's! Found a site the other day that says that the cabin doors are metal so I will include that in my thinking for decorations. I think DH will have (as they say here in the south) a hissy if I bring a tree and ornaments, but I am gonna give it a go!

[Ginny]

Bonnie - I will make you the same offer I made Jim and be happy to use your Miles One card if it will help you rack up miles for those tickets. Just let me know and I'll break out my wish list of Radko's for purchase!! That list alone should get you 4 round trip tickets...... around the world!! :teeth:

I called Happy Limo today and made our various reservations. I feel much better now that those are in place. I had them pick us up at the WL at 0930 on Saturday so we should be at the port around 1030 or 1100. I love getting there early and all the excitement and meeting folks in line. Then, they will take us to HRH after the cruise for our two day stint at Universal before we head home.

I don't know about you guys, but I am just getting so excited. I can't wait!!

[Ginny]

To all -

I sent an e-mail to Shirley at the Perfect Gift about Christmas and decorations, etc. I asked if by chance she would have Tabletop Trees available for us to order through The Perfect Gift and have delivered to our stateroom for Christmas. I asked if it was all right to share the info with you all on our Christmas thread.

She is such a truly lovely woman - responded back today to let me know that they started carrying them last year and would be carrying them again this year. I didn't ask for any other details because I was sure my request was off the richter scale but Shirley never disappoints me!! She has done baskets for me on three different occasions and each one is better than the last one!!

I have no idea if any of you Christmas elves would also be interested in a table top tree but just wanted you to know that she would be carrying them so that perhaps we won't need to pack everything.

I just love the idea of having that Christmas tree smell in the stateroom. Have a great week everyone!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny -

Great idea - are you talking something similar to the Jackson & Perkins trees? We usually send these to our parents around Thanksgiving - my mother loves getting hers each year, and it is now the only thing she puts up at Christmas time.

I was actually out looking this afternoon, but didn't see anything, and would prefer to have a live tree if possible.

Have you read the thread on cruising at Christmas time on the main DCL board? Some interesting discussion there - with some familiar participants!:wave2:

[jgalecpa]

Starting to get more prepared!

Over the weekend We found to nice large American Tourister suitcases for $54 each at wal-mart. Girls can't fit into small suitcases any longer.

I can go for a month on the stuff I can fit into one small one, But Rieann needs the overflow space!

ALso, Hit Home Depot today.

Got MyLime Green Mickeys in the paint section. Don't know if I got enough, though.....

Are we supposed to get package from DCL listing more deatils on excursions before the 60 day mark?

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim, do you expect the documents to have additional information on the excursions?? I haven't seen any information like that on the main board, but I haven't done a search, either.

I better hurry up and pay, then. I just got my Disney Visa in the mail this afternoon, so will call TA in the morning. Have to see how much I can spend in the next 45 days to earn more disney dollars!!

Ginny, would love to take you up on your offer - just send me your paycheck endorsed!!

Anyone getting a new camera? new video camera? Trying to decide if I buy one, which to get. I am frustrated tonight with my digital camera- Megan was ranked as the No. 1 high school Mezzo Soprano in North Carolina last week, and had a concert tonight. Took a picture as she was being introduced by the conductor, and the picture looks like someone jostled my elbow -- or maybe I am getting Parkinson's. I hate to have missed getting that moment in a picture. I will surely be upset if this happens on the cruise!

Jim, sounds like you are getting prepared all right. I am thinking about putting together a spread sheet for excursions -

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

On some thread I inferred that there is some excursion package one gets just before the 60 day mark with (more?) data on the excursions.

There was one thread a couple of weeks back where someone was about the 69th day left and hadn't got the package yet. Others responded that it should be there any day.

This is where I got the idea, I guess.

However, re-reading the passporter, I see nothing about this, so who knows.

I looked at new video cameras just sunday when I was in Wal-mart. You can get real nice analog (non-digital) video cameras for under $300. But I was just on a thread where the issue of whether or not to take a video on board was discussed, and I've decided We will probably not.

We do take a variety of one decent digital, one decent film, and a number of disposable film (inlcuding 2 underwater) cameras.

And as to the early onset of "parkinsons:
Megan was ranked as the No. 1 high school Mezzo Soprano in North Carolina last week, and had a concert tonight. Took a picture as she was being introduced by the conductor, and the picture looks like someone jostled my elbow -- or maybe I am getting Parkinson's

No, you were just shaking with well deserved motherly pride!

Congratualtions!


Jim

[jgalecpa]

Found mini-xmas trees on the web, as low as $15 and as smasll as 6 inches.

Remember, the taller the tree the more likely to fall over if the ship sways.

http://www.geezer.com/catalog.html?deptID=712&pageNbr=2&psid=6e3d45ed2677a9c2d70c413697ea54d0

I just googled "tabletop christmas trees" and this was the one most appealing to me in terms of size and price. there were some others that were also decent in sizes around 24"

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - thank you! Said like a true proud papa yourself!!

I read the camera thread also yesterday and was thinking I might go to Best Buy and see what they have in the way of a new camcorder. Was hoping there might be some new technology out that would combine both video and digital. The dds got digital cameras for their birthdays and they have some video capability, but really only for use on the internet. Thought maybe the video camera might have better digital still capability. We have a very good Sony camcorder which is not too big, but those new ones that I glanced at while selecting cameras sure look nice! Since we haven't been on a cruise before, I think I would like to take some footage for when my Alzheimer's sets in.

I also went back through the Passporter last night. I just got an email from my TA saying that the excursion brochure comes with the document package. She also said something interesting:

"There is not a booklet that comes prior to your cruise - that comes with your travel documents about a month before you cruise. The best resource is the website. Please bear in mind that once you purchase it is not refundable in many cases. Meaning you can't change your mind."

I haven't searched for this, but it seems to me that the ability to cancel with full refund was one of the reasons people booked through DCL (??)

I did post a thread about the excursion booklet - one poster said she had received hers just after she paid her deposit!

We are going to tell the DDs this weekend - I will then have a better idea of what everyone wants to do for excursions.

I like the fact that your girls were so enamored with the Passporter - so far, it has stayed on my nightstand with no one taking a peak under its pleather cover!

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie

Please bear in mind that once you purchase it is not refundable in many cases. Meaning you can't change your mind."

On page 123 of my Passporter (The first page of "shore Excursions, Chapter 6) it says
"You can alter your shore excursion requests anytime up to two days prior to sailing. After that time, all excursions reservations are considered final an cannot be changed or refunded."

I would check on this when you call in on/after the 21st. I trust what I see in writing in the passporter, but I would verify.

Jim

[hawkrn]

all we got was a little flyer with our documents for our last December cruise. It was the same thing that's on the DCL website. No other descriptions.

[Ginny]

Hi all -

Crazy, crazy week - I'm seeing double and feeling single!!

Mom was admitted to the hospital after a fall on Monday. It is amazing what IV antibiotics and fluids and some intensive TLC can do for a woman. Took her home yesterday and gave her a shower and washed and styled her hair and even put her makeup on. She looked beautiful. The nurses at the hospital all loved her because she is so sweet, gracious and polite and, as long as we stay with her she is quite content BUT if we need to leave, she is really slick and making a break for freedom. Needless to say, I need about 80 hours of sleep!

