1/15/2005

[kellimomo3]

Hi Pauline,

That was a photo of my boys getting their surprise. I can't remeber the name of the thread but if you search Christmas surprise, I bet it will come up. "Verandah Man" posted the picture for me as I do not know how to do that, sorry.

The excitement level in our house is VERY high right now. I must say I am anxiously awaiting the kid's return to school tomorrow so I can have some peace. I started organzing our summer stuff this weekend. I had read THE BEST tip on the DCL forum on how to pack. It suggested packing the kids cloths in baggies. I put outfits (shorts, shirts, socks, undies) together in one gallon abggies and labeld them with the boy's names. It takes up way less room in the suitcase and the boys can easily pull them out of the drawers once we unpack and get dressed. With three boys so close in age, they are constantly dressing in each others clothes, especially when my DH gets them dressed. This way, I know they will have on clothes that fit. Anyway, I got so inspired I did the same thing with my bathing suits and tshirts! I'm a believer, the system really works. Because we are going for two weeks I was nervous about how much luggage we would need. We will only be bringing 3 suitcases and one garment bag, granted they are all large bags!!

I hope everyone had a nice New Year's. I am looking forward to meeting you all soon...


Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[Houzer]

kellimomo3: Are you doing the Jig yet!!!!!!!! YAHOOO kids are back to school....not that it effects me too much since I work full time.

Well I have a little confession to make if you haven't figured it out already...you know how Annie has a thing about flying well I am just as bad with packing.:headache: I know they don't compare but if you knew me you'd get it!!! Don't ask me why I absolutely freak out when I have to pack. You would think I'd have it down to a science with the amount we travel to the cottage but I DON'T!!! :idea: I had to call Annie four times yesterday to vent and I only packed half of Teran's cloths and nothing else. :scared: Jeff keeps telling me to calm down, take a deap breath and just don't worry about it...I just can't. I don't know if its because I hate it so much or I am so stincken anel about such things. Ugh!! On a lighter note how is everyone else doing with their packing?

Ok now that you all know my phobia I can get on with something nicer! Has everyone booked excursions and what are you doing?
We are taking the stingray snorkel in Grand C. and on Cozumel we are taking the kadimeran and beach party along with Annie's family.

Pauline :badpc:

[kellimomo3]

Yes Pauline, I am dancing the jig! :cool1: :cool1:

When the kids got on the bus this morning, I breather a sigh of relief! This gives me the whole week to get it together. Look at my countdown clock!!!!

Packing is not getting to me for this trip and I don't know why. Two weeks away for five people should be a packing nightmare, but I feel pretty on top of it!

I am going to miss chatting with you guys next week. We leave this Saturday and after that I will be in-communicado until we meet on the cruise!!

We have no excursions planned, we will be on our own. In Key West just DH and I will be off the ship to explore. In Grand Cayman, if the weather cooperates, we will all take a cab to Seven Mile Beach and in Cozumel to Paradise Beach.

Happy Packing all...

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[Snow Birds]

We just found this site. We are sailing on 1/15/05, love the cout down clock. I can't believe you guys have been doing this all year! We have 2 sons, 7 & 4. We went last January on the 4 day (land/sea package). We had a great time and we are counting down the days till we leave again to get away from the snow!

[kellimomo3]

Hi Snow Birds,

We have boys the same age!! Ours are 4 1/2, 6 1/2 and just turned 8. They will all be in the club. I'm glad you found the sight. We are having a DIS meet on Sunday at 10:00 @ Sessions hope you can join us!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

Look at my clock!!!It's freaking me out!! :earseek:

[joycepa]

Hope everyone had a Safe and Happy New Year!!! We just received word that our documents arrived at the TA. We wil pick them up tomorrow. No upgrades for us and we were asssigned 2 rooms on the noisy list :-(
We are in 2128 and 2126. I hope it's not too noisy. I guess it could be worse. Like not even going at all.
We have Captain Marvin's booked for Grand Cayman and are planning to go to Paradise Beach in Cozumel. Although we have been having a mild winter so far it will still be nice to swim and enjoy near 80 degree weather.

Joyce

[karebear1]

Joyce- my DH Jim and I are also booked for Captain Marvin's at GC! Which tour did you book?

[joycepa]

karebear1,
We are on the early tour at 8:30. I am alittle nervous about the time but I wanted to make sure we had time to shop afterward. I have heard they are pretty good at getting you on a later tour if you're late.
It will be me, DH, DD3, DD12 and my parents.

[Houzer]

Joyce: Annie and I have rooms just down from you.

Pauline :flower1:

[DVCkidsMOM]

I finally figured out how to get here. Thought I'd introduce us, even if I'm late in doing so. We'll be joining you fine folks on the 1-15-05 Western cruise - our first ever. We're celebrating our anniversary by cruising rather than our usual parks visit. Yes, we may be nuts to do it, but our children are joining us. DD is 4 and DS is 6. The worst case is we'll have to bribe them to stay in the clubs - doubt we'll need to, but I like to have a "plan B." I hope to be packed for the cruise tomorrow. (I also have to pack for us to join DH on a business trip for the week prior to the cruise - wish me luck and luggage.) Can't wait for our first cruise and to meet you :grouphug:

[Steve & Shirley]

Hey Mark... I think we are kinda sold on the carts how long do you guys rent them...and is it something that alot of us are going to do?

