9/18/04 Eastern Magic- We're in the home Stretch Now

[spazmataz]

We can hardly wait! Just 3 more weeks:wave:
We have only been on one 3 day Dis cruise back in 99, so we are looking foward to a 7 night! Plus on the 22nd I turn 40.


Just my DH and I ( no kids)
See ya there,

Susan
::MickeyMo

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome aboard Susan :wave2:

I see you're from Seattle, you have quite a trek to the port. Are you coming in on Friday like so many other cruisers?
See you onboard!:teeth:

[4formickey]

We just got our doc today, so I'll be seeing you guy in 3 weeks:wave2:

[westjones]

OK, you guys are confusing me. Isn't it 4 weeks?
DJ

[4formickey]

we are going to wdw for a week before the cruise

[westjones]

OH! Lucky you! Wish we could do that. Well see you in 4 weeks on the cruise!

Have fun at WDW!

DJ

[4formickey]

It has been a long time planning for this trip?

[spazmataz]

:space:

We are flying in the night before and staying at the Hyatt at the airport, so we haven't recieved our documents as of yet!
It is a long trek but oh sooooo worth it!

Susan
Severe Mickey Fanatic !::MickeyMo

[glindamood]

Welcome Susan & Dierdre - glad to have you aboard. I have been compiing a list of our fellow cruisers (names, ages, where from etc.) and was just getting ready to send it and wondered if each of you would like a copy. I need your DH's names and will finish and send it out.

Also, please try and join us at our DIS meet on Saturday at 3:00 in the Promenade Lounge.

[spazmataz]

Thanks for the nice welcome!:wave:

DH= Chas 43

If I can convince him, we will be in the lounge at 3pm

[glindamood]

Susan - I had a hard time with my DH on our first cruise but he went - and always said hello whenever we bumped into someone (truth be known, he always saw someone before I did).

If you would like a copy of the list you will need to send me your email address - I can't attach anything to a PM or the email icon.

OK all, anyone start packing yet? If I had a spare room to keep stuff in I probably would but I don't so I just have a section in the closet with items hanging. I also have started the 'medicine chest (Bonine supply, tylenol, pepto, tums etc) but need to get out and get some sunscreen for us.

Hope you are all doing well and enjoying the last of summer vacation - school doesn't start here for another week but band camp and soccer will take up all of DS's waking minutes this next week. I have even seen trees that have started to turn - sad that summer is over but I can hardly wait until it is our turn.

[Nyanchan]

Thanks Glindagood!

Dierdre= 36
Guy= 32

I'll also try and make it to the lounge... DH really likes his alone time!

You can send the list to Nyanchan2002@yahoo.com!

Thanks!

[glindamood]

I have all the latest info with Dierdre's information but won't have a chance to get the list updated and emailed until tomorrow night but plan on doing it then.

Do we need to plan another DIS meet for later in the week - I plan on being in the lounge at 3:00 but if anyone is late getting to the port or doesn't make it for any other reason should we try for a second get together - may sometime Sunday or Monday? Lunch, snacks, ice cream (can you tell it is lunch time??) - any suggestions?

[POOH1060]

YES YES YES We just got our Doc's today!!!!!!!!
I just don't know what to do with myself for the next 25 days. I'm already half packed, I'm sooooooooooooo ready for this.:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[RellingTwin]

Lurker alert!!!
I hope you guys don't mind me posting on your thread. We will be sailing 2 weeks after you (to Antiqua) and would like to ask that you post trip reports when you get back. Although I have been researching Antiqua for months now, there is nothing like first hand reports.
I'm so excited you are getting your doc, because that means mine are not too far behind!
Everyone have a wonderful cruise!!

[DisneyNutMary]

Originally posted by RellingTwin
We will be sailing 2 weeks after you (to Antiqua) and would like to ask that you post trip reports when you get back. Although I have been researching Antiqua for months now, there is nothing like first hand reports.


Absolutely!
I will be writing a trip report, and hopefully I can get my son;s to write a journal so I can do a kids eye view trip report for any pre teens who may want to read about the Magic.

[ambermomma]

I can't believe it's less than a month until we cruise! Time has flown. I haven't even BEGUN to think about what clothes to pack, etc - guess I'd better get on the ball huh? I don't think we are doing any shore excursion because of the baby - we'll probably just get off and walk around some.
Does anyone know what the schedule of event nights is? ie, formal night, troical night or whatever? I want to be prepared...

Can't wait to see everyone!

[westjones]

I printed off some navigators and figure they are probably close to what will be happening on ours. Since we can't post Barb's website links on this board anymore, I have copied Dave's for you so you can look at the navigators he has posted:

http://www.dcltribute.com/navigators/east_carib/

If anyone is free on Friday night for the Family Talent Show, my twins and their best friend will be dancing a tap dance to a song from the Disney movie Newsies! They could use the support! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

DJ

[glindamood]

We are now officially joining you all - docs just arrived at the office and appear to be all in order!

[westjones]

Great! Isn't it nice to have those Docs in hand! Just 3 weeks from today we board the plane! Can't wait! This will be our first time staying at the Hyatt at the airport, so I am also excited about trying that out too.

I haven't made my name tags yet. Anyone else have theirs done and can make a suggestion as to how to do it. I am thinking we should cut out the Mickey heads and glue them to poster board to make them stronger. Then duct tape a safety pin to the back (can you tell I am not a 'crafty' person :teeth: ).

As for the name, should we put our REAL name and our Screen Name on the tag?

DJ

[bartjwb]

I am not too crafty myself--if anyone has a name tag finished could they please post a picture of it so we all know what they look like?

[spazmataz]

:thewave:

Woo Hoo! My documents finaly arrived also! We will also be staying in the Hyatt the night before. Now it's time to start packing .

[westjones]

YEAH! So glad you got your Docs!

I am not going to start packing until after Labor Day Weekend. I have a Girl Scouts meeting and my sister is coming that weekend. After that, I can turn my living room into a 'packing' room!

DJ

[ragdoll]

I just love seeing them sitting on the kitchen counter! I am a procastinator so I will not be packing until the night before we leave. Then I'll be saying I should have gone shopping.

Still need to get my Mickey's from home depot. I'm not a crafty person either. Will just pin them on with my screen name and real name. (Last time I didn't even bother to cut them out. When I'm rushing around packing last minute that's the last thing I'm going to worry about.LOL.) Really, don't stress over the Mickey's. We only wear them for a short time.

I think glindamoods suggestion for a second meet is a good one, just in case some of us miss the first one. We are flying in the morning of the cruise. Have never had a problem getting to the port on time before but you never know, especially during hurricane season. Any suggestions for a second meet?

[JanDave]

Hi:

Glindamood's idea of a 2nd DIS meet is fine with us. Perhaps on Monday -- maybe gather for lunch at Lumiere's after 12:30 when the restaurant may not be too busy.

Ragdoll: I was going to wear my DIS badge on all sea days! In 2001 on the Magic, we wore our ribbons the first day at sea and met many more DISers we didn't meet at the sail away party.

Can't wait for 9/18 to get here.

Jan

[ragdoll]

JanDave, I never saw anyone wear their Mickey's except at the DIS meet. That would be a good idea though. I'm not good at remembering faces and names and had people yelling "hi ragdoll" to me on our cruise in May. I'd be looking around for them with a clueless look on my face until they yelled back their screen name. Guess I'll go all out and cut out my Mickey ears...that is if I ever get them!

[westjones]

As long as the second DIS meet isn't on Sunday, we can probably make it. Sunday is my twins' birthday and we do whatever they want all day long.