Bonnie, you made me laugh out loud. I'll get that check in the mail. I swear, you all are too smart for me!!

I am not familiar with the Jackson and Perkins trees but we buy decorations from Land's End every year and that is how I described them to Shirley. I will check out J and P on the web. Chuck will be so thrilled - yet another store on the web in which I may purchase things!!

I have never received a brochure about the excursions but between the DU site and the DIS, I am hoping we have a pretty good feel. DS will be doing the Teen Cruise in Cozumel (he confirmed with the Tour Director (me) via e-mail last night. He also thought the jeep tour sounded like fun so Chuck is willing to revisit that one. Chuck is eyeing the all day with CAPT Marvin after his mis-guided wife (me) mentioned the fresh Mahi-Mahi lunch but I'm not sure with tendering if the time will work out.

I'm not sure I can hold out until Christmas - I want to go cruisin with Mickey right now!!

[belle&beastcrazy]

My it has been a busy few weeks. My father's 70th Birthday, parents weekend at DD college, and of course apple picking in the valley. Then it 's cake, pie, and applesauce making. DH got his hard cast off this past week now he is in what they call a "boot"at least he can take it off to sleep and shower. I can't beleive how fast the trip is coming up. So much to do so little time.

Bonnie: What did you girl's say about your little secert. My girls could not beleive you kept it from them. Great news on your Megan.

Julie: I am also a Key Lime lover along with my nephew who already has a list of Key Lime product's he wants me to buy.I have gotten my Key West Trolley Tour ticket already on line at www.historictours.com. It is the one where you can get on and off.

Jim: I also hit Home Depot to get my Alien Green Mickey paint sample heads.

Ginny: Hope your Mom is feeling better.

On Excursions: when we took our 4-day Wonder last year we did get a package on excursions at the 75 day mark. It listed all the excursions with a number to use when calling in. I guess DCL have changed the way they do things. I will be on the phone on the 21st.

On camera's: I am the video camera person in our family, my DD takes the regular camera and DH uses his Digtal. So we always have things covered. I know I will be taping as we go on board I want to get them saying our name and how the ship looks for
X-Mas. Kim

[hawkrn]

Ok, what is this Green Mickey Head you're talking about from Home Depot? I know it's DIS colors, but.... By the way, I just realized that I can't wrap Xmas presents and put them in our luggage for the cruise. Won't security unwrap them? Also so Xmas trees at Target today very cheap and easily fit in luggage.

[LynnTarrant]

Julie
I'm so glad you asked about the paint samples *** i was just about to, I figured it was some US thing that I didn't understand but now I don't feel so bad.
Grumpys mum..
thanks for asking about the diet, I've lost 28lbs and I'm feeling rather proud of myself, I've a long way to go before I can get into the outfit but it's a good start.. and I'll definitely feel better about the long haul flight if I'm not squished into the seat!
Lynn

[Ginny]

Hi, Julie and Lynn -

The Disney Company now manufactures (or licenses, I guess) their own line of paints. If you go to Home Depot to the paint section and look for the Disney Display, you will find that, instead of just the usual paint chips, they have their samples offered on Mickey Icons. The icons are about 2.5 inches in length and are right at the Display. They offer a bright lime green color which just fits the bill.

Now, I know where to find them and pick some up but Bonnie is going to have to take over as "Crafts Leader" to tell us what to do with them!!

Seriously, I guess you could laminate them or glue gun them onto a plastic KTTW holder to identify yourselves to others as DIS members. Of course, with all the new "stuff" available in the DIS store, the icons may become passe!!

Julie, I was thinking the same thing about any presents. Even if you pack it in your suitcase, they may potentially want to open and inspect it.

Lynn, Congrats on your weight loss success. You must be very proud.

Kim, I am so glad to hear that DH is up and mobile and has graduated to the boot. We went apple picking and the Pumpkin Festival at Butler's Orchard today but I should check with you and see if there is anything in Virginia that might be fun to try.

Take care all - I can't wait to hear what Bonnie's girls said when they got the news. How exciting and fun!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Hi all --

Ginny, I hope your mom is doing well - what a week you had. I have had similar experiences with both of my parents when they were in the hospital - little angels while family members were there, and then they turn in to the patients from H__L when we leave! I think part of it has to do with Sundown Syndrome - my father tried to leave the hospital twice in the early evening, the nurses said he was very, very agitated and wanted to go home. I guess at that age, they are not used to being told what to do. My sister and I have always thought that if they were that agitated and such a pain, they must be on their way to getting better!!

Lynn - congratulations!!! AWESOME LOSS!!

Julie - hadn't thought at all about the gift wrapping - what a pain! I wondered if it is worthwhile posting on the main board about that - surely people have celebrated birthdays, etc. Maybe someone will have a good suggestion.

I think Jim has something in mind for the green mickies - he posted (I think in his "getting prepared" post) that he had been to Home Depot and gotten the green mickies, and "hoped he had enough".

Have you seen the shirts in the Dis store yet? I do forget that they cannot put characters, etc. on them because of licensing issues. I emailed Dorothy Kurz (d.kurz) several times yesterday regarding possibility of special orders with our board names - she said it was on the drawing board, had been talked about, and didn't think it would materialize before we left for our cruise. She said she had thought about getting iron-on letters - I asked her if we could buy the shirts and then "embellish" them - she said that was fine. Not sure what we are going to do - I sincerely doubt that I will get DH into a matching shirt -- maybe the gray one?? the other issue for me is what would I put for the girls - neither of them will appreciate the fact that the day I registered on these boards they were at their worst - I don't think they will appreciate the names of Maleficent and Grump!! May go with Grumpy Mom's DD-17 ! that's interesting, believe the name is Grumpy's Mom -- they would probably love it the other way around!!

We are planning on telling the girls tonight, if the eldest gets home from birthday date with BF in time.

I put together a written invitation that is about 17 pages long (it has all kinds of good stuff in it, flight, where we are staying, the MVMCP, the cruise itinerary, excursions, dinner rotation and dress, onboard fun, etc. I broke it up into about 26 pages, with one event or subject on each page.

I am going to divide the pages in two piles of alternating pages, begining with the invitation, and turn them upside down, and have them each read outloud their pages in alternating sequence - that way, they each will be surprised by what is being read, and no one can read further down the page before the other, etc.

I included all the cites to the boards, the DCL site, Dave's site, etc. and instructed them to come prepared to a family meeting next Monday night, 10/20 with their wish list - so that we can plan our excursions together, and make ressies the next day.

I hope they will be thrilled!! Will post tomorrow about how it goes.

[kolakdaw]

Greetings,
My daughters (15 & 17) and I will be going on the Christmas cruise on the Magic. This is our first cruise and we are very excited. From what I've read, it looks like there will be many teen girls on this trip! I'm sure they will all have a great time especially with the new area for teens. I'm looking forward to meeting you all!
Dawn K

[Grumpy's Mom]

Welcome Dawn and girls!! They should all have a great time together!! What part of the country are you from? This will be our first cruise too, and I have been enjoying getting to know other travelers in this thread, and learning about what all I have to do before we go from the main cruise board!!

Everyone - did not get to tell them tonight - DD-13 had a rough weekend (two overnights, not enough sleep, stomach hurts, etc.) and I sent her to bed early. DD-17 did not arrive home until 11:45 (a little late for a school night, but they both were too busy for this special birthday date during the week of her birthday, and this was the only night available for the next two weeks), and now is finishing her paper on Sergei Prokofiev (Peter and the Wolf composer).