Steve

[kellimomo3]

Linda,

I am glad you found us!! There are quite a lot of 6-7 year old boys in this group. I don't think your son will have a problem staying in the club!! My boys are getting so excited. I am going to tackle some of the packing today. Hey, is anyone else bringing those two way radios?? It's on my list to bring but now I am wondering if they are really necessary on the ship. The only time I'll be seperated from the kids is when they are in the club, and I am assuming I'll be with DH most of the time.


Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[karebear1]

I'm bringing our two ways. Of course, we probably won't need them since it's just my DH and I. But- I bought the Mickey ones on clearance way back in the spring and I have to use 'em! maybe we could use them to talk to each other Kelli! We'll come up with our secret code at the meet on Sunday- ok??? ;)

[kellimomo3]

Sounds good karebear!!

I ordered my boy's gift pails through The Perfect Gift yesterday. Shirley is so nice and I think the boys will really apprciate having their favorite snacks on hand and the pails and shovels for the beach!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:


:cheer2: WOULD YOU JUST LOOK AT MY COUNTDOWN!!!!! :cheer2:

[mark & sandra]

Hey Mark... I think we are kinda sold on the carts how long do you guys rent them...and is it something that alot of us are going to do?

Steve
Steve there are a few places that rent them. I got a coupon from a street vendor, you'll see many of them, for a free 2 hours. Make sure you get one first. I rented from a location just across from Sloppy Joe's bar. I believe it was 89.00 for 4 hours on the 4 seater. We didn't even use it that long. I believe it's 1/2 that for the 2 seater and 1/2 that for 2 seater for 2 hours. It's a great way to see the sites...Mark

PS.- My kids loved it too. Maybe that's what you can do while watching them.

[Meshee]

Welcome DVCKidsMom.... Like kellimomo3 said there are tons of 6 years olds... I also have a DS6 that will be in the kid's club. And Houzer (who is travelling with us) also has a DS6.

Kelli & Karebear....Houzer and I are both bring our two way radios. Maybe we can have a four way conversation... We both have 12 year olds (almost 13) who will be allowed to sign in and out of the club. We thought the radios may come in handy.

[Meshee]

Oh my!.... kelli....I just noticed that you only have 3 days left on your counter....You are sooooooo lucky! Have a safe trip and see you at the Dis meet on Sunday on the cruise......

[cruiser]

Well my docs finally showed up just a few minutes ago. Quite a wait.. Glad they made it here..

[mark & sandra]

Hey cruiser congrats!! I guess this means you're really going!?!?...Mark

[cruiser]

Hey cruiser congrats!! I guess this means you're really going!?!?...Mark

Yeah I guess so, although I am not sure I understand why they even have them. It seems like you could sign the contract once you get there and everything else could be done via the web. If they would just send out the luggage tags I bet they could really speed things up a bit.

All that being said, it was a releif to get the docs, it did kind of make it official. Now I am starting to get things packed. My wife will be flying out a few days early to attend a conference in New Orleans so it will only be me and the kids the whole way out there until we all meet up again in Orlando.

We have snow in our forecast, and this part of the world does not do well with snow. I hope it does not stick or things could get really interesting..

[kellimomo3]

My countdown clock is starting to freak me out!! Part of what freaks me out is that I won't be able to chat with all of you for the whol week leading up to the cruise!! It's been great learning a bit about everyone. I was happy to learn I will have some fellow scrapbookers on this cruise!! I'm almost done packing and I am a little nervous that the airline may say our suitcase is too full!! Hopefully the worst that could happen is that we have to pay the $25 fine!! We are bracing for a winter storm here in CT. It is suppossed to start today and continue until tomorrow night. The bummer is that that means the kids probably won't have school tomorrow and they are so excited for the trip at this point that it is a blessing to send them off to school each day! The good news is the forecast is great for Saturday so our flight out won't be affected!! The ten day forcast in Orlando is 80 degrees and sunny every day we are there! If that holds out it will be our first Disney vacation without our coats!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed!! Throw up some pixie dust!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[karebear1]

Kelli- I understand exactly what you are talking about! We leave tomorrow night nad won't be able to talk to any cruiser either! You are, howevr, one step ahead of me! You're packed! I'm not. So.... I'd better get moving and do so!
This will probably be my last post until I see everyone on Sunday. Have safe trips! Can hardly wait to meet everyone!!

[joycepa]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

We got our documents last night!!!! It's so exciting !!! We just have to keep everyone healthy so we can have a fantastic vacation.


Kelli
Your countdown is geat. What a week to be in Orlando. January is so unpredictable.
Have a Safe trip and a great week.