Lunch at Lumiere's is also nice. We usually do this on the girls' birthday. They are open from 11:30-1:30 (according to the June 28th, 2004 navigators I printed from Barb's website). We might be going to the Hercules matinee at 2:00 (but that shouldn't be a problem since they close at 1:30).

Anyway, 12:30 would be fine with us on Monday.

Parrot Cay is also open (according to this navigator) and it is a buffet. They are open from 12:00-2:00 that day.

The DISers on board the Magic right now (with Andy) met for Brunch at Palo. I don't know how they arranged that. It seems like it may be more complicated.

DJ

[D. R. N.]

Hello everyone.. My hubby, 12 month old baby girl and I will be joining you all. We just booked a few days ago. This was kind of "last minute" for us (I am usually such a planner!). But we really wanted to go to Antigua. We went on our first DCL cruise pre baby in 2002. We went to the western caribbean so we were up for something different.

I was wondering what some of you have decided to do in Antigua. We are debating on which excursion to take with the baby. Any of you doing a solo tour? Any tips or recommendations would be appreciated.

We are so excited! Can't wait...

Denise

[JanDave]

Welcome D.R.N./Denise: We're looking forward to you joining us DISers on the 9/18 Magic. In case you haven't read previous messages, we are having a DIS meet on Saturday at 3 p.m. in the Promenade Lounge. My DH and I will be on the ship -- both of us in our 50s. Jan

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome Denise:wave2:

I can;t say for sure whether we can make it to a second meet. I am still trying to convince my DH that the first meet is a good idea. Well with or without him, I will be stopping by the Promenade Lounge at 3 pm.:teeth:

[D. R. N.]

I will certainly try to come by the promenade lounge. We swung by the meet at our last cruise and met some nice people. My hubby is also a little uncooperative. He is a little shy.

Anyway, thanks for the welcome..

Denise

[westjones]

I understand what you mean about your DH.

I can't promise we would go to a second meet either. I would try, but DH doesn't like to have to follow a 'time schedule' and wants us to just relax and eat when we are hungry and rest when we are tired and hang out and have fun when we feel like doing that.

BUT I know the first one (3:00 on Saturday) will be no problem because there isn't much at all going on then on the cruise.

So we will be at that one for sure.

DJ

[bartjwb]

Welcome aboard Denise!!

[glindamood]

Welcome to the group Denise. I will add yuo to our list of cruisers and if you would like a copy of the list you will need to PM me your email address. Also, DH's and DD's first names could be added too.

2nd DIS meet - 12:30 at Lumiere's sounds great - even if you stop by and join us for an iced tea (or whatever). It gives us all a chance to get together with more time to visit.

The list - I need to add Denise and will mail it out later this afternoon.

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Gail

[westjones]

I love the NEW topic title! It was giving me a chuckle when I saw the "early rollcall" -- not so early any more :Pinkbounc !

It is starting to seem real. I started laying some things out this weekend (and picked up so sundries at Walmart yesterday for the cruise).

So the second meet will be 12:30 pm on Monday at Luimere's for lunch! I will mention that one to DH after the Saturday one (don't want to 'over load' him with a schedule ;) ).

AND if anyone is bored on Friday night and wants to kill some time on the last evening of the cruise, come by the Family Talent show and cheer on my little princesses for their tap dance to the music from the Disney movie "Newsies".

DJ
(proud stage mommy)

[glindamood]

For those that I have your email for (sorry Bambi, can't find yours but if you send it to me again I will send the list) you should be getting 2 emails from me. The second one has the attachment (DUH!). Sorry 'bout that.

[westjones]

Thanks Gail! I got it!!!! Your are a sweetheart to do this!

BTW, isn't it nice to see the 'teens' in the count down clock instead of the '20's'!!!!! ::yes::

DJ

[glindamood]

Loving the teens in the coutdown timers! There is only one more Eastern and then it is OUR turne!

[tracyl921]

I'm so excited too! I can't wait until we hit single digits though!

[cruzings]

my kids have been counting the days for the past several months. and now 9/18 is just around the corner. they cannot contain their excitement!

see you all there!

[DisneyNutMary]

Originally posted by westjones
[B]I love the NEW topic title! It was giving me a chuckle when I saw the "early rollcall" -- not so early any more :Pinkbounc !


:blush: Sorry, I just realized yesterday that I could change the title. I had forgotten that I started this post way back when:blush:

AND if anyone is bored on Friday night and wants to kill some time on the last evening of the cruise, come by the Family Talent show and cheer on my little princesses for their tap dance to the music from the Disney movie "Newsies".

We were bored by the lack of entertainment on Friday night of our last cruise. I'll try to make it. I might even try to talk my kids to join in with a talent. Just prepare yourself, mine will be the ones singing their hearts out, and doing it badly.

[westjones]

We will be there to cheer them on too then! Tell them to join in the fun! I believe sign up for the talent show starts on Monday.

At least with singing you don't have to pack extra stuff. I have to pack 2 pairs of tap shoes!!!

DJ

[ambermomma]

Should we list our DIS names first with our real names underneath, or the other way? Just curious how everyone else is doing it.:rolleyes:

[DisneyNutMary]

Originally posted by ambermomma
Should we list our DIS names first with our real names underneath, or the other way? Just curious how everyone else is doing it.:rolleyes:

Good Question.
I was just going to put my board name, because it includes my first name. I think maybe board name first, becaus ethat is what we are all most likely to recognize.

[glindamood]

I put my real name on my nametag but I am sure it won't matter. If I see a lime green Micky nametag I will say hello to who ever is wearing it, no matter what it says.

Another item on the 'Things that happen before our cruise' can be checked off - yesterday was the first day of school here. Actually, that list is getting smaller (or the items that do not pertain to the cruise is less). Labor Day and DS's first marching band performace are all that are left!

Have a great evening eveyone!

[4formickey]

I know most of our fellow cruiser are coming the day of the cruise or the day before. Since my family and I will be at WDW a week before the cruise, I will be willing to pick up anything from WdW if someone would like anything special. This trip has been a long time planning and waiting for. Now it is just right around the corner. We are leaving 9/12 for our trip. :crazy: :hyper: :faint: :jumping1: :cheer2:

[westjones]

Hey fellow cruisers! It is now September! That means we are cruising THIS month!

It is getting closer and closer!

DJ

[D. R. N.]

Well, everyone we have lots of work ahead of us today. We are expecting a visit from Frances by tomorrow - at least to some degree.

Good luck to all you Floridians. I am sure you will all be as busy as me and my family today regardless of your location since the whole state is practically in the possible track of the cane.

I can't stop thinking about the Bahamians. Poor folks. They seem so tiny on the map against this massive system. Don't forget them in your prayers tonight.

Well, this is over and out for me for now. I'll check in again as soon as possible.

Take care and talk later,

Denise

[glindamood]

May everyone that is in the path of Frances be safe!

[DisneyNutMary]

To any of our fellow cruisers in Florida, and to any of our relatives and friends who are in the path of Frances, you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I hope all are safe and well.

[ambermomma]

Has anyone heard about/been watching/worried about tropical storm Ivan? I know Frances hasn't even made land fall yet but there's another one out there already. Is anyone else worried about how this will affect our trip?

[DisneyNutMary]

I"m worried, not so much about Ivan, but about the possiblility of what will come after Ivan. It's 13 days until I leave, I am sure Frances will be gone by then, and I am sure Ivan will have come and gone by then also, but will there be another one after Ivan?
:eek:

[glindamood]

I am trying not to worry about it - Mother Nature will do as she pleases. But, I am still not doing very well with not worrying. I keep thinking if this was our week to go, how would we be handling it just like I did with Charley - and how would we get home if they extended our cruise for a few more days. And what happened to Castaway??? Then I feel guilty since I am worrying about my vacation and people are loosing their homes, vehicles, work places and maybe even lives. So, I just say another prayer for those in Frances' path and a little one for no more storms.