So, will try again tomorrow night!

I did finally get my rental cars taken care of this morning at about 1:00 a.m. -- found a great Disney guest code for Budget on the Transporation board - saved me about $50 on my 2 day reservation, and about $35 the 27th. I know it would be fun to ride in a Limo, but my DH has this thing about having a car, I guess just in case someone needs to go to the hospital ====

TA has been sick with virus that DD-17 has had this week also, and we are hoping to connect by phone tomorrow. Want to find out when we get a cabin assigned, as we booked a "guaranteed".

Will post tomorrow night.

[Ginny]

To all -

Thanks for your kind thoughts and wishes about my mom. She is doing much better and, it appears, feeling much stronger. Her changes in mental status are, unfortunately, just part of the "journey" of Alzheimer's. But, humor, above all is a lifesaver!!

Dawn - Welcome to our group!! It is always so much fun to watch our DIS group grow as we get closer to our sail date!! And, it appears our number of young ladies continues to grow. Please ask any questions you may have and we will try to help. As Bonnie said, we also post individual questions on the main board and other DIS'ers are more than happy to help!!

My "poor" DS (16) will have to find some way to cope with what appears to be a growing gender imbalance!! LOL! He loves Common Grounds and has always met such great teens on the cruises.

Bonnie - I am so sorry you didn't get to tell the girls yet BUT love the plan - it sounds great!! What a wonderful way to prolong their excitement and really make it the special trip that it is. Also, after I saw your post about the Budget Rental code, I revisited all the town car services vs renting a car (I admit it - I think like your husband but include both the hospital AND the grocery store). Because we would have to keep the car for 5 days on the front end (DS flies in on Friday) and then two on the other side, it didn't work to our advantage.

But, if anyone else has yet to rent their cars, Bonnie's code cut 20-30% from the original rates we were getting in early September.

On the DIS merchandise, if you don't already have a water wallet or aren't familiar with them, they are a great invention! You can purchase them on the ship (at a higher price, I believe) with the DCL logo, too. They used to sell a thinner version on the ship, as well, but I found that to be too small. I wear mine alot and am never looking for my "stuff." On board ship, it holds my KTTW card and a pack of Kleenex and I'm good to go. Since you can't use money on the ship, you really don't need much else. For me, the freedom of no purse is incredible. And, since it keeps everything dry, you can wear it in the Jacuzzi, pool or beach. BUT, the great thing about these is the lime green color and DIS logo which would tell folks right away that you are a DIS member. Also, the luggage tags. DCL reads these boards so, to me, this is a great way to let folks know you are DIS members.

[kolakdaw]

Thank you all for your welcome! We are coming from the Albany, New York area. Last year at Christmas, we had two feet of snow! So to avoid any worries about snow delays, we are flying in on the 18th, doing Universal's Islands of Adventure on the 19th, then dropping the rental car back at the airport the morning of the 20th to hopefully catch the bus to the ship. I for one am really looking forward to having Christmas at sea. As some of you moms mentioned, Christmas is always a day of work for me--cooking, cleaning, entertaining. This year, I told my extended family I'm taking a vacation from it all--now someone will have to cook and clean for me! I did get myself a Passporter which is so helpful to a newbie! The girls DD 15 and DD 17 and I are trying to decide which excursions to book. I definitely want Stingray City! There are almost too many choices to decide! Well thanks again for the welcome. I'm looking forward to reading more here and meeting you all! Dawn & Girls:wave2:

[Grumpy's Mom]

Dawn - Islands of Adventure is great - we did that on our last trip down to Orlando (even though it was hard to take one day and set it aside for non-Disney events). My DH and DD-17 rode the Hulk several times. DD-13 and I are the wooses (SP?) in the family when it comes to high, fast and turning. There was one ride I particularly enjoyed, the Jurassic Park River Adventure -- actually, we enjoyed just about everything we did - even lunch was great - The Enchanted Oak Tavern for turkey legs ( this was a quick bite, but a cool place to visit).

Did you know that you can leave your car at the port? If you go to www.DCLtribute.com, Dave has a list of rental agencies that have Port Canaveral offices - you have to drop the car and take the tram back to Port, but most everyone who has posted has indicated it was easy and quick. We are planning to do that - You could either go all three together, or leave the girls to get in line. PM me if you want a Chaperone and I will give you my credentials!! Would be glad to help out - I will be standing there with my DDs while DH is returning the car.

What are your girls interested in doing on this trip? I am sure mine both want their hair braided - and will want to try to keep it in until school starts in January - we may try to do that at Castaway Cay (the end of the cruise) - several people posted about lice, etc and were concerned about having it done by one of the island folk. I, personally, have never heard of any problem with that, but better safe than sorry!!

Where are you staying in Orlando? Early or late seating for dinner?

[jgalecpa]

My girls LOVE to have their hair wrapped. Never had it braided though.

We were once in the old Straw market in Nassau and we watched a few people doing the braids. Their hygiene left a little, um, to be desired.

One lady was eating chicken while doing the braids. Eat a little, braid a little. Did I mention the chicken was greasy?

UGGGHHH!

I would not hesitate to have someone do their hair if the conditions appeared sanitary. So I would say this is a "game-time" decision.

I do know the hair wrapping is faster, and cheaper. Had it done a few times in WDW and it was quite expensive. As much as $30/kid. Had it done elsewhere for as little as $3/kid.\\

Jim

PS There does seem to be A LOT of girls on the cruise.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - I am hoping that Disney has the hygiene thing under control - I think everyone on that island is a Disney employee, right? We could probably get it done cheaper on one of the islands - Megan said when she was in Nassau last year, the further away from the dock you went, the lower the cost. I think she managed to get the price down even further, too. She did not have any problems

I was thinking we need to come up with some kind of slogan, motto or nickname for this cruise, given the number of girls that are going!! I am afraid I am just not clever enough today.

What do you think the chances are that the other 500 or so families on the boat will have teenage boys?

By the way, meant to post inquiring as to how many pairs of dress shoes you would be taking - lol!! We don't ever allow DH too many pairs, those size 15's take up a lot of room!!

[jgalecpa]

I firmly believe Dis will have the hygiene thing completely under control.

I personally take two dress pair:

One "cordovan" and one black.

I will actually try to limit myself to a total of three pair. Which means one other and that's it.

So between DW-Rieann and I we will average 15 pair probably.

Jim


PS Thinking about the name.

[kolakdaw]

Hi--we are staying at the Summerfield Suites by Wyndham which is on International Drive someplace. It was very cheap for a two bedroom suite--$80, so I took it! About the car--what do you do to get back to the airport? Do you rent a car again at the end of the cruise or book one way only transfers? I will definitely look into the car return there. I didn't realize you could do this. That's what makes this board so helpful! My girls definitely want to do the hair braiding and I think we will wait until Castaway. I never thought about the lice issue--yuck! I think I need to sit them down and go over all the excursions to see what they want! It's almost overwhelming, isn't it? In a way, with teens, it's hard to decide. They may want to do things with their new friends instead of doing things with boring old mom! I know beach time is important, as is shopping. So we'll start looking tonight!