Joyce

[Sydneli]

Hi everyone!
Just wanted to wish all those leaving early a wonderful trip with fantastic weather!
We're also bringing 2 way radios and are going on Capt Marvin's 11:30am Stingray City trip. Anyone else?
DVCKidsMom, we have boys ages 6 1/2 and 4 too.
Hope to see you at the meet-I joined in late, so we'll bring our own nametags!
Sydne

[WeLoveDVC]

This is our first cruise so we are unfamiliar with the whole excursion thing...

I have scheduled a Stinray City excursion through Disney; however, looking at posts on this board it sounds like I should cancel the Disney reservation and book one through Captain Marvins (smaller groups!). I have looked at their web site and everything seems ok.

Is it better to schedule one on our own ? Their web site says they are a 6-10 minute walk from the dock, I assume people usually walk there ? What do you need to bring other than wearing a bathing suit ?

Thanks
David

[cruiser]

I actually went with Sotos instead of Marvins, I have read they are about the same. When I originally booked Sotos was a bit cheaper, but since the hurricanes they have raised their prices a bit. I think we are paying $30 per person for the Stingray City excursion.

The Disney excursions are great, I have done then on our last cruise (an Eastern), but they are a bit spending. I think you can generally get the same excursions by booking on your own for about half the cost. Depends what you are comfortable with though..

[karebear1]

David- I emailed them and made ressies- it was easy. they'll answer all your questions ahead of time if you have any.

Sydney- I have about 6 extra blank nametags that you are welcomed to use if you like.

[kellimomo3]

Karebear,

Have a great trip!! We will see you on Sunday!!

Kelli

:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

:cool1: LOOK AT MY COUNTDOWN!!!! :cool1:

[Sydneli]

Thanks Karebear, I'll use them-it'll be one less thing to remember to bring!
Also, do you have a link to the thread where you asked for recommendations for good books to read on the cruise? I remember seeing it a while back and forgot to bookmark it.
Thanks!
Sydne

[TravelingDi]

Hello! I am one of 19 family members traveling on the Magic 1-15-05. Ten adults and 9 kids from 6m to 11 years. We are so excited, but nervous about US Air sticking around long enough to fly us down on Friday night. Keeping our fingers crossed and back up plans in place!

[jlazz]

Are there going to be kids there? My two dd's are 6 and 8. I'd love to bring them so they can meet other kids, but I don't want to bring them if there won't be other kids there. lol!

TIA!

I'm getting really excited about the trip. No docs yet. Argh! lol!

:-)

Jackie

[mark & sandra]

Is it better to schedule one on our own ? Their web site says they are a 6-10 minute walk from the dock, I assume people usually walk there ? What do you need to bring other than wearing a bathing suit ?
Thanks
David

David, last year we booked Capt. Marvins on our own. After the first boat tendered ashore, the Capt. deemed it unsafe to allow any more tendering(rough seas) They moved the boat to the other side of the island and cancelled ALL Disney shore excursions. Capt. Marvins and many other companys moved shuttle buses to the new location and took anyone who wanted to go. The only down side to using a non-disney excursion company is that for any reason you are detained (boat breaks down at Sting ray city) and you can't get back by departure time, Disney will not wait for you. They will wait for a Disney sanctioned excursion...Mark

[mark & sandra]

Hello! I am one of 19 family members traveling on the Magic 1-15-05. Ten adults and 9 kids from 6m to 11 years. We are so excited, but nervous about US Air sticking around long enough to fly us down on Friday night. Keeping our fingers crossed and back up plans in place!
Welcome TravelingDi. We have 2 kids. A daughter 12(going on 18, in her mind) and a son 10. What are the ages in your group? Where on the ship are you staying and which dining do you have? We are in 6112,6113 and have main dining...Mark

[big jack 2002]

Welcome Travelin' Di!!
We have 4 GD's 6, 7, 9, and 3 and a GS 3. They are all coming to the Dis meeting on Sunday. The 3 older girls are hoping to meet and make friends there. We are starting to lay things out to pack. We are going down to Disney Wednesday. We'll see you all a week from Sunday!!

[kellimomo3]

Hi Travelin'

We are traveling with three boys ages 8, 6 & 4. What are your children's ages?? As far as bringing the kids to the Dis Meet, I think most people are going to at least for a little while. Ron & I have ressies for Palo brunch at 11:00 so we'll have to bring them to the clubs before then!! :cool1:

See you all soon....


Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

:cool1: WARM WEATHER, HERE WE COME!! :cool1:

[mark & sandra]

Big Jack- Haven't seen your post on our other cruise thread. Waiting for this one to pass first?? Looking forward to meeting up with everyone in 9 days...Mark

[mark & sandra]

Just found some coupons for Cape Canaveral on www.roomsaver.com
They have coupons for Radisson for 89.00 and Ron Jon's for 100.00. Coupon says walk-in only, but if you call and ask to adjust your rate to match the coupon, you might get lucky...mark

[Meshee]

Hi WeloveDVC: We also have the Stingray Excursion booked with Disney (Stingray City Snorkel Tour). We are doing the 7:30 a.m. excursion (our kids are early risers). What time is yours? Like Mark said..... Disney will wait for you if anything happens. Having peace of mind is worth the extra bucks for me.