[TexasGirl]

Hello There. I am a displaced by Frances cruiser joining YOUR sailing now. I was SUPPOSED to be sailing out tommorow, Sept 4 but am now rescheduled due to the hurricane fiasco.

I'm sad I'm not sailing tomorrow. In fact I would have been mid flight right now...:( ... but hopefully this new sailing will be a great cruise.

[glindamood]

Welcome! As you can see we are 'stewing' here too but I hope that all will be well and we have smooth seas in 2 weeks.

I have made a spreadsheet of our fellow cruisers that I would be happy to add you to and also share the list with you. It just includes names, ages and any special events (birthday or anniversary). If you would like to be added PM me your information email address and I will be happy to send one to you.

Be sure to stop by the Promenade Lounge at 3:00 on the 18th for our DIS meet.

[DisneyNutMary]

TexasGirl,
Sorry you had to delay your trip, I know I would be bummed if it was me!:(
Now that you're on our cruise, WELCOME:wave2: :wave2: Glad to have you, I hope you will join our meet. At least you have the next 14 days to read up on this post and get a feel for our group.:teeth:

[TexasGirl]

We didn't realize this cruise stopped in Antigua. Assuming the intinerary doesn't change, that willl be an unexpected treat.

We will be belatedly celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary and our bring our 4 year old daughter. This is our 2nd cruise on DCL. We did a 4 day last September. We have a 2nd child on the way, so this will be our last vacation for a while...so we are looking forward to it.

I think we have all decided we're glad we rescheduled and aren't trying to go to Orlando in the midst of all the storms...not to mention the fact our cruise would have only been 5 days unstead of the 7...and a revised intinerary.

This will work out better..

NOW, if I just won't JINX this sailing a bring a hurricane to you!!!

[4formickey]

On this cruise ,we don't believe in being jinx. If things get change, they just get changed. Have fun:sunny: :wave:

[Fawn]

Have I signed up here yet? I'm rarely online anymore, so I forget what I've done! :crazy:

[glindamood]

Go away Ivan!!! And Frances is long overdue for a departure too. Those poor folk in Florida and the islands.

I am trying to retain a respect and thoughfulness for all of them and still be excited about our cruise - it is beginning to be a difficult task but am working on it.

Do you realize that we go - not next year, or next season, or next month but NEXT WEEK!!!!! For me it almost starts now - the excitement of getting the first suitcase out, shopping for the little last minute stuff (film, camera batteries, Bonine) but it just isn't the same this time. Hopefully Frances is almost finished and Ivan will not cause much damage and go away too. And then another will not get started (that is where my biggest concern is).

I have a list question for everyone. Do we want to add our cabin numbers??? I can if we want to - would be a good way to get each other while on the ship. When is everyone leaving??? I can resend a final time next weekend (we have at least 2 additions since the last time I sent it). I would send Sunday maybe as the following week will be a busy one.

Have a good day everyone and see you all next week!

[DisneyNutMary]

Okay Everyone, repeat after me....

Ivan, GO AWAY!!!! And take any followers with you!

[westjones]

I too feel so bad for all the people in Florida. We have family there still trying to recover from Charley.

But we have been planning this cruise for a year now. My twin DDs are sailing with their very best friend (something that is never likely to happen again). I really want it to be good for them.

I just broke the news to them this morning about CC and how it won't be a stop for us this time. We have 14 in our party and many are there for their first (and only) Disney cruise, and I am more sad for them for missing CC than I am for us (we have been there 4 times and will be back again).

Let's just all pray that Ivan turns away or fizzles out. Florida can't take any more!

I am 'hoping' in a few days I can feel happy about our trip again. Right now, I just look at CNN or the Weather Channel and all I feel is sadness. But I don't want my kids to feel like that, so we are still doing our 'count down' and talking about all the fun we will have.

DJ

[glindamood]

I found this link after doing a search on Antigua
http://f27.parsimony.net/forum67635/messages/7824.htm

Since my geography is not that good and all the maps I ever see are not labeled I was concerned about St. Thomas and Antigua so I tried a search. If the above link does not work go the
www.antigua-barbuda.org, click to enter and after the menu on the left side of the screen that is a button for a newsgroup - I just went there.

[mbaker]

How do you know the Magic won't be stopping at CC? Disney has not said anything official.

[glindamood]

Welcome mbaker! On one of the other threads on the regular cruise board a DCL customer service (what is their official title) siad that CC was off the itinerary for "awhile". Considering how long it hung over CC I would not be surprised if we don't go there. I, along with everyone else I would guess, remain hopeful that the damage is not as extensive as we are all thinking it is. But, I am also trying to be realistic - I would rather think I am not going there and end up with a gift of a visit than thinking that we will stop - and not.

JMHO

[FLMOM2BOYS]

Just thought I'd check in..

We live 20 mi south of Punta Gorda, FL - "ground zero" for Charley. We rode out the storm in my bedroom closet, lost the double carport then listened as the roof over the bedroom started to giveway (it's still there but with lots of holes), then the lanai (screened patio) got damaged. We were and are glad to be alive when it was all done! Because of our location, we actually were within the 30-mi "hurricane force" wind field for 2 hours!

We're still waiting for the roof to be repaired and here comes Frances! Thankfully we just had to "bail" out what was our bedroom and listen to the wind blow. The roof held :bounce:

We are really going to need this cruise :crazy: Since we've bought a mattress and put it literally in the middle of our "living space" (we have a small house), my husband and I will also enjoy some privacy on the cruise, too ;)

I can't believe how much I miss having a bedroom just to be able to take a nap or "escape" from the kids for a bit during the day.

Our homeschooling "curriculum" has been filled with lots of life lessons learned and I'm so thankful that we are all okay and looking forward to our first cruise.

I join everyone else in praying for those on the E.Coast of FL and for now more disruptions to anyone's vacation/cruise plans.

Go away IVAN!

See you all REAL SOON! :Pinkbounc

[mbaker]

Since I'm in the news business I never believe second hand nor do I count "awhile" as an answer. What's the definition of "awhile".

If we're guessing, Ivan has a path that could take it near the U.S. at the end of this week. Again the storm would pass through the islands as a Cat. 3 or 4. My guess would be Disney would abandon ship on the Eastern Caribbean and take us on a Western run since the 9-18 is a repositioning cruise.

The latest from AP...
HURRICANE IVAN
Ivan threatens the Caribbean

UNDATED (AP) - Forecasters aren't yet predicting whether
Hurricane Ivan will be a threat to Florida. It's approaching
Barbados in the Caribbean, with winds of about 125 miles-an-hour.
The hurricane is due to reach Barbados tomorrow. Forecasters say
it's still at least six days away from affecting Florida.

[glindamood]

Time will tell how long "awhile" is as well as what our Eastern Intinerary will become. I will keep my speculations to myself.

[Scotsman]

Hi Everyone!
I just found this thread after 5 days addicted to this web-site! We booked late(2weeks ago). We were gonna do a week at Animal Kingdom Lodge but we found the Disney Cruise video tape and then fell in love with cruising(Disney style). This is our first cruise(I always thought a cruise was a bunch of people getting drunk and gambling!) and we will be travelling with DS4(his birthday is the 22nd and the reason for our trip!) and DD3(she's convinced she is a princess, sleeping beauty this week!) and my wonderful wife(she is MY princess princess: )
We are Disney nuts and whenever we travel we compare everything to Disney, which always leads to "It's just not Disney".
We are all really excited and can't wait until NEXT WEEK!