Dawn

[hawkrn]

Dawn-Hi! I may be jumping to conclusions, but maybe we have the same single parent thing in common. Except that I'm parenting a DS, 10. Where are all the boys on this cruise??? And like Bonnie, we are renting a car from Budget and leaving it at their office at the port (Bonnie-what time will you be there?). Bonnie is renting a car to go back to the airport whereas we are using the one way DCL transfer. It all depends on when your flight leaves. Ours leaves at 1145 so not much time to sightsee! And since everyone has noticed all the teen girls, I thought I'd share MY observation. YOU ALL ARE FROM OUT EAST!!!!! You're going to think I talk funny since I'm from smack-dab in the middle of the US!

[LynnTarrant]

Well if people are going to think you talk funny what hope is there for us Brits!!
As for shoes I'll probably have 5 pairs 2 dress, Sandels, Trainers and another casual pair. Hubby 3 trainers ,sandels and evening shoes. Although we'll have to go and buy him a new pair as he says his pinch and he can feel the ground through them!!! Thats what comes of living in trainers
Lynn

[Grumpy's Mom]

Julie, I don't think I have heard an Iowan accent - the closest around here is DD-17's BF from Ohio - his mom has a midwestern accent -

If you want to talk about talking funny - we is from da south -- Actually, I'm not, but DH is from Falls Church (Ginny and Jim, is that considered "The South"?), DD-13 was born in Columbia, SC, and DD-17 has been in Da South since she was two. You just can't help but talk like the rest of them after living here for 15 years - Lynn, my girls will be fascinated with your accent - my DD-17 is in a community stage production of Camelot right now, and it is a riot to listen to a southern 23 year old young man playing Lancelot trying to do this with a British accent!!

Alabama (five years) had the worst accents I have every heard, and it has taken some time to rid DD-13 of it!

I did rent a car for the 27th - our flight is at 3:00 and I am not sure what we are going to do, but it was cheaper than the transfers, and gives us more freedom - Maybe one more sundae at Ghiradelli's in DTD for lunch???

[jgalecpa]

DW-Rieann is from Michigan (where they drink "Pop"). She and I have "argued" about where the south starts.

I believe that geographically, it starts, as the song says "...anyplace below the Mason-Dixon line." The M-D line is the origin, I believe, of the term "Dixie."

My girls swear we are not in the south, but when we go to the British Isles people smile at our "southern" accents. To which we promptly reply "What are y'all laughing at?

So yes, VA is definitely the south. I consider MD too, but even during the Civil war it was a "border" state, but not by its own choosing.

If you view a Dairy queen as a stop sign, you're in the south.

If Barbeque is one of the basic food groups, you're in the south.


Jim

[hawkrn]

Jim-don't tell me you drink "soda"????!! Your wife is right, it is pop! And my cousins in northern Minnesota think I talk with a southern accent, so I guess anything beneath your own state is considered the south.

[Ginny]

Well, I have to vote with the "soda" crowd although I am a true "mutt" when it comes to my accent. Raised in Southern Cal, college in Texas (where I was quickly informed that young ladies say "y'all" instead of "you guys" especially when speaking to other young ladies), and various time spent in North Carolina and Virginia.

Lynn and Julie - Did either of you ever receive your Lowe's One Card? I can handle rejection..............just not very well!! :)

[hawkrn]

Ginny, yes I got my Loew's card after about 3 months!

[Ginny]

Julie, Thanks for the update! I'm glad to know you got your card and I only have about 6 weeks to go. Speed is all relative.

By the way, I saw an ad for the new Haunted House movie and thought of your son and how much you said he enjoys the ride. I think it will be fun to see it on the Magic!

[LynnTarrant]

Ginny
I haven't received my card either!!!
Good to know it may still arrive

On a different note has anyone any experience of parasailing at castaway cay?
My hubby and I fancy this
Lynn

[Ginny]

Guess what came in the mail today.......no joke!! The Loew's company must have known I was getting impatient. So, Lynn hang on, cause your Loews' card must be in the mail as well.

Well, we have booked two excursion thus far: The Jungle Jeep Tour in Cozumel and the Native Ways Stingray City and Snorkeling Tour in Grand Cayman. I am so excited!! The Jeep tour sounds like so much fun and something different and after reading "Dave in the Frozen North's" review of Native Way Sports, we were sold.

If you haven't read any of Dave's reports before, he does a great job and we have followed his advice twice before and been thrilled. Plus, he includes all the details so you really get a feel for the experience. It was so nice to see a post from him, again!!

[jgalecpa]

Hello all!

Gotta second Ginny's words about Dave's site. It is well done.

I remember growing up that all soft drinks were called "cokes" for some reason, no matter what you actually drank.

Of course, when we moved to Ireland all soft drinks were then called "Guinness"

:wave:

Jim

[hawkrn]

Ginny, not only will be be watching Haunted Mansion on the Magic, but on 11/26 when it hits the theaters. Hope Pirates, Brother Bear, Freaky Friday are on the Magic too.

[Grumpy's Mom]

THEY WERE SURPRISED!!!!!!!!! AND THRILLED!!!!!!!

Lots and lots of questions -- mostly about (shopping) excursions, (shopping) the movies on board, (shopping) dinner, (shopping) the teen club, (shopping) hair braiding, (shopping) what to wear on tropical night (more shopping), get the picture???

Very excited about the MVMCP -- DD-13 wanted to know if there was going to be real snow on Main Street, and exactly what day she should get her hair braided (for the cruise or have it done at Castaway Cay to enjoy when she gets home). DD-17 wants to do too many excursions at the same time and is struggling with that. Said the BF will be worried about her (flirting), but then I told both DD's how most families who had posted to this thead had at least one teen DD. DD-13 was extremely disappointed to hear that there weren't going to be any boys her age -- we told her that out of the 2600 people on board, surely there will be a few!!

We will spend this weekend going over everything (DH will be in NYC for a meeting and spending his free time in SOHO) and get ready for our Family Meeting Monday night to finalize all of our plans.

Ginny, I printed out Dave's thread on Stingray City yesterday for DH to read, and the site information from Native. I am hoping he can give me information on the company they used for their Dolphin swim, if they did not do Disney.

Well, now that they know, I feel like this is a reality and I can really begin to enjoy it. Let the preparations begin!!! YIPPPPEEE!!:goodvibes

[Ginny]

Bonnie -

Here is the link to the company Dave used and wrote about for the dolphin swim - We followed his advice on that one as well and it was great. We also bought all the pictures and the video and love them! But, please know that this company is in Nassau and we did it on our January 2000 4 day cruise.

http://www.dolphinswims.com/

Here is one that I found in Cozumel which got good reviews on the DIS board when I was first looking at excursions for this cruise:

http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/cozumel.htm

I am so excited for you & DH and happy the girls were thrilled. Only 8 weeks to go!! It will blow by quickly now!! I can just envision the "wardrobe olympics!"

Lynn,
We have parasailed before at other locations but we're really hoping that Santa comes through for DD because that is one of the things she really, really wants to do. We know she will have to tandem with Mom or Dad but are excited for her that the possibility exists. Santa is really having to be creative this year!

[LynnTarrant]

I've booked a dolphin swim in Cozumel for hubby and my self with dolphin discover, we've also booked Stingray city with Captain Marvin and an Atlantis sub trip in grand cayman, prices not to dissimiliar to Disney but better times for us.
We will take the trolley tour in Key West, so parasailing is the only disney tour we need to try and book.
I'm quite keen to try parasailing but i have a problem with heights and Hubby has high blood pressure to you forsee any problems?
Lynn

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

Great story.