Welcome Traveling:… Disney has booked us flying US Air home with a stop over and changing planes in PA. What exactly did you mean when you said you are nervous about US Air sticking around long enough to fly you to Orlando?

[mark & sandra]

Meshee- As you already know, USAir has been on the brink a couple times now. They are in trouble again. Now Delta, their biggest competitor has upped the ante. They have reduced their fares by as much as 50%. This will cause USAir to also lower their prices and could cause them to finally go under...Mark

[karebear1]

Sydneli- Sorry! I didn't book mark it. Once I had the books I wanted That's all she worte. But I'm sure you can do a search on it and come up with it. It was a great thread wasn't it???

[TravelingDi]

The nine children in our party are:

Boys: 6m, 2, 5, 9
Girls: 2, 2, 5, 7, 11

We are all in main seating for dinner.

We have 5 cabins - 2 connecting inner (not sure where), two Category 3 Suites, and the Walt Disney Suite. I am personally in the Cat 3 midship suite. My lucky parents and my brothers family are in Walt's. Oh well, at least I will get to see it!

Meshee - US Air is already in their second bankrupcy and have two milestone dates in the next week to get through, on 1-6 and 1-15. JMO but I don't think that it is going to pan out. If not, they will liquidate without notice. I am on the Delta site making reservations right now. I am just tired of fretting about it.

We booked our rooms in 2003 on the first day that they were available. I can't believe we are almost there!

[WeLoveDVC]

Karebear1, Mark&Sandra, Meshee & Houzer: Thanks for the input.

The cruise is getting close, I will have to make my mind up soon! It sounds like I will have to weigh the safety of scheduling the Stingray City excursion through Disney vs. a smaller group size with a direct booking with someone like Captain Marvins. Again, thanks for the input.

David

[kellimomo3]

Good morning everyone! We woke this morning buried under snow! It's not suppossed to stop until tonight and more is in the forecast for Saturday! Please send some pixie dust :wizard: our way as we are flying out on Saturday!! They say the snow on Saturday is going to be light so it shouldn't affect the airports (I hope!). Get me to that warm weather!!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[Phyllisi]

My family palns on attending the meet, I know it is from 10-11 but where will it be? Our daughter is a first grader and 6 years old.

I also woke up to too much snow this morning, about a foot. This is the second morning in a row. Yesterday there was only about 4 inches. My husband starts work before I do. He called me and said the raods are awful and not to go to work today. So after I drop my daughter off at school, I will enhoy my day off. I live a mile from the school so the roads are always l\plows by my house....just not in the city where I work.

[EWL]

HI! Late to the party but we're sooooo excited about the cruise-- can it really be NEXT WEEK?! We are flying down on the 14th and staying at the Radisson. We haven't booked any excursions, not sure whether we will or not. Our DD3 is still a little young although we will have built-in babysitters (grandparents!) traveling with us. Haven't been on a cruise since Princess Alaska in 2001 and it has been too long! I'd even be tempted to go prepared to rebook onboard too ::yes:: , except that I'm not sure we'll really be able to go again until 2007...

All we need now is for our docs to show up!!! Still waiting....

[mark & sandra]

Well it's official, We are going on vacation soon!! True to form my son got sick yesterday!! Doctor says to keep him home tomorrow and keep an eye on him till Monday. At least he has a week to get better!! Last year he got sick the night before we sailed...Mark

[Meshee]

My worst nightmare is.....one of us having the flu the day we fly out.... Mark...look on the bright side, your son has 8 days to get better. I am sure he will be fine for the cruise.....I will send some pixie dust your way.

[mark & sandra]

My worst nightmare is.....one of us having the flu the day we fly out.... Mark...look on the bright side, your son has 8 days to get better. I am sure he will be fine for the cruise.....I will send some pixie dust your way.
I agree. It's just that every year before vacation someone gets sick!! If we were doing Disney or Universal, no big deal. If you try and board the ship and look ill they can refuse to let you board and if you do manage to get on and they find out, (you visit the ships medical office) they can quarantine that person and possibly the whole group...Mark

[Houzer]

Why ohhh why Mark did you say anything about USAir know Annie is having panic attacks about that!!! LOL

Pauline

[mark & sandra]

Sorry Pauline- That's what these sites are for, to spead the knowledge. Nothing gonna happen in the next 2 weeks, but I'd worry about future travel.

Travel Agents Nervous About U.S. Airways

POSTED: 6:23 p.m. EST January 5, 2005


Johnstown -- As one travel agent told Channel 6 News, U.S. Airways is about to look like the Titanic with holes shot through the bottom and passengers looking for lifeboats. Travel agents are also in a tight spot right now. They know U.S. Airways is in trouble and future flights with the airline are in jeopardy but the airline industry is big business for them and needs their support. Carlson Wagonlit Travel in Johnstown says U.S. Airways is one of the best with numerous non-stop flights and competitive fares. But if you go in to book a flight now,Lynn Dudish with Carlson Wagonlit Travel says, "If you're going for your sister's wedding, if it's something that's a once in a lifetime event, then perhaps we want to look at another airline just to be on the safe side."