Drew

[glindamood]

Welcome Drew and family! Glad to have you aboard with us. I will add you to the cruise list and would be happy to email you a copy if you PM me your email address.

In case you have not read all the way through this thread there will be a DIS meet in the Promenade Lounge at 3:00 a week from this coming Saturday (sounds good, doesn't it??).

Stay safe!

[westjones]

Originally posted by mbaker
Since I'm in the news business I never believe second hand nor do I count "awhile" as an answer. What's the definition of "awhile".



I was just going by what someone else posted on another thread (which is what Glindamood posted---that it will be awhile before the ship can go to CC).

I too hope that we make it, and if we do it will be a nice surprise. But like Glindamood, I am better off (and my kids too) thinking that we won't go and then having a nice surprise, rather than hoping for something that might not happen.

No matter what, it will be nice to be on the ship. I am sure we will have a great trip.

DJ

[ambermomma]

Does anyone think that they'll cancel altogether? Or will they just re-route us to the west or something? Just curious what people think...

[JanDave]

Welcome Fawn, mbaker and TexasGirl. My DH and I will be on the 9/18 Magic and celebrating our 20th anniversary even though we are in our 50s. This will be our 4th DCL cruise. Looking forward to meeting everyone at the 9/18 3pm DIS meet. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have had to endure Charley and Frances. Just watched the Weather Channel, and learned that Ivan has lost some of its steam. An Air Force place flew over it within the last 24 hours. Hard to believe that we will be sailing and meeting one another next week. I wish all safe travel to port. Jan

[westjones]

Originally posted by ambermomma
Does anyone think that they'll cancel altogether? Or will they just re-route us to the west or something? Just curious what people think...

Disney will reroute us if there are problems. I don't see us being canceled (they didn't cancel during Charley, but this one just hit at the wrong time and right at PC where the ship needs to dock).

Disney has often done these 'mystery' cruises where they go to ports they don't expect. I haven't been on any, but I have read about them.

We will have a great time no matter what. The ship stays away from the bad weather, so we will be safe.

DJ

[glindamood]

http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/at200409.strike.html

According to this site the probabilities for Ivan striking either Antigua or St. Thomas has gone down.

Go Away Ivan! Go Away Ivan! Go Away Ivan! Go Away Ivan!

[westjones]

Thought you guys might want to read this post:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=639793


Castaway Cay- Wonder going to check it out
I am on the Wonder and I asked our waiter what they were going to do for a few days since the 9/5 cruise was cancelled. O'Neil said that they were going to sail over and check out Castaway Cay to see how bad the damage is. They are not planning on fixing it too quickly because Hurricane Ivan is moving in. Just thought you would all be interested

[glindamood]

Thanks for the link - that is interesting. It would be nice if Ivan would go away but I don't think that is going to happen. Poor Florida. Why do these storms get to South America and head north?

I do think that Antigua and St. Thomas are OK. And I wonder what the Wonder will find.

[DisneyNutMary]

Looks like we have picked up a few new cruisers, Welcome everyone:wave2:
My family and I have taken on the attitude that we are just glad to be on vacation, and we really don't care where we end up.
For the safety of us cruisers, and all those affected in Florida and the Bahamas, I am hoping and praying for Ivan to go away, see you all in 11 days.

[baward]

We feel the same way Mary. As long as we can make it to port and get on the ship, I could care less where we go. From what I have read at a couple different places this morning,Ivan should stay south then end up in the Gulf. But, who knows.
I am still trying to talk the DW into coming to the DIS meet next Saturday, so it just might be me and the kiddos,or just me.
Hard to believe only 11 days.

GO AWAY IVAN!! GO AWAY IVAN!! GO AWAY IVAN!!

[cruzings]

this is making us all very worried. we all do hope ivan fizzles out and that it does not affect antigua, st. thomas, CC or florida. a disney cruise would not be complete without a stop at castaway cay. we've been there before and had a blast. however, the rest of my husband's family from canada (who are joining us this time) have not. we would like for them to enjoy CC as well. we've been waiting for this cruise for a year!

let's all pray. keep our fingers crossed that the skies will be blue and that the seas will be calm from sept 18-25!

[westjones]

I'm sure that with or without Castaway Cay, everyone will have a wonderful time.

I understand your worry, I feel the same way since we have several people joining us on this trip (first time we ever had others come with us) and they have never been on DCL and may never have the chance to do it again. But there is nothing we can do about the CC situation other than hope all is fine at CC, but be prepared to learn that we won't be stopping there because of the damage.

I am anxious to see all the changes on the Magic, I haven't been on it since they made Diversions and the Stack and the Cove Cafe. It will be fun to see some 'new' things onboard.

DJ

[D. R. N.]

We are happy to check in after FOUR days of being trapped in the house with terrible weather. We were very fortunate here in Miami not to get a direct hit but we ended up with awful weather from about about Friday afternoon until late on Sunday. The worst part for us was being caged in (it really did feel that way with the shutters on the windows) and trying to keep a 12 month old entertained. Luckily, we never lost our power.

Anyway, after surviving Hurricane Andrew, this was a peice of cake. We will certainly not complain.

I am kind of bummed about missing CC. I'm dying to know where they will send us instead.

Well, take care and see you real soon!

Glad everyone is doing okay. :cool:

[Scotsman]

Has anybody ever been to St. Johns? We are considering spending the day there at the beach/ snorkel trail.

YO HO YO HO 11/2 WEEKS TO GO!:jumping1:

[tracyl921]

Just curious if anyone has been through an itinerary change before. Is it possible to find out before we get there if the itinerary changed? I'm guessing at this point CC is out and it looks like Ivan's going towards the western caribbean so maybe another island? I don't really care much where we go as long as i'm on the ship, i'm really thinking about when to make ressie's for palo.

[glindamood]

Hello everyone. This will be the final reminder about the cruise list - I am traveling again (Sun - Thur) and need to get this taken care of before I leave. The list will be a piece of cake - it is everything else I am concerned about. NO STRESSING!!! I will need to remind myself often.

If we want to add stateroom numbers everyone needs to send me their numbers. If you don't have a copy of the list and would like one the format we have been using is screen name - real name, DH,DW,DD,DS etc, ages (adult if you are willing to share and children) and where you are from. Also need your email address so I can send you a copy of the spreadsheet after it is all updated.

Everyone have a good week - we have planned and planned, now is the time for everything to fall into place.

[glindamood]

SINGLE DIGITS!!!!!

Not only can I be excited about being in single digits but I don't have to travel next week and can get ready without rushing.
Yeah, right! I can try.....

[westjones]

That's right! I almost forgot that today would be our single digit day!!!!

We fly in the night before, so that puts us at 8 days instead.

I am going to start packing this weekend!

DJ

[ambermomma]

I guess that puts us at 7 days - we are heading down on Wed the 15th! Holy cow, time flies... hope my Disney tickets get here in time.

[glindamood]

We fly down next Friday but it is still 9 days until we get on the ship. I can't believe that it is NEXT Friday.

Stephanie - have a safe trip and we will see you on the ship!

[CACruiser2004]

My family is cruising for the first time on Sept. 18th. I was searching for hurricane information and found this website. I read for hours last night. You are all very fun and informative.

We plan to fly in on the 16th and stay in Port Canav until boarding time. My concern is that we will not be leaving from this port. I am really kicking myself for not buying the insurance. Everyone that I talked to said that it was a waste of money. :confused:

Have any of you heard which port we will be leaving from?

:wave: Nice to me you! Thank you for all of the helpful hints.