Very proud you could hold out so long.

I'm disappointed with the 12/13 cutoff as my DD12 and your dd13 may yet hit it off.

Enjoy your family meeting.

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - that brings up a thought -

Ginny has graciously put together a brunch for us adults, but what about some type of meet for all the families - maybe Sat. night (but the kids will want to be going to their respective clubs for the introductory sessions). Or maybe in Key West, if we could figure a time for all of us to meet for lunch - may be hard with the excursions, etc. - I think we are just going to do the trolley, lunch, shopping (of course -- the DDs insist they need NEW tropical wear) and enjoy the sunset and Mallorie Square -- anyone else have any ideas on that?

Lynn, I have a problem with heights too - I have ridden Tower of Terror only once (to my DH's 50+) and that just about did me in. Parasailing is NOT on my list of excursions -- lol

Julie, we will be at the theater on the 26th too - my DDs' love this ride -- wouldn't miss it. I expect to find DD=13 at the movie theater on board quite frequently - has this thing for Johnny Depp - she's going to be a pirate (wench) for Halloween!!

[Ginny]

To all - Head's up!! Saw a good friend at DD's homecoming yesterday and his family did a summer Western Magic. Pre-booked all their excurisons. They just happened by Guest Services to check on the time for the Conch Train and were devastated to find out that they did not have any excursions pre-booked. So, I've started a thread on the main board to see what we should expect and if others have had similar experiences to Pete's.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=454123

Lynn - If heights are really an issue for you, I'm not sure that parasailing would be as enjoyable an adventure you are up high and essentially supported by the wind, harness and parachute. With that said, I hate to discourage anyone because it is such a great experience! As to DH's B/P, if he is on a consistent medication regime and his B/P is stable, I don't see that as a showstopper but if he's concerned, he might ask his doc.

:hyper: BRUNCH - Lynn brought up a good thought that Brunch might conflict with folk's character breakfast because there are only two days at sea on the Western instead of three. I am still happy to organize it and try to pre-book before we cruise but don't want to pick a "bad" day. It appears from a search I did on character breakfasts that APL is a popular rotation for the Western because it has you in Lumiere's for formal and Parrot Cay for Tropical night and the character breakfast is on Sunday. I found this link which gives us an idea of the rotations.

http://community.webshots.com/photo/52061656/70830733GubfrW

Any thoughts??

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny, if we have APL rotation, our character breakfast would be Sunday morning - what about brunch on Monday, when we will be at sea? Hopefully, all of the kids will be either asleep (mine) or involved in their respective clubs.

I had planned on trying to get APL if we weren't placed in that rotation (which from what I have read on the boards it seems we would because of ages of the girls) for exactly the reasons you had stated, and because from what it says down below we most likely will end up with LAP, which would put us in Parrot Cay for dinner on Christmas.

What do you think the chances are of us all getting APL???

Do you have a number of how many families there are on this thread? Would we be interested in asking to have our tables in the same area? Could that be done before we get there? I know that Jim and his family are doing the early seating, but if they get APL too, then perhaps Brunch Monday would work. I don't see any other time to do that.

Any ideas about families meeting? With the age cutoffs of the clubs, as Jim pointed out, different dinner seatings, and different rotations, it will be hard for some of us to meet, and for our children to meet.

Ginny, you know the ins and outs of these boards much better than I do - is there somewhere we can put together either a poll or a spread sheet here to post our dinner seatings, hopeful rotation, children's clubs, etc? If not, I can set it up on my system, everyone can PM me, and I can PM it back out, so we can all take a look at it and see what would be the best fit --

I found this at http://wdwig.com/cruise/cruise_4.shtml#rotat in the Magical Cruise Document -- and the Passporter relates the same -

Have a lot of little ones...count on Animator's, Parrot Cay then Lumiere's.
Have say 7-10 year olds...count on Parrot Cay, Lumiere's and then Animator's
Have older teens, senior citizens, honeymooners, or just adults...count on Lumiere's, Animator's and then Parrot Cay.
Of course this isn't guaranteed. They still need to move groups around to fill the dining room evenly.

[Grumpy's Mom]

I was curious about what other groups on the boards have done regarding a dis meet - I did a search and am posting below what was of interest (in the 3 threads that came up).

This was taken from "Last call for 10/18/03 Eastern Magic) - hopefully some of the cruisers will post when they get back:


"Let me give you a basic outline of how we usually go about having DIS meets, and recognizing everyone:

First of all, our luggage and carry-ons are adorned with flowing lime green ribbons (this also makes it easier to identify your bags at baggage claim at the airport!). We also usually wear lime green
t-shirts, and sometimes nametags.

Our first unofficial DIS meet is at the port, where we can chat while we wait in line to board, which sometimes means 2 or 3 hours!

Next, after the lifeboat drill, we head for deck 10 above the goofy pool for the sailaway celebration, and usually form a group near one of the towel receptacles (where we can set our drinks!!) Then we have bubbles or 'poppers' to help us say goodbye to Florida, as we watch it fade into the background!!

Last year we had a group brunch at Palo on Monday, with 16 in attendance. We'll see how this group feels about that over the next couple of months, and maybe do it again.

My wife and I enjoy hosting a DIS party in our stateroom on Thursday afternoon. Last year it was wine, and cheese and crackers, sandwiches, etc. This year, we plan on cake and champagne! Lots of birthdays and anniversaries surrounding our cruise... We had 18 for last year's gathering. Let's see if we can beat that this year!

Other than that, we always have a few impromptu meetings during the week, such as at trivia games, karaoke, bingo, etc. It really does add alot to the cruise when you know other people participating with you in those things!"


This is from the February 21, 2004 thread -

(first was a meet on Friday night at the Radisson - I guess they had a lot of cruisers staying there)

"Next would be at sailaway, up on deck 10 right by the funnels, for anyone else who doesn't like being down in the people crush below. Bubbles will be provided.

Then Sunday late morning is a good time to have a small get-together on the secret 7-aft deck. Last time, I ordered up a plate of croissants and danishes, and we all just munched and chatted and stuff.

By then, everyone will have had a few chances to get to know each other, and have most of the week still ahead to plan things with the new friends they have made. "

Thoughts??

PS - I have spent a little more time reading through the 2500 posts that come up with "meet", as the search feature doesn't like "Dis meet". Seems like some time/place during the sailaway party may be the best bet for families to meet - then when the kids get to their respective clubs in the evening, they may have already met a new friend.

[jgalecpa]

Some of my fondest cruise memories are with friends we've recently met, in one stateroom or another laughing and having a ball!

I think everything you've posted about the Dis meets sounds good, with the exception I don't know if I can get Rieann (DW) to commit to the Palo brunch. I'll keep trying!

I've got My Dis Mickey Heads ready.

It's really should be a lovely Xmas, what with the at sea day, now a party in the afternoon, and fancy dress that night.

Ginny, thanks for the link for the Rotation. I do note that as of now I think the Formal is Mon and the semi-formal Thursday. I was hoping for Formal staying Thursday as it is Xmas night.

I think this will be a week we never forget.