Lynn suggests if you buy a ticket with U.S. Airways do it with a credit card! That way if something happens to your flight you should get your money back. Another solution, other airlines must carry you for no more than $25, but that's most likely on a stand-by basis.

[Steve & Shirley]

Doing the doc dance!!!!!!! :charac2: looks like this is really going to happen!!!!! rest relaxation!!!!!!!!!!! and a oocasionall babysitting excursion :rolleyes:


Steve

[mark & sandra]

Doing the doc dance!!!!!!! :charac2: looks like this is really going to happen!!!!! rest relaxation!!!!!!!!!!! and a oocasionall babysitting excursion :rolleyes:


Steve
Looking forward to it too!!! Not too much junk food before dinner, O.K. Steve :rolleyes:

[kellimomo3]

Mark,

I hope your son feels better. I am just finishing up packing and I feel like I packed my whole medicine cabinet and my kids are perfectly healthy (knock on wood!) right now! I brought all the cough syrup, motrin, vitamins, etc. just in case. The schools are back in session today here thank god because I have lots to do after being stuck in the house for two days!! We are leaving at 12:30 tomorrow. I will post again before then!


Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

:cool1: LOOK AT MY COUNTDOWN!!!! :cool1:

[Meshee]

Have a safe trip kellimomo3 and enjoy WDW.

[pershing]

I feel better now that the suitcases are open with stuff in them! Too much stuff, of course! I thought I would panic this week instead of next, but I missed wishing Karebear a great start to their trip! Oh well!

Here's wishing everyone great weather and health (or better heath anyway) this week and next! We only got a couple of inches the other day, which is typical. Only if it comes from the Northeast does it stick.

The kids are so excited, they don't want to go to school. My youngest wanted to leave yesterday, "Mommy, can't we go now?" Gee honey, Mommy would love to, but she's got to fill the rest of these suitcases first.

See you down there, Kelli! Happy Traveling! :) :flower2:

[mark & sandra]

WOW!! Kelli, only 17 more hours till you leave!! Hope you have a good pre-cruise vacation!! Save some hot sunny weather for the rest of us!! The extended forecast for Orlando/Cape Canaveral/Key West says rain when we'll be there, but it's too far out to be exact...Mark

[joycepa]

:wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

Kelli

Sending pixie dust your way for a safe trip and a great week!!!!!

For the rest of us..... Are we all packed and ready to go???It's hard to believe its almost here. Where is the DIS meet??? Is it at 10:00 on Sunday??

[mark & sandra]

Yes it going to be at Sessions, Deck 3 Forward. Sandy is starting to pack. She's just done all the laundry and is making piles of things, "WE CAN'T WEAR THIS WEEK, OR ELSE!!" Why is it we always wait until the last minute to try on the clothes we need for formal night??...Mark

[pershing]

Why is it we always wait until the last minute to try on the clothes we need for formal night??...Mark

Because that's the only time to pin down the rest of the family and MAKE them try-on those formal clothes! (And kids tend to grow when you lest expect them too.) My youngest just told me his shoes are tight and make his him curl his toes, but last time they were 'just fine Mom, really!' Oh boy!

Although, without a 'man of the house' in our home, I must say it was hilarious this afternoon when my eldest and I tried to practise tying ties with toy bears as victims. We had to go online to get instructions! There's a web site! Too funny! Now we just have to remember between now and next week.

I'm doing the laundry thing too. Its just so hard to pack those long pants and shirts-just in case! (fingers crossed!) :flower:

[DVCkidsMOM]

I have DD, DS and DH packed for our cruise - hope to get myself together soon. lol! We leave tomorrow - sometime - driving to FL. DH has business trip before DCL. If I don't check into this board before 1/15, safe journeys to us all and I'll see you on the cruise. I think I'm too tired from packing to realize that I'm actually going to be cruising in a week. OK that thought was enough to give me my second packing wind! See you in Cape Canaveral on Saturday or Sessions on Sunday :wave:

[mark & sandra]

Safe traveling Linda!! Looking forward to the cruise too!!...Mark

[Houzer]

GOOD MORNING EVERYONE! I have my coffee here and I am ready to dig in for the day. I have almost all of Terans cloths out and ready to pack...I started packing them my MOM came over and took things OUT of the suitcases to SEE WHAT I was packing!!! Don't ask it isn't a GOOD topic for me espcially with my packing problems!! I plan on starting this new day and at least get my two boys packed along with perhaps getting out my DH and my things to take. Even though I can't see across the road from the snow it is going to be a good day!

Have safe trips everyone who is leaving today.... :wizard:

Pauline

[kellimomo3]

Alright my friends, this is my last post!! :cheer2: We leave at 12:15 and I am a bit nervous. We were forecasted for snow but so far it's just rain. I am keeping my fingers crossed that nothing affects our 3:00 flight!! I will breathe a HUGE sigh of relief when we are in the air on schedule!!