[CACruiser2004]

I just got off the phone with the DCL. They said that they are now allowing people to visit CC. She said that they just brought in the first group of people. For the Sept 18th cruisers, we will be going to CC!:sunny:

As for my previous question about the port of departure, it is still undecided. They said that it will be determined on a cruise by cruise basis. As of right now, they are still shuttling people to the Everglades Port. They will not know what port we will depart from until the 15th.

[tracyl921]

Really?! I can't believe we're actually gonna make it to CC. That really makes my day, i hope what you were told is accurate! I can't believe i'm down to single digits. See you all real soon!

[Kalypso]

CACruiser - are you SURE? They were sending the Wonder there to drop off CMs for damage check and clean up....then the Wonder was coming back to Port Everglades to sail tomorrow. The Magic is on a 4-day to Cozumel - so the only group of people going there right now would be the CMs....did you misunderstand the DCL rep?

[glindamood]

I found one bit of information to share regarding the tender/dock issue to St. Thomas. According to the site below we are docking.
http://www.usvi-on-line.com/cruiseschedules.shtml

I am assuming (always gets me in trouble) that since there is no notation after Disney Magic that we will dock. :cool:

CACruiser2004 - Welcome to our group. I would like to invite you to our DIS meet at the Promenade Lounge NEXT Saturday (ohh, that sounds sooo good) at 3:00. I would also be happy to add you to our ever growing cruise list and send you a copy. If you could PM me the information (name, who is in your group, ages and cabin number if you choose to share) as well as your email address I would be happy to send it to you.

OUR DIS MEET IS NEXT SATURDAY!!!!! :crazy: guess I should have figured that out before.
:jumping1:
:jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1:

[DisneyNutMary]

Wow, with all of the stress of following the Aug 28 Magic's progress, and with watching Frances and now Ivan, I forgot all about being in single digits:eek:
We leave on Wed the 15th (contrary to what my countdown timer says) so one week from now I will be aboard my flight on my way.:teeth:
It's really almost here.:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

[CACruiser2004]

I am sure that she said we would be going to CC on our cruise. Someone on the other thread labeled something like "Refund Date Nov. 20th...Need information on CC" posted that they called today and were told the same thing from DCL. I am not sure what group they were sending there. She did not say and I did not ask. However, I said,"So, the Eastern cruise on the 18th will be going to CC?" The DCL agent said, "Yes, you will go to CC."

The other person cruising on Oct.2nd was told the same thing today.

[westjones]

Oh it is SO nice to hear some good news! Docking at port in St. Thomas and getting to stop at Castaway Cay would both be wonderful! NOW if we can just board at PC this cruise will ROCK!

Thanks for the updates!
DJ

[sharlon]

Okay, this is really waiting til the last minute, but I wanted to add my family to the list of 9/18 cruisers (I don't think I did this already)
AARGH! Boy do we need this cruise. We have actually moved to a different town since booking back in March.

Anyway, there will be me (34), DH (35), and two princesses (5 and 7). This is our first Disney cruise, but we are WDW and cruise veterans. I thought it was time we combined the two.

Thanks for the new info on CC. Glad to here we will be heading there.:bounce:

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome Sharlon:wave2:
I am very optimistic about our cruise. We are all going to get there safely, and have tons of fun, wherever they dock:teeth: And we're going to kick off the fun with a Pep Rally in the Promenade Lounge at 3pm.
Notice I upgraded our meet to a Pep Rally? I think we will all be ready for some release at that point.:Pinkbounc

[glindamood]

Welcome Sharlon! I will be happy to add you to our list. You will need to send me your email address so I can get you a copy.

Pep Rally it is! :cheer2: :cheer2: Does that mean we need to get together later in the week with a Victory Celebration?????
:yo-yo:

[JanDave]

Hello Everyone: A week from tomorrow, Dave and I head to Florida. Yeah!

Sharlon and CACruiser2004 -- Welcome! Looking forward to meeting you and your families at our Pep Rally.

CACruiser2004 -- do you have any children traveling with you? It's just DH and myself cruising. Our kids (1 DS and 2 DD) are all in their 30s and raising families.

Attention all moms -- I will need a baby fix the week of our cruise. I have 4 grandchildren all under the age of 2 1/2 years who I will miss not seeing or talking to that week. While cruising, I know that I will keep reminding my DH that we need/have to take our grandchildren on a DCL cruise when they're older.

Glad to hear that CC will be in our itinerary. Have a safe trip to Florida. See all of you at the Pep Rally on the Magic.

Jan

[CACruiser2004]

JanDave-
Yes, my DH and I are traveling with our 2 year old daughter. It is our first big family vacation. Our daughter has been on numerous flights, but they were all for business or traveling to see grandparents all over the United States. Because our vacation time is usually spend visiting family, we have not had the time to take our own family vacation.
My daughter loves watching the DVD that DCL sent us. She calls it the Mickey boat.::MickeyMo
I cannot wait for her to see the Magic in person. I wish that she was old enough to participate in the kids programs. I think that it is a good idea for you to wait for a while before you take your grandchildren.
I am sure that we will meet you onboard.

[bpicard9]

Welcome new cruisers!

JanDave, if you need a baby fix DS will be 9mo when we sail.
DD just broke her ankle and is in a cast. (we have to get it re-casted today, actually). Doc says she can swim, but no slide, no beach and no ocean :( so if y'all see a princess: with a bright pink cast, she's mine.
See y'all at the pep rally.

[ambermomma]

JanDave - you can get a baby fix with mine too, DS is 3 months.

Ok - so where is Everglades port? (In case we need to go there)
How far in advance will Disney notify us if they cancel the cruise? Would they re-book us on another one?

Is anyone concerned about their hotel stay before the cruise, etc? I am booked at Saratoga Springs from the 15th through the morning of the 18th, and I'm wondering what to do if Ivan is bad...

Dunno if anyone has experience or answers. You'd think I'd know all this, this being my 3rd cruise! Oy.

[DisneyNutMary]

I am confident that our hotel satys will be okay, I am scheduled to be at Contemp from the 15th until the morning of the 18th.

From what I am reading, Port Canaveral should be open by the time we go, and we shouldn't have much to worry about.

We just need to keep hoping and praying that Ivan turns away fro central Florida, Ivan is a bigger concern for us than Frances' aftermath.

Go Away Ivan

[dan and scott]

Hi guys,

I will officailly throw our hat into the ring as well. We have been booked on this cruise for over a year now. There are six of us traveling together-3 staterooms all together. So when you see 6 adults having way too much fun that is probably us!

This will be mine and Scotts 8th cruise (9 and 10 are booked!)
My moms 4th cruise, and everyone elses 2nd.

Hopefully we get to go to CC, I have tried to get through to the excursions line but haven't made it yet.

We are doing the jeep tour in Antigua and doing St Johns on our own.

Hope to see some of you soon.

Dan

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome Dan and Scott :wave2:

We are also thinking of doing St Johns on our own, but right now we are up in the air, waiting to see what Ivan has in store for us.

I look forward to seeing you at our meet-turned pap rally :cheer2:

[DisneyNutMary]

I spoke with Debbie today at DCL and she said that it could be ready for the 9/19 sailing. She said that they didn't have to do any dredging and the damage was very moderate. she did say that the "adult" beach was a whole new beach w/ so much sand.

Sounds like good news for us. If 9/19 cruisers are being told that Castaway Cay will still be a stop, we must be included:teeth:

I am thinking of calling DCL to give them my cell phone number, what does everyone think about that? Should I?

[dan and scott]

Mary,

Thanks for the welcome. Have you been to St John? It is extrememly easy to get to and very cheap (compared to Disney) I went last year with some Cast Members and we had a blast! We spent the day at Trunk Bay and it is absolutly gorgeous!