Jim

[hawkrn]

ok Jim, what exactly are you going to do with your green Mickey heads? Our Home Depot doesn't open until 12/6 so hopefully they'll have some (although I'm not sure what to do with them!) We went to deck 10 for the sail-away party last time so if we get together there that would be fine! I have a mint green shirt, does that count?? ha ha. I have a feeling that because there's just me and Ds and he's 10 that we'll be in a different rotation than everyone else. Main seating and sitting at a large table is all I know.

[hawkrn]

Hey, is the sun going to be setting in Key West while the early diners are eating? That would be my luck

[Grumpy's Mom]

Took me five minutes to figure out the party -- BTW, the OP, "Beano" booked either a Cat 2 or 1 -- had plenty of room to have a party.

Thought maybe you all were planning something and my invitation had been "lost"!!

I have gone back and edited my post --

I think a party on Christmas afternoon is an excellent idea - probably something a lot of us would be doing one way or another if we were home -- What do you think Room Service can rustle up? Eggnog? Christmas Cookies?? Cognac??

Would be glad to host it -- don't know yet what kind of room we will have - Hoping to get to a Cat. 6, which is what our TA thinks will happen.

We could make plans for it, and then schedule it when we see what Disney is doing - Or I might post on the main board to see if anyone went during Xmas last year and can give us some idea of what the schedule for Christmas Day was. There is a Christmas menu on Dave's site -- looks yummy!!

[hawkrn]

Bonnie, that's nice of you to offer up your room for a party! But I guess you don't have to clean up afterwards, like at home! It sounds great if we can work it out! DCL eggnog in the Caribbean-the thought is giving me goosebumps!!! Did everyone see that someone who just got off the 10/11 cruise said that Golden Mickeys is set to debut on the Magic 12/11? yea!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Decided to post to see if anyone can fill us in on Christmas Day - here is the link --

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=454306

[jgalecpa]

Julie

Sunset is listed for 5:45 on sunday 12/21, when we are in Key west. I believe it will be off the Port side of the ship.

I understand it is standard practice for those with main seating (like us!) to go watch it on deck and then go down to dinner.

Any body planning to go back out in Key West AFTER dinner?

Also, I don't really know what I am doing with the Mickey head. If you want me to pick some up and send them to you, just ask (pm me)). I'll be happy to.

Maybe soemone else has an idea? (lime green AINT my color, so I don't really have anything in that shade).

I'll be the short (5' 6") little guy with the big mouth smiling non-stop.

Jim

[LynnTarrant]

Hi everyone
I'd really like to meet up with some/all of you sometime
deck 10 sailaway definitely sounds a winner.
Grumpy's Mum
We're going to be late seating for dinner on a large table and as 2 adults i guess that puts us probably on the LAP rotation. If there is a way of linking up the tables we'd be happy to be included.
Ginny
I've been following the boards and it seems that we could probably go to our character breakfast and have a coffee or something and then still come to brunch, we would like to go to Palo's and it does sound like a whole lot of fun.
Us Brits are always up for a party I'll have to try and find some lime green ribbon!!
Ginny
I'm really keen to have a go at parasailing, Tower of terror doesn't worry me and I've completed a parchute jump before... but I don't like castle battlements or cliff walks or ridges/ steep slopes while walking in the mountains.

[Grumpy's Mom]

Lynn - that sounds like a good idea - do you know what time the character breakfast is? I know my girls will want to go, not so sure about DH, I would like to go if the girls want to, to take pictures (and videos). I probably would not eat, and would love to go to Palo's later that morning.

[Ginny]

Hi, all - Happy Saturday!

Bonnie - You are AMAZING!! Thanks for spending so much time on research!! I agree with the APL rotation. I think after what I have found, that is the one we would like and that would carry the theming through with dinner. Chuck has been teasing me for weeks about whether we were going to be PLAP PLAP again. He was quite surprised at 6 AM this morning to find out I had changed things on him and was going for ALPA ALPA instead. Of course, he did point out that this would cause an overhaul of my DCL spreadsheet!!

Speaking of spreadsheets, I don't know of anywhere on this site or others to pull together all our rotation info, name, room number etc - it's a great idea. As mentioned above, I already have our WDW schedule and our DCL schedule in Excel files with color coding. Do I need professional help or what? Seriously, I pop the schedules into document protectors and we never have to look for confirmation numbers or wonder if we have things right. I learned this skill when I first joined the DIS. It has been a lifesaver for a 40-something with rapidly diminishing brain cells.

Does anyone else feel like their entire vocabulary changes when planning their cruise?? We e-mailed DS the link to the main DIS cruise board and this thread and he is already speaking DIS-ese. In fact, after he began reading, he was teasing me about my post that "suggested" that we might not be seeing much of him on the cruise. Hey, we'll take all the undivided attention a 16-year old will pay us.........and then some! :goodvibes

Dinner Ressies: You can link your ressies together in one area if you have the same seating. In fact, some DIS'ers a couple of years ago mentioned having other folks link to their ressie without their knowledge. Talk about a surprise. I think that issue has been resolved by DCL. I don't know how that impacts seating (table size) but it does suggest that whatever rotation is finally determined, it will stand for the group.

As to previous DIS parties - Beano had a CAT 3 but it was one of the 4 larger handicap access CAT 3's far aft with the huge verandah right below Topsiders. I know only because I did a search on that particular room and his string of posts came up. He's a great sport but was understandably unhappy because, long after booking, he found out that those CAT 3's are unlike the regular ones and, while larger in floor space, don't offer the same sleeping accomodations and other amenities as the regular ones. I can't remember whether they brought a blow-up bed with them or not but I remember DCL suggested a sleeping bag. That was helpful!!

Julie -
I am happy to hit Home Depot again and mail you some Lime Green Mickey's to give you extra time to prepare!! You can PM me your address if you would like and I can stop by tomorrow and pop them in the mail. Of course, the catch is that when you figure out something to do with them - you share the idea! :LOL:

[jgalecpa]

Good news!

Rieann has swung around 180 degrees and now is up for the Palo's brunch (as long as it is not too early)!

Monday sounds great. Count us in.

Jim

[Ginny]

Jim - That is great news!! I can't wait to meet both of you (face to face)

Brunch doesn't start until 10 or 1030 (I think) so I can try for 1030 or 1100 on Monday. How does that sound for everyone?

Are there other folks who have early seating that would like to try for the ALP rotation? If so, I will call next week (after the 60 day mark) and see if there is a possiblity of linking ressies to make that happen.
Please PM me your name, room number or CAT guarantee and number in your party. We all know processes change all the time so I have no idea if this will work but we can try!!

[Grumpy's Mom]

I really thought Jim had something up his sleeve (not the fish) for the green mickeys!!

Easiest thing to do would be to put everyone's names on them (real names, or dis names -- maybe both), laminate them, and either tuck them in the front of the KTTW holder (with Ginny's Kleenex) or bring a hot glue gun and pin findings -- (by now, we are bringing so much other stuff - everyone is going to be confined to one suitcase so I can use the other 4 for various and sundry items including the Christmas tree).

I think VM made those round pins with the snap-on backs out of his, but I haven't had time to read his trip reports very thoroughly.