Good luck to all of you this coming week. Packing is a pain. Our suitcases weigh more than our kids put together!! I look forward to meeting you all on Sunday at Sessions. Be safe and I'll see you soon!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[Houzer]

Well good news!!! I have Travis and Teran all packed and I just have to do Jeff and I know and our dress cloths. Yahoooo.....of course there are always those odds and ends along with the toiletires that need to be packed but I'll be doing that during the week. How is everyone else doing? My husband told me today I am going to need a holiday just from the packing alone. :cheer2:

Pauline

[mark & sandra]

Still haven't started packing yet. Trying to finish work for when we'll be away. Son's getting better, now daughter feels sick. She has 5 days to get better!! It sure beats last year. My son got sick the day we left, Sandy got sick the day we spent in Cape canaveral, and my daughter got sick the 1st day onboard. Sandy and DW spent Sunday in stateroom while me and my son explored Key West. The town was overrun by ABC film crews filming According to Jim. I hope Key West is less hectic this time...Mark

[pershing]

Packing is a pain. Our suitcases weigh more than our kids put together!!


I laughed so-o-o-o-o hard when I read this! Its so true! :Pinkbounc

Houzer- I'm having troublie fitting all the stuff you HAVE to bring, and WANT to bring (think stuffed animals-BIG stuffed animals that my youngest feels he can't live without.), then the things you NEED to bring JUST IN CASE! Like Kelli said in an earlier post when she felt like she emptied her entire medicine cablnet into her suitcase- I tell ya packing IS traumatic :earseek: I'm just worried about the rental car holding all the suitcases. Has anyone actually seen the inside of a Hyundai Accent's trunk?? :moped:

Even with all this packing stress, I'm so glad the time is almost here! My friends are really getting envious that I'm leaving the blah's and heading for sun. :flower1:

Well, back to packing! Wednesday's almost here! Geez-Kelli's got gorgeous weather for the parks! Doesn't she! :3dglasses

[Steve & Shirley]

The only decision for me is do i go into work monday night or call out for the extra day off before the cruise...lol

well for all who is traveling besafe!!! and will see you all soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!1


Steve

[Houzer]

Wow this Thread has really slowed down....I wonder why??

Pauline :boat:

[joycepa]

I think many are traveling already. :moped:
We'll have to keep it going. I think I finally have everything we need. I got things to keep my DD3 entertained on the plane.We only have a 2 1/2 hour flight so it shouldn't be too difficult. I think her carryon is the heaviest. :laughing: :laughing: I guess she won't be carrying it!!!!!
Here in PA we are expecting a warm up for a day or two and then cold again this weekend. It 's a good time to cruise. :boat:
I hope the next few days go by quickly....

[cruiser]

We leave tomorrow, I wish we only had a 2.5 hour flight, we are going from Oregon to Kansas City, then to Orlando. I figure about 6-7 hours in the plane, not an issue for me (I regularly travel to Asia for business) but I will have two kids with me... I should have enough to keep them busy, the portable DVD player will be a life saver so long as the batteries make it...

See you all on the ship-

[Phyllisi]

We were supposed to have a nasty ice storm, luckily, it was colder than forecasted and we woke up to 5 inch of snow. I will take snow over ice any day. We are flying out Friday afternoon and staying at the Hyatt that night. I can not wait to escape the cold, the low for Friday is supposed to be -5. My daughter is upset because I am making her go to school on Friday until 11 since both my husband and I took the night off. My daughter really wants to go to the Disney meet because she wants to make some friends while on the cruise. She will be in the 5-7 year old club and is in first grade.

Anyone who is staying at the Hyatt the night before and want to meet in one of the common area, let me know, we will not check in until about 6PM.

[allears]

My DW and I are also staying at the Hyatt on Friday night. Hopefully our flight out from Philly goes well and we'll be in Florida by 9 AM. We're planning on spending the day at the Magic Kingdom. Sort of our own little land and sea package!

[big jack 2002]

Phyllisi,
Please bring her to the meeting on Sunday. My granddaughter is in the first grade also and would like to meet a new friend. We are bringing her and her cousin (also in the first grade) and her older sister.
Barbara

[Houzer]

Phyllisi: Annie's family and my family are also staying at the Hyatt the night before and will also not be checking in until seven or so we can meet with you if you like since we both have boys that are 6 and my son just turned 7 this week. Let me know.....Pauline

[Mom2Belle&PeterPan]

[B]Mark, Sandra, and kids - HAVE A WONDERFUL CRUISE THIS COMING WEEK!!![/COLOR]

Have fun, relax, drink some of the good stuff, eat, eat, and eat...and then come back and tell us all about it!!!

You deserve this vacation!!!!!!!

Barbara, Brian, & kids

[joycepa]

:wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

Safe trips to all traveling today!!!!!!