The adult beach at CC is very shallow-if there is new sand washed up it would make it even more shallow! Course if the sand covered the rocky bottom of the ocean thats a good thing.

Dan

[westjones]

And just a reminder that my twin DDs and their best friend are going to be in the Family Talent show on the cruise, so everyone is invited to come! They could use the support! I think it is on Friday between dinner and the show.

Welcome to all the newbies on our thread!

I will be at the Pep Rally on Saturday too! I will warn everyone ahead of time I am TERRIBLE (I mean TERRIBLE) at remembering names, so please don't be offended if I forget after we meet. My DH is almost as bad, so he is no help!:confused:

DJ

[sharlon]

Thank you everyone for the warm welcome. I'm so excited I can't stand it. Glindamood, by email is sharlon@aol.com. Looking forward to seeing everyone on 9/18.

:wave2:

[glindamood]

Dan,

Welcome! I have been preparing a cruise list and you and Scott are already on it - must have picked you name up somewhere. I would be happy to send you a copy of the spreadsheet if you would like one - I need your email address.

See you at the rally!

[4formickey]

If any one needs their kid fix we will have a 15month and a 3 yr old on board . We are leaving Sunday morning and staying off site. See you guys on the 18th.:bounce:

[skycon]

Hi there.. I signed in early to the roll call - okay about a year ago when I got back from my 9/13 Western cruise. Very excited about this one. Going back with husband and 2 children ages 3 and 6. Just want to know if anyone has a daughter in 1st grade that mine could meet. Last year I met a wonderful person and our daugthers had a great time together. Oh and lastly what is the "plan" for the meet. I am a little behind this year in planning. 1 week to get it all together and meet some of you. Yeah!!!

[DevineFamily]

No more lurking, I can finally post - seems I had a bit of a problem with my email and getting verified.

My husband, DD (10) and I are going on our first cruise and we are getting really excited about it.

It is funny - I used to log on the computer and read the news, and go to the sites I always go to - now this seems to be the first place I go to!

Hope to see you all soon!

Lori

[Scotsman]

Does anyone know if our cruise is sold out?

[westjones]

Our cruise is not showing up as available anymore on the Disney Cruise Line website, so I guess that means it is sold out (unless there are TAs still holding blocks of rooms).

DJ

[sharlon]

Skycon,
I've got a Kindergarden girl and a second grade girl going. They would love to meet some new friends on board. Maybe we can get them together at the gathering in the Promenade Lounge.
My email address is a few replies up. Feel free to email me if you want.
Sharlon

princess:

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome Lori :wave2:

Dan, I have never been to St John before. We are doing this on a wing and a prayer...my brother-in-law has a guy that works for him who comes from St John and recommended that we go there.
I am assuming we can get a ferry near where the ship docks, and will take things from there. Hopefully, we will end up someplace nice:hyper:

[JanDave]

Hello Fellow Cruisers: I am so looking forward to our DIS meet a week from today. Love our countdown clock! Yes, I will need a baby fix the week we're cruising. Just checked accuweather.com for info about Ivan. Next hurricane name is Jeanne -- and good news -- there's no info about Jeanne because she hasn't developed yet. Looks like we'll have a smooth cruise. Jan

[westjones]

Originally posted by JanDave
Next hurricane name is Jeanne -- and good news -- there's no info about Jeanne because she hasn't developed yet. Looks like we'll have a smooth cruise. Jan

Oh, I hope so!

Last night we were doing the, "Next week at this time we will be at the Hyatt and tomorrow will be getting on the cruise!"

I still have my fingers crossed for Castaway Cay. We have such a large group coming with us who have never been on the DCL and I would hate for them to miss seeing the island (but no matter what, I am sure they will have a good time).

DJ

[dan and scott]

Mary,

When you get off the ship at St Thomas-get a taxi to take you to the RED HOOK FERRY (should be about $5-7 for the taxi pp) The Red Hook ferry takes you right over ($6 pp RT) I believe the ferry leaves St Thomas on the hour and from St John on the half! Once you get to St John just have a taxi take you were you want to go. We went to Trunk Bay and it is very beautiful!

Good Luck.

Dan

[DisneyNutMary]

Originally posted by dan and scott
Mary,

When you get off the ship at St Thomas-get a taxi to take you to the RED HOOK FERRY (should be about $5-7 for the taxi pp) The Red Hook ferry takes you right over ($6 pp RT) I believe the ferry leaves St Thomas on the hour and from St John on the half! Once you get to St John just have a taxi take you were you want to go. We went to Trunk Bay and it is very beautiful!

Good Luck.

Dan

Thanks Dan, this information will come in handy.

[TexasGirl]

We have a 4 year old going. She is almost 5. Don't know if anyone else has a child this age. She loves making new friends.

Also, in Antigua, we were unsure on excursion options. We saw what Disney offerered. It doesn't say in the literature where the beach day is held. Does anyone know?

We were considering going to the Jolly Beach Resort All Inclusive on our own instead. Anyone familiar with it? he dayrate was extremely reasonable, a casino next door, all you can eat and drink, and a georgeaus huge pool and best of all...hammocks on a white sand beach.

[skycon]

Hi Texasgirl - I have a DD who is 6 going on 7 and a DS turning 3. My DD loves to play and meet new friends. Sharlon also has young girls your DD age. I have emailed her and hope to set up a meet and greet for the kids. Let me know your thoughts. We are going to be getting to PC relatively early that day so if you will be there early too we can see about meeting. Sharlon if you read this let me know too.... Karen

[TexasGirl]

Sounds good. The cruise will go a lot smoother if she meets some children she feels comfortable. Stay in touch!

[cruzings]

hi texas girl...for all i know, we may be neighbors (we're in DFW). i have two DDs aged 5 and 9. they will also have their cousins from canada joining us on this cruise, DS 13, DD8 and DD4. we'll see you there!

[westjones]

THIS week we are going on the Disney Cruise!!!!!!::MickeyMo

DJ

[bartjwb]

Does anyone know if Port Canaveral is open yet?

[westjones]

The Magic sailed from PC yesterday and the Wonder sailed from PC today, so it looks like we get to use PC (unless Ivan causes problems).

DJ

[glindamood]

OK - just hit the send button on my email with the latest cruise list. Let me know if I have made any errors - or if you would like a copy send me a PM with your email address and I will send you one. I will also try and bring a few copies to our pep rally.

Have a good week everyone - safe travels to anyone leaving early and to anyone that is in Ivan's path - be careful!

[westjones]

Thanks for the list!
DJ

[Fawn]

A big cheer for Gail and all her hard work on the list!

Hip Hip Hooray!!! :grouphug:

[glindamood]

FawN - fixed that little blip but have no idea who was to be in the cabin I put you in. I didn't look on the map - was it a good one, like one of the suites.

I will send the list again on Wednesday. If any of our new cruisers would get me your information (names, kids ages, cabin number if so inclined and email address) I would be happy to add you to my distribution list.

Did you all notice - the birthdays and anniversaries. Our group is now over 100 people too.

Only 4 more days of work (3 if I don't count today).
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[glindamood]

Just noticed this on the regular board - there is a 09/11 live report going by someone on the Magic that has reported that they will be going to CC this week as long as the clean-up goes as planned.

YIPEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

[ambermomma]

I am so excited, I can't WAIT to get going on this trip! We leave on Wed afternoon and I feel like it will NEVER get here. I'm a little bummed we won't get to do any shore excursions or snorkling (at least DH will at CC if we get there)...

If you see a girl with a baby and a book hanging out on deck, that will be me!