Oh, before I forget, A.C. Moore (a craft store here like Michael's) has magnetic wreath holders. They have two different kinds, and are pretty strong. The more expensive of the two ($12 vs $7) was the stronger, in my opinion. They also have a backing which comes apart, so that you could use it on glass - one piece on the front of the door, and the other on the back of the door - We will plan on using it on our storm door next year. Now, just need a wreath --- (more shopping)

[Grumpy's Mom]

he was teasing me about my post that "suggested" that we might not be seeing much of him on the cruise. Hey, we'll take all the undivided attention a 16-year old will pay us.........and then some!

When we told the DDs about the cruise, and then started to discuss some of the things they could do onboard, DD-13 looked at me and said, "Are you trying to get rid of us?" :rotfl:

We have the late seating -- you all have cruised before - is there benefit to early seating? Or is it just what you are used to?

Who else in our thread will be doing late seating? I can make the same phone call Ginny does (after she tells me what technique she used to make it happen) for those with late seating - if you are interested.

Ginny - you sound so organized. I guess I will have to learn how to use whatever spread sheet I have on here - Probably Quattro pro - it can't be that different from Excel. I was planning on getting the format put together tomorrow for our family meeting Monday night. Color coding sounds excellent!!

I was thinking of you today as I was buying more fall berry garlands and leaves - I am getting two grapevine topiary forms (three large balls, small to large, from top to bottom) that are about 4 ft tall, which I am going to make up with berry garlands, a few leaves, orange lights, and put out on my front door with a matching wreath - Then I can "morph" them into Christmas decorations out there after Thanksgiving!!

(of course, that is the plan -- if I spend any more time on these boards, it may never happen)

[jgalecpa]

When we told the DDs about the cruise, and then started to discuss some of the things they could do onboard, DD-13 looked at me and said, "Are you trying to get rid of us?"

I got nearly the same thing from shannon two nights ago! (dd-12).

My thoughts with the Dis head were to either pin them on in line at the terminal (can you say "Super-Dork"), or to put the on a piece of carry on.

We got the Lanyards at Wal-mart, so Maybe there's something we can do there.

1030 -1100 sounds fine for me. I'm an early riser so it will be lunch for me and early lunch for Rieann.

What does one wear to Palo's brunch (m/f)?

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - do the lanyards have the plastic ID holder attached? I had asked the guy that does all of my clothing at my store at the high school to get me a bid on personalized lanyards - have yet to hear back - how about lime green with red print (Dis and Xmas??).

Did they have lime green lanyards at WalMart?? Can I ask how much they were?



I think Shannon and Mackenzie will definitely hit it off - does she have the eye roll down, too?? Maybe they can sneak in to each other's programs depending on the activity. How much longer until she is 13? Is she in 7th this year?

Hadn't thought about dress at brunch - DH does not want to hear "No jeans, no shorts" again from me!

Here - I found this in the locked DCL dress code thread:

"SUGGESTED DRESS FOR PALO DAYTIME EVENTSThe suggested dress for BRUNCH and HIGH TEA on the 7-night cruise is RESORT CASUAL, with NO SHORTS requested. Ladies generally wear sundresses or casual pants, gentlemen wear casual pants and polo-type shirts.


That is about what I thought -- More shoes??

[jgalecpa]

Sounds like Khaki slacks and a Polo for Palo's. My uniform!

Shannon will be 13 NEXT august. So I don't know, I'd love her to be able to do some things with the 13 yo's. She is in 7th grade.

I think the "eye roll" is on some standardized test they give the kids these Days. The "Leave no parent unfazed" rule.




The WMT lanyards were a whopping $0.97 each. They were in the office supply section at our store. BTW, Rieann had a time finding them in our WMT, I have the SKU if anyone wants them.

They are clear plastic with red cords.

......

BUT... Just matched up the HD mickey heads with the WMT lanyards. The lanyards are actually very nice. They have an outside sleeve which could hold your KTTW. An inside zippered area to hold other stuff.

The HD Mickey heads fit perfectly into the outside sleeve (Sideways) ALSO, they would laminate very easily onto the outer front panel of the pouch.

If one did this, you could laminate them with the owner's name on them for easy identification. (You could put your DIS name on the ears, e.g.)

In the terminal, etc they would be easy to sport and then spot each other!



NEW TOPIC:

What time are people arriving at the terminal?

We'll be in the 1030 area. We are just driving up from Melbourne that am. (25 min away)

Jim

PS Is it my imagination or are the countdown timers going faster?

[Ginny]

Well, two years later I find that I blew Palo's suggested brunch attire and didn't even realize it. I wore nice shorts and a Tommy Bahama camp shirt. I thought I looked nice! I remember lots of folks in nice shorts and/or pants and/or sundresses. It was much more casual than dinner (although I've seen all types of outfits there, too).

Okay, I've decided to cut to the chase, cheat and purchase lime green luggage tags and lime green water wallets for the family from the DIS store. I really tried to convince myself that I could do something creative but after glue gun flashbacks from my Girl Scout SWAP adventure, I am opting not to challenge myself into an ER visit. LOL

Bonnie, your decorations sound so elegant............truly lovely!! But, I don't understand that time conflict you mentioned - Don't tell me that everyone doesn't read these boards at all hours (and for hours) as you and I seem to do? I don't understand!! By the way, if you have Excel, I will just e-mail you my 2 spreadsheets and you can type over them with your info.

It sounds like the teens are going to all have a great time. If Erin meets a nice little girl (or 2 or 20) of 8 or 9, that would be wonderful. But, the highlight of this cruise is having her big brother with her - nothing tops that!! Even though he will do things with others his age, she is still thrilled to have these 10 days with him.

[p3guy]

Ginny/Jim,
I've been peeking at the boards every now and then when I'm able just to see what else I haven't done that I need to do. The list keeps growing...I shall now be on the prowl for a lime green mickey head, whatever that means :confused: Anyhow, you two seem to be very proficient at this Disney cruising so I've got a couple of questions for you regarding reservations. After my final payment I received an excursion request form in the mail. It mentioned I could fill it out and fax it as early as the 60 day point. I've been reading about how people will be ready to make their reservations by phone and was wondering if there's really any difference between phone or fax? (I'd just as soon not hang on the phone.) Do the excursions really fill up that quickly? I've only got a couple I'm working through Disney (including the teen catamaran cruise for DD in Cozumel) but I'd hate to miss out because I wasn't quick enough on the draw.
Look forward to meeting all of you. Do they serve beer for brunch at Palo's?
Greg

[Ginny]

Greg -

I don't remember anyone having beer but they had a full bar and brought us champagne, mimosa's, bloody mary's and fuzzy navals or anything else we wanted. I am speaking of the 15 different DIS'ers not just Chuck and me....just wanted to be clear.

The excursions do fill up fast depending on how popular they are. So, come 21 October, I will be on the phone with Guest Services to make sure that the Key West one we want and some Castaway Cay stuff is not booked. Lots of folks prefer to fax, I just prefer to hear a live voice which is what I did on our last cruise and had no problems.
If I keep getting a busy signal, I will fax it anyway just to cover my bases and then call back to verify.

We really want to do the Catamaran races in Key West. We booked our own excursions in Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

Hope this helps!