[Houzer]

Calling all Hyatt travelors!!!??? I got a message on my machine this morning telling me that Annie's family and mine have been moved to the Dolphin and we now don't leave till about 11:00 for the port. Has anyone else had this happen to them today??
Pauline

[mark & sandra]

Pauline, where were you booked originally??...mark

[Sydneli]

We're at the Hyatt too, but haven't gotten a message yet! I'm going to confirm our reservations rightnow though, just to make sure everything's ok...

[allears]

Would I be correct in assuming that some of you booked the Hyatt through Disney as part of your package? We are booked there as well, but we booked the hotel and air fare seperately from Disney.

[Houzer]

We were booked through DCL at the Hyatt for Friday night and we were called and told that the Hyatt is way over booked so if you are booked there you may want to call and confirm your reservations. We are now staying at the Dulphin on site so we won't be to the port until much later. We don't leave the Dulphin until 11:55 we were told. Ugh but oh well what can we do.

Pauline

[allears]

We booked the hotel and air independently, so we should be fine, plus we haven't received a phone call. We're due into Orlando at 9 am, and we're pre-checking in before heading to the Magic Kingdom, so if there is any problem it can be handled early.

We'll see you all on board, can't wait to get to Florida and a step closer to the ship.

[Houzer]

Well we are all packed and ready...only one glich so far. I have glasses and my sunglasses had the lense come out last night at about 12:30 a.m. in my hand with no screw to be found. NOT A GOOD THING! So now we have to take the dog to the kennel then go and try to beg my optomotrist (who I am booked into see in two weeks...go figure) and try to get them to fix them in a matter of minutes.
Then drive our behinds to the airport witch will take about 2 1/2 hours.

See you all there!!

Pauline

[S. C.]

Hope you all have a wonderful cruise with great weather.

[WeLoveDVC]

Thank You Everyone !!

I was unable to attend the DIS meet since it was the same time as the Disney Vacation Club get together. When my kids heard that they were giving hats away at the Disney Vacation Club meet they wanted to go there.

I wanted to give everyone a quick thank you for all the great information I learned from the board. This was our first cruise, it was very helpful to know the tricks before going.

David

[karebear1]

We missed you at the meet! It was very nice to get to know all of you.

Now- for an less pleasant subject.....

Was anyone else as disappointed in that cruise as I was??? I don't think I'll ever cruise again.

[kellimomo3]

Hi Karen,
I agree, it dod not go exactly as we had planned. I don't know if you know or not but fo us, on top of missing two ports, my son got the stomach bug and was isolated in the cabin w/us for 24 hours. However, we thought the ship and the clubs were great and plan on cruising w/Disney again. Was your main dissappointment missing Grand Cayman and Castaway Cay, or did something else happen??


Kelli

[TravelingDi]

I too agree, the trip was a disappointment! Not one that would turn me off a future trip, but this was my one shot to convince DH that this was the way to travel. He was not keen on the trip in the first place - He has the "I don't want to feel cooped up on the ship all week" mentality. Well, four full days at sea was just too much for him. And it was just so cold all week! I have cruised the same itinerary during the first week in January before and had beautiful weather.

I can't however complain about the ship and the service. It was true to Disney form and there is just nothing that they could do about the weather! I couldn't get over the people who were just screaming at the crew on Friday morning. I just stood there and listened in shock - It was just not their fault!

[karebear1]

I didn't scream at anyone (although I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wanted too!), but there was more then just the weather that was bad for us. Disney touts it's cruiseline as something adults can enjoy. I am a huge Disney fan- but I did not enjoy this cruise. Missing 2 ports was bad, but that was just the start for us. There is a big list of things I'm writing to them about. We'll see how they respond- and then my opinion of the DCL will be permanently formed.

Kelli- I'm sorry to ehar your kids were sick. That had to make it evn more miserable for you all.

[TravelingDi]

Disney touts it's cruiseline as something adults can enjoy.

Along those lines I have to admit that the entertainment bored me to tears. The kids were happy....but the shows were so geared toward children that once you saw one it was enough.

Karebear - What other issues did you have with the trip?

[mark & sandra]

Hope everyone else made it home without too much fuss. It was great to finally meet most of you. It's a shame we didn't get to do 2 islands and the dreary weather wasn't much help.

BigJack- Are you ready for our next cruise?? I'll be your partner in the putt-putt golf if you need a partner.

WeLoveDVC- I'm sorry I mentioned that we might miss Castaway Cay.

Pershing- Hope you and your kids had a great time.

I also had some issues with our dining service. I explained it to the Head Waiter who assured me he'd correct the problem. He didn't do anything except request that the servers spend more face time at my table. I went to the dining room senior officer and explained my problem to him too. He asked if my head server resolved my problem and I told him no. He then asked if the servers spent more time at my table (this must be their solution to problems) and I told him yes, but my problem wasn't with their time at my table it was with their getting orders wrong every meal and poor overall service. I'll send an e-mail to DCL also...Mark

[Steve & Shirley]

Don't have much to say about the cruise as I do US air...........had a missed flight on the way down and didn't get out of Florida untill Monday lucky for us that our Nephew lives @ the Cape.

I guess if I had anything negative about the cruise is that it seemed to me that Disney (at least the ships personal) didn't seem to the think that we deserved some kind of rebate or something for the missed ports........wonder how they would feel if I had paid only 50% of the bill.

our servers where great and our table mates where very nice people but can understand that could be the luck of the draw.

But met some great people and had fun at the clubs at night!!!!
as i look out my window at all that white stuff wish i was on deck nine sipping a drink instead of looking at this stuff!!!!!!!!!


Steve

[mark & sandra]

Hello Steve & Shirley- It was great to meet up with you. We really enjoyed hanging with you at the clubs. Sorry you didn't get to watch my kids. I know you had your hearts set on it!! The picture of you falling on the floor laughing that night after the clubs still makes me laugh each time I think about it...Mark

[Grumbo]

I've read a few of Steve and Shirley's posts Mark and I can't quite see what you meant by the way they acted around you, but then again you actually saw them in action. From what I can see they seem very nice.

Cheers,
Grumbo

[pershing]

I got the flu after I returned home so that's why I haven't posted.

Mark and Sandra-thanks for inviting me to sit with you at the Castaway party. I def. enjoyed those Bahama Mama's

Kellimomo- Your best friend has a son in my son's class and they've known each other since Kindergarten. Guess my mind was on Vacation also.

We Love DVC- Great to bump into in the hallway!

We had fun. Yes, major disappointments, but we enjoyed Paradise Beach in Cozumel. The boys have been showing off their Sombrejo's.

I didn't realize people were so unhappy. Those titles on the trip reports! I haven't read them yet.

I guess because the cruise was just one part of our trip, we didn't feel it too much when we missed the ports.

I did re-book, but for way out and realize that I can't go at that time.

:flower: :flower: :flower:

I have to admit-we are looking at Las Vegas for our next trip, instead of another Disney Cruise.

[kellimomo3]

Hi Pershing,

We were at Paradise Beach too!! We loved it!! If you read my trip report, you will see that we had a wonderful time! We are retunring in Feb. 06. That's funny about Sherri's son. I am assuming you mean Dakota?? Hope you feel better soon..
Kelli

[allears]

We also had an excellent time. Sure it was a bummer to miss two ports, especially CC, and we can totally understand people being disappointed, but we can't quite figure out why a number of people were SO cranky about the week. The weather wasn't that bad, plus we were in the Caribean in January, how bad can that be? Beat the cold and snow here.

We can't wait to get back on board, hopefully February 2006!

[kellimomo3]

I LOVE your attitude AllEars!! We are crusing the Western again on Feb. 25, 2006. Like you, we kept thinking that winter in the Northeast was worse than this!!

Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[allears]

Hi Kelli, that's the same week we're pricing right now. We've been trying to get some other family members to come along for a couple of years now, so we're not 100% sure of our date, but that one is looking the most promising.

We very much enjoyed meeting you, your husband and cute kids while waiting to board and running into you on the ship. As you know, this wasn't our first cruise, but that doesn't mean our expectations are any lower. We have found that DCL does the very best they can in any given situation. And we choose to roll with the punches. I am fanatical about service and don't settle for lousy service, but I also have some very realistic views of what can and can't be done. And I really do believe a not so great day on a cruise ship is better than a day at work.

We're very glad you had a great time and I've skimmed your excellent report. The spa stuff cracked me up. I went for a treatment and wrote the same thing about sales pitches. The treatment was most relaxing, but I did find the person a little less chatty than usual.

Perhaps we'll sail again with you next year!

John

[kellimomo3]

John,
Hopefully we'll see you next year. My son is still talking about all your pins!! I hope your kids forgave you for not bringing them along!!

Take Care,
Kelli
:groom: princess: pirate: pirate: pirate:

[pershing]

Hi Pershing,

I am assuming you mean Dakota?? Hope you feel better soon..
Kelli

Yes. I can't believe I didn't figure that out when you said the last name, but you mostly just hear Dakota's first name.

Did you get a great deal on Feb. 25? That's peak cruising time I thought. I picked Early Dec. 06, which I know I can't do with a job that's so Christmas related, but the price was great.

I'm going to have to think about it a whole lot more.

Looking forward to reading your trip report. I plan to write one-more geared towards tips for single mom's- soon. I'm just trying to get my taxes done first.

I wrote all these notes in the back of the book I took to read, but they got a little sandy and wet.

[Sydneli]

Just wanted to say hi. Now that my son is over his virus and back in school, I can get back on the computer! We had a good time on the cruise too-a little disappointed at missing the ports, but lots of good memories made. Just wish we had gotten to Paradise Beach! It was good meeting everyone on Sunday. Loved your trip report Kelli!
Take good care everyone!
Sydne

[allears]

They really didn't mind, though they are still giving us a hard time.

I also managed to aquire a few more pins while on board. It's getting a little silly, but it's fun. Since our flights home were delayed by a day, we went over to Epcot. Picked up a couple of pins for my "park" collection. They make great souveniers and a lot easier to store than some stuff.

Your kids were so cute, I hope they enjoyed the ship and the clubs.