Can't wait to see everyone!

[bartjwb]

It looks like our cruise might be effected by tropical storm Jeanne.

[glindamood]

I am with you on that one - but so far it looks like we should be able to board Saturday - just might be a mystery cruise. As long as I can board and be treated 'magically' I will be a happy cruiser.

[Fawn]

Gail

I agree! I keep telling people we are going on a "Cruise to Anywhere the H*ll we can Land"! :boat:

And if we don't land, there's always the Spa!!! princess:

[Scotsman]

Maybe I'm wrong but I thought Jeanne had already passed Antigua?:yo-yo:

[bartjwb]

I agree--as long as we get on the ship all is well.

[skycon]

Finally made it to Home Depot to get the mickey ears for the name tags. :Pinkbounc One problem... my DD and DS wanted to choose their own colors. I told them we had to have the alien green somewhere in there but we could cut and paste as much as we wanted. So when you see a family of four (DD, DS, DH and myself) with the funny looking name tags it's us. Maybe we will start a trend. There were too many colors; a trip I should have made alone. But then again, this is a family affair. I am so ready for this cruise. I am don't care where we go as long as it is Disney style. Ready to Relax and Play. (okay eat too):earsgirl:

[westjones]

My kids will have purple Mickey name tags, and DH will have red. I am the only one with green, so we are joining your trend!

DJ

[glindamood]

Mine is green but DH's isn't - can't remember what color it is - could be purple too.

Stephanie - tavel safely today, and enjoy your time in Florida. We will see you Saturday at the Pep Rally.

We have had some additions to the list so I will send it for the last time tonight. Since some have had problems opening it so I will do the attachment and copy it into the body of the email too.

Safe travels to those leaving early - we are not going until Friday afternoon.

Gail

[DisneyNutMary]

Good Morning All!
I will be leaving this afternoon:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc
We have a rough day ahead, DH and I working, kids at school, then a scramble to get to the airport on time.
Wish me luck!
See you all on Saturday.

PS, I didn't make it to Home Depot, it's been an awful week at work, so I will be the one without a name tag. But don't worry, I will introduce myself.:teeth:

[glindamood]

Have a safe trip and see you at the Pep Rally!

[ambermomma]

and then we finally get to hit the road for our trip down! I have had the alien green mickey chips forever but had to get extras - i wanted to do something special for our nametags. Y'all will probably think they look lame *lol* Can't wait to see everyone on Sat!!

[bartjwb]

I hope everyone has a safe trip down. I can't wait to meet everyone.

[tracyl921]

We're heading to WDW tomorrow! Hope everyone has a safe trip. See you all at the pep rally!

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

[Scotsman]

Looks like we will leave before Jeanne, sail around her and head to Antigua and the rest will be as planned. yipee:bounce:

[JanDave]

Wishing all a safe travel to Florida. Dave and I leave Friday afternoon out of Detroit.

See everyone in about 58 hours!!!

Jan

[ragdoll]

Hi all, everyone have a safe trip down. We don't fly in until Saturday morning so hope our flight isn't delayed to due all the crazy weather or security problems. Never had a problem before but kind of wish that we were flying in a day early now. Since we booked the air through Disney though I know that they will do all they can to get us there on time. Hopefully we will be on time for the pep rally!

See you all soon!

[glindamood]

Cruise list just went out again. Let me know if you have any questions or if you didn't get it and would like a copy. I have discovered it copies well and I could probably PM it to anyone who would like a copy. I will also try and print a few off to take with me.

Is everyone packed yet??? I am not - but it is all hanging waiting to be folded and put in the suitcases tonight after DS's soccer game. I don't have to work tomorrow so should be able to get my self together by noon tomorrow.

Everyone travel safely and I look forward to seeing everyone at the pep rally on Saturday!

WE ARE GOING ON A CRUISE!!!!

[westjones]

I am doing up my DDs' laundry today and we will pack tonight.

We fly out tomorrow afternoon from Indianapolis and will be staying at the Hyatt at the airport. I hope we have time for the girls to swim; they like to try out every pool.

See everyone Saturday!
DJ

[IrishCowboy]

We're supposed to fly down tomorrow, but Ivan has the B;ham airport closed. Hopefully, we'll get to make our flight tomorrow!

[glindamood]

Hopefully the airport will be open - is driving an option at all?

I see that Jeanne is now a hurricane - will it ever end??? Prayers to all in her path!

[westjones]

Now it looks like Jeanne may hit CC:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=6474555#post6474555

I guess we need to just 'go with the flow'.

DJ

[bartjwb]

Well-- the planning, saving, and packing are now all done. We leave for Pittsburgh in about an hour. Our flight leaves at 8:00 AM tomorrow. To all of you---have a safe trip. C-ya on Saturday.

[westjones]

We won't be heading to the airport until tomorrow, so I am still doing last minute details. The girls have dance class in an hour and after that we pack the tap shoes for the Family Talent show on the last night of the cruise.

Everyone keeps telling me to RELAX, and then I ask them if they want to handle the details and they all say "well no". I won't be relaxed until we are there!

But I am excited! I called DCL today and they said that our sailing is as scheduled (out of PC) but ports of call are tentative based on the weather. I don't care where we go, just as long as I get on the ship!

See everyone soon!
DJ

[DevineFamily]

Gee, guess I better start the packing - guess that means I have to do laundry first :rolleyes:

Seriously, I am really excited now - finally have the new hotels booked before and after since Ron Jon isn't open. Problem was after - we decided not to fly out for a few more days since hubby wanted to go to Kennedy Space Center and staying at Ron Jon looked liked a lot of fun to me. But since Ron Jon isn't open....and Kennedy Space Center, hopefully, will open on Monday again - we decided to back up to Orlando for the last two days we are there.

Does anyone know if we will have time to do Kennedy Space Center on the Saturday we get back or if waiting till Sunday is better timewise?

Thanks and see you all soon!

[glindamood]

You should have plenty of time to do KSC before heading back to Orlando - if you want to see it all it takes almost all day (it did us anyway). It was very interesting.

See everyone on Saturday!!!

[BambiRumsey]

Me - 34, Control Freak
Him - 41, Consultant
Her - 5, Princess

After much fretting and deliberation we have decided to leave today rather than tomorrow since we have to fly pretty much through what's left of Ivan to get there.

We are all three experienced cruisers but this is our first time on Disney.

Very excited but hoping I have enough dramamine!!!

[westjones]

We went out and bought more dramamine last night. I hope it is enough too!

We are hanging out around the house right now waiting for time to go to the airport. Can't believe it is almost time to leave.

See everyone tomorrow!
DJ

[TexasGirl]

We're back! Not the trip we were all expecting huh. But my family did have some amazing times. Looking forward to hearing everyone's comments and hopefully trip reports!

[glindamood]

We are home too - I added to the live report. No - it was not waht we all expected but I think that DCL did a good job of a bad situation - and a situation that they didn't have any control over. I am more that satisfied with how it was handled. And it always makes it so much better to know that we are going back - and with the 50% off (I still find that amazing) I think we may be sailing again on the 05/07/2004 Western.

I will work on a trip report once I get unpacked - now there is a reality check!

[ragdoll]

Hi all,

It was so nice to meet the few DIS'ers that DH and I got to meet. Our flight was late so we got to the "pep rally" after some had already left. Wish we could have met all of you.

DH and I had an absolutely wonderful cruise! We really enjoyed staying at the Dolphin even though it was 1:00 am when we got there. It was great walking around the area in the morning and seeing the other hotels.

We are thrilled with the discount and will definitely be cruising again. We had already booked on board for 9/17/05 before we knew about the discount but may decide to go this spring instead since it won't cost as much as usual.

[cruzings]

we are back home too. we made it out in the nick of time, flying out to dallas via atlanta at 4:15 pm on saturday, right before the airport closed. we had to forego our original plan to stay one more day to enjoy the magic kingdom.

all in all, we had a marvelous time on the cruise. except for the last seasick day, the rest of it was great. disney did try their best to take care of us under the circumstances. booking all of us at the swan and dolphin with such short notice was a feat in itself. most of all, that 50% discount on a future cruise is unbeatable. of course, we will book again...but a bit wary of the hurricane season so we might go in june or early july 2005.

can't wait to hear from all of you.

[DisneyNutMary]

What a crazy week. My sister (lucyLuvsMickey) and I weren't able to make the DisMeet. We had some issues, and were some of the last people to board the ship:( I wish we could have met you all.

All in all, we had fun. Thursday, Friday and Saturday were challenging, but we came through. How about that 50% off? I am probably going to re-book. I am a little disappointed that it is only until 10/2005, because it severely limits my choice of date. Can you believe the entire West Coast itinerary is sold out?:earseek:

Anyway, I hope you all made it back safely.

[westjones]

We just got back late last night.

It wasn't the trip I had hoped for either, but Disney was great in how they handled everything. We actually had planned to stay until Sunday to go to WDW, so we ended up staying until Monday night (late). The Magic Kingdom was pretty empty yesterday, so we were able to just walk up to about everything and go on the rides we wanted more than once.

I wish they had given us until the end of 2005 to make our 50% off reservations because there are no 7 night cruises available next summer---but we are going to look at the 3 or 4 night.

It was nice meeting some of you on Saturday. I hope your next cruise is smooth sailing!!!

DJ

[JanDave]

Hello 9/18 Cruisers! We got back to Detroit Monday evening. We ended up in St. Petersburg for 2 nights and could not get a flight out of Tampa until Monday. What a wonderful cruise despite the problems with weather. We are booked on the 9/3/05 Magic Eastern -- DH loves to go to St. Thomas. I also booked the 6/16/05 Wonder (using discounted DVC points) with my friend and her daughter, Alyssa.

It was great meeting the DISers on the ship.

Jan

[DisneyNutMary]

Welcome back JanDave, I am rebooked on 9/03/05 too.:teeth:

[westjones]

My girls start middle school next year, so we can't take them out to go on any more September cruises. Too bad too, with that 50% off coupon it would be nice to go on a 7 night cruise.

Did you guys already book at the 50% off rate? How did that work since we don't have the 'coupon' (or whatever they are sending us) yet?

We enjoyed the cruise up until the time we left St. Thomas. Then one of my DDs and I were sea sick until Friday morning. Then Friday was so crazy that it is just a blur now.

This was our 5th cruise, but probably my least enjoyable one due to my sea sickness. I am glad that most people were able to get past the rockiness of the ship and still enjoy everything!

DJ

[JanDave]

Hi DJ: I booked our 9/3/05 cruise yesterday through DCL. When I receive the 50% voucher, I'll mail it back to DCL. I'm also cruising on the 6/16/05 Wonder with my best friend and her daughter (my precious goddaughter).

Jan

[westjones]

I posted a thread with a link to a picture of the pool on Thursday of our cruise. I didn't see this myself because I was too sea sick to leave the room, but DH was able to get around. Thought you guys might want to see it.

Just go to this thread and click on the first link:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=655819

DJ

[skycon]

Hi all -- welcome back from our rock and roll cruise. I had a great time up until thursday a.m. I bounced back for dinner so I could have lobster but not 100%. That was the first time ever in my life I gave away lobster to my husband. He was in heaven. With all the empty seats the lobster had to go somewhere... it came to our table. I also am working on rebooking. I met some wonderful new friends on the cruise and we are rebooking with them. The only road block I am finding is get a good quote. I have 6 of them that very by about $200. I got the best from DU but when I inquired about using the voucher she said I would have to get a new quote from them. I am guessing much higher. The other question I have is if you booked on the DC prior to the announcement of the 50% voucher do you still get to keep your onboard credit? Good for those that got it, bad for those that didn't. I went to book after the announcement and was told I can't use both. Oh well. If I book through AAA I can get a $150 on board credit and can keep it. I have liked the service of DU and All Seas but I am tossed on who to book with. I wasn't planning on crusing again until 2006 but I too cannot pass up the opportunity to cruise and only pay 50% of the price which to my surprise keeps increasing. The old saying goes.. " you get what you pay for". Anyone booking the 9/24 cruise. I didn't want to take my kids out of school the first week and can't do 9/17. Stuck with 9/24 but that is okay. I wouldn't mind seeing St. Marteen. DH and I are going to do that route on a RCC in May for our 10yr anniv. It should be fun I hope. Any thoughts on that would be appreciated too. I am glad everyone made it home safe. We stayed in Florida to visit my sister which was pre planned. The only problem was she lives where the eye went through which made for a very hot end to our vacation. One we will always remember for sure. LOL:hyper:

[DisneyNutMary]

Awesome shot of the pool DJ!

[westjones]

I would love to hear when anyone gets their 50% off voucher from DCL. Mine is going to my travel agent, so I won't get it at home.

I called DCL and they said they were mailed on Tuesday, Oct. 12th (three days ago), so they should be coming anytime.

If anyone gets theirs and wouldn't mind letting us know, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks!
DJ

[bartjwb]

Our AAA travel agent called us and said that we got our 50% letter. We are thinking about booking the 9-24-05 western. Anyone else thinking about booking that date that sailed on the 9-18-04 eastern?

[glindamood]

Greetings everyone! MAJOR withdrawls here - it goes by so fast. Our letter arrived Saturday - but since I use the office address I didn't really get it until yesterday when I came to work.

I booked the Feb. 6th Wonder cruise yesterday. There was nothing available to sail on points in February and that had good airfares on the Magic so I will try the Wonder. Our minister is retiring Jan 31 and I am taking her with me. We will also sail the Western next December with the on board rebooking offer.

Take care everyone - it was a pleasure meeting each of you. Enjoy your fall.

Gail

[skycon]

Hi all -- I got my voucher today. One less item to worry about on my list of stresses. I have already booked another cruise - sailing on 9/24/05 Western with another family we met on the 9/18/04 Eastern. There is already a thread started for this cruise so reserve your cruise and come aboard and join us. I hope everyone gets their voucher without any "glitches" in the process.

[westjones]

Glad it is working out for everyone. I used mine for the Dec. 19th four night cruise (only 2 months to go!).

Wish I could go again next September on a 7 night (the prices are great and with 50% off of that---WOW!), but the kiddos will be in Middle School next year and we will be stuck following a school schedule for the next several years.

It was nice to meet many of you! It was certainly a memorable vacation!

DJ

[westjones]

I just wanted to mention to any of you still thinking of booking with your 50% off voucher that I am in the process of using mine for a cruise that cost $17.15.40 and we are getting a total of $600 off with the voucher. They way it was shown to me was:

2 Adults $800 50% off = $400
2 Children $400 50% off = $200

Non-commissionable fees ($99/person) $396
Gov. Taxes (29.85/person) $119.40

So my new total is $1115.40

----------------------------------

I just found this interesting, I knew about the taxes and that they were not be included in the 50% off, but I didn't know about the $99/person fees (this is for a 4 Night Cruise).

So I just wanted to share my experience with you guys that are still looking at using your voucher so you don't have "sticker shock" when the 50% isn't quite half off.

It is still pretty good, and we are happy to be getting the discount. I was just 'calculating' in my mind a different amount.

DJ