[hawkrn]

Jim, every time I see the pic of you with the fish, I think you look exactly like Jim McMahon, the Chicago Bears QB in the 80's. Do you remember him? Ginny, it wasn't planned but I got lime green luggage tags at Target last year. Samsonite. Probably cheaper there. I will PM you about my info for when you check dining. Jim, I plan on being at the terminal 1030-1100 depending on when the Budget shuttle drops us off. I'm sure I'll be able to get the Mickey heads when the Home Depot opens. Since it'll be brand new I would think they would stock them!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim - we are planning on leaving WL 9:15 - 9:30 - depends on how fast I can get the DD up and running. Jamie will drop us at the port (should be around 10:30, also) and then take the car back. Have to remember to give him his docks - he won't like it if he gets left out there --- lol

It is not your imagination - I just noticed that my ticker is about 2 hours faster than yours -- my "Cruise" begins at 9:30 when I am on my way - Did you set yours for the moment you step onboard??

Mackenzie is in 7th also - I think I mentioned somewhere that we lived in Alabama for a few years - unfortunately, their Kindergarten cutoff date is much earlier (Sept 5) than any other state we have lived in, and about 2 months earlier than NC. We felt it best to keep them in their grades - even though Megan tried her darnedest to skip 5th grade when we moved here. So, they are both among the oldest in their grades.

Something tells me that Shannon and Mackenzie will have a great time together!!

[p3guy]

Ginny,
Thanks. I think I may phone and fax as well. I guess the only way to feel sure is having a voice on the other end of the line. Hopefully the busy signals won't last too long.
Regarding drinks at Palo's...I may have to refine my tastes a bit. 60 days to practice!;)
Greg

[jgalecpa]

Bonnie,

I think I set my timer for 12 noon on the 20th of december.

I'm sure with everyone arriving at about the same time in the terminal that by the time they open boarding Macenzie and shannon will be fast friends.

They can exchange eye-roll techniques!

Julie,
I do remember Jim McMahon. Never been compared to him before. Must be the windblown look of my face. (After fighting the fish for 30 minutes then having to hold her up, it was not as easy as my smile indicates.)

Ginny,

I'm with you. I like the human voice. I will have the back up fax too. since we have two rooms (adjoining) I hafta make sure the excursions goes with the right room.

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim,

[They can exchange eye-roll techniques!

I don't know that I care to get any more nasty looks than the ones I am already accustomed to!! LOL!!

I believe Ginny's ticker is reading 60 days today!!

What are the girls going to do for their excursions?

We all have the advantage over you -- We know who you are (as long as the fish is coming also)!

Thanks for the info on the lanyards at WalMart -

[jgalecpa]

The good news / bad news is that by the end of the cruise, EVERYBODY will probably know me.

Some will like me, some won't. Some will laugh at my antics even though they won't want to.

I'm the Irishman your mom warned you about!!!

Caitlin (15) is going on the cozumel teen cruise.

All of us are planning on doing the parasailing.

Someone is planning on fishing! (Guess who?)

Rieann is shopping!

Jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

My mom was always right there next to the Irishman!! Even at 87, she is exchanging what she calls "naughty jokes" with the driver of her van to the senior center every day!!

Can't we sneak Shannon on? Do you think they run the KTTW cards at the start of these excursions on the islands? I would expect that there may be plenty of teens who don't frequent the teen club on a regular basis who show up at this cruise - but, the problem may be getting her a ticket --


Jamie is still working on a fly fishing excursion --

We also have some friends from here who are going to be on a different ship and will be in Cozumel and Grand Cayman on the same days - The dad will be scuba'ing -- and son - DD-17's boy friend in 8th grade and a great kid - Robin Williams and Monte Python rolled into one, will probably want to snorkle!

I will be waiting to see what everyone else wants to do, and then decide what to do - I have to go back and see if Kenzie can go on her own or if she needs to be accompanied -- (mostly, I want a beach chair and a drink).

[jgalecpa]

Let me see what they say when I try to call in the ex's on tues.

I have the feeling that once on board they may be more flexible, but the problem may be the tickets.

I second the beach chair and drink scenario.

Going to Mr Sancho's?

jim

[Grumpy's Mom]

Jim,

Is Don Sanchos' the wild place? lunch and beach? Sounds good! I have to go back through the trip reports this afternoon, after I get some dictation done so that DH's office manager doesn't fire me (which is what I am supposed to be doing now). I want to try to put together a spread sheet with all the things available so that the rest of the family has some idea of what they can chose from. There is so much info to chose from -

Are you booking all with Disney?

[LynnTarrant]

Jim
We've hired a town car to get us from the Polynesian to the port
it is collecting us at 9:30am so I assume we'll also be ther around 10:30am.
We're also planning on parasailing, what time are you going to try for?
Lynn

[Ginny]

To all -

Just a thought about Castaway Cay ressies for activities: Sometimes, due to the weather, you are not always able to dock at Castaway Cay as early as you would like and sometimes the winds and currents prevent it entirely. It can be a beautiful, clear day but those crosswinds just cause problems. Having watched the CAPT valiantly try for 90 minutes to get the Magic into the pier and then have to give up was frustrating. If we had made it all, the schedules would have been backed up.

It has been mentioned in the past on the boards that those who book the first spa treatments have been known to lose their opportunities to avoid throwing everyone's schedule off. I can't remember if excursions have been addressed as well.

I would just make sure that you confirm with CM when you call that you are guaranteed to parasail or ride the banana boat or fish even if we are delayed getting off the ship. I would suggest not taking the first opportunities of the day if the CM cannot guarantee that for you.
Again, just a thought!

[Grumpy's Mom]

Ginny - thanks for the caveat - I actually had forgotten about the Castaway Cay excursions when I printed off all the other port excursions for the girls to review!!

[LynnTarrant]

Thanks Ginny
Lynn

[hawkrn]

For all you repeat cruisers, has anyone tried the Rainforest at the Vista Spa? Trying to decide if I want a 1day pass, 3 day or week!

[Ginny]

Hi all -

I called this afternoon to double check what time the Excursion office opened with high hopes for 0700 but no luck. The office opens at 0900 Eastern time. I have a meeting at 1000 in Arlington so am hoping for lots of Pixie Dust and getting through by 0905!!

Rainforest

Julie - This is one of Chuck's favorite things and he will most definitely get the weeklong pass again. I have not tried it yet but he raves about how relaxing it is. On our last cruise, we had a rather "uncoventional" group of 700 sailing with us who used the Rainforest area excessively so I never tried it. But, that is another story!

[jgalecpa]

Hope everyone got their excursions booked!

Ginny, I was told the office opened at 8 am, and that's exactly what time I called and got through the first try!

(Those old days of getting tickets to rock concerts paid off)


One disappointment, When I called I was told that you could only book the bottom fishing once on shore! I booked all the parasailing, teen cruise for DD-15 caitlin, etc.

Then on the was to work I thought something didn't sound right.

Got on the phone, called the excursion desk back (on hold) and got thorugh to someone who had to look up my data. She put me right on the 9:15 bottom fishing.

(And if BD is monitoring this board, "Bottom" fishing is not what it sounds like).

So right now, we are under 60 days!!!!!

Jim

[LynnTarrant]

Hi
Jim I'm glad you got your bottom fishing booked!!
i faxed a request at 8am UK time middle of the night for most of you guys, when i got home tonight at 8pm I phoned to check it had been received it had and so hubby and I are booked for 11:30am parasailing at castaway cay. Hope everyone else got sorted.
It seems so real now I can't beleive how close it is
:Pinkbounc :bounce: