EWP group? [Archive] - Page 8 - The DIS Discussion Forums

IASW Rider

01-20-2004, 04:23 PM

Hi Cathy!

Welcome back - glad that you stopped by! :) And that's so exciting that you have a WDW trip coming up so soon! Where will you be staying? Any special plans for this trip (ie: are you planning to see some things that you haven't had a chance to visit before, etc.)? Are your DH and DD's all excited about the trip, too?

I will be making my 14th "pilgrimage" to WDW in exactly 4 months! :) It will be my DH's 5th time there - we have gone for the past 5 springs, consecutively (he proposed to me there on one of those trips, then we returned during the same week, the subsequent 2 years to celebrate our honeymoon and then our first anniversary! :) )! Hoping that Linda ("Slightly Goofy" or "SG", as she has come to be known!) and her DH might be there at the same time as we are, this year!

Wow! Everyone has stopped by - where have I been?? Great to hear from you, Angie! And congratulations on your great success with the South Beach Diet! That is fantastic! I'm sure that you will look amazing in your Mardi Gras dress! I can't believe that it's almost that time of year again - it seems like just yesterday, you had sent us photos from one of last year's Mardi Gras Balls! Don't feel badly about the weather down there - it's still hovering between the single digits and low double digits (temperature-wise) up here, with wind chills below zero and lots of snow and ice on the ground - yuck! :(

You hang in there, Depply - I'm sure that you'll do a fantastic job with your weight losing, as well! And don't deny your appetite......just kinda "refine" it a little bit - that's what works best for me! :) You're right - we probably will have to start a new "chapter" of our thread, soon.........when we hit 150 pages......we'll leave that to Linda, our fearless Founder, since she gathered everyone together and started this one! The Suite will live on, on the Community Board! :) I'm sorry that your signature disappeared, too - is there any chance of getting it back, or are there new Boards regulations about signatures? How is school going, so far? I agree - Linda gives great and very wise advice! :)

Hi Elaine! Nice to see you! Getting psyched for DL? Do you have a definite date for your trip, yet? What's been new out there? How are Luis and the kitties?

Hi Linda! Thanks as always for your sweet words! How is everything going, out there? How are all of your boys? And how is your SIL feeling? How are YOU feeling, for that matter? Again, don't worry about those "alleged" extra pounds - I'm telling you that they will disappear when you least expect it! :)

Well, I'm back in school again now - I guess that my break couldn't last forever! :( I think that I've begun to "iron out" my career confusion, too. I'm planning to transfer to my original alma mater, Douglass College (at Rutgers) next semester, then apply to the Rutgers School of Public Policy (as an affiliated Douglass student), and change to the Public Health major, hopefully next fall. I think that that would probably fit better with my academic and professional background, would require a lesser amount of classes............and would "save" me from all of the math and science classes that I would have to suffer through if I stayed with Nutrition! :) I'm taking all Nutrition classes this semester - some of them even apply to the Public Health major, so that's good. Plus, I'm interested in that subject matter. I think that it will also be easier for me to find a job - now and in the future - in the Public Health field that works (better than Nutrition) with my set-in-my-ways-weekday-work-schedule-"requirements", as well! :) So hopefully that will all work out!

Not too much else to report from the icy Garden State!

Hope that all is well with all of you! Take care and stay warm!

SlightlyGoofy

01-20-2004, 08:08 PM

It shows page 176 at the bottom of my page. If I am the 'fearless' (I wish) leader I declare that we start setting up another room if we must. It will give us an opportunity to upgrade the Suite to our exacting standards. Any suggestions? Gotta keep the EWP in our name though. Is who we are.

Rider, it will be our 13th trip in May and our 14th in October/November. I was about your age when I first went so I have a lot of catching up to do. Seven of those errant pounds went away during the night. Have a pretty good idea what is going on, Both my parents had congestive heart failure. I know people who have lived with it for years so I am not too worried. Never figured I'd get away with my evil ways forever anyway. LOL Could you tell me more about what you would be doing in your new chosen profession, in simple words? So far it sounds great. With all the training that you already have, it would be a shame not to use it in some form or another.

Helenabear, glad that the weather was not too bad for you. My sister lives on the other side of town and I think you live near main roads so that makes a big difference.

Cathy, it would be wonderful if you were planning on being at DW in May when Rider and I will be there. I was so hoping that Helenabear would make one of her frequent visits at the same time and that we could persuade Angelina also but it was not to be, (sighing forlornly). I love to read and have broken each and every single one of my fingers playing volleyball. I use shopping for exercise. Seems to go much faster when I have stuff to look at. I am so glad to see you in here again. We have such a lovely place and is would be a shame not to share it. Have you checked out the media room and the Jacuzzi on the deck? You can see the Magic fireworks from there and even the EWP. Sip a cold one and enjoy!!

Angelina, please send some of that only slightly cool weather our way. Would be a heat wave here. Brrrrrr!

SG/Linda

helenabear

01-20-2004, 08:19 PM

Hi all... boards have been very very slow for me lately... not much fun posting when they are so slow to load...

Cathy, good to see you stop in again! I just took my 10th trip to WDW this past December... I do hope to go again next December, but right now my sights are on a get away to DL. I haven't been since 1988 so a lot has changed I know. I am going with a friend and she just booked our room today!!!!

Hi Lisa, I have my dates as in my signature and as I said the room is booked. I will be joining a couple of friends (rooming with one) and funny enough they will all be DISers again!!! So I will have a great time no matter what! Nothing exciting going on, but the furbabies are doing great (one is sitting at my feet as I type). I hope that your term goes well for you!!!

Linda, I am not sure if the settings are different but I show at the bottom "Pages (118): « First ... « 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 [118] " So we are at page 118 as of right now. Names aren't all that important to me, so we could just call it the EWP Suite if you like since that is what we keep calling ourselves. We will know when to shut down though because the moderators will lock us and invite us to reopen :)

I am just sorry I can't make another May trip. I really wanted to go to DL and this trip fell in my lap. I am not sure how likely it will be that I get two WDW trips in at all this year or even next year. But we are young and we are trying for the trips when we can.

Well I need to make some dinner. Have a great evenng all :)

SlightlyGoofy

01-20-2004, 09:56 PM

Helenabear/Elaine, it is sure good to have inside information from you. Maybe the difference in page numbers has to do with how our settings are. I seem to remember that I could pick how many posts to show per page. Glad to know that we will get a warning and not have to wander in cyberspace for forty years.

I wish I could be at DW in December but it is just too iffy on the weather for me to attempt it again. I barely made Mounteagle last time. Did you know that the mountain named in the Burt Reynold's movies? I lived in Ocean View when he did the scene where they destroyed the roller coaster there. Just a bit of trivia. LOL

Hope WMCathyCanada is the one to shut us down. would be keeping the tradition going. Do you happen to know what the record is for the longest thread (timewise)? I am the competitive sort.

SG/Linda

helenabear

01-20-2004, 10:05 PM

Linda, I think I have it set for the "standard" 15 posts a page. So that is probably why we show different numbers.

I can understand why you wouldn't want to drive that! I probably wouldn't either if I had to drive. So I don't ;) Since I normally go alone, it is always by plane for me.

As for who shuts us down, they have something called the "DIS Moderator Team" now and they are the ones who do it. Every once in a while Alex will as a WM type, but she isn't even with this group anymore.

SlightlyGoofy

01-20-2004, 10:07 PM

Just noticed that we have had over 26,000 viewings of our Suite. Heck, there are soap operas that do not get that much viewing. Percentage wise. And to think we have never had a divorce, murder, alien sighting, case of amnesia or anything really interesting. Interesting usually means trouble anyway.

Sure wish some of the lookers would come and join us. Need some new ideas of where to go. (Be nice, people!!!!) Around Disney World, I mean. LOL For myself I am looking forward to an evening stroll around the World Showcase. Going to see Illuminations at the Cantina. Sipping on margaritas as the park empties and then a slow stroll beneath the wrought iron canopy, catching the last bus back to the Suite. I hate to wake the boys this late at night for a ride home. Need my sleep so I can be at AK for the opening ceremony and first trip on the Kilamanjaro Safari. For the morning ride, I take the front seat. Not ready for further back until later in the day. Gotta see the Lion King show and Tarzan Rocks before I leave. Sit and peruse the Tree of Life for an afternoon break and back to the Suite to rest until it is time for our ressies at Bomba's. Ahhhh, this is the life.

Off to sleep with happy dreams of my favorite place and favorite people.

SG/Linda

cathymailme

01-21-2004, 11:37 AM

Hi Rider,

We will be staying at the All-Star Movie Resort. This is our first stay there. The girls helped me pick it out. We plan on going to all the parks and maybe a water park if the temps allow (as we have never been). The girls are very excited to go. My three year old loves Cinderella so we are having breakfast at CRT. She is so excited. The old one loves roller coasters and things that make her scream (as she put it), so she is measuring herself to see what rides she can ride. She is finally tall enough for space mountain and raring to go. I hope it isn't too much for her! My hubby isn't all that thrilled about going, or so he says. I know he will enjoy himself, he just has trouble admitting he likes the mouse.

It sounds like you all have a lot more Disney experience than I, hopefully I will be able to say 14 times too some day.

Helen,
Have a great time in Disneyland. Have you ever eaten at Goofy's Kitchen? It is a lot of fun.

Well i have to run. Talk to you soon
Cathy

SlightlyGoofy

01-21-2004, 03:29 PM

Cathy, the All Star Movies are the most magical place for kids in all of Disney IMHO. We usually stay at the Sports but that is for a couple of reasons, one being that we do not want to take a room at Movies that might be better enjoyed by a small child. We had our little guy there when he was three and he did not want to leave the playground, it is awesome. Just around the corner please be sure to check out Andy's Room which has enormous icons of the Toy Story characters. Dalton also enjoyed being driven around to check out the decorations on the other All Star resorts. We wanted to take him to Animal Kingdom as it was new but we never left the resort. We go with the flow and let our grands pick what they want. His older brother was blown away with the Sci Fi Dinner, he was not paying the bill so he enjoyed it a lot more than we did. The things we do for the children in our lives. LOL What month are you going to be there? Is this your kids first trip? 1900 Park Faire and the Land Grill had the best character interaction when we were there. I know that you are all going to have the very best time of your life and will soon be reporting on your 15th trip with as much enthusiasm as long as you do not give in to the 'get your money's worth syndrom". Take the time to smell the roses in the Epcot gardens, let the little ones wander the ship at Norway and just plain do whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it. You will never see it all no matter what you do and you have many more trips to look forward to.

Your friend, SG/Linda

cathymailme

01-21-2004, 03:55 PM

Slightlygoofy,

Thanks for all the encouraging words! We are going next week. We will be there for 6 nights/7days. We are very much like you, vacations are all about relaxing and enjoying. We would like to get to all of the parks but won't get to excited if we don't.

This is my 6 year olds second trip to the World and my 3 year olds first. We plan to let them run the show, with an ocassional stop for mom and dad (maybe for a nice meal or special ride).

How old is your grandson? Is he your only grandchild?

Well I should get back to work.

Cathy

SlightlyGoofy

01-21-2004, 04:04 PM

Hi Cathy

I have six grandchildren ranging in age from 12 to 3. I have two a lot of the time and greatly enjoy it. I am headed over to the after school program in a bit to tutor reading to my 6 year old grandson's class. I love books and kids.

Unfortunately I do not get to see my other four. I used to but then my dil decided that she did not want them tainted by outside forces so she homeschools them and they are not allowed any contact with either side of the family. Is very worrisome for me. Lots of prayers go in that direction.

Sounds as if you have a lock on the whole vacation. I am so glad that you have several days to spend. My heart goes out to the families who scrimp and save for a 3-4 day Disney vacation and are at the mercy of crowds, weather and such. Those are often the ones who swear they hate the place and will never return. If they only knew what they are missing.

Are you the PS type like Rider and Helenabear or the 'let the fates and appetite decide' type like me? LOL

Have a great day and don't work too hard. I have to leave now. Got my bag packed as I have to take my own books since the center has few. (sigh) Is the delight of my life to hit the door and the kids are all clambering to be the first to read to me.

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

01-21-2004, 06:19 PM

hi cathy!!!!!!!:wave2:

rider: good luck w/ your job deciding! and no, theres no way to get my siggie back:mad: but its alright, it was time for a fresh start anyhow:)

SG: i like you ideas for the parks--only those margaritas would have to be w/o alcohol

:sunny: :wave2:

SlightlyGoofy

01-21-2004, 07:59 PM

Depply, you have just reconfirmed my opinion of you, you are a good and wise person. The margaritas are non alcoholic and sugar free for me also. When eating out I often order a virgin drink as a dessert.

A new start is a good thing. Can't wait to see what you come up with next. I gave up on putting anything fancy on my posts. They keep slipping off the page, must be that slick prose I write. LOL

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

01-21-2004, 09:07 PM

lol linda!!!!:teeth:

i dont like alcohol at all! i think it tastes icky:D : but i agree, for desert i like a virgin strawberry dacquiri(sp?)

yum!:sunny:

helenabear

01-21-2004, 10:12 PM

It seems you guys have been a bit chatty compared to usual. I am a bit busy tonight (catching up on writing e-mails) so I'll just stay a little while.

Linda I hope you had wonderful dreams to go with your wonderful day :)

Cathy, I haven't stayed at the All Stars, but I have had many friends stay there and they have loved it!!!!! And I believe I was 5 when I first went on Space Mt. and loved it!!! I hope you all will have fun.

I admit, I haven't been to DL since 1988 so if I ate anywhere, I surely don't remember it. I know that I will have to go to the Blue Bayou for sure and the rest will be up in the air. We are adults who love to act like kids so we are up for anywhere fun I think :)

Actually Linda, I admit, I do not like making PSs at all. If I go and meet with friends I have been invited to a lot more, so I wind up going for them. But when I was there in May, Beth and I didn't have one set up. I much prefer going with the flow :)

Depply, most alcohol tastes awful to me as well. I am not much of a drinker at all myself...

Just got Once Upon A Time in Mexico and am watching it again... not a movie for the faint of heart, but it has some great actors in it... Johnny Depp, Anotnio Banderas & Enrique Iglesias :)

depplyinluv

01-21-2004, 10:19 PM

helenabear: what a coinkydink! i just got ouatim as well!!!!!!!

luv that movie.....:)

night all, gotta right a report on an impressionist :rolleyes:

:wave2: ~*~sWeEt DrEaMs~*~

SlightlyGoofy

01-23-2004, 08:37 PM

Helenabear, that is what makes you, Luis and all other Disney lovers so special, they keep the child in their heart. Peter Pan was right. Thanks for the wonderful dreams. I enjoyed them very much. LOL

We are going to have to have a Disney theme ride park movie night soon. So many good movies and with so many of our favorite memories. I enjoyed seeing bits of my favorite parts of the Pirates in the movie. It was so real and will make the ride even more special on our next trip.

Should have known that you were a "by the seat of the pants kind of gal". I had thought that I remembered you making PS's at one time. I made a ressie one morning for Bomba's only to find that I was not hungry when the time came. Last time I do that. Too much money to spend not to eat. The waitress was worried about me. Yes, I am cheap but it is for a good reason. I feel that every dollar wasted is a dollar I could have spent at Disney. Surely that cannot be wrong?

Depply

I second that emotion. I do not like the taste of alcohol and am easy to get drunk. Don't buy that idea that you can drink more the more you weigh. Sure is not true here. I hate to report that the last time I got tipsy was at Port Orleans. It was cheaper to buy a pitcher of beer and I sipped a bit too much as I was thirsty and do not like soft drinks. Luckily our room was just a couple of doors away. I was not able to make it to the parks the next day, served me right. It was only one pitcher and Tom drank far more than half. Yes, SG, is a cheap drunk. (sigh)

My favorite impressionist is Monet. I love that kind of art. Hate Picasso and such. Love Norman Rockwell. I am old fashioned and don't care. LOL Hope you get the grade you deserve as I know it will be great.

Good night all. Have had a busy day and am worn out. Got a room painted, the carpet pad laid and a few other things done. Can't wait to get the room back together. That is when the fun begins.

SG/Linda

SlightlyGoofy

01-23-2004, 08:38 PM

Depply, I meant to ask where your new signature comes from. Sound somewhat familiar but cannot place it.

SG/Linda

jstmee

01-24-2004, 09:46 AM

Oh how I've Missed Thee,

I have 10 minutes to spare before I shower to go to my daughters basketball game than its off to my sons basketball game than it's off to my twins varsity basketball game. Does that give you an idea of how busy I am. This is my day off. Yesterday I took a sick day cause I had surgery on my eye lid and it's all black and blue and I see blury. (such minor) Last night my daughter had an all night lock in for Youth Ministry and my husband was one of the Chaperone and it was also my father in laws 74th birthday--we took over a seafood pizza.

okay-----HOW ARE ALL OF YOU----------if I can get my boys off of the computer long enough I will try to get to the room for a much needed hot tub or massage.

I just went back one page and SG I see you are still redecorating. I redid my daughters room took off all the wallpaper and painted a nice blue and sponged a dark blue and violet--it is the "warmest" room in the house. It's nice to relax in there. My husband and I put in one of those floating floors also. She loves it. It was an inexpensive way to get rid of the rugs for her allergies.

I'm still at the hospital and still love it. My hubby is still working his tail off doing all sorts of things to make ends meet. Also going to school for Special Ed. He now has a temporary Special Ed teaching position. Yeah.. He loves it. He teaches a Basic Electricity course at the high school for adult ed in the evening and he's still hanging on to the job they "laid" him off of for a little bit longer.

Oooops times up.

Luv ya allllll. I promise to stop in sooooon.
Wendy

SlightlyGoofy

01-24-2004, 11:12 AM

Doing the happy dance to see our dear friend, Wendy, here once more. You are never far from our thoughts you know. We keep a special spot in the Jacuzzi just for you.

Sounds as if things are looking up for you and yours. I know it cannot be easy, with all the changes and such, but you guys sure are making the best of it and I have a feeling that your hubby will look back on these days as being the best thing that ever happened to him. Saw a show last night that said that more money, over the amount needed for basic expenses, does not make you happier but having a job that you enjoy and feel needed at sure does. Cannot think of a job that fits the bill more than being a teacher, expecially to those who are challenged.

Yes, I am still redecorating. With an 18 room house you are never done. As soon as you finish the 18th room it is time to redo the 1st one. We won't go into the upkeep of the outside and yard. Am trying to get this huge place ready to sell. Might take another couple of years at this rate. I am crippled up and it takes me one day just to get the materials to the work area. I worked so hard yesterday and did not have time to eat much and worked off a bunch of calories, I thought, but woke up two pounds heavier. (shaking my fist in frustration) LOL

I am off for my little guys basketball game in a bit and then back home to hunker down for the big ice/snow storrm that is coming. DH is still visiting his brother in the country. It makes him nervous when I am working so he goes for a visit. Works for the both of us. If he does not make it back today he will be stuck there for a few days. I had a neighbor ask if I were not afraid to be alone. Heck, if he were here he does not know how to even turn off the water main, clearly marked in red, so I think I can manage. (grin)

I am going to treat myself to some choc dipped strawberries this evening, if I get the new electric switch installed and a couple of other things. I need to bribe myself. Is not bad on the calories either.

I will be rooting for your daughter so that she wins the game. Bet she is one of the best players too. Which brand floating floor did you do? Am considering one for my utility room as soon as the freezer dies. Cannot imagine moving the darned thing. What did you need eye surgery for?

Take care, keep warm, and drop in anytime you can. BTW, Rider and I are planning a face to face meet in May. Wish you could join us.

SG/Linda

helenabear

01-24-2004, 12:05 PM

Good morning all... cold and snowy morning here. I might just stay in all day long.

Linda, you might have heard me make a PS or two, but those were made because of large groups wanting to get together. THe other thing I will make a PS for is for before the big events like MVMCP and Candelight Processional. Since those are ticketed events I will do them :)

With my DL trip, we might make a PS for Blue Bayou for lunch (I prefer lunches since I am almost always hungry then) because I am told it is a "must do" and with a friend for his birthday we will be doing something special that night. Otherwise I really do prefer the go with the flow and I don't eat much anyway so it is all good like that.

Wendy so good to see you again!!! Sounds liek a nice and busy life for you. GLad that you are still at the hospital and I hope everything works out for your husbad with school. I hope thte surgery wasn't anything major and that you can recover quickly.

Well we have a winter storm warning again so it looks like I'll stay home today. Have a great day all :)

SlightlyGoofy

01-24-2004, 06:28 PM

Hi there Elaine

The storm is headed this way in the next few hours. Ice first and then a few inches of snow. Nasty sounding. Hoping that it warms up and melts it for the beginning of the work week though. Don't want you and Luis slip slidding away.

Just returned from Dalton's ballgame. He is only 6 and is the smallest and youngest on his team but he is the star. Not just my opinion either. His team won and he made the majority of the points. He is cool,calm and collected as well as bound to have the ball in his hand as often as he can. He loves stealing the ball but is pretty good about passing when called for. Never had an athlete in my family before so I am not sure how to act. LOL

Lunch is my meal of choice as well. Tom worked second shift and I always made the main meal for lunch and we have stayed with that plan. Is the healthiest way to eat from what I have read. What are you favorite restaurants at DW? There are not many left that we have not tried.

Anyone who is suffereing from the diet doldrums, might I reccomend Miss Meringue cookies? They are wonderful. I can have a couple and they are filling and low in calories. They are soon to come out with a sugar free version and then I will truly be in hog heaven. Got to have some chocolate.

Keep warm and off the roads tonight.

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

01-24-2004, 07:44 PM

Hi Everyone!

WELCOME BACK, WENDY!!!!! :) Great to hear from you and so glad to hear that all is well, up in your neck of the woods! Hope that your eye is feeling better and healing well, and hope that all is well with you and your family!

Wow - lots of posts to catch up on - I'm sorry that I'm a few days behind, but the first week of school was busier than I thought it would be!

Going back a few days........ I guess that I'm in the minority because I love to make PS's and I enjoy certain alcoholic beverages, too! For me, making PS's and planning out our WDW schedule is half the fun / anticipation of planning a trip! But I'm weird that way - I like "to do lists", schedules, etc. And though we're not necessarily very knowledgable, Frank and I are both "winos" we enjoy having wine with dinner or while relaxing in the evening, visiting local vineyards and seeing how wine is made, and trying new varieties whenever we have a chance!

As it turned out, I totally "jumped the gun" - I called WDW Dining last week, all ready with our annual PS requests........and found that in fact the earliest that I could make them is 90 days out, not 120 days! What was I thinking??!! I guess that I am so eager to go that I totally got confused and thought that I could make the PS's 4 months in advance instead of 3! Oh well.......I'll be ready to make them, come February! :)

Have a wonderful time on your trip, Cathy! You'll have to come back to the Suite and tell us all about it, upon your return!

That's so neat that you'll be visiting DL with other DIS'ers, Elaine! I hope that you and Linda didn't get hit with too much snow.......I believe that that same storm will be arriving here on Monday........UGH.

Congratulations to Dalton on his great basketball career! He and Austin are obviously true renaissance men of many talents!

How did your report come out, Depply? DH and I will be watching "PoC" again, tonight - we'll be thinking of you!

Hi out there, Angie!

Hope that you're all staying warm and having a nice weekend! :)

helenabear

01-25-2004, 11:44 AM

Well it looks like we missed that storm from yesterday but it is a large storm it seems and we could be in for snow tonight/tomorrow. Lisa, all the snow we got, was from Friday night so if you haven't gotten that by now you probably won't get it. It seems this storm is moving south so you may get lucky on this one as well ;)

Linda, congratulations to Dalton!! That is wonderful!!!! I hope he can continue to do well and have fun with his game!

My favorite restaurants at WDW are Crystal Palace at MK and Marrakesh at Epcot. For fast food I would have to say Tusker House at AK wins hands down!!!

Miss Meringue cookies? I like to snack and I am always looking for "healthier" alternatives :)

Lisa, wine is about the only alcohol I can drink and enjoy. Really alcohol is not good for my body with a couple of things I deal with, so I kind of avoid it. I am not a big eater really and not much for sit downs and that's why PSs get lost on me. Half the time I wind up eating kids meals so a PS doesn't do me much good there.

Now I don't do schedules anymore, but I do the "to do lists" I just don't specify when I do everything ;) That is where I get my joy in planning. Coming up with ideas of things to do and thinking of the best way to do them. It's not so specific, but it is a lot of fun!!!!

Lisa, what places are you going to make PS at? Oh and did you enjoy Pirates?? I watched it last night a well (again) absolutely love it!!!

depplyinluv

01-25-2004, 02:54 PM

Originally posted by SlightlyGoofy
Depply, I meant to ask where your new signature comes from. Sound somewhat familiar but cannot place it.

SG/Linda

it is one of my favorite scenes from once upon a time in mexico!

:D I dislike picasso as well, i love monet and manet and cassatt....

i sort of like basquiat but only a few of his pieces...
glad to see Dalton is doing great in bball!

WELCOME BACK WENDY!

Lisa my report came out just fine. I decided to do it on "Edourd Manet" he did "dejeuner sur l'herbe" and that one where theres this bartender just kinda standing there....

have fun watching potc!!!!
pirate:
i watched that last night....

and now ive gotten my family hooked on desperado which was luckily on TNT last night and today so now they all want to watch ouatim....

:teeth:

Have fun on your trip , Cathy! dont miss the suite too much:D

o one more thing- what does PS stand for? its in almost every post here i dont know what itmeans

lol

SlightlyGoofy

01-25-2004, 04:36 PM

Elaine, bet the snow has hit you by now. Is coming from the south, which is unsual for us. The Northern part of the state gets much worse weather than we usually do. I took out the trash and brought the snow shovel to the back porch in preparation. Is supposed to be 40 degrees tomorrow so maybe it will not stick around for long. Hope your morning commute is not too nasty. Can you take a bus? We ate a breakfast buffet at the Crystal Palace once and enjoyed it. We are planning on doing a lunch buffet there on our next trip. We did not enjoy Liberty Tree at all, might be better for dinner though. I had been interested in Marakesh but Tom was doubtful. Maybe if I tell him about the belly dancer I can get him in there? LOL The Miss Meringue cookies are usually found in the nutrition or bakery department here. Around 400 calories for the entire carton. It is in a round clear plastic container and they have several flavors, chocolate raspberry is my favorite. You can check out the website for more details. They are soon to come out with sugar free ones and I am waiting impatiently. I can eat just one or two and it satisfies that chocolate craving. I enjoy the small version better than the bigger ones. More crunch. Gen Soy makes these wonderful BBQ chips also. Counts as a protein and milk and is very healthy, crunchy and full of flavor. I find them in the nutrition section as well. When I am going to be in town for the day and want to avoid the fast food jungle I get a sack and nibble thru the day. Gotta love Diet Rite sodas also even though I have never been a soda drinker. Lots of flavor and nothing bad. Wonder if I could hire myself out as a walking billboard? LOL Check out Charles Shaw wines. Saw a report that is was all the rage, only $2 a bottle and has won all kinds of prizes against the more expensive ones. We have a friend by that name so I remembered it.

Depply, I am so impressed with you. I may have to check your ID as you seem so much older and wiser than your years. I am going to have to look up some of the artists that you mentioned. I know Manet and Monet but not the others. You speak French as well? I am going to have to check our Once Upon a Time in Mexico. I have never even heard of that movie. They only show certain things here. Very rural thinking. I am hooked on the tv show "Monk". You see I can relate to him as I suffer from some of his odd habits but am not lucky enough to have someone to help me through life. (grin)

Lisa, Please do not forget to make a PS (Priority Seating) for where we are going to eat before watching EWP together. You guys pick where, we are flexible. I am checking daily for codes and will let you know when I get booked. I congratulated Dalton on how good he did on the game and he sighed and said "Sometimes I just do not listen good enough". LOL True though. His parents have clamped down on him and I am all for it although it means I see less of him. Hope he gets his room cleaned so he can come visit me again. My daughter and sil came over after church and moved the new carpet roll into the room for me. I used to life such all by my lonesome but those days are gone. I already have it losely fitted and it is looking so nice. I just love a nice clean room and would rather paint than wash walls in fact I refuse to wash walls, they never come out good anyway. Can't wait to get the furniture back in. Bathroom is next and I am going to attempt to refinish the tub myself. I love the old cast iron tubs and would not want an acrylic one. If I fail I will have to have it professionally done but then I would have had to do that anyway so I am betting only $20 bucks on me being able to do it. Sounds like better odds than I would get on a casino boat. Where are you trying to get PS's at? You have a more sophistacated palate than do we. I guess our favorite place to eat is Hollywood & Vine and Bomba's.

I made some chocolate dipped strawberries to have with dessert for lunch but since dh did not make it back today I will be forced to eat his share for dinner tonight. Just a tiny dab of chocolate but it is so elegant and not bad for the old diet at all. I had gotten up at 4 am to put the meat and veggies in the crockpot so I will serve that to them tomorrow, if they make it then. It is odd walking around the house as the rooms are all clean and remaining so. I have a small pile of books waiting for me later and I actually might get to read two chapters at a time. Almost like a mini vacation.

SG/Linda

cathymailme

01-25-2004, 09:46 PM

Hi everyone,

Thank you for all the well wishes on our trip. We are getting pretty excited to leave. It has been snowing here all day and the temps will be dipping below zero this coming week. I couldn't have pick a better time to leave!

I am trying to read everyones' posts and keep all the information in them straight but I am not having a lot of luck with that but I will get better, I hope.

I will tell you all about our trip when I get back, but i am no zurg or delswife! but hopefully it will stilll be interesting.

Well I should get pack to packing, cleaning, organzing, calling, canceling, who knew a vacation could be so much work.

Take care

Cathy

SlightlyGoofy

01-26-2004, 11:47 AM

Hi there Cathy

Yep, you sure are right about picking a good time to get out of town and head south. I have been shoveling all morning and still have more to do. Small yard but many paths.

As far as not being a delswife or zurg, I enjoy their reports as well, but I also enjoy many others. Is best to be who you are and celebrate the fact. I bet your reports will be much better than mine as mine (from November) is still languishing in my document file. I might dust it off today though.

Before and after vacation is always hectic. Just make sure that you enjoy the time in between and do not dwell on what is to come when you get home.

Best wishes for a magical trip, SG/Linda

PS, I had a hard time getting everyone straight for a long time too and we are a very small group.

depplyinluv

01-26-2004, 11:57 AM

Linda, thanks for the compliment, as my family says i act like im two

yes, i do speak french (4 years)

Once Upon A Time In Mexico just got released on video...its the sequel to Desperado and El Mariachi......stars Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Johnny Depp...a bunch of people...up here we dont get any independent films, which makes me mad because i hear how good

Ive never seen Monk before, but we do have it up here...
did you all get to see the Golden Globes?

in case not i have a list of the winners!!!(i have to write an article on it)

Best Motion Picture, Drama-The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King:D

Best Actress, Drama-Charlize Theron(monster)
Best Actor, Drama-Sean Penn(mystic river)
Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy-Lost in Translation
Best Actress, musical or comedy-Diane Keaton
Best Actor, musical or comedy-Bill Murray(lost in translation)
:( johnny depp was nominated in this category but didnt get it....:mad:
Best foreign-language film-Osame(afghanistan)
Best supporting actress- Renee Zellweger(cold mountain)
Best supporting Actor-Tim robbins(mystic river)
Best Director-Peter Jackson(the lord of therings):teeth:
Best Screenplay-Sofia Coppola(lost in translation)
Best original score-Howard Shore, lord of the rings:D
Best original song- "into the west" (the lord of the rings:the return of the ring) , music & lyrics by Howard Shore, Fran Walsh and annie lenox
TV:
best drama series- 24
best actress, drama series:frances conroy, six feet under
best actor, drama series- anthony lapaglia, without a trace
best musical or comedy series:THe Office
Best actress, musical or comedy series-sarah jessica parker(sex and the city)
best actor, musical or comedy series-ricky gervias, the office
Best miniseries or t.v. movie-Angels in America
best actress, miniseries or tv movie-meryl streep(angels in america)
best actorminiseries.....-al pacino, angels in america
best supporitn actres......-mary-louise parker-angels in america
best supporting actor.....-jeffrey wright, angels in america

well best be going, USA network is having a johnny depp movie day for some good reason:) ....watching the 9th gate now...luv that movie!

:wave2:

SlightlyGoofy

01-26-2004, 03:10 PM

Yes, Depply, I watched the Golden Globes. I taped 60 Minutes and just decided to relax a bit. I seldom watch tv without doing something else, like reading, at the same time. Few tv shows are interesting enough to demand my full attention.

Johnny looked dashing last night. Seemed that he enjoyed Bill Murry's speech. I thought it was a bit interesting myself. I would have enjoyed seeing Tom Cruise have to give Nicole Kidman an award. I just thought he showed no class in how he went about getting the divorce while she showed a great amount of it. I also admire how she has risen in her career in the meantime. I remember when people said that she was only given parts because of Tom. I want to see Monster as I have seen several interviews from Charlize Theron (did you notice how they mispronounced the name last night?) She has had an interesting life and surely has proven to be much more than just a 'pretty face'. Smart woman.

It was so sad that so many movies were nominated that I had not even heard of. I sometimes make a list and catch a few of them when we travel. I remember spending an afternoon watching The Full Monty in South Carolina. I knew it would never come to any of our theaters because of the subject matter. I found it to be one of the best movies I had ever seen. It made me laugh and cry. It was most interesting watching the men go through some of the emotions that women often deal with.

Depply, of course, sometimes you act like a two year old. Is completely normal for a teenager. Is a most difficult time as you are neither fish nor fowl. When you were small, adults did all your decision making but you are now at an age when you are questioning and growing. This is a difficult time for you and your parents as the rules are all changing and will continue to do so until you are able to come together in a totally adult relationship. Please have patience with your poor parents who might make a mistake once in awhile in spite of their great love for you as they will forgive you your mistakes that you will, absolutely make, as you grow and learn from those mistakes. (smile and hug) I know all this cause I have been a parent and a teenager and believe me of the two I choose the parent side, as hard as it is/was the other was unbearable at times.

I took French as my language of choice to qualify for college but I remember little of it. Just enough to get me in trouble and not enough to get me back out. LOL I speak a tiny bit of several languages and have been considering watching some Spanish language television as I have heard of many who learned to speak English by watching tv and I figure that would be a fun and painless way to learn such an, ever more, important language.

Have been shoveling snow most of the day. We got hit pretty bad yesterday. While we have a small lot we have an abundance of areas that require clearing. I can only shovel for a bit at a time so I work for about 15 minutes, rest for half an hour and then back. Only have the end of the lane to do next but am running out of places to put the snow. More is coming tomorrow. My husband does not understand that if you do not shovel the first batch it is almost impossible to shovel it when you get more on top. Since he does not shovel any he should just be quiet. IMNOHO

SG/Linda

helenabear

01-27-2004, 06:51 PM

Evening all, took my furbaby Gwenie to the vet for a regular check up... she's not a happy kitty now ;)

Depply, did you laugh at the subtle things brought back from Desperado to Once Upon a Time...?? Like the cell phone ringing in the church, the ring tone was that song that Antonio sings at the beginning of Desperado. That movie just cracks me up!

Well Linda, we did get some snow, some ice and some rain over the last few days. We even had enough ick to cause a level 2 snow emergency. The roads weren't all that bad though so I was able to make it to and from work without any trouble.

I will have to look into those cookies, although I seem to be doing fine w/ just cutting back snacking on my own. I guess it is easier for me sometimes than I thought it would be.

Cathy you are long gone by now, but I hope you had an absolutely wonderful trip!! I cannot wait to hear all about it when you return :)

I watched the Golden Globes as well adn I was happy that Return of the King did so well there!! Also was very disappointed that Johnny Depp didn't win, but he is nominated for an Oscar, so we shall see :)

Linda, I do agree, I would have loved to have seen Nicole give Tom the award... he looked up at her like he was so proud of her... very strange but nice all the same. And take care of yourself as you shovel. Unless we are slated to get ice on top of snow, we do shovel in parts like you were. It makes it easy. B ut if it is supposed to ice over, then having that blanket of snow is so helpful. I hope this winter weather passes soon!

I hope everyone is having a great day :)

SlightlyGoofy

01-27-2004, 07:37 PM

I was roaring while listening to my Austin a bit ago. DD's car would not start at the gas station so she had to call Dsil to jump her. He told the 12 year old to get the 6 year old ready for school. As he told me the story of his trials I had to laugh as I well remember his mom having to go through all that with him and I had to go through it with her! I do believe that child thinks he runs the place and I am not sure he is wrong. He is cleaning the house and doing the laundry in return for a larger allowance. I think it is good for them all not that my opinion counts nor do I voice it often, as a good mil should.

Helenabear, glad to hear you made it to work and back. Tom got back home today but his brothers went off the road on their trip back home. Knowing them, I think they enjoyed it, but it would terrify me. Country boys, you know. Had ice when we woke up but some kind soul had thrown the paper up on the porch so I did not have to crawl down and up the steps. Bless their dear hearts. I always shovel for the sake of our mailman. I used to have to shovel from the house to the garage or Tom would not go to work but if I know it is going to warm up I just do the front and the side steps. If I do not shovel the snow the ice is worse. I salt the steps so my poor mailman does not do a slide for life. He is the sil of a dear friend and a great fellow. I love the details in movies and such as well. When I watch a movie or tv show I often watch the background players. Amazing what you can see from time to time. I think it is the greatest acting that Nicole and Tom do for the sake of their kids but will probably be real one day and that is a good thing for all concerned.

I am still checking codes each and every day so I can get my ressies for May. Won't feel right making definite plans until I get the dates settled. Hoping for the great rates as that means we can stay more days and I love more days. I have never been there too long. Think our longest trip was two weeks and I still had things on the list I had wanted to do. Am still adding new things for this trip and touring Pop Century and eating at "Fresh" are at the top of the list.

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

01-28-2004, 01:17 PM

Hey Everyone!

We're all snowed in here, as well! Frank did go in to work, today (I was hoping that he would stay home and "play hooky" with me! :( But dedicated soul that he is, he felt that he needed to make the 45 minute trek into the office.), but he went in a few hours late. I'm happy that I have no classes today, so I can hibernate inside. I do, however, have a ton of work to do. One assignment is analyzing my diet for a day, using several different criteria - that should be interesting. Later in the semester, I have a project that involves a more professional-type diet assessment. My textbook came with the sort of software that Registered Dieticians use - it will be neat to check it out and play around with it!

Thanks so much for your note, Linda! And thanks again for thinking of me! :) I understand about your not wanting to make definitive plans until you know the exact dates of your trip. Since we'll only have 4 days on land, our schedule will probably be pretty tight. But we are DEFINITELY getting together to view the EWP, no matter what! :) We have a loose idea of what we'd like to do with our 4 land days - we were thinking about just getting our bearings at POR on the first day, then going over to the Poly for dinner at 'Ohana (our traditional first-night dinner place!) and the EWP. Then doing the Studios on Monday, with the Brown Derby and Fantasmic on Monday night (since my Fantasmic friend works on Monday nights), Epcot on Tuesday and dinner at the AKL that night, and Wednesday at the MK. At some point, we'll probably be visiting the new home of Fantasmic friend and Contemporary friend, as well - they just moved into a new house, not far from WDW. That's what we're thinking, now, though needless to say, we're flexible to change! We leave for the cruise early on Thursday morning.

Speaking of WDW, I am so excited - I have some friends who have a 4 1/2 year old daughter, and they'll be going down there next week. I hooked them up with our Princess friend (daughter of Mary Jo who is a DIS'er), and she will be doing special Meet and Greets with the little girl as both Ariel and Snow White! I wish that I could be there to see our friends' daughter's face - she is going to be so excited that Ariel and Snow White actually know her name, where she's from, and will be expecting her visit! It's so nice of Ariel / Snow White to do this for our friends - I can't wait to hear how the visits go!

I also watched the Golden Globes, Depply (I am a total "awards show junkie" - I rarely miss one! :) )! I was also disappointed that Johnny didn't win, but there are always the Oscars! :) I loved Bill Murray's speech - very original! I like that he thanked his wife first, too. I loved Diane Keaton's speech, as well - and the fact that Richard Gere presented her with her award (I always remember them together in "Looking for Mr. Goodbar", years ago.) . Although I haven't seen "Monster", I'm glad that Charlize Theron won - I always like to see someone who has never received a major award before win one. And I'm glad that Renee Zelwegger won, too - I love her and she just seems like such a nice person, when you see her interviewed! Glad to see some new faces in the TV categories. As much as I love Sarah Jessica Parker and "Sex in the City", I'm sure that the other ladies who are always nominated in her category are happy that this is the last awards show for which she will be nominated for that role (well, maybe the Emmy's too), since she always wins!

I can definitely understand your kitty being upset after her checkup, Elaine! We have to take 2 of ours for their checkups, next week - I hate taking them out of the house when it's so cold outside! :( But we have to do it, as good "parents"! :) It sounds like we're all suffering with the snow and ice........where is Angie??? We need some news from a warmer, more pleasant climate! Then we can all live vicariously through her........

..........and through Cathy, who is hopefully having a wonderful time in WDW with her family, right now! *SIGH* - ah, to be in the land of palm trees, right now.........! :)

Hope that you're all hanging in there, in the snow, and hope that you're having a nice day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

01-28-2004, 09:40 PM

Howdy Lisa/Rider, how about we plan to meet at O'Hana's for dinner and then watch the EWP. Would be the easiest and not eat into too much of your time while at DW? If you pick up a few other guests along the way it will not bother us in the least. I am easy to get along with no matter what my family says. LOL Am I to understand that you are staying at Port Orleans? That used to be my favorite resort. You will have to tell me if they have restored some of the past glory when you return. It had a sit down restaurant along with the food court and that great piano player. I enjoyed walking around the grounds also. I have found that to be the most romantic spot and resort at DW.

I am sorry that Frank could not be convinced to stay home with you today but there is a good side to having a reliable and dependable mate as well. You would not want him any other way.

How wonderful that you are able to give a bit of Disney Magic to your small friend. It will be the memory of a lifetime. I always wanted a small girl to buy a Minnie Mouse dress for. I am tempted to hang around the shop and offer to buy one for some small child if I were not afraid that the parents might find it scary. Some families have to watch the pennies awfully close and it would be wonderful to have a Fairy Godmother. Am afraid to embarrass a family also.

I had the most wonderful day at school today. One little girl that is a reluctant and hesitant reader read a whole book and was remembering and sounding out words much better than usual. I was so proud of her. My little guy did not get much time as his mom came and picked him up early for a haircut. Neither of us wanted him to leave but leave he must. Hope he got his reading done later. The last child read twice and when his mom came to pick him up she told me that he says I am his favorite teacher. Job does not pay anything but the fringe benefits are awesome. They are going to have Jeff Gordon (a local boy) come by for a visit in a couple of weeks. The boys will be in hog heaven! Got to drag out some of my race cars books.

I have always wondered about if the stars have to be a bit careful in publicly thanking and praising their spouses as it could be fodder for a future divorce settlement. Sure glad that I do not have so much money that I would have those worries but might we willing to risk it. LOL I even enjoy looking at the clothes and I am not much of a one for fashion and such. Seems that the awards are much a matter of luck as well as skill as someone can give an awesome performance in a year when there are many others and lose out while another year someone can give a lackluster performance among a slew of dismal ones and get the top prize. Such is life.

Helenabear and Rider, I feel for you in having to take your fur babies in to be cared for. I know how I feel when I have to perform such a task for my grands and I can sort of talk to them about what is going on. Bet they get some extra spoiling when you get them home though and that would make up for some of it. My son refused to let me hold him for a few hours after he was in the hospital for two weeks. Broke my heart.

The roads are clear but more snow is due tomorrow. Not a lot though so I am hoping it will be alright for Dalton's ballgame on Saturday. Need to run into town afterward and stock up too.

Keep warm both of you and do not be too jealous of Angelina and Cathy for being in the warm. Maybe Cathy will bring some back with her? She seems like the sharing kind to me.

Slightly Goofy/Linda

helenabear

01-28-2004, 09:43 PM

Linda, I do hope that you find good rate codes for you soon!! I know that will be a great load off of our mind to get that all settled!!! And the roads here really weren't that terrible. I have learned how to drive in snow so I don't worry about going of fthe road. If that happened to me, I would have been scared too :eek: So I think that is a bit more relaxed about it than I would be!! I admit I jumped a curb once when I hit ice, but I was going like 2 mph so it wasn't too scary. I got the car stopped and I was able to move on w/o a problem :)

And I have to say that Austin sounds like a pure gem!!!!!

Lisa, I hoep you all are staying safe in that snow of yours!!!! Sorry that you couldn't get Frank to stay home and play hookie with you.

Yep, vets are the necessary evil with the furbabies... but I would rather know mine are in good shape and hear them yowl than have seomthing happen that could be prevented!!!

Oh very neat that you are hooking your friends up with Mary Jo's DD!!! I hear she makes for a perfect Snow White!!!! And it sure sounds like you are doing well with yoru planning there!! Getting excited yet?

SlightlyGoofy

01-29-2004, 12:10 PM

Thank you for the kind wishes, Heleanbear. I did not learn to drive until late in life because I was too young when I graduated from high school (too poor to afford a car anyway) and then I lived in big cities where it was more expensive to garage a car than to rent an apartment for myself. Was cheaper and easier to take cabs and buses. Just finished paying my auto insurance on my 2000 Camry and realized that it costs me almost $5 each time I go to town (twice a week average) and that is just for the insurance. Don't know what it would cost be if I had ever had a ticket or an accident that was my fault and have no intention of finding out. Since using Money, after retirement, it has been eye opening to see exactly where our money goes and how much of it. Just grateful that we can afford what we need and some of what we want. We are discussing adding days to our Disney trips. We always talk about it and often have. LOL BTW, I can drive on ice and snow if going 2 mph but the people behind me do not like it much. I had one accident years ago when I was driving to the hospital where Tom was to have hernia surgery. I had not been driving long and it was very icy. I made it about half way (30 miles) when I skidded. I closed my eyes, screamed and did a fast prayer. Must have worked as I ended up on the opposite side of the road in a ditch like being held in the hands of God. I was lucky cause my bil came by shortly afterward and got me out so I was able to get to the hospital. I asked him to follow me the rest of the way but not to say anything to dh so as not to worry him before he went into surgery. Guess what his first words were to Tom? All Tom asked was if the car was alright. LOL I was standing there so he figured I was fine.

I forwarded your comment about Austin to him. He is a sweetie and so kind to his old granny. Ornery to me also but I am to him too. He has written notes saying he loves me around the house and I never erase them. I have phone messages that I cannot delete either. I am just a sentimental soul.

Hope the snow does not hit there until you and Luis are safely home this evening. Wear a hat and keep your coat buttoned up, we are in for some very cold weather. Brrrrrr!

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

01-31-2004, 02:04 PM

Linda, believe i do have quite a bit of patience w/ my parents, i just ffind it funny what they say about me:D

I try watching the french channel all the time, i can pick out a few words here and there but not enough to really know what tehyre talking about:rolleyes:

helenabear: I thought the phone ringing was hilarious! and then everything stops when the lady walk out of the church....wow i really love those two movies....Im thinking about buying the DVD of elmariachi and desperado, its like a "pack"....its a bit expensive though..

~*~special wishes for all our furbabies~*~

have quite a few of my own

good lucky with all that snow lisa!!!!!!!!!!! i was hoping for some snow here but of course we've gotten little to none here, its very unfortunate, because i wanted to go snowmobiling! :(
owell....

I say we got to MK today to get a dole whip and then go watch the EWP later! :teeth:

LInda, sometimes girls arent all that dressy, you can take that from my mother who wanted a girl and got a tom boy:D

thats all for now folks, keep warm and safe!:wave2:

helenabear

01-31-2004, 03:48 PM

Hi all... lazy kind of weekend here. The weather was a bit cold last night so I think I"ll just stick at home in the warmth ;)

Linda, I am so glad that you were okay after that spin on the ice!!! That could ahve been very scary!!! And nothing wrong with onery at all... I get that way now and then ;) It makes life fun I think!!! We didn't get all that much snow... just a couple of inches so it was very easy to deal with.

I don't think I've ever seen El Mariachi yet... I heard such mixed reviews about it that I hadn't rented it yet! But I do love that part with the lady leaving the church! They had such a good sense of humor in that movie... just cracked me up!

I would love to go to MK today!!! Sounds wonderful to me!!!! I have a strong desire to go to on the HM as well... sound good to others?

depplyinluv

02-02-2004, 12:26 AM

:wave:

hmm....didnt know we had 2 lotr fans over here at the EWP suite!

:p

HI Linda!, LIsa!, cathy! Angelina!

:wave2:

SlightlyGoofy

02-02-2004, 04:19 PM

I am missing out on so much. I did not get a post telling me that you were all in here posting so pardon me for being late to the party. Know nothing at all about the movies that you are all talking about either. Will have to correct that one and soon!

Depply, is great that you have a sense of humor about your parents. Hope they feel the same about you. LOL The best parents remember what it was like being a kid and have some pity for what their kids might be going through. Sometimes though the parents who did the most interesting things in their youth are more watchful of their own offspring for fear that the apple does not fall far from the tree. LOL It was frustrating for me when my daughter did not care for clothes as I was so happy that we could give her what I could never have had coming from such a large family. Unfortunately she preferred to wear sweats most all the time and if they had holes in them, the better. I think it was a power play. I did not say much but when the holes came in areas that I did not wish her to showcase I would disappear t hem and magically a new pair, same color sans holes would appear! She hated that too. I watch with amusement as she has the same fight with her little one. My oldest grandson is a bit of a dandy though. I love the way he dresses, style but classy. I bet watching some French tv would vastly increase your vocabulary. The idioms are always the hardest to grasp in any language.

Helenabear, the only injury I got from the wreck was a cut on my leg and that was from trying to push out the 9 passenger station wagon. I have an awfully good opinion of what I can do sometimes. LOL Is good that you are ornery also since I think it adds a bit of spice to life. Life is not worth living without laughter and love. Ice storm headed this way this evening. Hoping my kids get home from work before it comes. Wish everyone could be off the streets by then, if I could have my way. TOPS was cancelled last week and I fear it will be again tomorrow. I have a loss and will be sorry if it is.

Will gladly go over to MK with you all but it had better be a turkey leg for me (low carbs). I love those darned Dole Whips though. Did not care for the Citrus Swirl last time. It was bitter. If I could walk the average 7 miles that it is said people walk at DW each day I could eat what I wanted maybe. Yet another good reason to move there and get a job. (dreaming out loud)

Rider, you must be swamped with schoolwork and such. We miss you and hope to see you when you get a chance. Still checking for codes.

SG/Linda

helenabear

02-02-2004, 07:33 PM

LOL, Depply, yep a big LOTR fan here!!!!!!

Linda, I am so glad that was all you had wrong with you after the wreck! You are very lucky with that!! Yep I agree, ornery adds spice to life :teeth:

You all might laugh, but I have never had a Dole Whip... I am just not too fond of the idea of pineapple and soft served ice cream together. I'll stick with my Mickey Bar probably ;)

Not very talkative today... not sure why... probably because my life is boring at the moment ;) I hope you all are having a wonderful day :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-02-2004, 08:44 PM

Dear Elaine/Helenabear

Congratulations on having a boring life. It means that you and all that you love are in reasonable health, you have enough to eat, warmth for the winter months, all your mechanical things are in working order. May you go to sleep secure in the knowledge that tomorrow will probably be as boring.

I am very happy for you and yours.

(smile) SG/Linda

Please be aware that we are here for those not so boring moments also and are hoping that they are happy ones.

IASW Rider

02-02-2004, 11:11 PM

Hey Everyone!

So sorry that I haven't posted in so long, once again! I've just been bogged down with reading for school, and we spent the weekend down at my in-laws' (my father came along, for the first time ever!), so I didn't have access to a computer.

Glad to hear that all is well with all of you! Sorry that this post can't be longer - I promise to sit down at the computer and post again, when I have more time!

'Ohana sounds fine and dandy with us, Linda! Do you think that you might be there on the 16th? We were hoping to go there on our first night.......because we won't have a car with us and it will take us like 5 million years to get to the Poly from POR via "public (ie: Disney) transportation"! Since I don't know if we'll be going to any of the parks on our first day there, we thought that that might be a good night to go to the Poly - when we had the most time to get there and still have a leisurely dinner before the EWP. Looking forward to meeting you and Tom in person - finally! :)

I do think that Mary Jo's DD makes the perfect Snow White, Elaine - we visited with her on our past 2 years' WDW vacations, and she is just adorable and a very nice person! Our friends met with her "as" Ariel, today - and Snow White will be waiting for their daughter after the Castle Show on Thursday morning......I can't wait to hear how the meetings went - I hope that their daughter had some magical experiences! :) I've never had a Dole Whip, either - though they look really evil (ie: wonderful)! :) I have had the pineapple juice at that venue in Adventureland, though - YUM! And I've had something that's more like a smoothie at the Sunshine Tree Terrace in Adventureland, too, which was really good, as well! If I was really going to go wild, I would have a cheeseburger at Pinocchio's Village Haus - for some reason, cheeseburgers never taste as good anywhere else as eating one there, sitting at one of the "IASW tables"! :)

How are you doing, Depply? How many furbabies do you have? I am an "LOTR Fan by Default" - my DH is a big LOTR fan! :) I'll stick to pre-ordering "Brother Bear", which we never had a chance to see in the theaters, this fall!

Hey out there, Angie and Wendy!

So sorry that I don't have a chance to write more, right now - I have to get back to studying. Just wanted to let you all know that I am thinking of you and I miss talking to you and I will be back with a longer post, as soon as I can!

Hope that all is well with you all and with your families, and hope that you're all having a great evening! :)

jstmee

02-03-2004, 10:47 AM

It's my day off and I finally took some ME time and came back for a vist. It's so nice to be here with all of you. What an uplifting place for me to put up my feet and relax for a moment.

SG, the flooring I used in my dd's room is LUX, but that is only because I got it for cheap at Marden's, a liquidation place here in Maine. I believe it is a really good quality though. It is a click in type, no glue needed. I am the one that put it in place I only "used" my dh for the cutting portion. Very easy to do. We did it in a weekend at a leisurely pace.

Rider, what is your major at school? I've been away so long, sounds like your doing great. Married life must be agreeing with you I'm sure.

Depply, Howdy--you'd find it interesting where I live the primary language is French I took a conversational French course at Adult Ed last semester but I am learning more from the patients at the hospital where I work and of course from my dh and inlaws, whom of course all speak French. A funny story, my dh was on the phone with my mother in law the other day making plans for my father in laws birthday and my dh asked me to listen in, so I pick up the phone and listen, so I listen and listen and I can't understand a thing because my mother in law is speaking to my husband in French so my husband finally had to remind my mother in law that I was listening also and would she please speak English. It was hilarious.

What English people do up here to learn the French language is turn on the French channels (because we have many living right on the Canadian border) and we will put on the closed caption to the "French" caption. That helps us see the words for pronunciation also and that way we can also tell what it means sometimes too.

henelabear-I was reading back at some of the posts and could relate to you taking Gwenie to the vet. I just took my black cat, Mitten's, she's very emotional to begin with and is very timid. I took my little dog, Jasmine also. I take them together so they have company.

Sounds like everyone has vacations plans shortly. When you all go sends some warm weather my way. But, we had a heat wave yesterday it was 29 degrees here. It was so warm. This morning it was snowing the most beautiful crystal snow.

Forgot to mention the most exciting news. My neice is going to college in Alabama and she just got accepted to go to school for a semester at DW!!!!!!!!! She will be interning in the Marketing area and continuing courses down there. How exciting is that!

My other brother is expecting a baby. His wife is due TODAY 2/3/04, princess: princess: :

Have a DISNEY DAY!!! Jstmee/Wendy

IASW Rider

02-03-2004, 01:52 PM

Hey Wendy!

Great to hear from you! Glad to hear that you're taking some time for yourself, amidst your busy schedule!

We're having a "heat wave" here, too - it's "up" in the upper 30's, today - woo hoo! Time to break out the sun block! :) This is the first time that our temperatures have risen above freezing in (literally) 3 weeks! Right now, it's raining, which will hopefully wash away some of the ice that has been accumulating on our streets and sidewalks over the past several weeks. But they're predicting that another storm will hit us, this weekend.........will it ever end??!! I'm ready for spring!

After being laid off by ML last year, I decided to go back to school and pursue a second Bachelor's Degree. So now I'm hoping to get into something totally different - my current major is Nutritional Sciences, but I'm debating switching to Public Health. I want to study and work with Nutrition in some capacity........but I want to avoid taking all of the math and science classes that I would need in order to become a Registered Dietician. So I'm beginning to think that Public Health might be the better way for me to go. I'll begin working towards making the change over the summer, most likely. Thanks for asking!

Congratulations to your niece on her acceptance into the Disney College Program - that is wonderful! And congratulations on the imminent birth of your newest niece or nephew (today! :) ), too!

That's so neat that you can utilize the closed captioning on your TV to learn or practice French, while watching the French TV stations! And I can relate to your listening in to your DH's conversation with your MIL and finding that she was speaking to him in French - my father used to talk to my grandparents in Yiddish, all the time, forgetting that neither my mother nor I understood Yiddish - now he speaks Yiddish with my Uncle, in front of me, and I still have no idea what they are talking about!

Hope that all is well with all of you, out there, and hope that you're all having a nice day! :)

jstmee

02-03-2004, 03:09 PM

I totally forgot that it is nice out today also, thanks for the reminder, Lisa. I've been locked up doing my taxes. I just finished. Whew! Good news is refund from Federal except it all goes toward a 2000 tax debt. BAD news is we owe for State, not good at all considering the rocky roads. However, I've learned that I don't have to be upset, I will do what I can and that's it. So I will mail the federal today and save the State until April 15th and pray that some greenbacks will float our way till then.

I have a 1/2 hour before kiddos get home and then all three boys have bball games. My dd had one last night she lost by one point.

I don't think I mentioned, she has her first "boyfriend", going on 72 hours. ouch. she's 12 and in the 6th grade. My boys are in tenth grade and I haven't had to deal with this yet. HELP!!

bye for now Wendy

IASW Rider

02-04-2004, 11:30 AM

:) :) :) HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ELAINE!!!!!!!!!! :) :) :)

Wishing you a wonderful day! Don't forget to come by the our own personal Suite dock, this evening, for your gala Birthday Dinner Cruise and EWP viewing! :) Have a great day! :)

IASW Rider

02-04-2004, 11:50 AM

Hi again, Wendy!

It sounds like you have a great attitude - you're absolutely right - no need to get upset and waste your time worrying about the tax thing. What can you do, right? And you never know what might happen between now and April 15th! I admire you for getting your taxes done so early. I try to do them in February, as well, but I haven't had the wherewithall to "dive into" ours yet, this year!

That's so cute that your DD has her first "boyfriend"! I think that I went on my first "date" when I was in 6th grade, as well (ie: to an ice cream parlor after school, with his mother sitting at the next table! :) )! Hope that all of your kids did wonderfully in their BB games! Are you and your DH coaching this season, at all?

Not too much to report, here. It's actually supposed to get up into the 40's, today - lots of melting snow - finally!

Time to get some work done. Have a great day, Everyone! :)

helenabear

02-04-2004, 12:11 PM

Hi all... stopping in quickly here while at work...

Linda, I agree... boring is not a bad thing... just means life is calm and that can be great! I am basking in my boringness for the time ;)

Lisa, with all that WDW food talk you had there, I am now starving!!!! I think I had better hurry up and head out to lunch for a while!!!!

Wendy, congratulations to your niece on her new WDW position!! That is great news!!! And too cute about your DD... that was about the age that I started "dating" of course I didn't really get into it until I was in high school!

As for the taxes, we wind up owing state every year now that we are married. I am not sure why that happens. Our house is the only reason why we don't ever owe for federal. Hopefully you will get your state money before then. I know for us, our federal more than cancels out what we owe for state.

Of course I am still waiting on my W2s... hopefully they will show up soon!

And thank you Lisa, for the birthday wishes. Nothing exciting planned, but I will do my best to enjoy the day :)

IASW Rider

02-04-2004, 12:22 PM

Hey Elaine!

Hope that you are having a great day! (Time really flies, when you're having fun - it seems like just yesterday was your Birthday, LAST year!)

Speaking of WDW food, I could really go for lunch and a nice, big cup of coffee at the Kona Cafe, right about now..........! :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-04-2004, 08:48 PM

In honor of Elaine's birthday I have decided to go formal. I put shoes on. LOL I do have the ambient lighting on and a lovely buffet set so that we can enjoy our special entertainment this evening. Many of your favorite CM's have given notice that they are attending the festivities this evening. A rumor is going around that the Big Guy himself (hint MM) will be coming to pay homage to one of the biggest Disney fans in the World!!! The new massage chair in the living quarters is to be Helenabear's seat for the evening. The guest of honor gets the first use after all.

Jstmee, you do not want to know what we will pay in taxes this year. (zero, zilch not just breaking even) We have not had to pay taxes the last couple of years and will not this year either. Have about another year before we are back in the swim of things though. Is a funny feeling. I feel sort of guilty but it is the way it is. The way I dealt with my daughter's boyfriends is going in the kitchen and banging my head against the way and gritting my teeth. Hope you handle it better than I did. I was also wont to show them my marksmanship trophy's as well. I are evil. How do you keep up with all the kids games? Do you guys draw staws to see who goes to which game? I only have one to keep up with and it is hard sometimes. You are younger and that helps. LOL I have a floor I would love to LUX but it has a big old heavy freezer on it and that is a challenge. What did your hubby use to cut the flooring with? Do you get a discount since you have a relative working at Disney? Would she adopt me?? LOL

Rider, I have the appointment at O Hanas written in my calendar. Not promising anything but if I can get over there before dark I will try to drive so that you guys can drive, or show me the way back to your resort. I do not drive after dark but I can find my way to the All Stars from Port Orleans as I have done it several times. Is the only thing I dislike about Disney, getting from resort to resort. Even if they had to charge a fee I bet people would use it. I know I would. It took us almost 2 hours to get back from the Grand Floridian one late evening. I did my running around today as ice and snow is coming in tomorrow. Ugh!!

Depply, how are you doing today? Keeping those parents in line? LOL I think watching tv with closed caption is a great idea. I think my tv has a choice of language. Never too old to learn IMHO and heaven knows there is much I need to learn.

Have to go do some work and justify my existence. When do I get to retire? Yeah, right!! LOL

SG/Linda

jstmee

02-05-2004, 06:21 AM

Geeze, I work one day and miss helenabears birthday...Birthday wishes to you. Did you have a nice day? In honor of your birthday the great white north dumped about 6 inches of the beautiful snow in our area. Nice since it's the International snowmobile festival this weekend up here.

Gotta go, have to go to work.

All is good. SG, my DH and DS do the Bball coaching, I'll be doing concessions this year to raise money for the varsity boys.

IASW Rider

02-05-2004, 11:55 AM

Hey Everyone!

How are you all doing, today?

That's so neat that there's a snowmobile festival up there, Wendy! I guess that the new snow was well-timed!

We're supposed to get something - probably sleet and freezing rain - tomorrow, I think - at least we were spared for a few days with some sunny days!

You don't have to worry about driving us, Linda - but thanks so much for offering! That was very kind of you! We wouldn't want you to go out of your way on our behalf. Besides, we might get over to the Poly a bit early to walk around, reminisce, visit our sentimental spots there, etc. If we find that traveling via the buses is too much of a pain, we can always take a taxi back to POR. You just relax and enjoy your vacation and do everything at your own pace! And we'll be at 'Ohana, waiting for you! :)

Not too much to report, today. Spent all day yesterday reading for my classes. It's funny - one of the things that fascinated me about nutrition and made me want to study it was the possibility of learning about metabolism and how it all "works". Well, I'm studying it now, and it's so technical and overwhelming that my head is spinning! Just a little too "scientific" for me! I like when the book or the professor describes what happens in WORDS as opposed to chemical formulas and interactions! Anyway, I can tell you all with some "authority" now that very low carb diets are VERY DANGEROUS and no one should be cutting carbs out of their diets all together!

Time to get back to the books, now. Hope that you're all having a nice day! :)

helenabear

02-05-2004, 09:35 PM

Hi all, just checking in to say hi quickly :) Thanks again for the birthday wishes!!!

Thank you so much, Linda, for dressing up for me ;) I feel so special! Although I admit, I wasn't as dressed for the ocassion as you were :o I do have a suggestion for you, have you thought of taking a taxi at WDW at night from the resorts? It might cost $5-10 but it would save you any worry about driving at night. I have taken one once (it was very reasonable) and it was nice not to have to deal with some of the transportation

Wendy, I am sorry about the snow you got... we had beautiful sunshine weather yesterday!! Today is awful though... freezing rain! Stay safe out there!!

Wow, Lisa, sounds like you are learning some interesting things there!!! I had no idea about the low carb diets though. I haven't tried them, and had no intention of it. Dare I ask what that can do to your body? I always believed that every body does digest things in a slightly different way so all diets will not work for everyone. Anyway, good luck with the studies!

Again not much interesting going on here... I had a great birthday though and got some nice gifts :) I hope you all are having a good one :sunny:

SlightlyGoofy

02-05-2004, 09:50 PM

Trivia got cancelled since the guy who runs it could not get into the room tonight. Heads will roll!! LOL

Jstmee, I used to run the concessions for the grade school years ago. Had one lady who used to steal money but since she was a hard worker and did not steal a lot I let her get away with it. She was pretty poor and might have needed it. I even painted the building. Did your child win their last game?

Rider, do not worry about me and the low carb thing. I am doing a modified version in that I eat fruits and veggies along with meat, cheese, eggs and some LF dairy. I figure since bread and pasta got me in this shape I need to stay away from them. I don't believe that cutting any food group out altogether is healthy at all. As far as driving you BACK to POR it is only a tiny bit out of the way so it is not a problem. We will see what is what when it gets closer to time. Just give me a set time to meet you for dinner though.

Helenabear, taking a taxi? LOL You are speaking to a woman who is laying carpet to save a couple of hundred bucks and checks codes before making DW ressies. I stretch each and every dollar that I can. We were an one income family as per Tom's wishes and he was a factory worker and is now retired so the dollars are all the more precious. We are far from being poverty stricken though as we do not owe a penny for anything and I socked dollars away while he was working but we enjoy traveling so much and want to do as much as we can on our income. I do secret shops so we don't spend money eating out much anymore either. I often go to three or more grocery stores to search out the best bargains. Is good for exercise as well. Lesson here is - save for your old age people! If it came down to a choice between being safe or saving ten bucks I would spend the dollars though. I am not dumb. LOL I might not spend money on Teppanyaki as I don't feel it is worth it but will get tickets to Cirque. Choices.

Anyone for lunch at Fresh tomorrow? I hear it is delicious and then we can walk over to Magic Kingdom to get rid of some of the calories.

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

02-05-2004, 10:05 PM

<marquee>HAPPY BELATED B-DAY ELAINE!</marquee>

sorry bout that....

Lisa, i have lots of furbabies!!!!:) first we'll talk about my beautiful kitties! I have my Jack , note that he is MINE, who is a GORGEOUS american bobtail....soo cute... then we have striker (whom i call marie, though he is a boy) hes a striped fat little creature....can kinda be related to SAM ....then theres our newest addition, PEPPERMINT (whom i call P, P-mint, or methos) she is very tiny and completely white...w/ the exception of her pink little nose!
ill take pics and post 'em....::yes::
now the puppies....

ok well first there is my darling HARLEY(ok he has a lot of names...Kitty, kittycakes, vivian, mariah, hoo diddy, harley rae, harley race, hooter, my babay, and the occasional Ihateyoudumbdogwhydidyoupoopinthehouse)
he is a german shepard with a huge nose....you gotta see his pic...but i was the one who decided to adopt him from the shelter...hes a little numb but totally loveable!
now theres kaiser whos also a german shepard....hes my dads. Hi nicknames include Keeservonmel, kaiservonme., maynell, mayonnaise, mayonnaise diaz, mae-mae, .....he is very thin because of a pancreas malfunction but he loves to catch toys!

then thers the other two that arent mine and im sad to say i really dont like them, theyre just not my fav. Baeley is a newf and Sadie is collie/newf.

whew! hopefully that wasnt too long....:rolleyes:

Wendy, thanks for the tip! hey you live kinda close to me!....we only have 1 french channel here....

about your DD, you're probably going to have to get used to the boyfriend thing...

lucky you have snow for snowmobiling! we have absolutely nothing:(

linda- o yes im keeping them in line alright lol...i agree with the statement its never too late to teach an old dog new tricks (im not saying that your old , hope you dont get that impression)lol

what's fresh?

SlightlyGoofy

02-06-2004, 10:34 AM

Depply, I am not at all offended. I am 55 years old and by far the oldest on this thread. To you I would be very ancient. LOL

Just last week my oldest grandson accused me of not being cool. I had to admit that it were true but did point out that by not being cool I was available for him more often than I might be otherwise.

You would have been proud of me in my youth though, as I were a rebel without pause. I fought the system until I found myself becoming part of the system, somewhat. You would be much surprised at some of my ideas about how things should be run. I lived through a time when civil and women's rights were yet to be won (still have a ways to go IMHO) and people stood up, for the first time in our country's history, and fought against a war. (lesson does not seem to have been learned there) It was a most interesting time in our history and I feel that it is comparable to our revoluntionary times.

Are all your animals house pets? It sounds as if you have a full and loving household. How many of your friends are cared for by yourself solely? I never could get my hubby or kids to care for themselves so having a pet was not in the cards. Our yard is far too small to be a good home to any poor dog. I see large dogs tied up in tiny yards and my heart goes out to them. I feel that if you want to have a pet you should give them some room to roam and be happy and if you don't have a lot of space, cats or small dogs would be a better choice. BTW, the poor dog that lived next to us is sorely missing us since they moved as we used to give it our leftover milk and steak remanents. He was a great dog. I can see myself with a tiny house dog in my old age. (hopefully a few years away) LOL I am so used to taking care of people that I would have to have something to care for.

Hope you and your Rents have a great day. (probably an old idiom by now) LOL

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

02-08-2004, 09:05 AM

Linda, you'd be by far the coolest person i know (well i dont really know you but i do)

all the animals are house pets split between two households....actually Baeley just split his achilles tendon...poor dear...
Harley and Jack are mine, although when im not at the houses someone else has to take care of them...

Lol i want a chiauah(sp) ....something about small dogs i dunno, theyre kinda cute:) besides im getting sicck of big dogs, i have 2 shepards and a newf....and my mom is probably getting great dane now....not my decision to get any more pets, but its not my money

hope everyone is having a great day!:sunny:

SlightlyGoofy

02-08-2004, 04:19 PM

Depply, you are an awesome person! Some of the comments you make show me what a mature teen you are. I am sure that your parents realize this. Might be the fact that you come from what appears to be a broken but very loving home(s). Seems like a young person like you deserves to have double love anyway. Your last sentence in the last post was such a wise and observant comment. I think you must have wonderful parents who raised you not to be a spoiled brat. If you raise your children up spoiled not only do others not want anything to do with them but you often end up stuck with them for life and you find that you do not want them either. LOL

Thanks for saying I am cool but I know that I am not. Never really been my aim anyway. The only cool about me is the fact that I do not expect nor do I demand that others agree with me about anything. Never demanded that of my children either. I admire cool people though. My daughter had a friend who bought her prom dress at Goodwill for a dollar and I thought that was about as cool as you could get.

Wish you all were here to take away some of my piles of 'stuff' I am getting rid of. Ever watch "Clean Sweep?" I just love those kinds of shows.

Dalton asked me if I could pop him into my pocket for my next trip to DW. I can just see the day I would have planned for him. Up early to make the first Kilamanjaro Safari trip, walk a few of the nature paths and see the wildlife. A surprise visit from the flower lady (forget her name), lunch at the Rain Forest, next to the monkey's. Back to see The Lion King and Tarzan shows and then a quick rest at the Movies, overlooking Andy's room. Over to MGM for The Great Movie Ride with an extended stay in Oz, snack at Starring Roles, catch the new thrill show where Indiana Jones was, dinner at the Sci Fi and a trip over to MK to hold a seat at the train station for the parade and fireworks. Would be a dream day for the both of us. I forgot a stop at Buzz Lightyear though. I drive, he shoots. Is what he told me and I always do what he wants. Anyone who can make as many baskets as he did in yesterdays game is to be obeyed. I have told him that the big famous athletes all buy mansions for their grandmas. LOL

Lisa/Rider - did you see in the Mickey Monitor that we can stop at the EPCOT guest info station, show our AP's and get VIP seats for the Flower Power concerts? I have seen Davy and would not care to see him again but Loving Spoonful is going to be there along with Arlo Guthrie and those I wanna see!! My generation's music.

Back to work, being an adult is such fun!!!

Slightly Goofy/Linda

helenabear

02-08-2004, 06:39 PM

Hi all... had a busy day yesterday. Went out with my friend Dawn and did some wedding shopping for her upcoming wedding. I still need to find myself a dress to wear :o Walking around for 6 hours did get kind of tiresome though!

Trust me Linda, I do know about the saving thing... but I will pay more for some things than others. Like when we took a taxi it was safer than walking and I split it with a few others :) I manage to find good ways to save... and really going down by myself and splitting a room is a very economic way to go for me :)

Thanks for the b-day wishes Depply :) Sounds like you have some wonderful furbabies there!!! I would love to see a picture of them!!! Oh that reminds me, did you ever post a picture of your halloween costume? I was looking forward to seeing that one!!

Now Linda, you know I do not think of you as uncool at all! I am sure your grandson will change him mind on that as he gets older :) And your day you would have planned just shows exactly how cool you are!!!!

depplyinluv

02-08-2004, 08:36 PM

Hi all!:wave:

Linda you crack me up:rotfl: my mom says im the snootiest person there is and my brothers and sis say im the most immature person. I really do thank you for your kind words, i dont hear them very often.:( however i am very spoiled, im not a brat even though my mother says i am very disrespectful and i have disregard for all my items. :rolleyes:
anyways id say thats pretty cool!::yes::

by they way daltons going you'll be having that mansion in no time;)

helenabear:ill post pics of my furbabies as soon as i can...as for the jack sparrow costume...well my mom had a virus on her computer that wiped out all of everything....but i have a whole week off in february so im hoping ill have a mock-halloween day and ill dress up
:teeth:

:wave2:

IASW Rider

02-09-2004, 06:20 PM

Sorry, everyone - I got behind in my posting, as usual! How are you all doing?

Wow - you have quite a menagerie of furbabies, Depply! Well, as I always say - the more the merrier! :) Do the dogs and cats get along with one another? Or do they live in separate homes? It's neat that you get to visit with different groups of them at different times!

Wow - there are a lot of inaccurate adjectives being thrown around the Suite, these days! Linda - you are nothing BUT "cool" and Depply - I can't imagine your being anything remotely resembling "immature", "snooty", or "disrespectful"! I think that everyone around the Suite is pretty darn cool, personally! :)

When is your friend's wedding, Elaine? Are you in the wedding? I haven't been to one in awhile - I need a good wedding to go to, so that we'll have an excuse to get dressed up and to dance! Oh well - there are always those clubs on DCL to look forward to! :)

Before we decide on a dinner time, Linda, let's check the schedule and see what time the EWP will be coming by the Poly in May. We're usually there in June, and it comes by at 9:00 at that time of year, but it might be a little bit earlier in May. We want to be sure to have enough time to have a relaxing dinner and to get down to the dock or the beach at a leisurely pace (as opposed to last year, when Frank and I literally RAN from 'Ohana to the dock, just as the EWP was "pulling up". I threw my pocketbook on one of the poolside tables, and started running down the dock while simultaneously dialing your number on my cell phone! Poor Frank was left in my "wake" to catch up!). I'm sure that they will have the May information by the time I call to make PS's (I don't think that they ever post EWP times on the show and parade schedule), so I'll let you know! We're actually not AP holders, so I wouldn't have gotten the Mickey Monitor!

To answer your question, Elaine, all sorts of horrible things could ultimately result from eating a diet that's too low in carbs. One of them is ketosis, which is a condition involving the body needing to use something other than glucose for its energy. If left too long, it could result in cardiovascular disease, coma, and eventual death. Strangely enough, I read an article about people on the Adkins Diet who actually STRIVE FOR ketosis and test their urine to make sure that they are always in that state! Those tests are actually designed for diabetics, who need to test to ensure that they are NOT in a ketotic state! Very sad! I agree with your opinion that everyone's body metabolizes food differently. It all goes through the same process, but everyone's body handles those functions at different rates, paces, and levels of effectiveness, which is why I think that some diets work better for some than others. (personal opinion, not academic one!)

We had a nice weekend. We co-hosted a 40th Birthday dinner for an old friend with whom we used to work. And we took my father on another little "road trip" - this time to Connecticut to visit with my Aunt and cousin and her kids, whom we call our "niece" and "nephew". Again, I think that it was a nice change of scenery for him and it was nice for him to spend time with relatives whom he doesn't often get to see. My cousin and her kids just returned from WDW, so we got to see all of their pictures........and listen to endless rousing choruses of the IASW song! :) It was really sentimental for me because this is the cousin with whom I shared many of my childhood trips to WDW, and IASW was always our favorite ride. So when she told me that that was the first ride that she took her kids on in the MK (and when they then started singing the song), I got all choked up! :)

Anyway, hope that all is well with all of you and hope that you're having a nice day! Talk to you soon! :)

helenabear

02-09-2004, 07:49 PM

Hi all! Just popping in quickly :)

Depply I am sorry that you lost all those pics on the computer!!! I can't wait to see the furbabies when you can get to them though! And how fun to dress up again in your Halloween costume!

Lisa, that is very scary there... that doesn't sound healthy at all!!!! I have heard of striving for Ketosis with Atkins and I didn't realize what that really meant!!!

I am not *in* the wedding but I am an honor attendant... that way I get in a few of the pics, don't have to buy a dress, get a flower crosage (sp?) and do allt he girly stuff. More or less the last guy they wanted to ask said he didn't want to be a Groomsman and I said no big, I just wanted to be there to help. So I get the best of all worlds :)

Oh and when we were at WDW in May, the EWP was still at 9 PM give or take a few. I don't think that one changes at all except maybe with the fireworks so two things aren't going on at the same time.

SlightlyGoofy

02-10-2004, 08:41 PM

OK, I have decided that I are Coooool! Must be so since I have so many great friends. This bunch here are so special to me. I was in awe before that Rider would think of me while watching EWP but to hear of all the trouble you went to!! I am honored and overwhelmed and have tears running down my face at the thought. Have to admit that I was not one bit offended when my grandson said I was not cool since I understood him to mean that I seem to be always available for him rather than out and about all the time. Is nowhere I would rather be really.

I get so nervous at the thought of meeting you all in person that I fear I am not myself. I still get the shakes over getting to meet Helenabear and am still not over it. I really am a bit shy and do not seem that way at all to most.

Depply, disrespectiful and not properly grateful for all you have? Sounds like a normal teenager to me. LOL Is awful hard to appreciate something you have always had. You have been blessed with a loving (although imperfect) family and cannot know how very special that is unless you have friends who have not been similarly blessed who can tell you of their angst at being torn between pillar and post from parental battles. I am so sorry to hear that your mom's computer was hit. Was it that latest virus. Please check out AVG, it is a free virus program and that and my provider have protected me so far (fingers crossed as well as eyes).

Rider, is a good idea to wait until later to set dates and times in stone. I believe that the times are constant for the EWP although that one time they were running early. I don't like to get rushed either. I am so tickled that I will be able to eat at O'Hana's for the very first time with you and Frank. Even though I have not really spoken with him I can imagine that he is as wonderful as you are as he had the good sense and taste to pick you and the personality to make you choose him. All the Adkins's books I have read encourage you to go into ketosis. I had always wondered about that. I do not think that drastic things work, at least long term. I had a 4.5 pound loss this week. Was over the past three weeks though since we had not had a meeting because of the weather. What wonderful memories you are giving your dad. I take it that he is doing well? I was so glad that I was able to take my mom some places. I come from a poor family so it was very special to be able to buy her a few necessities and special things before she was gone. First thing I bought her was a sewing machine. She had always wanted one. She had modest dreams and it was a pleasure to be able to make some of them come true.

Helenabear, I know that you are not the kind to throw money at the winds Bet you are like me in that you like to save here and there so you can go you know where. LOL One of my friends is going to St. Pete next week to check out a second home in Florida. Her sister already lives there. Is a trailer park for retirees. Only about $16,000 for a decent trailer and you own the land. Only $120 a month for utilities and lawn mowing etc. Heck, I could write a check for that if I were not afraid to leave our house all winter long. Something to think about though. I have a sister who lives in Clearwater so that would be nice. A bit far from Disney though but nearly as far as it is from here. I love your thoughts about the wedding, all of the fun and not much of the work. Works for me!!

Angelina and are chatting about getting together in May also. Maybe I should not pack so much so I can throw her in the back seat on our way over to Disney? If only she were not so useful and then her family might not miss her. Looking forward to walking the streets of Fairhope. If it is half as beautiful as the web site shows it will be a treat.

Still watching for those codes and will call as soon as they come out. I am getting antsy and looking forward to Spring.

SG/Linda

Barefoot girl with cheek and tongue firmly planted therein. LOL

IASW Rider

02-11-2004, 02:11 PM

Hey everyone!

How are you all doing, today?

That's neat that you are "in" your friend's wedding without really being "in" it, Elaine! I'm sure that it will be fun and I'm sure that she appreciates your being involved and being there for her! When is the wedding? Is it coming up very soon? Thanks for the confirmation about the EWP times! I always remember its starting its "run" at 9:00 PM at the Poly - every year since my trips as a child in the 70's! But I didn't know if they had changed anything since then - we haven't been down there in May since 2000! Hopefully we'll have some slightly cooler weather and less rain than we usually do when we're there in June.

You don't have to worry about being "shy" with us, Linda! We'll all be so excited to be at WDW and we'll be surrounded by so much great food that you won't even have time to think of being "shy"! :) Besides, we are pretty easy-going people, and if you don't feel like talking, we'll just ramble on and talk your and Tom's ears off! :) If you've never been to 'Ohana, you're in for a treat! Just don't eat any big meals beforehand........we made that mistake the first time that we went there, and we couldn't believe all of the food that just keeps coming at 'Ohana! They practically had to lift us out of our seats with a crane by the time we were finished with dinner! Now we know better and eat very light meals on the day on which we're planning to go to 'Ohana at night! :) We're looking forward to meeting you both - especially since we'll be meeting at WDW! And I hope that you are able to meet Angie and see Fairhope on your way to WDW (and that you're still considering the possibility of kidnapping her - hee hee!) - can't wait to hear all about it when we see you!

My father seems to be doing all right, thanks for asking. I know that things are more difficult for him than he'll let us see, but at least he's not breaking down, every time that we see him. And I know that he's enjoyed being around people whom he does not usually get to see, these past 2 weekends. Slowly but surely, I think that he'll create a "groove" for himself, and maybe start doing some things for himself. He mentioned the other day that he had bought himself a few new yarmulkes (the skull caps that Jewish men wear in synagogue). I didn't ask him why he did that, since he doesn't regularly go to services or anything. I'm hoping that the reason that he did that is because he's starting to think about becoming involved in some of the activities at his temple - maybe some classes, or something. But I don't want to ask him because I don't want to pressure him to do something that he might not be ready to do - it has to be his own idea and it has to be the right time for him. Still I think that that was a good sign.

Anyway, does anyone have any interesting plans for Valentine's Day / President's Day Weekend? I have a huge, scary exam on Tuesday (in that Nutrition class - lots of chemical formulas and processes to memorize - UGH), so I will be spending a good part of the weekend studying. But Frank and I are going to go out to dinner at our favorite little Italian restaurant on Saturday night, and we are going to go into NYC (we haven't been there since August - I can't believe how time flies!) and spend some time with my friend Gary and his BF on Sunday night. We didn't get to celebrate either of our birthdays together, as we usually do, so we're going to have dinner at our favorite restaurant in his neighborhood, as sort of a belated celebration for both of us. Then it will be back to studying for both Frank and me!

Speaking of which, I'd probably better get going. I have a huge extra credit project for that Nutrition class that I'm going to try to tackle - I'll need all the extra points I can get, since I'm so afraid of the upcoming mid-term! The project involves comparing and contrasting 2 brands each of 5 different types of GI tract medications. It's going to be a big pain. But I guess that I should get started on it, now!

Have a great day, everyone! :)

depplyinluv

02-11-2004, 05:56 PM

Hello everyone!

havent been here in awhile:(

however i have a few pics of my furbabies!!!:teeth:

http://img3.photobucket.com/albums/v13/deppfan1464/striker.jpg

^^that's striker marie, what a good picture taker!

http://img3.photobucket.com/albums/v13/deppfan1464/cat3.jpg

^^ignore jacks mean look, hes a sweetheart! i tried to get a pic of his bunny tail but hes a little self concious about it;)

Rider: at my dads house we have 2 shepards....and the rest is at my moms which is 2x smaller than my dads house....glad you dad is doing ok.....good lucky w/ the big exam!!!!!

Helenabear;thats awesome you're in the wedding w/o well being in the wedding, kinda funny actually:D

linda: trust me, you're cool:smooth: and i feel the same way if i am ever going to meet people from the DIS that i know....very shy person!...my mom doesnt even know how good she has it with me, im not as bad as most teenage girls, she just says that:) im not sure what the virus was, but she downloaded some thing that got rid of it....so all is well:sunny:

so is anyone going to WDW in april???? christmas???? thats when i think my next trips are ....definately the april one::yes::

hope everyone is well!:wave2:

depply

SlightlyGoofy

02-12-2004, 10:02 AM

What better way to start the day than coming by the Suite to see the sun come up? Disney is a whole different world once you overcome the commando fever. LOL

Rider, never fear, I am unable to eat more than one large meal a day in any circumstances. I have never really been a huge eater. Hard to believe as I got so darned big but it is true. I went from working two jobs to being married and buried in the country with no transportation and just got so darned bored and was so poor that fried potatoes was my main food for years. Could not even get any books from the library. Was a very hard six years. Sat in the middle of the living room floor sucking my thumb and thinking of jumping off cliffs until I got the guts to stand up and scream "Get me the **** out of here, or else!!!!" The first day in this town found me at the library and I have missed few days since. Now am planning on moving on up to an even larger town. I may live like a hick but I got the soul of a city girl. LOL I love the sound of sirens much more than crickets. I do know what a yarmulke is. Probably would not have spelled it right though. Television does for the masses what books do for the readers, it expands our horizons and shows us different cultures. Is a useful medium for that in spite of occasionally showing us someone's body parts. Ho hum, Janet is only guilty of a misdemeanor anyway. Now, if it had been Pamela Anderson THAT would have been a felony. (evil grin) I am so proud of your dad cause I can imagine how hard it is for him to have his entire life changed so drastically. Having a loving family is a cure for most everything. We already had our Valentine's celebration when I took Tom to Indy for a movie and dinner. I like to avoid crowds when possible and also think it is nice of us who can arrange our lives differently to stay out of the way of those who have to do things on a schedule. Is the project on the medications such as Prilosec etc? If so I am most interested in your conclusions. I have severe acid reflux from time to time and have found nothing that works. Am considering a new surgical option. I need something I can take after an attack happens rather than something I take day after day as I also go months between attacks at times and then have them every day for weeks. No correlation between when I do and don't though.

Depply, the Haunted Mansion movie is hitting our second run theater this weekend. I hope to be able to take the grands to see it. I loved the pictures of your fur babies. I think I even recognize one as being a tortiseshell. I have a book on cats that the kids have been reading. Four Fierce Kittens. One little girl met me yesterday with a wrapped box. She had made me a beautiful Valentine's box. I have not had one of those in 45 years. I was touched. It is on my coffee table and will remain there for a period of time just in case she decides to come by and check. LOL I understand about your mom not knowing how good she has it. We never appreciate what we have until things change. My father used to scream and yell at all of us older girls and we all were honor students and never had a date or anything. Church and school were all we did. The younger girls came along and taught him a lesson he never forgot. Grateful I were one of the older ones though as the younger ones are paying dearly for their evil ways. Breaks my heart. Not one of my siblings have an IQ under 140 but some live in dire circumstances. I don't blame Jack for looking a bit put out. I would be too if you were trying to take a picture of my behind. (grin)

Have to get ready for Tom to wake up, fix his breakfast and get him to bowling. I drive him in so I can go walking. The scales were up 3 pounds this morning and I drank my water, ate the right amount of calories and got all my mileage in. I hate it when I am not rewarded for being good. Will try to walk twice as much today and drink an extra quart of water and see if that flushes it away. I cannot have a gain next week. I am on a roll.

Linda/SG

SlightlyGoofy

02-12-2004, 10:16 PM

Hello everyone!

I am bumping this up so that a friend, Colleen, a fellow Hoosier can find us and possibly join our merry band.

Holding the door open so that she can join us in watching our own private fireworks and enjoy a relaxing evening in the hot tub while being waited on hand and foot by our fellows. LOL

Slightly Goofy/Linda

SlightlyGoofy

02-12-2004, 10:28 PM

Depply, I forgot to tell you something. I sure could have used you in trivia tonight. The question was what 80's tv series had Johhny Depp catching the bad guys? Bet you know the answer to that. Was not a show I had ever watched but once they said it I knew. Shucks, darn. I are a loser, tonight. LOL

Also wanted to let everyone know that I found the WDW Explorer computer cd on sale at our Big Lots for $5.99. Only had two left. Now there are none left. LOL

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

02-14-2004, 03:50 PM

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to stop in and wish you all a very Happy Valentine's Day! :)

Loved the photos of your kitties, Depply - they are just adorable! Keep those pictures coming! :)

I hope that your friend is able to join us, here in the Suite, Linda! Loved your post, as always. And I can forward my project to you.....though I don't know how helpful it would be - it gives price and active ingredient comparisons, but I'm not in a position to judge which medications are safer or more effective (therefore I'm not sure exactly what the professor expected from these projects)!

Sorry that this is so short - will post again, soon, when I can really respond to everyone - just taking a study break, now and wanted to say Happy Valentine's Day!

Have a great weekend, Everyone! :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-15-2004, 08:21 PM

Dear Rider, I bet you and Frank had a blast over the weekend. Don't worry about the report. I was just hoping for info on which one would work AFTER an attack started. I keep a jar of SF cough drops near my side of the bed and sometimes that can stave off an attack but otherwise I sleep, sitting in my granny chair. The granny chair is a disreputable but very comfy chair that is so deep that I cannot fall out of it even if I am sleeping. My next door neighbors made me a wonderful foot stool, perfect size, so I can be as comfortable as possible under the circumstances. The chair has a pillow that says "Grandchildren spoiled here". LOL Many children have cuddled up with me in that chair and that is where I have taught all my grands to read. I am going to buy a cover for it as I could never part with it. (grin) That is me, comfort over style!!! (smile)

No codes yet, gotta be coming soon though. See where tickets are expected to increase but we already have our AP's so we are covered there.

I fixed a rather good meal tonight and sent you the recipe. Not sure that it would be useful as it was low carb but it did taste good. Not sure what I will do if I have to start worrying about cholesterol and such.

If anybody has any suggestions for low cal/low carb options for chocolate I am desperate. I drink hot cocoa from time to time but it is just not the same.

I am pretty sure that chocolate eaten at Disney World, during a holiday, after a walk around the World Showcase and during Illuminations is calorie free. At least it should be. GRINZ

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

02-16-2004, 09:33 PM

Linda: maybe you could make some chocolat things.....dont know how you'd make them low-carb, but if you use splenda it will be low calorie! lol i dont really know what to tell you except there is this specialty low-carb shop in manchester and nashua up by me....ill try to get the name for you!

haha im sorry i would have gladly told you 21 jump street! though ive never seen it, i know everything johnny depp did
:)
i dont think striker is tortiseshell i mean he could be but im pretty sure hes 100% mutt, nothing wrong withthat! when we got jack at the shelter they labeled him mutt but this was before american bobtails becames known....and he is one i swear, all the traits, the physical features...hes so cute:)

thats so touching what that little girl did for you, do you know her? i once made a valentines card for the elderly(couldnt think of another word) couple next door who gave us veggies and fresh fruit from their garden, they loved it.

I hope your friend joins us!!!!::yes:: and dont anyone worry, ill get that pic of jacks butt yet! :wave2:

SlightlyGoofy

02-16-2004, 10:06 PM

LOL Depply, I knew you would know the name of the show even though you are far too young to have ever watched it. I was too old. (grin)

I drug out an old chocolate recipe I used to make on WW. You take one can of pumpkin, not pie mix, add one small box of SF/FF dark chocolate instant pudding mix, one cup of milk and mix well. Makes sort of a heavy mousse and it not bad on calories and is full of fiber because of the pumpkin. I add about a half a tub of FF Cool Whip to make it fluffier and it is about 100 calories per cup. I use Splenda for everything but it cannot help with the carbs, just the sugar.

The girl who made me the Valentine's box is one of my reading students. I show up and whomever is interested in reading comes down to the room. I have several that come every week but the sad fact is that the ones who need the help most don't come. I make a little headway here and there. There is an older boy who comes in to visit and he always had a big book in his hand but I can tell that he cannot read it. Am hoping that he will feel comfortable with me one day and ask for help. I had trouble reading in the first grade and make sure to let the kids know that so they are not so afraid. They need confidence before they can read well. Not unlike riding a bike, you have to keep on trying until you can soar!!

I will take your word for what your fur babies are. I am no expert at all. Loved is what they are and no doubt at all about that!! LOL

Went walking in the mall and went a bit later than I usually do. Was very sad to see so many kids just wandering around with nothing to do. All sorts of trouble happens that way IMHO. Nothing wrong with going to the mall sometimes but it seemed like a lot of them were just sort of dumped off there until their parents got off work and were there every single day. Maybe you have a different view Depply and will educate me? I am sure that there is more than one story told there. I was the at home mom for my kids and their friends and loved having them hang out here, tried to stay in the background so as not to embarrass my kids though. (grin) Am still friends with several of them. Had to laugh when my daughter once said to me that our house was boring and that there was nothing to do. We had a pool table, large screen tv when no one had one, a computer when few had one of those also and other assorted lures to keep the youth entertained and interested in hanging around here so I knew where 'my' kids were. I am one tricky lady.

Wonderful warm weather here and more expected the end of the week. Maybe I will be able to go walking outside for a change. You would think that walking would firm me up but it does not seem to be doing so. Have to soak for a bit afterward so I quit aching so much. Please enjoy your youth while you can, one day you will miss it. LOL

Slightly Goofy/Linda

Colleen? If you drop by while I am out, I will be right back. Grab a chair on the veranda and tell the guys what you would like to have to drink. Check out the view of the lagoon and our own private water parade and fireworks.

helenabear

02-16-2004, 10:59 PM

Hi all, checking in quickly before I head to bed!!!

I had a busy week and we have been doing things aroudn the house. Today we decided to buy a new bed. We need more space with the furbabies sleeping with us ;)

Lisa, the wedding will be the last weekend of June. It will be a weekend wedding so I will be there the whole time. It shoudl be fun though. I am glad to hear that your dad is doing better... I am sure with time he will improve even more!

Depply your furbabies are absolutely adorable!!! Thanks so much for sharing those pics!!!

Linda, I do hope your friend is able to find the thread. Have ou been able e-mail her with the link or anything like that? I will ask a few friends if they have any good low carb/low cal chocolate options for you. I know many doing that type and they have all tried the best and the worst of it, lol!

Welll I should rush off to bed... I will check in later :)

IASW Rider

02-17-2004, 03:52 PM

Hey Everyone!

How are you all doing? How were your Valentine's Days / long weekends?

I did get your recipes, Linda - thanks so much for sending them! They look great! Will have to make a little substitution, though, if I try the chicken recipe, since Frank doesn't like swiss cheese. :( But I think that it might work with another type of cheese! :) Hmmmm.......low carb chocolate??? Maybe if you have a health food store (or something similar like a GNC) near your home, they might have some products or suggestions? I haven't really looked, but there may even be some new products out in the Supermarkets. Doesn't Whoopi Goldberg now advertise all kinds of new, flavored low-carb SlimFast bars (if you would be interested in that sort of thing)? Will look further into the medication issue - now that I understand more about what some of the ingredients in those products actually DO, I might be able to determine better which one would be the most effective and safe.........

I managed to survive my exam, this morning, and managed to be able to delineate between glucose, glucagon, glucogenesis, glucolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen, glycolysis, glycogenesis, glyconeogenesis, and glycerol! (Did I really say that I WANTED to study nutrition??? :) ). Now I have a few hours off before my double-period night class.

Will start making PS's this week, since we're now (finally!) at "90 days out"! Will try for 6:30 PM at 'Ohana on 5/16, Linda - that should give us enough time to leisurely dine and then make our way out to get good seats for the EWP! :)

Did you actually buy your new bed, yet, Elaine? Or are you shopping around for one? I wish that we could let our furbabies sleep with us.......but since some of them are afraid of the others, they would probably keep us up all night, hissing, growling, and jumping over us and eachother! Besides, 2 adults and 5 cats in one bed might be a little too crowded! :) That's neat that your friend's wedding will be a weekend wedding in June - I always liked weddings that "lasted" a whole weekend - it's always fun to have some more time to celebrate with everyone! I just found out today that a friend of mine from college (ie: college "the first time around", that is! :) ) got engaged on Valentine's Day (which is also her birthday!). She and her fiance run the Long Island (NY) Lighthouse Society and they are going to get married at the Lighthouse on Fire Island, in September of 2005! That is going to be so beautiful! And we are excited because we've never been up to Fire Island before. The weather should still be warm and summer-like, then, and we can make a little "weekend getaway" of the trip, too! I'm very happy for my friend - she and her fiance have been together for 7 years!

How are you doing, Depply? YOU'VE NEVER SEEN "21 JUMP STREET"????!!!! I can't believe it! Maybe it will become available on DVD soon (as many other TV shows of that era are, now), so that you can have the entire series!

Our Valentine's Day was very nice! We had dinner at our favorite little Italian restaurant, which was very nice. And then we had our 2-night "Champagne-Fest" on Friday and Saturday nights, as well! We went into NYC on Sunday night to belatedly celebrate my birthday with our friends Gary and Stephen, which was a lot of fun. It was FREEZING in the City, that night, but they took us out to a very nice dinner and we had a lot of laughs.

Hi out there, Angie and Wendy!

Well, time to get some exercise before it's time to go back to school! Have a great day, Everyone! :)

colleen costello

02-17-2004, 04:19 PM

Hello ladies! I am Colleen and Linda (Slightly Goofy) graciously invited me to join you. I am a 39-year old Mom and PTO prez from Ellettsville, Indiana. Born and raised in New Jersey and still proudly carrying my accent after 17 years in Indiana! :)

I grew up going to WDW. My family had a crummy little travel trailer and we went to Ft. Wilderness just about every summer. My first trip was in 1972; I was 8. My Mom was (is!) a Disney nut. We spend every Spring Break with my parents at WDW. I will leave in a few weeks for Old Key West.

My husband works at Indiana University as a director/tech supervisor for the business school placement office. I was a social worker for the elderly before my 2nd child was born. My daughter Erin is 9 and in 3rd grade and my son, Ian, is almost 6. He is in afternoon kindergarten.

I volunteer at our school a lot and I enjoy reading. I am a big news fan; like to know what's going on in the world. We are cat lovers and have two kitties, Oliver and Oscar. We enjoy hanging out a lot as a family and do a lot of cheesy, kid-oriented activities with our local geeky friends. I often say I am really blessed to have such a dull life!

Thank you for inviting me to join you here. I hope I can find my way back!

Colleen

SlightlyGoofy

02-17-2004, 08:11 PM

Colleen! You found your way over here. Not sure if I am proudest of you for getting here or me figuring out how to direct you here. LOL This thread was started over two years ago when a few of us answered a thread about the EWP, before long we were chatting away and then the powers that be decided that we were way off theme and banished us to the Community Board. Being the ornery people that we are we decided to make the best of the situation and had our own private suite built on the lagoon. It is furnished in the most elegant manner and has every luxury that you can imagine. The best is the open ended Disney credit card that you can use to fulfill your every Disney Wish. We have our own private staff to look after us, Bodacious and Don Juan being two of our 'fellers'.

I enjoyed your posting and am thrilled to learn even more about you. We have much in common as I do a lot of volunteer work in the local schools. My passion is teaching children to read and love books. I worked, gratis, for two years in our local elementary school and am now volunteering at the after school program that my youngest grandson attends.

Ellettsville is a suburb of Bloomington, IN, the home of Indiana University. (for the other members information). It is a great place to raise kids as it is an educational dream. So many different cultures and a lot of activities for little or no money. My neice is being raised there and she speaks 4 languages, plays piano and violin and participates in many sports. My bil is a substitute teacher for the school systems down there, he is retired from the AF.

Rider, another Jersey girl, I have the time down for our dinner date. If you need to change just let me know, I am adjustable. LOL The problem with those Slim Fast bars and the like is that they are so darned high in calories and seriously lacking in taste. The Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse damped my cravings. Thank you for the offer though, you have plenty enough to do already.

"delineate between glucose, glucagon, glucogenesis, glucolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen, glycolysis, glycogenesis, glyconeogenesis, and glycerol!" I just love being around people who can throw such words around let alone spell them all. Heck, I was reading up on Quantum Physics (not kidding) this afternoon and it was easier to understand than all of that. I am so impressed.

Getting married at a lighthouse? It sounds so lovely. I like the fact that people are waiting longer to get married (as long as there is no pitter patter of little feet around). Marriage should be harder for everyone. It is the most serious decision anyone will ever make IMHO. Can't wait to see the pictures. I KNOW there will be pictures. (giggle) What kind of exercise do you do? I am going out to sign up for an exercise club. I need more than walking to do. My legs are getting worse not better. How can a person lose so much weight and keep their BMI so very high? (sigh)

Had to do a shop tonight and I just ate the salad and took the rest home for tomorrow. Was not hungry so I did not eat. Interesting concept. I am a slow learner. LOL

Helenabear, make sure you try out the mattress. Don't be shy as you will have 8 hours or so a day to regret it if you do not. I hate our mattress topped mattress. If I ever get the chance I will switch it with our old one upstairs. LOL Might want to take your furbabies along and let them make the decision as I have a feeling that they rule the roost at your home. (grin) I am so spoiled with our king sized bed that I cannot abide a smaller bed anywhere.

Depply, bet you are out hunting down those 21 Jump Street videos right now. You are obsessive as a person your age should be. (grin)

Angelina, have you started thinking about what to pack when Tom and kidnap you and carry to to meet Rider? LOL

I will let you all introduce yourselves to Colleen. You would blush too much if I performed the introductions.

Headed to get some work done since I was gone all day long and will be with the kids tomorrow. Have some new books for them. They like that!!

Slightly Goofy/Linda

IASW Rider

02-18-2004, 07:23 PM

Welcome, Colleen! Thanks for stopping by to join us - nice to "meet" you! :)

My name is Lisa and I am also a native (and current resident) of NJ. Whereabouts are you originally from? We live in Central NJ, in Somerset, not far from New Brunswick. I grew up about 5 miles away, in Edison.

I'm also a life-long WDW fan - you can see my "history" in my signature! I visited with my family several times as a child, a few times in between, and then every year for the past 5 years with my husband (who proposed to me there in 2001, just after the EWP Suite was "born"!). We'll be heading back down there for a combination land / sea vacation at POR and the DCL Wonder in exactly 88 days! :)

I'm a 37 year old full-time Nutrition student at Rutgers University. I decided to go back to school this year in the hopes of making a career change. Since graduating from college in 1988, I worked in the field of Financial Services and held many different positions at Merrill Lynch. My husband still works there, in the Finance department of Merrill Lynch Trust Services. We do not have children, but we do have 5 cats - Shirley, Boo Boo Kitty, The Big Ragoo, Tasha, and Ashley!

So that's me! :) Glad that you could join us! :)

Hi Linda! Great to hear from you, as always! That mousse recipe sounds amazing - YUM! :) And yes, I will definitely take pictures at our friends' wedding at the Lighthouse. It's still a year and a half away, and I'm already excited about it! But I will definitely take lots of photos, as always! :)

I'm still doing the same sort of exercise that I always did - just using aerobics video tapes every day and using free weights for my upper body, every other day. And I get some good walking in, running between classes on campus, too. But that's all - I haven't belonged to a gym or health club in years. I prefer to "do my own thing" in the privacy of my own home, at whatever time turns out to be convenient, on a given day. That winds up working better for me than having to go somewhere else to work out.

Thanks for saying that you're impressed by my list of "words that begin with the letters 'g' and 'l' "! It's all very confusing, but sometimes if I say them out loud or write them down, they seem to make more sense! I hope that I did decently on that exam - I think that I did all right - then again, I thought that I'd aced an exam that I took last week.......and wound up getting a "B" on it (very strange - my numeric score was an 87, but for some reason, the professor considers that a "B" and not a "B+"!). Oh well - better luck next time!

Well, time to start doing something about dinner, now. Hope that all is well with all of you! Have a good night! :)

IASW Rider

02-19-2004, 07:18 PM

Ooooh - I'm so excited - my friend who got engaged on Valentine's Day (and will be getting married at the Fire Island Lighthouse) just asked me to be her Matron of Honor! I've never been anyone's Maid / Matron of Honor before! I'm very touched! :)

Hope that you're all having a great day!

P.S. There's a little feature about 'Ohana in the latest edition of Disney Magazine (if you get it), Linda!

SlightlyGoofy

02-19-2004, 07:40 PM

Two "Joisey" girls in the same place. Nothing but good can come from that! LOL

Rider,when I was in college I used to type pages and pages of my lessons to imprint it upon my brain better. I enjoy typing, as you can tell from my humongous posts. I think a B in a hard subject is a whole lot better than an A in an easy one. If your professor is the reasonable type you might point out to him/her that your points added up to a higher grade. It would show them how seriously you take your courses and your work also. Just a thought.

I read the article in the magazine. I am looking forward to O'Hana's. Plan to eat them out of house and home on the shrimps. Have never gained an ounce at DW so I don't diet while there, just avoid the bakeries. Well, almost all of them. We enjoy going over to Boardwalk one evening and get a treat there and sit and watch the world go by. Is it possible to see the EWP from there?

The mousse recipe is actually very healthy when you consider the base is pumpkin. Lots of vitamin A in there too. I have a lot of recipes that use pumpkin as a base. I made Mockaroni and Cheese yesterday. You use grated cauliflower instead of pasta. Needs a bit of tweaking but was not bad, not the same as mac and cheese though. (sigh)

I have been getting in 4-5 miles of walking a day. That is a lot for me. Is good exercise and I am getting in training for those 6-7 miles a day the average person walks at the parks. I enjoy walking. I use the time to settle my mind and think. Would think I would be a lot smarter wouldn't ya? (grin) Getting ready to play trivia in a bit and we will see if I managed to shake some brain cells into activity today.

Matron of honor? I have a hard time thinking of you being old enough to be a matron. LOL I guess you are all grown up now. Hope your dress is something that could actually wear again sometime. Maybe it will be a black and white wedding? LOL Are they getting married inside the lighthouse or outside? I never think of them being large enough to hold many people. I saw a show where some people had made a home out of a lighthouse with one room on each level. You would not have to worry about a weight problem in such a house and think of the view?

I can't wait to see who is going to be appearing at the concerts while we are there. I love those Flower Power concerts. I get to see groups that I did not get to see when I was young. Amazing at how old they all got. (great big old grin)

See you ladies later, I have to go read my Funk & Wagnall's in preparation for tonight's game. It is amazing what you know sometimes and even more amazing at what you don't know. (sigh) This is such a great year as I am getting to meet so many of my cyber friends (DIS and trivia).

Slightly Goofy/Linda

IASW Rider

02-21-2004, 02:14 PM

Hi Linda!

How did your Trivia game go, the other night?

I think it's fantastic that you're getting so much walking in! Gotta get ready for all that walking that you'll be doing in WDW in just a little less than 3 months! :) I made our 'Ohana PS, yesterday - 6:30 PM on 5/16. If that doesn't wind up working out for you and Tom, I can always change it beforehand, but I at least wanted to make our preliminary plans! :)

Unfortunately, you can't see the EWP from Boardwalk - it only "performs" on the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. So it can only be seen from the Poly, the Grand Floridian, the Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, and the MK. I can't believe that we're going to see it together in 85 days! :)

That "Mockaroni and cheese" sounds neat! What sort of cheese do you use with it? I'll have to try that, some time!

I'm pretty sure that our friends are getting married outside the lighthouse. Apparently there's a boat that will bring everyone from the mainland to the lighthouse for the ceremony, then everyone will get back on the boat and the reception brunch will be on it. (I wonder if the boat is actually going to be MOVING during the reception? Hmmmm........I'd better find that out so that I'll know whether to bring motion sickness medication with me.......it wouldn't do for the Matron of Honor to be getting sick, over the side of the boat, during the reception! :) ) I'm sure that it will be very nice! And my friend is going to let me pick my own dress to wear, so it will definitely be something that I could wear again!

Well, time to get some work done around here! Hope that you're all having a nice weekend! :)

colleen costello

02-21-2004, 05:37 PM

HI ladies. Lisa, I grew up in Bayonne. Lots of relatives still there, although most have moved "out" to Whitehouse, Chatham, Bedminster, Pennsylvania. I love visiting "East" every summer because we eat A LOT and go to the Jersey Shore. The pizza at Point Pleasant is worth the 12-hour trrip from Indiana. :)

I was about to ask you all what "EWP" stood for. Why is the group named after it? I LOVE that thing. Every time we visit WDW, we spend our last night at the Polynesian. We eat dinner, watch the EWP, and ride the monorail. It's a tradition! It's neat for me that my kids are doing something I did in the 1970's, and it really hasn't changed much!

IASW Rider

02-25-2004, 02:03 PM

Hi Colleen!

Welcome back - thanks for coming back to see us! :)

That's so funny that you mentioned the pizza in Point Pleasant - we love that, too! That's a great Boardwalk, and it's relatively easy for us to get to (as opposed to the 2 hour drive to Atlantic City or Ocean City)! We spent a great day there, last summer - I remember sending Linda pictures and showing her the actual palm trees on the beach, near the Tiki Bar! :) And I definitely know Bayonne, Whitehouse, Chatham, Bedminster - we live in Somerset County and have a bunch of friends who live in Hunterdon County (that's a neat place to visit, too - the outlets in Flemington........and all the vineyards where we go wine tasting! :) )

I've also been a fan of the EWP since the 1970's and I also think it's neat that it still runs every night on Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon! I remember the first time that I saw it - from our balcony at the Contemporary in 1975. I was 8 years old and my Mom, cousin, and I had already gone to sleep.........then we heard this weird music coming from outside........so my mother ran to the sliding glass door to see what it was and said "you have to get up and see this!" So we all went out on the balcony to watch........and I've been "hooked" ever since! :) We usually stay in the Poly, so we're sure to see it as many nights as we can, when we're in WDW. This year, we're staying at POR for the first time, but we are going to be sure to see the EWP on our first night there! :) We named this thread after the EWP because our little group first came together as the result of Linda asking a question about the EWP schedule on another thread in May, 2001. We've all "been together" in the "Suite" ever since, and are so happy that you've come to join us! :)

Hope that all is well with all of you! Have a great day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-25-2004, 04:06 PM

I was so tickled last night when watching Millionaire cause the half million dollar question was one I knew and the reason was that I had just read about it that afternoon. It was in the best book I have read in a long time, Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything". Any book that can explain quantum physics in terms that I can understand is well worth reading. LOL

Rider, I have our date set on the calendar. Am expecting the codes any day since I see Florida and Disney card discounts popping up. I will call the day they come up. Am going to Ohio for the weekend to say goodbye to my dear friend. I will send you the site for her auction. You might like to see some of her work. The Mockaroni and Cheese is better when heated up, is a better consistancy IMHO. I love sharp cheese and since you get more bang from it I use it most of the time. I only used half the cheese when baking and then added the rest toward the end as you can get away with using less that way. Such a brave bride to choose an outdoors wedding. I would be terrified. I am scared because I have tickets to see "The Lion King" in a couple of weeks and am afraid of the weather and that is only a couple of hundred of dollars and no emotional damage (well, maybe a bit) if something did happen. LOL Can't wait to see the dress you pick out and counting the days until we meet.

Colleen, sounds as if you and Lisa have many things in common. I was so tickled to see palm trees in New Jersey. You all teach me so much about the world. Have much more to learn so keep 'em coming!! I rode the monorail for the first time on our last trip but am going to do it again and for longer this trip. It is an awesome sight. Stop by whenever you get a chance. We are a laid back bunch. Hope Angelina comes by soon as she has children also. She sent a picture of herself and she is a Southern Belle of the first order. I am hoping to meet her soon also. Maybe one day we can get together. Should not be so hard for us as we are not far from each other. LOL

I got my bill for my Internet service the other day and I called this morning and got it reduced from $232.97 to $166.95, a savings of $66.07. It was simple, I just asked and mentioned that AOL had an offer for $15 a month. Wonder if it is this easy with other providers. I do not like to spend more than I have to and that savings is enough for an extra day at the All Stars! I have my priorities ya know. LOL

Have to run as it is time for me to go read with the kids. Not sure who enjoys it more. Might be me?

Slightly Goofy/Linda

colleen costello

02-26-2004, 10:43 AM

Outlet shopping in FLemington is a GREAT thing. Girls, if you ever get to Jersey you HAVE to do this. There are great outlet stores --Corning, etc -- plus lots of great little gift shops and craft stores. Last summer we went to WDW for a few days, then to Disney's Hilton Head resort for 3 nights, then home to my parents and a visit to the Jersey shore. I was in HEAVEN! Unfortunately I returned to Indiana chubbier than ever... one downside to a 3-week vacation! :)

The weather here has turned very nice. I always hope and pray for nice March weather because we drive to WDW. I leave two weeks from today for Old Key West. Can't WAIT! I also managed to book the Poly for early June. Scott has a conference June 1-4 and we are staying at the Poly, then going ot the Wilderness Lodge Villas for 6 more nights. I haven't had such a LONG trip to WDW in a LONG time... Gotta love those annual passes -- couldn't bear to "waste" them as they expire late June! :) When I called my Mom to tell her about the Poly (and the great Visa rate) she got so jealous she decided to join us! So we will have two rooms there and I am thrilled. I will never adjust to being so far from my parents, and every trip we plan together is extra special. I have grown to love Indiana, and feel the slower pace of life is great for raising my children, but I am a Jersey girl at heart and will never be happy about being so far from my Mom and Dad... So 5 nights at the Poly in June with my Mom, a certified Disney NUT, will be a real treat! :) Still working on Dad to join us...

Every day the kids and I talk about "what we'll do in WDW in 14 days." Erin mostly talks about swimming, and Ian's favorite is boating on Bay Lake. Scott just rolls his eyes. Bless his heart, he's had too much Mickey this year! The other day, he said we needed a "mouse hiatus" or something like that, and I told him he could have one of those after my funeral! HIS job, I remind him, is to agree to all my Disney plans and drive me safely to and from Florida!

xoxo

SlightlyGoofy

02-26-2004, 01:05 PM

Coleen, while I am so happy for you that you are going to be at DW for two trips in the near future I am a tiny bit sad that either trip will be before or after Rider and I will be there. At the rate we all go we may meet up there one of these days though.

My husband likes to go to DW. Not sure he enjoys it as much as I do as his passion is being anywhere but home and eating out. It disturbs me when I find him looking at the floor instead of the show or ride but try not to let it ruin my fun. LOL

I have been lucky enough to be at DW with my grandsons twice but doubt it will occur again unless they grow up and earn large salaries and take me along sometime. My little one refused to go to AK and insisted on staying at the Movies, playing on the playground and visiting Andy's room and taking a driving tour of the AS resorts and checking out the icons. Hey, he was happy and that is all I cared about. He loved Legoland and wanted to move in there. Has a McD's next door and is every three year olds dream. LOL

Having your mom and dad there for a visit but having your parents there to watch over the kids while you and your dh have an evening out on the town will be wonderful for you all. The grandparents and grandkids get to have some time together also and I bet your parents would rather spend the evening doing that than running around all over the place too. LOL

I don't mind the AS one bit but if I were wealthy beyond measure I would choose OKW as my resort of choice. We used to stay at the Studios where the military stay when we had our kids with us. Having two rooms and a mini kitchen was a necessity to our sanity, all of us. (grin) Tom and I are up and out of the room early and do not return until late so we are fine in a plain room now. We usually stay ten or more days.

I hope the weather holds as well. Would be perfect if it were great going down and back and a bit bad in between so you could have the satisfaction of knowing that you were enjoying warmer weather than your fellow NJ ites.

My Dalton managed to get all the "N"'s (needs improvement) off his report card. He does very well academically but has sosme behavior problems related to being too darned smart for his own good. LOL He corrected his teacher's spelling one day. Unfortunately, I know where he comes by that trait. (hiding my shame) Luckily his teacher used to be my next door neighbor so she understands that the poor child cannot help it and cuts him some slack.

Had a great day with the kids at the program. I was able to read with four students and most of them stayed behind to read to themselves afterward. It is the love of reading that I hope to impart other than just the ability to do so. Makes my heart sing.

I am cleaning house and packing for our weekend trip today while Tom goes bowling. Hoping to get it all done in time to get some time to clean my computer desk. It looks like Vesuvius.

Your Slightly Goofy friend, Linda

IASW Rider

02-26-2004, 07:04 PM

Hey Everyone!

Hi Linda!

Thanks for sending over those links - the lamp that you're interested in is beautiful! In fact, all of Thelma's stained glass lamps are gorgeous! I always loved lamps and chandeliers like those. My father has a beautiful Tiffany chandelier hanging in his dining room.........and we have a pretty good "fake" version, hanging in ours! :) I hope that you have a nice trip, this weekend! And so glad that our date is set for 'Ohana, too! I'm not surprised at all that you got that half million dollar question on "Millionaire" correct - after all, you ARE a Disney-MGM Studios "Millionaire"-Hot-Seat-Star! :) Sorry to hear about Dalton's report card, but you're right - he's probably just too smart and so his frustration about perhaps being ahead of his classmates might be coming out in some of his behaviors. It's good that his teacher sees that he's intellectually advanced and that that probably accounts for his actions. I'm sure that it's nothing to worry about and that his next marks will reflect the improvements! And it's so great that your reading students are so motivated - it sounds like you have a great bunch, there!

To answer your questions, I am hoping to take some classes this summer in preparation for hopefully applying to the School of Public Planning and Policy in the fall. There are a few pre-requisite classes that I need to complete in order to apply, so I'm hoping to "get those out of the way" over the summer. I haven't done anything about a job search - I'm just so preoccupied with figuring out what the heck I'm doing with my life - and probably some other stuff that I can't identify - that I haven't been able to concentrate on job searching. I have, however, joined a Nutrition Advocates program on campus. Even though the rest of the group members are 16 - 18 years younger than I am (?!?!), I figure that getting some practice presenting nutrition education seminars on campus would be a good experience for me, and would be something field-related to stick on my resume. I'll figure it all out, one of these years! :)

Hi Colleen!

That's so wonderful that your next WDW trip is coming up so soon.......and that you have another one planned so soon after that! As Linda said, so sorry that we will both be down there right in between your 2 trips! But you and your family will be at the Poly during my DH's and my "traditional week" there - we've stayed at the Poly during the 1st week of June for the past 4 years! He proposed to me there on 6/3/01, we started our honeymoon there on 6/3/02, and we celebrated our first wedding anniversary there on 6/2/03! :) We're "breaking tradition" and going to POR / DCL in May this year, because that fits in best with our respective school terms. Anyway, I know that you and your family will have a fantastic time on both trips! And that's so neat that your Mom and hopefully your Dad will be joining you all on the latter trip! You are all going to have such a great time! And I hope that the weather holds out for your drive, as well! With the exception of one day of snow showers, it's been relatively warm and clear here, for the past few days, too - and they're predicting that the temperatures might be in the 60's, this weekend - yea!!!! :)

So neat that you're familiar with the Flemington outlets and stores - and of course with the Point Pleasant Boardwalk........Jenkinson's........Martell's..... ......! Here are some pictures that may bring back the memories of summer and get you looking forward to your next visit to the Garden State:

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/lisaruthb5/album?.dir=/Point+Pleasant+Beach+-+August+14+2003&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/lisaruthb5

(so sorry for the long link! And so sorry to bore you with these again, Linda, as you've already seen them!)

Speaking of Flemington, have you ever visited New Hope, PA? That's another neat place for shopping and dining! And I'm sure that you're familiar with the annual Balloon Festival at the Readington Airport, too? :)

Well, time to get some work done before Frank comes home! Hope that all is well with all of you and hope that you're all having a good night! :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-26-2004, 07:26 PM

Hi there Rider!

I must have not stated it correctly but Dalton got the equivalant of a straight A report card. He always gets A's on his academics but has some problems with sitting still and being as mannerly as he might be. Nothing big, just little things cause he is ornery, like his grandma., LOL I had explained to him that the "N's for Needs Improvement" were just a way of his teacher telling him what he needed to work on and he took it to heart and worked at them. He does not like getting less than the best and sometimes gets down on himself. If he does not make a basket or something he will say "I stink", so I am working on him to have more confidence and learn that mistakes are opportunities and not failures. I explain to all the kids that the only way to not make a mistake is to do nothing and that is the biggest mistake of all. LOL

Are you considering a public service career? If so, I would vote for you. There is much need of people with your skills in that area and you could go far.

I am never bored by your pictures. I truly enjoy learning how others live and where they do so. I have learned so much that I did not know about New Jersey from you and am sure that I will learn even more from Colleen although it sounds as if you both are wise in the same areas. In your classes have you ever studied something called agoraphobia? I have a moderate case and it is awfully hard on me to do different things so I travel a lot by television and now the Internet. I visited the Great Wall of China this afternoon. Travel Channel. LOL I have seen the clay soldiers in person though. We have gone to several art exhibits in Memphis and the Chinese exhibit was one. Poor Helenabear had to travel to meet with me in Columbus cause I was scared to death to try to find a place to meet her at. I have no sense of direction. Have an index card with the directions, down to exit numbers, on how to get to Disney World. Is one reason why I love it there so much, as there are no things I fear there, at least that I cannot avoid. No Tower of Terror for me!!! It has only been the last couple of trips that I have been able to drive around the area much.

I don't tell many people about this deficiency of mine but want you to be prepared for who I am in May. Some thing I am stuck up or something but I am just a quivering shell of a woman. LOL

Wish I were as smart as I tell my kids to be. (grin) Them that can't teach.

SG/Linda

helenabear

02-26-2004, 07:32 PM

Oh my goodness... my e-mail wasn't receiving *ANY* e-mail notifications from here and everytime I checked my user CP the thread didn't come up so I thought it was just quiet! Well today I started getting them for all the threads and WOW!!!

So I'll say quickly welcome Colleen!!!!! I will do a real read through and catchup later tonight I hope :)

colleen costello

02-26-2004, 07:37 PM

Linda, I don't know if I shared with you (all) how wonderful my parents are. THEY bought DVC and put it in my name "so the nursing home never takes it!" My parents are financally secure and have worked hard for a lot of years for a nice retirement. They bought DVC so we could all have a wonderful week at Disney together every Spring! With any leftover points, I can sneak in a 2nd trip if I want -- I am good at stretching those points! I am not a "Deluxe" traveler at this point in my life. I am home with the kids so we don't have a big vacation budget. Mom and Dad made wonderful vacations possible... DVC is really the best gift I ever got...

It's a real treat to meet internet/DIS pals at WDW. I am dying to go to one of the meets with Deb Wills, Jennifer and Dave from Passporter, etc. To me these folks are real celebs! In July 2002 we were at Beach Club Villas when they opened -- very exciting. There I met "Zamgwar" who writes articles for WDWIG (Allears.net). I about died! He is a real charmer, so kind and funny and meeting him and his family was a real thrill for me. Scott just mocks me and calls the Boards "My little Disney friends!" :)

Someday we will all meet up at WDW!

Colleen

colleen costello

02-26-2004, 07:51 PM

Linda, I just read your lastpost. Please don't think issues of agoraphobia make you "any less." Just as you tell your grandson, we are all individuals. I am glad Disney is one of the places you deem "safe" so you can enjoy it!

I am a very anxious person. I struggle with it daily. In college I started to have terrible panic attacks, and only after moving to Indiana did I learn how crippling these can be. I worked myself into a lack-of-sleep induced depression and lost a ton of weight. For the first time in my life I couldn't eat so I KNEW I was ill. Luckily I was in graduate school for counseling psych, and some of my profs also worked at the local mental health center. I got lots of counseling and "survived." Currently I am on a wonderful antidepressant medicine which has helped me immensely. I sleep like a log, even when stressed, and although I get anxious, it no longer escalates into panic. Still, I have my limitations. I worry a lot about the kids. I am TERRIFIED to fly -- even before 9/11 I was scared; now -- forget it! We always drive to WDW and I feel guilty because the damn planes are safer than the highway -- but just THINKING about flying makes me clammy! I won't go on thrill rides; for me Peter Pan is a stretch (heights!).

Linda, just keep in mind that you are a "work in progress." At various times in your life, your anxiety will ebb and flow. One wonderful friend/counselor reminded me that EVERYONE has weaknesses, limitations. Some people have poor vision or hearing, some are anxious or tend to depression. Some struggle with bad backs or ulcers, or weight. I have gained a ton since I went on my medicine, but I feel I would rather be "fat and happy" so for now I am just trying my best no to gain any more... But I must admit when you talk about "meeting up" I think "too fat." I know that's silly... No one else CARES that I am overweight... But these are issues I struggle with. Remember EVERYONE has issues. No one's life is "charmed." Go easy on yourself! :)

Just my opinion! :)

SlightlyGoofy

02-26-2004, 08:03 PM

Coleen, from what I have been through lately with a friend of mine I have to comment on what a good daughter you are to your good parents. I have a friend, a year younger than I, who has had her home taken by her only son and dil and has been put in a nursing home. Even though they live in the same town they don't visit often and she is resisting moving to Florida to be with family that wants her so that she can be here for her son, if he needs her. Is a very sad situation and especially so since the son went to school with my kids and was a frequent guest in our home and one of my 4-H kids. The mother had to care for her many siblings for years and then care for a sick husband for nearly 30 years. She bought her small home from the money she earned cleaning houses. The town has rallied around her but the son and dil told her that because she 'lied' they have lost all their friends in town. I cannot fathom people who would treat anyone that way let alone their own parent. Family is the most important thing in the world.

Being home with your kids is far more important than going first class to DW IMHO. Years from now, when you are basking at Boardwalk or the Poly you will appreciate it all the more but there is no really bad place to be as long as you are at DW. LOL Bet your kids will want you guys to come along on their adult vacations to the Magic Kingdom one day. Do you fix food at the resort to save on time and money? I hate fighting the food courts in the morning and evening. If I had kids who would be interested in Disney I would love to have a time share there myself. My sil has said no more for him. He is more of a Universal person. I say, we all go and he can go over to Universal while us chicken wander DW. LOL

Have you ever been to any Disney meets? I have met Nativetxn and Dan Murphy so far. I went to one in Indpls one time. Helenabear is our resident expert on nearby meets and has even hosted her own in Columbus, Ohio. I met a few people from the boards on our last trip. It is always wonderful to put a face to a name and just like the parks, you meet the best people on these boards. Disney is the common denominator. Anyone who loves Disney cannot be evil. LOL BTW, I would love to meet all or some of the people that you have met as I have read much about and by them. I owe much to them for their reviews and such.

Where would Scott rather vacation or does he just enjoy teasing you? Tom would follow me anywhere I want to go. He will turn 70 next year and I am trying to think of something special to do. Am thinking a roadtrip with no plans so I cannot get lost. Just wander around and stop where we want. He is much older than I am. We went on a plantation tour, by accident, on our 25th anniversary. It could not have been more perfect if we had planned it that way. Even dinner the night of our anniversary was magical. Long story but very memorable. I had to carry a big flashlight to see the snakes and beat off the alligators. LOL

SG/Linda

colleen costello

02-26-2004, 08:14 PM

Linda, Scott is actually a saint and just torments me because Disney is an obsession with me. When we get down there he has a ball. He can hardly say NO to me because I am such a good budget-worker. I can do Disney on $50 a day! I am a real cheapskate. I pack food for the trip down and we shop at Winn Dixie when we arrive. We eat cereal in the room and I pack little snacks and my reusable Brita water bottle for the parks. I bring Cokes and pretzels to the pools and we eat at the Perkins a lot because it is so cheap. We do a lot of free stuff (monorials, boats, etc). My babies are little (almost 6 and almost 10) and really all they want to do is swim. To me the best DVC perk is the "pool hopping" because we try out every pool in the place. Last trip we went to Coronado Springs, and before that the Boardwalk. Every pool is a whole new world for my kids!

So for now, we go cheap. We have fun but don't go into debt, either. When we travel with my parents, they treat us to nice meals but we STILL do Perkins... Last time we went to Kona Cafe and it was WONDERFUL! I want to do Morocco in Epcot... Haven't been there in YEARS.

We haven't done Universal yet. I have read about it and there are just too many "scary" rides to make it worth it. I am afraid of heights and don't think being dropped off a building is fun! Disney is just my happy place!

Maybe you can take Tom to Chicago? Lots to see there. Lots of people here go to the Smoky Mts. in Tennessee. How about Dresden Ohio? I keep asking Scott to take me to the Longaberger factory but he says NO WAY... What about the dreaded Branson, Missouri? I hate country muzak so Branson would be a HELL for me but lots of people LOVE it! So many choices...

xoxo

SlightlyGoofy

02-26-2004, 10:26 PM

Colleen, you are a doll and have made me feel so much better. sometimes I get to thinking I am the only one with these problems. I am so darned good at counseling others but not myself. Am too rich to afford counseling though. I am afflicted with several of the problems you mentioned in that I am deaf, limp, fat and scared to death of most everything. I love to walk but end up walking at the mall or in the house, on bad days, cause I am terrified of animals. Some people think that means that I hate animals and that is far from the truth, just scared and the poor dears can sense it and it terrifies them. I am going to visit a sick friend next week and feel awful that I have to request that her poor doggie stay in the garage until I leave. If it were not for the fact that she is very sick and is scheduled for surgery in about a week I would just pick her up as I usually do and we go out to eat. I feel awful asking anyone, human or otherwise, to change for my visit especially when it is their home.

I do Disney on the cheap also and had forgotten that me met over the Perkin's thread. I love it there. We stopped at another one on the way home and were so disappointed. The one at Disney is awesome. I am a Secret Shopper and so I tend to grade every establishment I go into. I am the evil person who says that it is alright to take a microwave to the resorts. I put it on the luggage rack and store the food in a drawer and we are set to go. We only eat out once a day. With my diet I really cannot eat more than that anyway and standing in line for ages in the food court mornings and night are not the way I want to start or end my Disney days. We have been retired for about 4 years and all my years of being a cheapskate have paid off. I shudder to think how we would live if I had not socked away a bit for the extras in life. We don't owe a penny for anything and hope to keep it that way. I put money away each month so when it is time to buy a new car we can pay cash. You are a homemaker par excellence. I fully concur that a stay at home mom can often save more money than she can earn in the marketplace. There is a downside to it also, sometimes though.

The Coranado pool is awesome. Have you tried the one at Port Orleans? That used to be our favorite resort and am waiting to hear if they have restored any of the extras that we used to love and might spend a bit more to stay there in November. Worth it if they have.

Your children are about the ages of my two grandsons that I see often. I just love them to death. One was hanging on my leg at school the other day telling me that he loved me, I told him I was sort of fond of him myself. LOL

You are braver than I as I don't think I could do Peter Pan's Flight. I am scared of heights as well. With a hearing loss you do not have much of a sense of balance.

We have been to the Smoky's many times, Branson, once, Dresden, once and I would be terrified to go to Chicago. I do have a bil who lives nearby and if he would drive us, sober, I might consider it. Tom is a bit hard to take care of. He wanders off and sometimes does unusual things so I like to keep the stress down to avoid such occurences. I grew up with listening to country music on the car radio. we did not have one in the house, so I like the old music but my favorite music is Motown type.

I am contemplating a meandering road trip through the southern states and checking out some of the retirement communities. Doubt I would do it, but the sound of an easy to maintain housing community with ammenties to keep Tom occupied sounds interesting to me. He does not wake up until ten or later most days and then walks from the bedroom, thru the dining room, into the kitchen and spends his days watching tv. Is hard on me as I have all the work to do and have to make sure that he is fed on schedule and such. Just cannot get excited about doing work when someone else is not doing anything. Don't mind doing the work but just do not want to see him laying there while I do. Retirement blues. LOL

BTW, are you aware that the Longaberger factory has a store that sells things at a discount? You could get together with Helenabear and go and check out the giant basket and all. Good food there also. The factory is awesome. I was in awe of the facilities for the workers and the daycare program they have. I like happy workers.

I have to go pack for our trip now. See you all when I return. Have made this trip so many times that I do not need an index card anymore. LOL

SG/Linda

colleen costello

02-26-2004, 10:47 PM

Linda, you are so kind. I am so glad you invited me to join your group here! I just wanted to add that when we go down to WDW in two weeks, we have our first night at Riverside (saving points!). I will report back on the pool situation once I return. We stayed at Riverside for a night at Thanksgiving (again saving points!) and the refurbished main pool was a real hit with my kids. They went down the slide about a million times. It is not a scary, fast one, but more like the one at Coronado. They wanted to swim the next morning too, so Scott kept them at the pool while I unpacked us at Old Key West. Riverside is a favorite of mine!

IASW Rider

02-28-2004, 06:04 PM

Whoa - I'm with Elaine - who knew that I was missing all of these great posts?????? WOW! And figures - I would have to sign on and come to the Suite at a time when I don't have very much time to post! :(

Eagerly awaiting your trip report regarding your night at POR, Colleen - we will be staying there for the first time in May. Linda has said great things about the resort, and I am curious to hear your assessment as well!

And I couldn't have said better what Colleen said about the issues, insecurities, things that make us self-conscious, etc. We do all have them (God knows that I have plenty! :) ) - but that's part of what makes us all unique individuals! I beat myself up all the time because of my current "lack of direction" or because my weight hasn't changed in awhile or because I freaked out and made a fool of myself by charging out the "chicken exit" of Alien Encounter last year! But that's OK! And I think that we are all "agoraphobic" to some extent or another. Lately, I've preferred e-mailing to calling my friends or seeing them in person, because I'm just not in the mood to "talk" - I'm so preoccupied with so many things that I can't put my finger on. And we're all fearful of certain things. You know that you are a wonderful person (and you ARE a great "counselor", as you said! :) ) and you do so many special things for so many people! Your kindness and thoughtfulness are what's important - not some silly "phobias" that we all have, in one form or another!

So sorry that I misunderstood about Dalton's report card! OK - that sounds much more reasonable - I couldn't imagine him getting anything other than straight A's or the equivalent, thereof! As I said, those "Needs Improvements" are probably just the result of his advanced intelligence - and the great marks prove that!

Thanks so much for sharing your feelings with us, Colleen! We are very happy to have you here in the Suite, as well! And that is so wonderful that your parents are sharing their DVC membership with you and that your family has the opportunity to vacation together so often! That is really wonderful!

So sorry that I don't have time to post more, now! Just wanted to wish you all a great weekend! :)

colleen costello

02-29-2004, 12:08 AM

Rider, I have stayed at "Dixie Landings" many times and I believe you will love it. It is very beautiful there. The landscaping is gorgeous, flowers everywhere. Our favorite is the "Alligator Bayou" section but the whole resort is great. There is a good food court, a nice sit-down restaurant and lots of pretty public areas. The resort straddles a beautiful river (you can rent boats) and there are great pools. We love this place and go back repeatedly. If you interested, there is a great review at WDWIG. Visit the site and look up "Zamgwar's" reviews -- they are indexed now. He has a great review of Riverside. He talks about how "upscale" the place is for a reasonable price.

I will bore you all with details once I am back!

IASW Rider

02-29-2004, 03:23 PM

I won't be "bored" at all, Colleen, and neither will anyone else! Thanks so much for the details and your impressions of POR! I'm sure that it will be nice and that we'll really enjoy it there! It will be interesting to stay somewhere other than a MK resort for the first time, ever. I know that it's time for us to "branch out" and try some place new!

You must be getting soooooo excited about your trip!! :)

Did you have a chance to check out my Point Pleasant pictures? Bring back the memories of summer............*SIGH* Well, it's 58 degrees and as "summer-like" as the weather has been in months, here in the Garden State today. And they're predicting 60 degree temperatures and even thunderstorms for early this coming week! Maybe summer isn't so far off, after all.........I can just hear the sound of the waves "down the shore" and the sound of Bruce blasting from open car windows.........! :)

colleen costello

02-29-2004, 03:38 PM

Rider, I had forgotten to look at the Pt. Pleasant photos and I just did! They are great ... I recognized a lot of the buildings! One of the things I MOST miss about the East Coast is ITALIAN ICE! Yum... We had great Italian ice on the Boardwalk at WDW last summer. When I commented on how good it was and how it tasted like "back home" the vendor told me it was from a place in NJ! All the good food is from NJ! :)

We will be in Disney this June, then come home to recuperate and spoil the kitties, who pine when the kids leave. Then in late July we'll be home to Mom and Dad in Easton, PA (home of Binney & Smith, makers of Crayola Crayons!) and we will definitely road trip to Pt. Pleasant. We'll eat pizza and frozen custard and the kids can ride the rides. I LOVE Jenkinsons' and have my neighbor Kay, who babysits the cats for me, addicted to Jenkinson's salt water taffy. I always bring it back for her... I LOVE the Jersey shore. I can still remember going when I was a kid. We used to go to Asbury Park when I was really little, before it got old and scary. Fora ll I know, Bruce Springsteen was on a ride next to me! :)

Starting some packing today. I am an obsessive-compulsive list-maker/packer and I am already organizing the kids' clothes. It's easy to pack for Spring Break because the clothes we pack are ones we are not using...

xoxo

depplyinluv

03-01-2004, 07:16 AM

<marquee>GOOD MORNING LADIES!!!:hyper: </marquee>

im really excited this morning because "The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King won 11, yes thats right, eleven oscars last night!........all the "hobbits" were crying....aww...:lovestruc

....and now we come to my bad news....

Johnny Depp did not win:( , sean penn did.....which i expected so i wasn't as mad as i could have been
..

he'll get an award for a more serious role because the academy is well....old and traditional....so....

:(

but lotr won so...thats good!

well i better be getting ready for school now....i only got 3 hours of sleep so i could watch the oscar post show....

welcome colleen!!!!!!!:sunny:

Linda...you know i almost got a wall poster of JD from 21 jump street but it was a little much....:D

hope everyone is having a wonderful week!

helenabear

03-01-2004, 08:39 AM

Lisa, I am glad that I wasn't the only one!! I know that e-mail notifications were down and apparently mine were out for quite some time. Then all of a sudden *poof* I was getting them again :p

I realize every time I try to come in and catch up tons more posts have been made :o So I will just say hi and try to read it all when I can. I just haven't been on the comptuer near as much as I used to be.

Colleen, I can't wait to hear all about your trip as well!!!! I do love hearing trip reports :) And pictures... I love pictures too!!!!

Linda, would you believe that I have never been to that longaberger facotory and don't even *gasp* care for their baskets? Rather silly, I know, but I just couldn't justify spending the money for them.

LOL, yep used to go to a ton of meets... then they changed the set up of the boards so that the meets all had to be addressed in one place. Really cut down on the number we've had. But I do have one planned this month in MI, April in Chicago and May (provided Towncrier is up to it) in Ohio. I think the joke was that there might be one in June at KY and in July I am headed out to Disneyland with DISers. Many people here have become real life friends as much as anything else.

Depply I missed most of the ceremony last night but am totally 100% thrilled with the winnings of ROTK!!!! Totally deserved them!!!! I really wish that Johnny had won for his role, but I understand they always pick "traditional drama" more than anything else. He will get it some day.

Well I need to fly... work is calling my name. Have a great day all!

colleen costello

03-01-2004, 11:07 AM

I was watching Regis and Kelly this morning and a woman on the show (their entertainment correspondent, I guess) was reporting back about the Oscars event. She said that one director told Johnny "Not to worry he'll win next year" for this next movie he is in -- but I didn't recognize the name. Isn't there a thriller being advertised now? I think I saw a commercial with him...

helenabear

03-01-2004, 11:50 AM

Colleen, you are right, on March 12th, Johnny's latest movie will be released. It is called Secret Window... I think based on a Steven King book too. If I were into that type of movie I'd go see it! I hope his time does come... he is a very deserving actor :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-01-2004, 06:00 PM

I got home last night but was too darned tired to do much except fall in bed. I did watch the opening of the Oscars. Was not quite as good as I had hoped for but it is almost impossible for Billy to outdo himself each and every time.

Depply, I can understand your disappointment in Johnny not getting his dues but it often happens this way. Some people win, when they are not all that good, cause few good movies were made that year and then in years when they have many good ones the competition is just plain too much. I have seen many people win in years that they might not have deserved it because the voters felt badly cause they did not win another year.. Is so subjective and you are right in that drama usually trumps comedy. Comedy is harder a lot of times. Have read many good reports from critics on Johnny's performance in Pirates. Pirates did much better than Haunted Mansion and I believe that the choice of stars made the difference. I love his irreverance. LOL

Helenabear, I don't are for Lonaberger baskets either and would not want to own one let alone dozens. Collectibles lose their value so quickly. It is all smoke and mirrors and when the smoke clears many are left holding a lot of worthless 'stuff'. I buy what I like and that way I don't care about the value. If you read the Longaberger story you could see how they went from bankruptcy to success just by playing on some people's quest for the impossible or expensive. JMO Sounds as if you are going to have a busy year with all the meets. Will Luis be able to go to many of them with you? Yes, the people on these boards are easy to make friends with.

Colleen, I enjoy PO so much because of the ambience. It is almost like walking around the French Quarter and being a smaller resort it is more intimate and such. Used to love going over to Boatwright's to eat but since they did away with the sweet potato biscuits Tom is not as fond of it anymore. I used to think that it was far more deserving of a luxury price than many of the the so called luxury resorts.

Rider, after visiting my dear friend, who has been the most amazing and loving woman and seeing how she is being treated in her last days I have come to the conclusion that if she is not accorded the love and respect she is due I should not feel so badly myself. I ain't near as perfect. (using incorrect grammar for effect LOL) Phobias are problems when they affect your life and mine sorely affect mine. I can overcome some when doing for someone else but when it is just for myself I am incapacitated.. I drove a dear friend for radiation treatments on ice and snow but am paralyzed when it comes to driving myself alone. Must be the oldest child syndrome? I was always so impressed with how you handled the difficult people in your life, you never gave up on them and that is an admirable and wonderful thing but then you ARE both.

My scales say I am down about 1.5 for the week. Not bad, especially when you consider that I was forced to eat out so much while out of town. I had lunch with my best friend from grade school and she suggested Ruby Tuesday. Imagine my delight when I discovered they had a full low carb menu in addition to their regular food. I had a small steak, cauliflower taters (like I make) a creamed spinach dish (yummy) and believe it or not a cheesecake that only had 6 g of carbs. I was in hog heaven, literally!! I am noticing that more and restaurants are advertising low carb menus but it is mostly a chunk of meat and a half a plate of limp broccoli.

I love scary movies and grew up on them so I will see the Stephen King movie for sure. I grew up watching the old Alfred Hitchcock movies and tv shows. I hate being able to figure out what the ending is going to be. I loved Mystic River. Did not want to go see it but Tom insisted and I am glad he did. Planning on going to see the Passion this week but have many conflicting opinions so far. The Bible I read says that love is all but taken out of context people often find hatred and that is wrong. IMHO I am most disturbed to find out who Mel Gibson's father is and what he believes. Makes me reconsider an actor that I have always enjoyed. Don't think this movie is for children but daughter is bound and determined that her children see it. It is awfully hard keeping my mouth shut but I try hard to be a good mother/mother in law/grandma. Sure glad I have somewhere to vent though or the top of my curly head would explode!! (smile)

Have to go figure out what dinner is going to be. Hard to get back to the real world.

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-01-2004, 09:59 PM

helenabear, i know im so thrilled that they won 11/11!!!:teeth:

LOTR definately deserved every award:D
they're saying the academy awards weren't as thrilling because lotr won and billy crystal was blah but i thought they were fine.

colleen he probably wont win anything for "secret window" which is based on a steven king novel....but maybe "j.m . barrie's neverland?"

Linda ...i know i know....i understand sean penns win ....johnny will get it for sure some other year:D i think that comedic performances are chosen by truly great actors because they know they're taking arisk most of the time....and i think someday you knwo i bet the acadmey will make a separate category ....but in essence(sp?) they shouldnt because they're all actors, just because they act in a different type of movie doesn mean they should get "snubbed" and stuff...anyways....:D

also good job w/ keeping your weight down::yes::

helenabear

03-01-2004, 10:22 PM

Linda, I am with you on collectibles! Sometimes you win... a lot of the time you don't! Of course that doesn't stop me from collecting my bears that I do. But they aren't anything special. As for the meets, Luis will go with me to the one in March, May & June. I will be going to Chicago and DL by "myself" THese are mostly "girlie times" though so I think he'd be happier at home ;)

You know from what I understand about Mel Gibson per the interviews, he all but states how he doesn't agree with his father. Apparently one of the interviewers tried to get him to go further and flat out say what he truly felt of his father, but I had to respect him for not bad mouthing him. I can understand how he feels because I grew up with my mom believing things that I think are narrowminded. We butted heads quite often. I might want to wait to see the movie at home though... when I can privately deal with my emotions with it.

I didn't get to watch all the ceremony last night, but I thought Billy Crystal was funny! And it would have been exciting to me to be able to watch them win time after time... not boring! When a movie is good I am thrilled for so many wins! But to each their own I guess ;) Well I need to get my laundry now :)

colleen costello

03-02-2004, 09:47 AM

"Neverland" was the movie mentioned. Anyone know what it's about?

helenabear

03-02-2004, 10:03 AM

Colleen, from what I understand it is kind of a biography of JM Barrie who wrote Peter Pan... just based on the time of his life when he wrote the book. That one is due out in October I think.

IASW Rider

03-02-2004, 01:16 PM

Hey Everyone! :)

Isn't Johnny also slated to play Willy Wonka in the upcoming re-make of the movie??? Can't wait to see that! :)

I also enjoyed the Academy Awards on Sunday night and thought that Billy Crystal did a great job! So glad that he was the host again, this year - others have done well, but he's always the best with his little "one-liners" and his memorably inserting himself into clips of the nominated films!

I was thinking of you, Depply! But Johnny handled his loss with grace. Hopefully he got to pick up his SAG award from last week, while he was in town! I loved when the red carpet guy brought the youngest nominee over to meet him, in the theater, since she had told him that she thought that Johnny was a "stud"! :)

Glad that you liked the photos, Colleen! You'll definitely have to let me know if or when you and your family are planning to come East, this summer - maybe we can meet you on the Boardwalk for some Jenkinson's taffy or a humungous piece of pizza or an Italian ice or a big funnel cake or........! :)

Hope that you had a nice trip, last weekend, Linda! And congratulations on that loss - that's great! The meal that you had sounds yummy - I really do have to try substituting cauliflower for potatoes or macaroni, one of these years - every time you mention doing or having that, I think "I really need to try that"! I saw a recipe somewhere for substituting cauliflower for popcorn, as well - I think that you sent it to me! :) I recently tried making the hummus that was in one of the cookbooks that you sent to me and it came out really well!

As for Mel Gibson and his film........don't get me started........maybe I shouldn't say anything. I understand and appreciate what he is trying to do by making the film, and I'm sure that it's a masterpiece artistically and maybe even spiritually. I just worry that it will encourage a lot of anti semitism in people who wouldn't have otherwise had reasons to think ill of the Jews - in "ignorant people". And that's the last thing that we need, right now, with all of the anti Israel sentiment that has arisen as the result of the recent (perpetual?) issues with the Palestinians. I just fear that the film will give some people the "wrong idea" and will fuel the fires of others who were already anti semites, walking into the theater. Of course, I say all of this based only on what I've read or heard on television - I'm petrified of "gory" films and this one is supposed to be so violent that I would be afraid to see it, regardless of the subject matter. As for Mel Gibson, himself........I don't think that he's been presenting himself very well, lately. I felt like throwing something at the TV when Diane Sawyer interviewed him a few weeks ago. I don't agree with his attitudes about certain topics which he made evident in the past. I hope that I haven't offended anyone here by saying these things - it's just my opinion and perspective.

On to lighter topics...........! :)

Sounds like you have a lot of meets to look forward to, Elaine! Have you done any more planning for your upcoming DL trip? How are your friend's wedding plans coming along?

I had the strangest dream last night, Linda - I dreamt that I was in WDW with my mother - not Frank - and we realized that we were very late in meeting you and Tom for dinner. So we ran (yes, my mother ran, too - she couldn't even walk for the past 5 years!) down to the Poly dock. The EWP was coming by, but it was moving at like 50 miles per hour and there was no music! My mother went to the end of the pier to look for you and I went to the beach. My mother came back and said that you weren't there - in fact, no one was! We dejectedly went back into the Poly and found you in the lobby! Then, all of a sudden, Frank was with me instead of my mother! We looked out the window, and the EWP was passing by again, with no music, going 50 miles per hour in the opposite direction! It was very strange! :) All this to say.........that is NOT the way that the evening will really play out, when we meet in May! :)

Hi out there, Angie and Wendy! :)

Have a great day, Everyone! :)

helenabear

03-02-2004, 02:01 PM

Last I heard about Willy Wonka was over the summer... he was offered the role, but haven't heard much since then. I think he'd make an excellent Wonka!

I loved that part too when that Billy guy or whatever his name was, brought her over to meet him. He was very gracious and it was neat to see that.

Not doing much planning on DL right now. I have my air booked and the hotel is booked. We will have to wait to do much more planning I think.

I will have to make a comment back to you Lisa, on the Mel Gibson movie. Everyone I have spoken to has not said anything about anti-semitism being displayed at all. It didn't matter really that the people were Jewish and those I spoke with who are devout Christians believe a "cumulative we" sent him to his death. I know as a whole, the Jewish religion is not looked down upon by my church and actually embraced as that was the religion of Jesus. I am babbling, but I think some of the fears were brought up before anyone was even able to see it. I may or may not see it, but I do not need a movie like that to show me what happened. Especially if it is so close to the Bible as many have stated. Maybe some will try to see it that way about it being negative, but all I knew who went to see it, didn't feel that way at all... the underlying basis that people feel is that he died for our sins, and no one religion or person was at fault. I hope that might help you feel a little more at ease knowing an average point of view from it :)
Not sure about what Mel Gibson truly feels about certain things though as I could care less what many others opinions are ;)

Oh and the wedding planning seems to be okay. I talk with Dawn now and then and she seems a bit stressed but okay with how things are moving along.

Well I should get back to work. Have a great day all!

SlightlyGoofy

03-02-2004, 10:16 PM

Dearest Lisa/Rider, your dream interested me much as I had often wished I could have met your mother. I bet we would have had lots in common. Meeting someone who had a lot in making you who you are would have been wonderful. She gave you the gift of loving Disney and whenever you go you carry those memories with you so it is most fitting that she was running across the sands with you. No worries about the May date with EWP, I promise you that I will be there early. If you should happen to run late, never fear and for heaven's sake do not run or put yourself at risk. In my old age I have learned to take things as they come and they most often come about even better than planned.

As far as Mel Gibson's movie goes, I am of the opinon that we are all called for different walks of life and those ignorant people will find some excuse to be a**h***s no matter what. Most people find love when they read the Bible but those who are bent on finding evil will find it wherever they look. I happen to believe that Jesus was the Savior but firmly believe that others have their right to their opinons and strongly disagree with anyone who tries to tell me who will and who will not make into Heaven. Seems to me that is not a Godly thing to do and I give praise that those people are not the ones who will be sitting on judgement for me or mine. Much evil has been brought about in the name of religion and I think it gives the devil much delight to bring it about. I always thought a lot of Mel's looks but I am looking a lot harder nowadays. Not sure what to think. I am interested in seeing what he thinks on screen but I am strong willed enough to come away with my own thoughts on the matter. When I lived in Indianapolis in the 60's there was a preacher man named Jim Jones. My independent nature saved me from his clutches and I cling to my odd ball ideas and will fight to the death for anyone else's right to think their thoughts even if in opposition to mine. Is what makes this country great IMHO. I am for religion but not much for organized religion. Would rather put my money into people rather than buildings but that is me. Hopefully the terrors of the past have at least taught us that we all must stand up against hatred, in any form. All it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to remain silent and I am hoping that loud voices will rise up and overpower the weak bullies who need to use hatred to build their own pathetic self esteem. Enuff of my stuff!!

Johnny Depp will make a wonderful Willie Wonka. That is one of my grandson's favorite movies. One of my Fab Four is named Willie and he loved that movie. I gave him a copy and hope that he gets to see it and thinks of me sometimes. I saw him on an interview this evening and he said he was home with a sick child the night of the SAG awards. Seems like the man has his priorities straight. Helenabear, I can read lips and Mr. Depp was most gracious to the young lady and was complimenting her hugely when they were introduced. It is nice to see someone who does not buy into all the celebrity stuff. Awfully hard to do though, I guess. I am interested in hearing your report on DL. I believe you said you had been there before? Have heard that it is hard after you have been to DW since it is smaller and more crowded etc. but many of the attractions seem to be a bit different and that would be interesting.

Had a wonderful phone conversation with my boys last night. Austin called to ask about his birthday money (his birthday is in July). Wanted to know if he could have an advance. I thought he wanted it for a trip he is making this weekend. No, he wanted it so he could donate it to a young man in the community that needs surgery. I told him that I had already made a donation but he insisted that he wanted to give his birthday money for the cause. I was so proud I could burst. Having a hard time explaining to granddad that buying him something more for his birthday would take away from the sacrifice though. I could hear my little guy reading out loud in the background and occasionally hollering "Be quiet, can't you see I am trying to read?" LOL He, sort of, got in trouble in school. His assignment was to write three sentences to make a story and he wrote much more. Wonder where he got that from? (great big grin)

Colleen, are you all packed? Where do you stop on the way down or back? We found a great place last time. Small shopping mall with loads of restaurants and a motel, prices were great also. Having a motel and food next to each other is important for someone like myself who is directionally limited and night blind to boot. Are the kids excited? Hubby giving you a hard t ime? LOl Are you a super planner like Lisa or a wing it person like Elaine or a mixture as myself?

Only had a half pound loss this week but at least it is in the right direction. LOL

Good night, sweet dreams and see ya later!

SG/Linda

helenabear

03-02-2004, 10:27 PM

Linda... what you said about religion is absolutely wonderful and exactly how I feel!!!!! Luis and I have trouble seeing eye to eye on this, but we manage. We were both raised Catholic and I kind of venture to my own feelings that are Catholic influenced :teeth: My sister is a bit like me but has incorperated many religions (from all over the world) to help define her spiritual beliefs. I do believe that if there truly is a higher power that s/he is more open than some seem to imply.... now I'll hush ;)

You should be very proud of your little man there... that is so precious and wonderful... I am near speechless :) He has wonderful influences in his life, I am sure!!!!

I agree, Mr. Depp was most gracious and complimented her in ways that were genuine and so wonderful to watch... sweet moment :)

I will let you know hwo DL is! I haven't been since 1988 so my memory is fuzzy... but I will be able to at least (in a way) compare it to WDW :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-03-2004, 11:01 AM

Helenabear, thank you so much for your kind words. Talking about religion, politics and some other subjects is such a delicate matter. I am all for tolerance and understanding. Who I am is not who I was when I was younger and I sincerely hope I am even more evolved in my later years. The one religious stance that will get my dander up is when someone states that their way is the 'only' way and they condemn others to dire futures. I figure if very educated, brilliant people who devote their lives to studying the Bible and other writings, can read the ancient languages and have access to the original documents cannot agree on everything who in the heck am I to decide what is what. I go by my gut. If it feels right (not necessarily good) I go with it. I stumble and get up and keep on trying. Is what most of us do and I pray it is enough. I will pass on one truth that I have discovered, God speaks to us all even when we do not comprehend. If you ever think God is speaking to you and are concerned over whether it is He/She or the 'other feller', stop and think. If it is easy, it is probably the evil side speaking. If difficult and not necessarily what you want to do it is probably the Higher Spirit speaking. Sad, but true. (smile) Took me decades to learn that fact and I pass it on to you young ones to save you some time, LOL

Differences in a marriage can be a great thing. I tell my grands and other small friends to expand their horizons and thinking differently as well as trying new things is a great way to live. Sure are odd thoughts for an agoraphobic/panophobic to have though. (smile)

Headed to the school later and we are going to read Dr. Seuss books in honor of the great man himself. Read an interview by his widow this morning and she said that she would never, again, allow a live movie of any of the characters after the Cat in the Hat fiasco. I hope they lost their shirt in merchandizing products and video sales. I will not be buying it. I was not too pleased with the 'big knockers' thing in the Haunted Mansion. I sort of like the odd adult comment that is well above the heads of children tucked in to keep us adults mildly amused while taking our dear litle ones to movies but kids are so much smarter than they used to be. Scary. I am not easily shocked either.

Opinions, I got 'em!!! LOL Love to hear others opinions as well. Is the only way I can learn. I live by the adage that you can disagree without being disagreeable. If I say something you think stupid, step up and educate me. I am willing to listen and learn.

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-03-2004, 02:55 PM

Girls, I am slowly packing. I am a real planner, not a "wing it" person at all. I pack early and make reservations so I know we have a decent hotel. We will stay in Morrow, Georgia overnight, just south of Atlanta. We used to go to Macon but that's a bit too far and we would all get cranky! We stay in a little Quality Inn right off the highway and they give you breakfast. Next morning, up and out and ready for Mickey! My parents fly down and will meet us there.

I will do most of my packing this weekend. I'll get everyone's summery clothes into the suitcases. We leave Thursday and I will be busy at school all week so I will get a jump start. I like to clean the house some before leaving -- it's bad enough coming home to a clean house -- and batten down the hatches for Oliver and Oscar, our kitties who stay behind. Next-door-neighbor girl takes great care of them while we are gone. I pay her and she is always glad to make extra money for college, and her Mom supervises if there is any problem. Last trip (November) our elderly cat nearly croaked while we were in Florida. I should have boarded him at the vet but didn't have the heart... He was hiding and not eating and I was so afraid he would die "alone" while we were at WDW. So distressing -- such guilt! Thank goodness the neighbor gave him hospice care until we got home a week later and he actually hung in until 12/31. Finally had to put him to sleep, bless his heart. He was almost 18! Had a good life. Scott and I took it hard -- we got him just after moving to Indiana for grad school. We were skinny then, and broke, no kids. He was our first pet "together" and was a real love. Thank goodness we got 2 kitties a year ago; we knew that would ease the pain of KC's death for the kids...

SO... Hopefully on this trip, no traumas. Last time it was the sick cat, plus two kids sick with sore throats (the joys of traveling at Thanksgiving time). I was giving Ian Motrin on the way down and he barfed all over himself and the booster seat. We stopped at a hotel to use the public restroom, cleaned up Ian and the van, and hit a Walmart for a new Booster -- had to abandon the old one it STUNK! What a trip from HELL! Despite the cat and the throats, it turned out to be a really nice trip... Go figure! :)

Hope everyone is having the Spring-type weather we are having here!

SlightlyGoofy

03-03-2004, 07:14 PM

Colleen, did you know that the only thing that seperates disaster from being funny is time? Honestly, the things that go wrong will be the very memories that you will treasure, someday. LOL

I well remember those trips from Hell. My husband is not terribly fond of children and those two and three week 'vacations' were murder, on all of us. I used to get down and kiss the kitchen floor when we got home from one of them. I do not miss them at all!!

I clean the house well before we leave as I want nice clean beds to return to and am so anal that I kick Tom out of the house for my last tour through before locking up and leaving. In the past he has gone around and turned on the water or unlocked a previously unlocked door as I was going around checking other things. Only bad part is that if something goes wrong now, it is always my fault. LOL

I plan and worry and run myself ragged until we are out of the garage and the door is down. I check twice. LOL Then I start enjoying myself.

You have this trip down pat. Hope you do not have a lot of problems getting around the busy Columbus traffic. I just cannot think of another way for you to avoid it unless you come through Attaberry and get on 65 at Taylorsville and I think that might add some miles to your trip. The way they laid out things on that end of Columbus is quite confusing to even locals. Forget trying to follow 46 through Columbus. LOL

Sounds as if you have lovely neighbors that you can trust to keep an eye on things for you while you are gone and that is a great help. Hopefully this wonderful weather will continue and this trip will go smoothly and bring many happy memories. If all trips were uneventful we surely would not appreciate the ones that do. LOL

SG/Linda

SlightlyGoofy

03-03-2004, 07:15 PM

Just noticed that the email notification box is not checked in my reply. Bet that is why people are not getting notices. It must be slipping off the page as I know I had mine set for automatic notification. Just thought you all might want to check yours.

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-03-2004, 09:21 PM

I am also now in charge of the "last search before leaving." Scott is a complete goober about packing for a trip. Last time he forgot his eyelasses! Now this is a man who admits he can't see the big "E" at the top of the eye chart... He wears contacts but sometimes gets allergy eyes (hello? Florida? Pollen!) so we had to have my pal Tammie, who lives a minute away, come into the house, find the glasses, and FedEx them to Old Key West. Again, this last trip was a DOOZY! :) ANother time he forgot his bathing suit, once it was his replacement contacts... OY!

SlightlyGoofy

03-03-2004, 10:22 PM

LOL, Colleen!! I have been married for over 30 years and for the first ten I thought Tom might be mentally disabled. The last twenty or so, after I got a bit smarter, I have discovered that he is the smartest of the both of us. By not being able to do anything, he does not have to do anything.

I have repeatedly tried to explain that if I have to handle all of the work around here I am not likely to have the energy to provide the entertainment opportunities that he might enjoy. He loves his visits with his brother in Brown County as he takes him all kinds of places and picks up the tab. Since my bil does not cook, clean or do any other domestic activity he has more energy than I do. I enjoy those visits as well. I spend a few hours the first day getting the house all cleaned up and even find time to do a bit of reading and can actually enjoy a leisurely visit to the bathroom without being interupted to answer the phone or, believe it or not, change the channel on the remote. My bil has put in a request for Tom next weekend and I am going to pack his bag as I have some wild plans. I am going to paint the upstairs bathroom while he is gone. LOL

Tom has lost his eye glasses most everywhere we have traveled. I finally figured out, by accident, that he can use eyeglasses bought at Wal Mart and that has saved some stress and strain as well as many dollars. If I had the time spent hunting for things he had lost back I would be a mere teenager.

Was not as bad when he was still working as I could delude myself into thinking he was doing something but no more. (sigh)

My little grandson told grandad that this was grandma's house cause she took care of it. He also loves to play checkers with grandad, when he can tear himself away from the tv, as he can beat him. LOL

Whatever you do, do NOT ever let your hubby retire. Is an awful thing for a marriage. I have friends who have had problems but then their husbands found a hobby or even a part time job, no such luck here. I would go to work but would not have a house to return to if I did so. (can you tell I am on my last nerve?) LOL

Do you pack for your hubby in order to prevent his forgetting anything? If so, he won!!!! (grin) Men are sly creatures and not nearly as dumb as they might have us believe. If only we were capable of living in utter chaos and dishevel then we might be able to fight back. (grin)

Is OY a New Jersey saying? (I am kidding)

Your strange new friend, SG/Linda

IASW Rider

03-04-2004, 07:19 PM

Hi everyone,

Sorry that I haven't been able to check in, in a bit, and sorry that I can't post for very long right now (for a change!)! It's been very busy, these past few days. But I wanted to say "hi" and that I'm thinking of you all!

I enjoyed reading your insightful spiritual and philosophical thoughts, Elaine and Linda, and I loved your recounting what Austin asked to do with his birthday money - that is just wonderful! As Elaine said, he obviously has some great and very special people influencing his life! And I enjoyed reading about your trip preparations, Colleen! I'm just sorry to hear about your children not feeling well and your cat's not being well, during your last trip. Well, everything will be perfect on your upcoming trip, I'm sure!

Again, so sorry that I don't have time to properly respond to all of your great posts! I've been tearing my hair out, doing research about whether tranferring to an undergraduate or a graduate level Public Health degree program would be more appropriate (and realistic) for me, so I've been very preoccupied. Hope to be "back to normal", soon! Oh - and a Central NJ DIS Meet is in the works for June - I'm so excited - I will finally get to go to one of the world famous DIS Meets! :)

Hope that all is well with all of you! :)

IASW Rider

03-06-2004, 03:49 PM

Just wanted to "bump us up" and wish you all a great weekend! :)

colleen costello

03-06-2004, 05:02 PM

Ian had his birthday party today. Monday he turns 6; where does the time go? I can remember the day he was born like "yesterday." He was so sweet and terribly ugly and I just adored him! He nursed really well right away, and was just so sweet and so "easy" -- and after a few weeks he even got pretty! :) He is my sweetie. Some girl will marry him someday and it will KILL me... But for now it's birthday parties and fun. He had 12 friends come and we played mini-golf and had pizza and cake. Lots of presents and fun. Now that the party is settled and done I can PACK! We leave for Florida on Thursday. I really love to pack. People hate it but I LOVE it... It's a challenge, knowing what you need and what you don't, and organizing it all and getting it into the suitcases. I am like a general when I pack and nobody better mess with me! Poor Scott just lays low while I check and recheck my lists. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (which Scott accuses me of having!) comes in handy while packing...

The Florida weather forecase is sunny and warm for our week there. March is a great time to visit. Very little rain and temps between 75 and 85 -- perfect. Warm enough to swim but not too hot for fun. I can't WAIT! I am more than ready for some sunshine and flowers. Indiana had a mild winter this year (at least by me, how about you, Linda?) but it's very gray here. No green yet. Going to Florida this time of year is like waking up in Oz -- technicolor! I smile just thinking about it. My favorite part is checking in! You drive up and just look at the resort and the whole vacation awaits you. You're so full of HOPE -- all anticipation for the great times ahead. Checking into the room really is the BEST part for me! When we drive up I just FLY out of the van, and run in to get in the line. I gab with anyone unfortunate enough to be in line with me! I am such a spaz by the time I greet the CM, it's a wonder they can deal with me. I instantly start negotiating about the room -- need a bathtub, please, no parking lot view, not too far from the action -- I am TERRIBLE. Last June I was so bad the young man at the desk, bless his heart, he WALKED us up to our room to make sure it was "OK." I guess he figured he was dealing with a potential nut who needed to be appeased... In any case, we got a great room! :)

I want to post pics when I get back. Going to try to have Scott help me do that. Meanwhile, I am off to pack!

IASW Rider

03-08-2004, 10:52 AM

Hi Colleen!

Happy Birthday to Ian! I hope that he (and all of you) has a wonderful day! Glad to hear that he had a nice and fun party! :)

I love to pack, too! I love doing all of the WDW preparation stuff - looking through planning books (even though after 13 visits, I pretty much know everything by heart!), reading the Boards, making PS's.........I love all of it! We took care of the balance of our upcoming trip with Dreams Unlimited this morning, and I even loved that, too! :) I would start packing now, for 2 months from now, if I could! And I know exactly what you're saying about running to get on line to check in when you arrive and speaking with other guests or CM's - I do the same thing! :) I'm so excited for you - just 3 more days until you blast off!

I don't know how it is out there, today, but we actually have SNOW again, here, today - UGH. Last week was so beautiful, with weather in the 50's and 60's.........and today we wake up to white, all over the place! I could definitely use some of that WDW Oz-like technicolor, right about now! :)

How is everyone else doing, out there?

All is well, here. Tomorrow is Frank's birthday, and wouldn't you know that I have 2 back-to-back exams in the morning........and a 3 hour night class tomorrow night??? Figures that his birthday would have to fall on a Tuesday! I'm hoping that the evening class might let out a bit early so that I can rush home, change, and take him out to dinner! I'm going to give him his presents at midnight tonight, though. I got him some summer shirts for our trip........and I tucked tickets to Bette Midler's concert into the pocket of one of the shirts, too! I hope that he will be surprised - I know that he really wanted to see her show, and it's next Saturday night! :)

Time to get back to studying! Hope that all is well with all of you!

Have a great day! :)

helenabear

03-08-2004, 11:13 AM

Hi all!! Been busy and haven't been online near as much as usual. I have a break here at work so I thought I'd come in and say hi!

Colleen, a very happy birthday to Ian!!! And enjoy the preparations for your trip!! I am quite the opposite of you... I hate to pack. Not sure what it is about packing that I dislike so, but I do avoid it as much as possible. I couldn't imagine these trips from hell as you said. I travel alone and 9 times out of 10, it is cheaper for me to fly than to drive. Plus going alone it is safer that way. So I hope this trip goes well for you!!!!

Linda, I knew about that auto reply thing being turned off. Unfortunately that wasn't the problem. I know the admins reset it and for soem reason a good number of the road runner users were not getting any notifications at all for subscribed threads! I actually do have that opiton turned off too since I reply to a ton of threads... I don't want/need to be notified of all those I do reply to. You have me curious, what route do you take when you go to Florida? I haven't had to ride in a car there in ages so I wouldn't even begin to know how to get there.

Lisa, I hope Frank has a wonderful birthday tomorrow!!! So sweet of you to do the presents at midnight... although on a weeknight I might be too tired to enjoy them then :p I hope you can take him out to dinner, but if not hopefully you can celebrate it another time :) Sounds like some good gifts too!

Well I probably should get back and check on some things here. I have been looking to see if any DL discounts have come out for the hotel and trying to figure out what I might like to do while in Chicago. I hope all is well with everyone :)

colleen costello

03-08-2004, 04:16 PM

Please pray for me, or meditate, or visualize good karma or something... I have been uncomfortable all weekend and was diagnosed this morning with a KIDNEY STONE! Ugh... Relieved to have a diagnosis but my Spring Break trip is only a "maybe" at this point. I have to see if the darn thing is on it's way out or is stuck. I see the urologist in the morning and will needle him re: Disney. Ugh. Great timing... It's a 2-day drive so without a clean bill of health, I am grounded. :(

I'll keep you posted. I am going to go sulk and feel sorry for myself...

SlightlyGoofy

03-08-2004, 08:42 PM

Dear Colleen, around here we spread liberal amounts of Pixie Dust to cover most any situation and/or religion or whatever. I am so sorry to hear of your pain. In an effort to salvage a bit of your peace of mind I will tell you that I am surely glad that, if this had to beset you, it is best that it stuck while you are near to home. (closing my eyes and chanting)
Kidney stone, kidney stone, go away,
Let Colleen go on her trip far away,
Make the pain quickly pass,
And not be so much of a pain in the ummmmm. (better let this one go) LOL

Your love for your son is so well written and expressed in your post. I hope you are writing some of these thoughts down so they can read them someday. The party sounded wonderful. You are giving your children so many happy memories. You know you may luck out and get a great dil who will add to your family instead of subtracting.

I posted earlier in the day and wrote quite a comprehensive note. Must have been too much for the system to handle as it seems to have disappeared. I even re read it after I posted so I know it was there. (bummer)

Rider, please tell Frank that I am so sorry that I was not able to get a card to him on his very special day. Just got so much stuff going on that I am far behind on all cards and such. Just called my brother for his birthday. You sure married good. Anyone who loves Bette is aces with me. I have been a fan of hers since her bathhouse days. I love the off beat and witty not to mention talented.

Helenabear, we take 65S thru Louisville to Nashville, 24 to Chattanooga, 75 thru Atlanta (do NOT take the bypass) past Ocala and then onto the Turnpike to DW. Is almost exactly 1,000 miles and I can easily drive it in a day and a half. Those higher mph states make it easier. I do not drive after dark and Tom will not leave without breakfast in his belly so we do not suffer overly much. The rules of the house is that I stop each two hours or 100 miles, whichever comes first. LOL

The scuttlebutt is that room discounts are due out tomorrow. I hope so as I am getting anxious to get dates set. Have been invited to spend a few days at a retirement community only 10 miles from property so we may stop there also. If only it were an owner property as we are allergic to paying $100's a month in lot fees and such. Tom wants to go over and check out a place in Lake Placid too. Would mean having to postpone going to Fairhope though. I would hate that as I am so looking forward to meeting Angelina.

Packing is easy for me as I keep a small bag filled with tolietries and such at the ready and that is the hardest part of packing other than that I can just take outfits out of the closet, on their hangers, fold in half and count out the right amount of underwear plus an extra set for emergencies and am ready to go. LOL

Depply, you must be off watching all those tv shows about Johnny. He is everywhere nowadays and deservedly so. I like the fact that he seems to carefully chose his roles instead of just taking any old thing that comes his way. I read where some Disney people were less than pleased when they first saw his take on the part of Jack Sparrow. Sure glad they did not decide to take it in a different direction. POTC or Haunted Mansion? Casting is everything.

Guess you all will just have to wonder at all the info I am leaving out of this post. LOL I am going to 'copy' this just to make sure.

Have to get my rest so I can get up and start calling if the codes come out tomorrow.

Good night and sweet dreams for all and hoping that some things come to pass for poor Colleen. I am sure her family is rooting for it also.

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

03-10-2004, 02:22 PM

COLLEEN!!!!!!!

How are you feeling?????? So sorry to hear that you're suffering with this kidney stone at all, muchless so close to your scheduled trip! I hope that it resolves itself and that your doctor has given you the go-ahead to continue with your vacation plans! Hopefully it will just dissolve by itself, and not cause you any more pain or discomfort. We will all be thinking of you, here in the Suite, and praying for your speedy recovery!

Are you going to Chicago this coming weekend, Elaine? Is there a DIS Meet there? I'm sure that you will have a great time, and I know that you are familiar with the city. That's such a great place - there are always so many neat things to see and do there! Were you able to find any good DL discount information?

And have you been able to find any good WDW discount information, Linda? I can't believe that our trips are coming up so soon! :)

Thanks so much to you and Tom and Elaine for thinking of Frank on his birthday! It was so kind of you all to do so, and he really appreciated it! He did have a nice day, yesterday. The people with whom he works took him out for a nice lunch, and we did get to go out to dinner at our favorite little Italian restaurant last night, too (I zoomed home from class and tried to transform myself into someone presentable, and then we made it out the door by 8:00 PM!). My father and uncle are taking us out on Friday night, too, and then we'll go to the concert on Saturday night! Yeah, we've been long time fans of Bette Midler, too, and it's so rare that she tours that I had to take advantage of the opportunity to see her - especially since I knew that Frank really wanted to! I think that we're going to watch "Beaches" tonight - that's my favorite of all of her movies!

I hope that you are able to visit Fairhope and meet Angie on your way to Florida, Linda! I'm still hoping that we can somehow pull off our "kidnapping caper" and get her to come to WDW! :)

There's a great article about Johnny in Time Magazine this week, if you haven't already seen it, Depply!

Hope that all is well with all of you! We're thinking of you, Colleen! Have a great day and talk to you all, soon! :)

colleen costello

03-10-2004, 04:26 PM

Hi all. Procedure went fine. I am really too groggy to type but I am ALIVE! and feel pretty good. A fatty at heart, I managed to drink a chocolate milkshake on the way home (so much for nausea!). Not sure if I can travel tomorrow or not; feel like i have to tinkle BAD every minute... Hopefully that will pass as doc promised. I am thinking of Mickey! :)

angelina

03-10-2004, 07:36 PM

Hi, everyone. I popped in for a moment, and have been reading your last few pages of posts. So much going on! It's nice to read about your upcoming trips. Colleen, I feel exactly the same way about packing for a trip! I have a bag packed under my bed with disney stuff just waiting for another trip. I love all the PLANNING that goes into a vacation. I used to lay out all of my childrens' outfits and match the bows and ribbons for the girsl' playclothes, and I had more fun just thinking about the trip! I hope your recent problems don't prevent you from going.

Did I hear correctly that POTC II is inthe works? I think that would be wonderful. I didn't see Haunted Mansion, but will when it comes out on video.

Depply, have you seen JD's latest movie? I would love to know what you think about it.

SG, I hope your plans don't change too much--I'm counting on meeting you soon. There's something about this time of year that makes my heart pine for WDW--must be memories of our Easter trip!

I am going back to read some more posts that I've missed. Take care.

Angelina

SlightlyGoofy

03-10-2004, 08:32 PM

How lovely to see all you lovely ladies in the Suite this evening.

How many boxes of Kleenex did you go through while watching "Beaches" Rider? I cry at the drop of a hat. Funny thing is that I also cry when I get very mad (does not happen often thankfully) and it has been mistaken for weakness when really I am using every ounce of self restraint to keep from bopping someone on the head. LOL Is much better to pick on me rather than someone else as I will step up if someone else is being mistreated. (grrrrrr) Scare anyone? LOL I am glad that Frank was pleased at being remembered, albeit a bit late. You always look lovely in black, Lisa. Having worn black for so much of my life (to hide a few ounces) I now wear loads of bright colors. The codes came out and while they are a bit higher than in past years, it is not a big deal. Really , the room is about the cheapest part of the trip. Hoping to book the room tomorrow. Am doing some research tonight to see what music groups are going to be there and when so I can decide which ten day period, with our date uppermost in my mind. When are you going on your first meet? Bet you become as addicted as Helenabear.

Colleen, I am so glad to hear that you have been mended. If you were able to ingest a milkshake on your way home it bodes well for a quick recovery for you. I would use your recent troubles to get out of any heavy lifting or any other chore that I could. (hope it works better for you than for me).

Angelina, I am sincerely hoping that our Fairhope plans will not have to be changed either. If they do have to be changed I would like to take your phone number etc. with me just in case we can squeeze in a few extra days. Please email me with the info in case? Tom is set on checking out a few housing ideas in Florida. I keep trying to be the voice of reason but the truth is that if it were just me I would be sorely tempted to move there myself. I believe in renting for a period of time before making any drastic changes. Too many people move in haste and repent at leisure. We are neither rich nor poor but cannot afford to make any large mistakes at this point in our lives.. I have one suitcase that has all our Disney items in it and always keep the 'bathroom' bag fully packed. Has often come in handy for spur of the moment trips. It is the hardest thing to pack as there are so many small, but very important, items that have to be remembered. My best tip for packing, when you are spending an extended time is to leave the complete outfit on a hanger, fold in half in the suitcase and then when you get to where you are going you have only to take them out and hang them, very few wrinkles also. I always have a small bag with the clothes for the trip down so we do not have to unload much on the nights we are just sleeping and driving. Last tip is to always take an extra set of underwear. If you get lucky enough to spend an additional day you can always get away with wearing an outfit twice but not undies. Ugh!! I used to pack two shirts for each pair of pants for the kids to cut down on the clothes in the old days.

Had a full day, club meeting this morning and I had to make a 30 mile round trip to pick up one lady whose car did not start this morning. Drove another lady home afterward and then to the nursing home to visit my friend. Made it to the afterschool program just in time and had a new student. She is on the verge of flunking first grade. Just needs confidence IMHO. A bit late to ask for help though so I am a bit worried. Flunking will not do much for her self esteem.

I am going to go have some fun doing some Disney planning and hope to report days booked tomorrow! Yeah!!!!

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-10-2004, 09:04 PM

I am still a little groggy, but I think a universal rule for life in general is "Always pack extra underwear..." I am the kind of woman who ALWAYS packs extra undies... :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-10-2004, 09:47 PM

Colleen, you are my kind of gal, always prepared for an emergency. LOL

Bet you sure are glad that you started packing early. Hoping that your trip will take place and you will be fine while there. It is my nightmare that I would get sick there.

I am going to request a ressie from May 16th thru the 26th. Had to add one day so that I could see Arlo Guthrie. The Turtles, The Animals and Paul Revere will be there during that time frame also. I was not allowed to listen to rock n roll as a kid so I am making up for lost time. Hope I can get those dates. After Mother's Day and leaving on Memorial Day so I think I will be able to make it just fine. My heart is pumping with excitement. Nothing thrills me more than purple and red signs, even if I cannot read them at night. LOL

SG/Linda

SlightlyGoofy

03-11-2004, 08:54 AM

I was up bright and early and I now am the proud owner of a confirmed reservation for DW from May 16th thru the 27th!! All Star Sports, Touchdown, near the bus stop, king bed. All a girl can dream of and more!! I will get to see all four of my groups and most importantly, Lisa and Frank!!

Colleen, sendins special thoughts to you today as you wend your way to the Magic Kingdom. Almost considered going out west of town to wave to you as you passed but did not think you needed any other distractions. Besides, you probably left at 4 am or some such. Much easier to drive while the little darlings are asleep or semi conscious. Ah, how I remember those days. LOL

SG/Linda

helenabear

03-11-2004, 09:06 AM

Hi all... been a bit busy here at work and at home as well... I'll make this quick as I have things to do.

Colleen, I hope by now you are feeling better and enjoying your trip to WDW!!!! I can't wait to hear all about it when you get back!!!

Linda, you might laugh at this, but a real problem with living in Columbus is that there is no good "direct" route down to FL. We either have to go pretty far east or West in Ohio to get on a highway that will go the right direction. Not sure how that one happened. I am sure that you would hate me as well to ride with. I go as far as I can go w/o having to stop. I usually make it about 280 miles (3/4 tank) before I stop. If I could have a car that never ran out of gas, I'd never stop ;) But the only thing is with me going by myself so often, flying is always cheaper in the long run so I never have to worry about that with WDW trips.

Lisa, no Chicago trip this weekend... going in April though and want to see more of the city again! You can always see trips of mine in my sig so the dates I am going are there :teeth: It's been almost a year since I've been to Chicago so it will be nice to go back! Unfortunately no discounts for DL yet. Hopefully soon or it is doubtful we will get any at all :(

Hi Angie! How are you doing?? You are correct, a Pirates of the Caribbean is in the works. With Orlando's and Johnny's schedule though, I doubt we will see it before 2006 though. Are you speaking of the new movie due out this weekendf or Johnny? I heard it is a freaky one... a friend of mine hopes to see it this weekend :)

Linda! I am so very happy to see your dates are confirmed!!! I was actually looking at that time of year for a quick trip, but the flights out aren't reasonable enough for me. And driving is a no go at all. I did try though.

Well I should get back to work. Have a great day all!

colleen costello

03-11-2004, 09:24 AM

Linda, I will wave to anyone in Indiana thinking it might be you! No we haven't left yet. We sleep in and drive late, that suits my lazies. Hubby would BOYCOTT if I got him up that early -- he is a night owl. I am feeling OK except for some bladder spasms, which are normal, But suddenly I have to GO. I DID pack the extra undies where I can get at them, just in case! :) I won't be the only one at WD with bladder issues, I am sure!

I will write once I am back. Linda, we will just miss you at WDW - -we check in right after you leave in May. Some day! :) Love to all while I am gone.

SlightlyGoofy

03-11-2004, 11:25 AM

Elaine, you are a piker. (grin) I always drive 500-600 miles a day on my way down. I like to check in early enough to get settled in on the second day. Tom is the one who wants to stop every few miles. LOL We are lucky to live so close to a main road toward DW. If you ever decide to drive and will take 65 you will have a free place to stay here. I am about 200 miles from you so that is a good days drive, for you. LOL I get pretty good mileage with my car and even with the recent gas increases it will still only cost about $100 in gas to get me there and back and we only have one night on the road. Thanks to the fact that we go off season and use the discount books it is not too expensive. If I were not such a nitwit about directions I could go a bit off the main path and do even better but it is best to be safe than sorry IMHO. If you were able to get a couple of weeks off you could ride with us, especially if you did part of the driving. With two drivers I think we could make it in one very long day. Is almost exactly 1,000 miles from here to there but since the roads are so easy and some have speed limits in the 70's it is not too bad.

Colleen, my extremely lazy husband will get up early for one thing and one thing only and that is vacation. There were times when we got up at 4 am to start out. I always had the house cleaned, luggage packed and in the car and all ready for when we woke up. (of course I had to be up earlier to fix breakfast) Just wrapped the kids in blankets and we could be a couple of states away before they knew what hit them. Was way before seat belts and we had station wagons so we made them a little room in the back with the luggage at the rear to provide some protection. Even had a small tv at one point. I think they have as many terrible memories of those days as I do. Tom did the driving then and he was under the impression that those signs on the on ramps meant he was supposed to be on that road so we spent much time driving in circles. Life is somewhat better now that I do the driving as I know what I am going to do, most of the time. Tom enjoys it also since he can sleep his way there. What time of day are you going to be headed out? I will be in Columbus as I have to take Tom bowling. Should be easier to see my wave. LOL Hope your bladder settles down so you can enjoy the trip a bit more.

I have my agenda pretty well figured out. Always work around the night time parades nowadays. Have some new things on the plan and hope to get to most of them. Will make them up in November if I have to. LOL

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-11-2004, 11:26 AM

It's 10:30 and I hope to leave around noon. I'll look for your wave, Linda... I'll proabably have to stop by Columbus to tinkle...

xoxo

SlightlyGoofy

03-11-2004, 12:07 PM

Colleen, I can sympathize with you as I have always had a small bladder but I am so used to having to be near a bathroom that I almost do not notice it anymore. Best thing in the world was when we moved from the small house with one bath to this one with 2.5!!

Be careful and make sure you stop at every rest stop you can cause there is one state, can't think of it now, that only seems to have one rest stop for the whole state.

I will be dropping off Tom at bowling about the time you go through town. Glad that the rain seems to have stopped. Have a safe and wonderful trip!!

See you when you get back.

Linda and your Suite friends

IASW Rider

03-11-2004, 02:57 PM

BON VOYAGE, COLLEEN!!! So glad to hear that you're hanging in there and feeling at least a little bit better! I'll bet that you'll feel better every day that you are away! Hope that you and your family have a safe trip and a Magical vacation! We'll be thinking of you and can't wait to hear your full report, upon your return! :)

So glad that you made your reservations, Linda!!!!!!!!!!!! :) :) :)
Can't wait to meet you and Tom!! That is so wonderful that you'll be able to spend so much time there and that you will be able to see all of the performances that you want to see! You both are going to have a great time! I wish that we were going to be there longer, so that we could spend some more time together, but with only 3 days on land, we have a lot to pack into a short period of time! Next time, hopefully we'll have some more time to spend together, though! I'm still hoping for an eventual "Suite Meet" at WDW...........I really think that it is going to happen, some day! :) The NJ DIS Meet isn't until June - a few weeks after we return (strangely enough, it's scheduled during the week that we have traditionally gone to WDW. Also, strangely enough, many of the people who are planning to attend the NJ DIS Meet will happen to be at WDW during the same time that we will be!). And I did cry my eyes out while watching "Beaches" - no matter how many times I see that movie, I always cry in exactly the same "places"!

Great to hear from you, Angie! How are you all doing, down there? How was Mardi Gras, this year? Did you attend any of the balls or parades? I always love hearing about all of the events going on, down there!

Sorry about that, Elaine - by now I know that I should look in your signature to see the countdowns to your upcoming trips! It's so neat that you always have something to look forward to and so many opportunities to meet up with DIS friends!

Not too much to report from here, today. Spent the morning with my father, going over estate planning stuff. I had been dreading it, but it wasn't quite as depressing as I imagined it would be. I know that it has to get done and that there are things that I have to face and that we have to speak about. But I'm glad that it wasn't as "bad" as I thought it would be. My father is dealing with things much better than he had been, months ago. I just keep worrying that there will be a "backlash" at some point and he will get really depressed again. Especially since my uncle was diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease, last week. I know that I can't spend my life worrying, though, so I try to remain positive.

Now I need to totally distract myself and throw myself full throttle into my "new direction" - applying to graduate school. Too many changes in my life, this year - it's so overwhelming. But I think that this is a better and more realistic course of action for me to take. So now I have to get myself a GMAT review book, find out when review classes are being offered, and start getting my act together.

Hope that all is well with all of you and hope that you're all having a nice day! Talk to you soon! :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-11-2004, 06:43 PM

Dear Rider, I am so excited. I spent this morning tweaking my plans on the program I use. I always leave one day for whatever since there is always something we miss or think of while we are there. I am looking forward to meeting you and Frank also. Having dinner will be wonderful. I don't think it would go very good with us old folks holding you young ones back and would never dream of such. If we ever find ourselves at DW again, hopefully so, we can meet for a meal or watch a parade or something and it will be great!! You both are so very generous in sharing your special evening with us as it is. I am looking forward to someone else deciding where to sit to see the parade and such. I am in charge of every detail of our lives and it gets quite wearing. I wanna ride in the back seat sometime. LOL

Colleen should be well into Tennesee and even possibly at the Georgia border by now. I was telling someone today that I would rather drive the 1,000 miles to Disney World than fight the drive to the Indpls airport and all that goes with flying nowadays. Just me.

I saw a "Been there, done that, going back DW" license plate in the parking lot today and was sorely tempted to stake it out and see if the occupant is a DISer. LOL Colleen and I do not live far apart so I am hoping that we can plan a get together this summer. They are getting ready to finally pave the parking lot next door so that means I will have a lot of landscaping to do. I work awfully slowly so it will be a major undertaking. I am going to put in a walkway and plant a bunch of ivy so it will be low maintance. Don't know what the trees are called but they are tall and thin and the branches and leaves hang over sort of like an umbrella. Would be lovely I think. I have vast stands of clementis on either side of the front porch, covering the trellises and roses on the front ones. Have hundreds of daffidils getting ready to bloom down the alley. I am hankering to start in doing the yardwork but I usually get over it by about July. (sigh) I will not be able to plant my tomatoes until we return from Florida so I will have to buy the big plants. I refuse to eat store bought tomatoes. (ugh)

Angelina, still waiting to see what is going on before I determine if we will have to miss Fairhope. I am hanging in there with my last breath as I have had many dreams of walking those lovely streets and meeting you and your talented children.

We have not chatted like this in a long time. I love it and you all!!

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

03-12-2004, 10:37 AM

Hi Linda!

Frank and I were talking about how excited we are about meeting you and Tom, last night! :) You mentioned that your first day at WDW will be the 16th - will you definitely be spending a few days in Florida before you arrive at WDW? Or will you literally be arriving in from your long drive on the 16th? Our flight arrives in Orlando some time around 10:00 AM that morning, I think. I don't know if we're even going to go to any parks that day - we might take that day to just get our bearings at POR, maybe go for a swim.........and get ready for our dinner with you! :) Will do the MK, the Studios, and Epcot on Monday - Wednesday, then leave early in the morning for the DCL terminal on Thursday. Unfortunately, we'll have to miss the AK this time around, but we're hoping to at least make it over to the AKL at some point, since we're so curious to see it! Will be reserving our shore excursions for the cruise soon, too. I'm trying to encourage Frank to try parasailing, since he said that he'd always wanted to try it (I will stay safely on the ground, videotaping and taking pictures!)! We also hope to take one of the tours of Nassau, since Frank has never been there before. My plans for Castaway Cay involve nothing more than lying like a blob on the beach and swimming in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean! :) Anyway, I do hope that we have another chance to spend some more time together! It will be strange being in WDW for such a short period of time, this time around.

Your plans for your garden and landscaping sound wonderful! I can imagine how pretty everything is going to look - it probably already looks great! You always put so much work into it - you obviously enjoy it and I can envision how beautiful your home and property look with everything growing and blooming! So glad that spring is on its way!

Hope that Colleen and her family are having a safe trip to WDW and are enjoying the ride and the anticipation of their arrival!

Hope that all is well with all of you, Elaine, Depply, Angie, and Wendy! Have a great day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-12-2004, 11:05 AM

Yes, we are planning on coming in early afternoon on the 16th. I had only planned on staying 10 days but then saw that Arlo Guthrie was going to be there on the 26th so I had to add a day for that. There is always a chance that I will either add another day to the beginning or just leave here a day early and be at the gates of DW on the morning of the 16th. Even if we do not get in until early afternoon on the 16th, we have been so many times and I have the timing down to the second so we will just unpack, get cleaned up and head over to the Poly. Think I had better take the bus though as I will be pretty tired that night though. I sort of like the ride through the property on that first night. Makes me feel as if I am 'home' and I meet the most wonderful people. I enjoy the long stays as it feels much more like a vacation. I get tired easily, not so bad if I go slow and do not get out of breath. Slow is the only way I go. LOL

My plans are to go to Epcot on Monday, MGM on Tuesday and MK on Wednesday of that week but we are often flexible when other things come up. If it rains it is always an EPCOT day. LOL I want to check out Pop Century and Sarasota Springs while we are there as well. Fresh at the Dolphin is a must. Planning on walking thru the Gateway over to Beaches and Cream for lunch one day. Not much there I can eat but I often just eat a bit of Tom's huge meal. I think he would like the atmosphere there. Going to do loads of nightime things, Transit Authority, Pirates, monorail tour etc. Different perspective and all. I wonder if anyone has actually ever done every single thing there is to do there? Must not be so as I meet many CM's who seem to enjoy walking the parks as much as we do.

I wish our property was as lovely as you think. I think I have found someone to trim and prune the trees for me this year. I cannot hold my arms over my head for any length of time and have limited strength so for me to do it takes weeks. I go out and trim about a half dozen places, rest, and go back out again until I get it done or as much as I can. Being this feeble at 55 makes me glad that longevity does not run in my family. (grin)

Have to get some work done. Austin is coming to spend the night. We were talking on the phone at 11 last night. His parents were asleep and he wanted to talk. I am so happy that I can do that for him. He will turn into a teenager in July but I see no evidence of him turning into a terror. He is learning and growing into a fine young person.

SG/Linda

Dan Murphy

03-12-2004, 11:19 AM

Just dropping by to say hello, have not so in a long time. :o Sounds like lots of nice trips coming up, hope everyone enjoys, as I am sure you all will. A great group you guys are. :wave2: have a super weekend, relax, enjoy. :wave:

Dan :sunny:

SlightlyGoofy

03-12-2004, 03:34 PM

Ain't it always true that when a batch of ladies get together once they start discussing bodily functions or something else embarrassing a man drops by. LOL

Dan, you are welcome in here any old time you care to drop by. Do you happen to have any hints on things that would be new to do even to frequent visitors? Bet you know things that the guide books never list and I would never think of.

Any chance you would be going to the DIS meet that Rider is going to? Would be wonderful!! When is your next trip to DW?

Going to relax and enjoy a bit before doing my next chore. Worked on the taxes and cleaned a bunch of shelves and need a Calgon moment.

SG/Linda

helenabear

03-12-2004, 04:31 PM

Afternoon all... slow time at work so I thought I'd come in and say hi :)

Lisa, I actually said it that way about the dates because I didn't have a calendar on me so that was easier than typing out dates and saying "I think" afterwards ;) Your trip sounds so wonderful!!!! I really do wish I could meet up with you but unless some air drops so more I can't even think about going then :(

Linda, I am so very happy that you can be there for Austin when he needs someone. You are a truly special person :) After cleaning *and* doing your taxes, I sure don't blame you for needing a moment of rest!

Howdy Dan :wave2: good of you to drop in :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-12-2004, 04:51 PM

Helenabear, I am in awe of those of you who work full time to earn a living AND keep house, cook etc. etc. etc. Even with the new modern man who 'helps out' I do not doubt that the majority of the load still lands on the woman's shoulders.

I have friends my age and older who are having to work outside the home as well as keep up with everything else. I feel inadequate as I get so darned tired just doing the bit I do do.

Speaking of the little devil, Austin just walked in and I want to see what he is up to.

Linda/SG

jstmee

03-16-2004, 11:52 AM

I'm going, I'm going, I'm going to WDW! March 27-Apr 4, not the whole time there but the first 5 days, my neice is doing her internship at Epcot, she works at a restaurant helping the kiddos make cookies and I'm going down to visit her and my folks will be there and my brother. I'm going solo, so I'll have R&R....I got a room through priceline at Orlando World Resort. I've heard conflicting reports, but oh well, not much I can do about that, then I'm staying at Radisson in Orlando---I have to do a timeshare viewing(but, I get 2 -2daypasses to universal) then I have to nights in Daytona. For spur of the moment I'll definately take it. I have 3 books for the beach.

I was reading some of the past posts HELLO TO ALL. like many of you I enjoy the planning and packing so you can imagine my flurry of activity getting ready for me, myself and I.......I'm trying not to think of missing my DH and kiddos. But this will also be a mental health visit for myself. Yahoooooooo!!!!!!

SlightlyGoofy

03-16-2004, 09:21 PM

Dear Jstmee, I am so very happy for you but sad for myself and Rider as it would have been perfect if you could have been there when we were. Which restaurant does your niece work at? I would love to go by and say hello to her when we are there.

You will be an even better wife and mother for having taken a few days for yourself. Trust me, I know these things. (grin)

The secret to the timeshare presentations is not to be too darned polite cause they will grind you down to a stub before giving you whatever is promised. Believe me, they do not want to waste time on someone who is not about to buy so make that plain and grab your booty and escape without spending too many of your precious free moments with them..

Did Colleen take everyone else with her? If so, I am heartbroken that she did not take me as well. And I live closer too!!! LOL

Rider, have been thinking of you. Heard a report of a bad happening in the Rutgers area. Said they caught the guy though so that is some comfort. I hope you and yours are safe and sound.

Counting the days off (60).

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

03-17-2004, 03:04 PM

Hey Everyone!

So sorry that I haven't been around in a few days, but for some reason, I had not been able to access the Boards! Glad that I was able to get on, today!

Hi Dan! Thanks so much for stopping by! :)

Hi Elaine! :)

Hi Wendy! So glad that you stopped by and so happy that you'll be heading down to WDW - and so soon, too - just 10 days away! That is so exciting! Wishing you a wonderful trip - please be sure to stop by and tell us all about it, upon your return! :)

Hi Linda! Sounds like you have your WDW plans all laid out and it sounds like you will have the time to do and see just about everything that you're planning! We are counting the days, too! Also, I think it's so neat that Austin called you up and that you were chatting late into the evening - that is so sweet! It's so wonderful that you and your grandchildren share such special and close relationships! Please bring lots of recent pictures of the boys to show us when we see you in May! :)

Thanks for thinking of me - yes, all of the recent violence at Rutgers has been pretty scary. 2 incidences of rape and several robberies on or around the campus, over the past month or so. Of course it could happen in any city or any college town. But New Brunswick really does need to pay more attention to security. The assaults have generally happened in or near off-campus housing - big old houses on the outskirts of the campus that absentee landlords rent to students. They need to change the zoning laws or require more sophisticated (or any!) security systems for those homes, since some of the students who live in them seem to be very vulnerable to break ins, etc. Fortuantely, I'm usually on campus only during the daytime, and only when there are a million other people around. And these incidents have happened on a completely different part of the campus, several miles away from where my classes are. Nevertheless, it is frightening and I hope that the New Brunswick police pay more attention to these safety and security issues.

The Bette Midler concert on Saturday night was amazing, by the way! She looked and sounded fantastic - she looks even better now than she did 30 years ago! And her voice is just spectacular. Frank had a great time, so I was very happy! Tonight, we're going back to the Continental Airlines Arena (part of the Meadowlands complex, where the Giants and Jets play) to see the NJ Devils play. I have only ever been to a few NHL games before, and believe it or not, this will be the first time that I will see our team play, live! Frank was actually given the Merrill Lynch box seats for tonight's game by his bosses, for work that he recently did on a special project. So we should be pretty close to the action!

Hope that all is well with all of you! Happy St. Patrick's Day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-17-2004, 04:07 PM

Just jotted a note to myself so I am sure to bring some pictures of the boys to show you. Do not have anything except school pictures. There were group pictures taken with the other side of the family taken last year but we are never able to get together for one with us. It is just Tom and myself so is too much to expect while the other family is huge and very close knit. I am happy for that fact. I enjoy knowing that my grands have cousins by the dozens as I did not and neither did my kids. The last formal pictures were taken two years ago Christmas when I took the kids to Wal Mart. DD was quite upset about it but did fall in love with the pictures that were taken so she took some home with her. My take is that I have always been there and I have become like the floor, necessary but not noticed. (smile)

Much crime happens around campuses. Youngsters are more trusting and vulnerable and the schools have a vested interest in not reporting such. Is a scary situation IMHO. I am glad to know that they have caught that particular villian. Good news for Helenabear and neighbors as well as they seem to have caught the idiot that has been shooting up the interstate around Columbus, Ohio. As I have many family and friends in the area I have been particuarly worried about that.

Who else but a nutty grandma would be willing and/or able to take late night calls from a lonely youngster who wants to talk. His poor parents are worn out from working all day long. LOL I am thrilled to be able to be there for him.

Dalton and I have been reading and working on double digit addition today. He is counting money as well. At one point he stopped me and asked for a minute so he could figure something out for himself. I am in awe of him. Tomorrow I am making him go to town and play at the indoor playgound with a friend and her grandkids. He will be foreced to eat pizza and possibly suffer through an ice cream soda too. Have to remind him that he is a child once in a while. LOL Such a wonderful problem to have! He will be 7 on May 7th. He informed me that I could not leave for DW until after that date. (grin)

I always felt that Bette suffered a loss of respect because of her unorthadox beginnings as she is one of the best singers in the business IMHO. There are some that I enjoy their talents but not them personally and in the reverse but Bette is one that I admire in both ways. Great lady!!! Have heard that she puts on a great show also. Many entertainers just go through the motions when they have 'made it", but not her. I would pay big bucks for a good seat at one of her shows any time and there are not many that I would.

I caught a glimpse of an interview with George Carlin the other day but because "little pitchers have big ears" I could not keep it on the station to listen to it. The gist was about Miss Jackson's wardrobe malfunction. I think his take was that there were more important things than a bit of nudity to worry about.

I am thrilled in that my sister and her friend have glommed onto some free passes for DW and are going to be able to attend the Paul Revere concert with us on the 22nd. We do not usually go to the parks when they come over as they do not want to spend the big bucks for the tickets for one day.

Brrrr, a football game in this weather? Hope it is warmer there or you are in an owner's suite or something. I have never been able to understand (probably a lack of interest) football at all. Only a man could say there is 2 minutes left in the game and it lasts an other half an hour at least. LOL If it is cold, just snuggle up next to Frank and dream Disney dreams. (grin)

SG/Linda

helenabear

03-17-2004, 04:36 PM

Oh my, how did you all get on the DIS yesterday!!! I was totally unable to get on most of hte day!!

Wendy!!! I am so very happy for you!!! I hope you have a wonderful time and a wonderful trip!!! Sounds perfect for a last minute trip!!!! Do enjoy it!!!

Linda, do not admire me too much. I am a terrible person when it comes to cleaning and Luis does help out a lot in that area. I will say if there is any cooking, it does get done by me. But sometimes he will just have a sandwich or something and that takes a load off of me. Our house is almost never cleaned completely and things are almost never organized. Not all that grand at getting it all done.

Lisa, I admit I hadn't heard about the Rutgers incidents! I guess our news has been too full of the usually Columbus stuff in addition to all that went on with the Columbus sniper. I don't get much chance to watch the news so I don't always hear everything. I hope they can crack down on that and that you will be safe!! Glad you enjoyed the concerta s well! I have always liked her! Oh and I hope you enjoyed the game!!! Luis had gotten box seats to the Blue Jackets game and they were nice!! Not very close but well catered and very comfy!

Oh and Linda, I so agree... there is so much violence on campuses... really rather sad! I learned to walk quickly and never keep my head down while on campus at Ohio State at night. And I never walked off campus at night alone. I always had someone to walk with me during those times!

Well I should get back to work,b ut wanted to stop in while the DIS let me!

SlightlyGoofy

03-17-2004, 05:56 PM

LOL. Helenabear, now I just have to admire you more for being real and not trying to be perfect. I just hate to see some women walking around like the living dead in an effort to be all things to all people. Not going to find anyone trying to be the same to them and then they end up resenting the people they are supposed to love. LOL

It is good advice to look alert anywhere you go. The vultures amongst us prey on the unaware and defenseless. Having lived through some violence in my younger days I am more alert than most and a whole lot less trusting. Is sorry to have to be that way but much safer. The vultures are also lazy and if you make the least bit difficult they will look for easier pickings. Living where I live is amazing as we have people who still do not lock their doors at night and such. We just do not have much crime here and what little we do have is usually committed by either young people who wander the streets with nothing to do and no one to care or friends and relatives of the victims who are not quite what they might be. Do not remember a violent crime here in all the years I have lived here. Hope it stays that way. The world can be a dangerous place. I even refuse to wear jewelry, real or fake, because of not wanting to get robbed, especially for fake stuff. LOL

I had a lot of trouble getting on a couple of time also. Thought they had corrected all that with the last upgrade. Nothing is perfect, but the DIS comes close. (smile)

DD will be here soon to pick up Dalton. He is spending the night tomorrow as the rest of his family will be going to see the Passion. Please keep Austin in your thoughts and prayers as I am most concerned on how he will take it. He is still shaking over 9/11. He called me that night with so many questions. I did not quite realize just how much world history I knew or remembered until that night. He knows I am a big chicken and so relies on me to calm his fears. I lie sometimes.

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 06:02 PM

hello ladies! i have been missing so much! ...ill try to play catch up soon....

however....

we need to start a new thread soon! i think the page limit is 130!!!!

:earseek:

i hope colleen has/had an ok time driving to disney...she did drive right? hopefully there were a lot of bathrooms...

<marquee>HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY</marquee>

:sunny:

SlightlyGoofy

03-17-2004, 07:54 PM

Hi there Depply

Think we had better get Helenabear to check this out as I would hate to wake up and find our dear Suite gone for all time. (sobbing) My page count stands at 191. Checked the properties and it says we have consumed 70,690 bytes of room. I knew we were a bit spacious but not that much. LOL

Had been missing you in here. You can't fool me you have been spending all your time watching Mr. Depp on his many tv appearances and reading the voluminous articles being written about his acting abilities. Deservedly so IMHO.

Thank you for the St. Pat's banner. I sort of know how to do such but am lucky to find time to just plain post nowadays. Old age is heck. You have more to do and less energy to do it with. Some think that life would be better if we were born old and worked our way toward youth and I am tempted to agree.

Slightly Goofy about you all! (Linda)

helenabear

03-17-2004, 07:58 PM

LOL, Linda... that is one thing I do try to do... is be real! There is no way I could do it all nor would I want to so I do what I can when I can :) ANd you have a great point... a lot of people who prey on others are like that... if the target isn't easy, they will move on. I had a flashy trick I learned iwth a letter opener that I would carry (it opened like a butterfly knife) and I figured I'd scare them so much they'd run if I needed as well. I am so very glad I live where I do though... the butterfly letter opener only comes out now and then for fun!

As for the page count, by DIS standards, we are at page 128... however we have until page 150 to get closed. And then someone can open a new home for us to all go to :)

It's snowing here again... I thought it was March and we'd be done with this! :p

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 08:02 PM

wow actually i have never heard that before linda....i would definately have to agree...it would be easier being born old and go down in age from there....interesting....

i bet the moderators are going to come here soon and start yelling at us hehe:)

SlightlyGoofy

03-17-2004, 09:10 PM

Depply. stick around me for long and you are apt to hear many things you have never heard before. I read an average of a book a day and pick up many ideas along the way. LOL The moderators are kind hearted souls (especially WM Cathy C) and they will gently move our Suite to another part of the DIS, not unlike when you are moved from one resort to another at DW. You leave your belongings packed up in your old room and the magicians gently take it to your new room while you are busy having fun in the parks. Is an amazing experience. I suffer from the guilts though as I only did it once and it did not occur to me until too late to leave a nice tip to the friendly folks who did me the service. I just overtipped the room cleaner and hoped that someone else would make up for my error.

Helenabear, you are so right in being real. You are that and more. Is easier to be yourself anyway. Copies are never as good as the original no matter what they are. LOL Is hard to defend yourself against a predator when you are married to him though. (NOT my present dh) That which does not kill us makes us strong and boy am I strong, expecially after a day of gardening. LOL Is the snow sticking there? We were expecting 1-3 inches yesterday and it did not stick to the sidewalks or streets. Was absolutely lovely on the grass and trees while it lasted and that was not too long.

Rider, 59 days!!!!!

Colleen and Jstmee. You lucky people are either on your way or there already. I am merely a dreamer. LOL

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 09:16 PM

oh linda you know i plan on sticking around here for many days to come!

good thing the moderators are nice!

actually im a member of the tagliarchy too and we are constantly having to move our "homes"....they are extremely chatty over there! our newest home is on an island....but you can still see all of WDW

i think we should take of the UK in epcot and live in that castle thing only reconstruct it to fit our every need...only wait no, our handymen will construct it for us! hmm...we may need to hire extras....o don juan, fredericko!

;)

SlightlyGoofy

03-17-2004, 09:48 PM

Depply, how did you know that England is most favorite of all EPCOT destinations? I used to dream of going there one day. Even slept with a Eurorail Pass book next to my bed for years. Is not meant to be and this would be the very next best thing. I believe that Lancelot, Arthur and Merlin would be delighted to construct a suitable abode for our next adventures.

I am sure some of the children from IASW would be more than willing to come over to the River of Time ride at Mexico to visit Rider from time to time. Would add greatly to that ride IMHO. It has so much potential but not realized.

Good night all! I am worn out from teaching double digit addition to my wee one. Math is not my strong suit and I am not able to explain it as well as I do reading. I know the right answers but have long forgotten how I came about knowing them. LOL

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 10:16 PM

i can see the mexico ride now....

its a small world---<<mist coming out of statues and maracas>>....after all...la cuka rocka!......its a small world....<see people eating> ....after all

end of ride:)

good night by the way!:teeth:

helenabear

03-17-2004, 10:26 PM

Linda, I have some not so good news for you that I think you missed... WMCC is no longer with the DIS at all. She moved companies from what I hear. That happened sometime late last summer I Think. You guys had a lot less snow than we did then! We still have it on the ground and it is still falling! We had at least 6 inches fall yesterday and more over tonight. What a way to end the winter!

I love the UK, but I admit I like Mexico better... something about the feel inside I am just in love with. Not quite sure why!!

Depply, I think you will find my sister on the Tagliarchy... her name is Laura there. I don't post there for that reason ;) I am a part of a few other groups and we move homes quite often :teeth:

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 10:28 PM

ooo i know Laura !!!!!

its so nice to know there is a lot of family here on the DIS boards...:)

helenabear

03-17-2004, 10:29 PM

I figured you might know her... she's my older sister. My husband Luis, even posts here now and hten under coqui.

depplyinluv

03-17-2004, 10:44 PM

yep i know her, kinda...she has a flying pig avatar....

you have a lot of posts, i just noticed that! :eek: you must be part of tons of threads ::yes::

well i think im going to go for the night ihave to gear up for school....ugh....but i have a morality test to study for and i have to meet w/ my unintelligent guidance counselor....:rolleyes:

goodnight all!:wave:

helenabear

03-17-2004, 10:54 PM

Yep, every time I see the flying pig, I check to see if it is her posting :p

Yeah, I have a few posts :eek: I admit I don't watch much TV so this is what I do instead... that and I type fast ::yes::

Good luck at school tomorrow with all that!

I'm heading off myself!

angelina

03-18-2004, 10:32 AM

Morning, everyone. I'm just poping in before I go to "work" to seen what's going on. Sounds like everyone's having a great time planning their trips. I hope Colleen is feeling better. I always think of WDW this time of year-we had the most wonderful Easter trip--my favorite time of year.

Linda, Fairhope Arts and Crafts show is this weekend--you'd love it! I hope I get the chance to go.

Meg won 1st place in her age group in a KoC free throw tournament Sunday. If I ever figure out how to get my pics from a cd to an e-mail, I will send it. Computer savvy, I'm not.

Lisa, Mardi Gras was fun. We went to my BIL and sis's ball this year. They led it, and we had a lot of close friends come, so we had a great time.

I found out yesterday that the kids are out 10 full days for spring break. My stomach kind of rolled over, since it would be the perfect time to go to Disney, but it's not meant to be.:(

Take care, have a great day. BTW, if this thread moves, please let me know. I really miss you all when I don't get the chance to check in for a long time. I still don't get updates.

IASW Rider

03-18-2004, 02:07 PM

Whoa - so many posts! I have also had trouble getting onto the Boards lately, Elaine. Maybe some of it has to do with the bad weather that parts of the country have been suffering this week - maybe lots of people are accessing the Boards at once, as they're snowed in!

We had 4 inches dumped on us over the course of the past 2 days, have a one day "break" today, and are supposed to get an additional 4 - 7 inches of snow, tomorrow! Unbelievable! Isn't the first day of spring this weekend?????

Hi Angie! Great to see you! And congratulations to your DD on her great accomplishment! Glad to hear that you all enjoyed Mardi Gras, as well! If you find a way to post any of your pictures - or if there are any on the internet to which you could post a link - of your DD or Mardi Gras - please let us know! I know what you mean about this being a "WDW time of year" - spring reminds me of WDW, too. Even if you and your family are not able to get away this year, is it possible that you might be able to start thinking about / planning a trip for spring break next year? The planning and anticipation of a WDW trip are half the fun, as I always say, even if the trip itself might be a long time away! :)

Great to see you back here, Depply! How was your spring break? And how did that test go?

How are you doing, Elaine? I knew that Luis posted on the Boards, but I didn't realize that your sister did, too! And I also didn't know that Webmaster CC had left the DIS - I'm sorry to hear that! I had heard about the Columbus sniper - that is very frightening. I don't know if there is actually more crime now than there used to be, years ago........or if it's just that we hear about things more often than we used to. It seems like every time we turn on the news, more horrific things are being reported from around the world and around the country. But on a happier note.........

Neat idea about "taking up residence" in the UK in Epcot, Depply! But I say that if we need to "move" anywhere, it needs to be to another, new-and-improved suite that looks out over the Seven Seas Lagoon, so that we can still see our EWP every night! Maybe we can establish a "home-away-from-home" in the UK castle, though - for those times when we just don't feel like leaving the World Showcase after IllumiNations! :) I don't know if I could pick a favorite WS pavilion - there is something so charming and special about all of them! I love the little "hidden pathways" and remote courtyards in Morocco and China and the tucked away "streets" in France and the UK. And the larger courtyard in Italy. And I love the FOOD in Norway! :)

Thanks for the latest countdown, Linda! :) We sure are counting the days, as well! I can't believe that we can say that our trips are less than 2 months away, now! We have to get on top of things and book our shore excursions, soon - we started looking at the possibilities last week, then got all distracted and never got a chance to reserve them! That's so neat that your sister will be able to meet you while you are in WDW - it sounds like you'll have lots of fun get togethers planned while you are down there!

Loved your recounting Dalton's math and money counting accomplishments! He sure is a bright young man! How did Austin fare after seeing "The Passion..."? I'm sure that he was very brave and that he was able to learn from it as his parents hoped that he would. I'm sure with all of the encouragement and information with which you provided him after 9/11, he was much more prepared for some of the images that he was presented with in the film than you might have anticipated. It's sad in a way that children today have been forced to "lose" a certain amount of "innocence" as the result of world events to which they have unfortunately been exposed. But at the same time, they are probably a lot stronger and more intuitive and wise, in general, and as a result.

The game was a lot of fun, last night - especially since the Devils won! (Well, what else can one expect from the 2002-2003 Stanley Cup champions?? :) ) We are not huge or regular hockey fans, but it was neat to get out and do something different and the seats that Frank was given were so fantastic and close to the ice that it made watching the game even more exciting! Plus it's neat to go out and cheer for a NJ team (which will be our only professional sports team soon, since NY is taking our Nets away from us! :( I think that NY should give NJ either the Jets or the Giants, since both teams play in a stadium in NJ, anyway, and NY doesn't need 2 football teams! They can throw in the Mets, too, while they're at it - NY doesn't need 2 baseball teams, either! :) )! The only professional sports team that we follow is the Mets - that's because I was a born Mets fan, since my mother was a lifelong supporter of the team! We already have tickets for a game in June - coincidentally on my mother's birthday. I haven't been to see them play live in years, so I'm really looking forward to it!

Well, time to get out and run some errands........before we are hit with our next mini-blizzard! Have a great day, Everyone! :)

depplyinluv

03-18-2004, 09:45 PM

Rider, i think you mean february break...its not warm enough for spring yet....:) but it was good, and my test was bad but...a person's greatness cant be measured by their stupid test grades!

at least i think so::yes::

hi angelina! you didnt happen to see a certain...cute...hobbit at mardi gras did you? elijah wood was like someone in the parade...but i dont remember what it was called i tihnk it starts w/ a "B"?
i know he was on the lord of the rings float...
:rolleyes:

:teeth:

SlightlyGoofy

03-19-2004, 03:41 PM

Depply, you are so correct in that test scores do not determine a person's level of proficiency. I can speak to that as my IQ scores are unbelieveable, even to myself. I have come to the conclusion that the extremely intelligent do poorly on them because they are able to think several levels above normal and so can twist most of the mutiple choices into some sort of resasonable answer whilst myself, being of lower intelligence, am able to easily decide which answer the test writers are looking for. LOL Unfortunately the rest of the world is far too lazy to spend time actually getting to know a potential employee and so they take the easy way out and go by grades and such. Having said that, I must admit that I have gotten far more jobs based on my attendance record than my school transcript. Guess they figure if you don't show up you won't be doing any work anyway. (smile) As far as the morality test goes, couldn't you write the answers on the palms of your hands? (Gee, you DO know I am kidding, right?) LOL

Rider, I feel so fortunate in that we managed to dodge most of the snow. We actually had a couple of inches but it did not stick to anything important, just made the landscape look magical. People to the north were hit badly though. I believe it is the magic Hills of Brown County that deflect much of the terrible weather that other parts of Indiana get. The northern half of Indiana is flat while the southern part is hilly and we are betwix and between. I am so sorry that you are getting far more than your fair share. If the entire world would just share the weather evenly how much more perfect things would be. (smile) One of my sisters, who travels extensively, always hires a cabdriver (usually sharing the expense with others) instead of taking shore excursions and says that she gets a much better tour that way. When they eat lunch the driver joins them and that way they get more of a local feel. She has a favorite driver in the Bahamas that she uses often. Kids are smarter than they were in my day but somethings bother me, seems the more sex and violence they see the less sensitive they are and that is not a good thing IMHO.

Helenabear, first I ever heard of your sister being on the boards. Mine would not be interested in DW in any way. Have tried to get some interested in the trivia group I am on as they are so smart and it would be fun to compete against each other. Other trivia members have siblings, kids and even grandkids who compete. I took a break in this post to teach Dalton how to do crossword puzzles. He is a child after my own heart. No one has to be exactly like me for me to love them but it is something special to have a grandson who enjoys so much of the same things and my mother and I did. I am sorry to hear that WM Cathy C has departed but hopefully it was for bigger and better things. I do not know how all this internet stuff works. Figure as long as my email program is up and running each morning I know enough. LOL

Angelina, you do the most fun things. The festival sounds lovely. I can just see the beautiful streets of Fairhope with baskets of blooming flowers, crowded with people, and all sorts of delicious smells and happy sounds. You kids take after you in being so very talented. Never quite know what they are going to do next. Because of spring break I have had Dalton all week. He goes home tonight but his brother has requested to spend the night tonight and have me taking him shopping for some new farm toys tomorrow. I am tired but do not have the heart to tell him no. Guess that is what grandmas are for. (smile) Is there anyway that you might get in some kind of a trip on your spring break? Is far too many days to waste IMHO. Just wish it were a bit later so you could join us at DW in May. I imagine your school does not get out until the end of May. Just got another invitation to spend some time at a retirment community that Tom is interested in. Am beginning to think that Fairhope is going to have to remain a dream. Maybe next spring? Still hanging in there and hoping though.

I have read about coming in through the International Gateway, before WS opens and having a leisurely walk around. It is one of my new ideas for this trip even though it means either driving or taking two buses to do so. Who knows, one day, I might be up for the roller skating through WS that I have read about. Frankly, I like a slower pace where I can enjoy the nooks and crannies though. EPCOT is my favorite park. Just so many interesting and surprising things to see and do.

SG/Linda

IASW Rider

03-21-2004, 01:21 PM

All this talk about test scores is making me nervous, now that I've "unofficially" committed myself to studying for and taking the GRE this summer! Although I took the NASD licensing exams five years ago when I was working at ML (and those were huge, multiple choice-type tests), I haven't taken one of the Educational Testing Service tests since I took the SAT in 1983! I already got a review book (which of course I have yet to actually open and look at!) and have looked into the review courses that are offered in our area over the summer. I think that I'll try taking a practice test and see how I do before signing up for a class (they are pretty expensive).........I have a feeling that I will need a class, though - especially to review the math stuff!

I cannot believe that you referred to yourself as being of "lower intelligence" even in jest, Linda! Your jesting IS pretty funny, though..........because you are, in fact, one of the most intelligent and insightful people whom I know! I do agree with both you and Depply - test scores hardly measure one's intelligence or potential, and it's a shame that so many institutions rely on them in terms of a student's or job candidate's qualifications.

We are about to run out and have lunch with our friends who were in WDW last month. This is the family for whom we arranged the "Princess connections" with our DIS Princess pal, and they are going to bring us copies of the pictures from their magical meetings - I can't wait to see them! And I can't wait to hear their 4 year old daughter's accounts of her adventures on their trip! That will get us even more psyched for our trip! :)

Hope that you're all having a great weekend! Talk to you soon! :)

IASW Rider

03-21-2004, 01:33 PM

Oops - one more quick thing. I just checked my Rutgers e-mail account and got the weekly on-line newsletter of the specific school that I attend. Below is one of the items that was part of the latest edition..........things like this make me wish that I was 19 or 20, again..........*SIGH*...... :)

5. Walt Disney World College Program

Hello Cook Students!

Are you ready to start building your resume and preparing for your future
career? The Walt Disney World College give you the opportunity to take
college level courses, network with Disney leaders and enhance your
marketability in today's job market.

As a participant, you'll enjoy a social, multicultural environment with
24-hour secured housing and admission to all four Walt Disney World theme
parks. Plus, you'll learn about next-step opportunities within the Walt
Disney Company. This paid program is open to all majors and college
levels.

We are on the lookout for the best and brightest college students. Space
is limited, so be sure to
attend the Walt Disney World College Program presentation to be eligible
to interview. Or, check us out on www.wdwcollegeprogram.com to learn more
and apply online.

The presentation at Rutgers University will be held on Tuesday, March 23,
2004 at 6:00 p.m.. The location is the Rutgers Student Center - Graduate
Student Lounge. Hope to see you there!

SlightlyGoofy

03-22-2004, 04:27 PM

Dear Rider, as I often tell my grandkids, good looks, smarts, athletic or artistic ability etc. are God given and are His way of giving a person a head start BUT you cannot take any credit for those because you did nothing to deserve them. Since I have done little with my brains (will concede that I do have them) I am worse off than if I were a bumbling idiot. People who do not do well on tests are thought to be bad sports if they do poorly and complain but since I do very well I am comfortable sticking up for those poor benighted brilliant people who do not. LOL I have some relatives and friends who are super super smart and they barely know enough to get out of the rain. I think their brains are just so darned full of information that the basics have been deleted. (grin)

Shucks, darn. Bet you could pass for a college aged kid if you wanted to but Frank would probably not write you a permission slip to take off for Orlando for a whole summer though. I have a feeling that you and Frank will retire to that area one day and I am confident that there will positions in your fields, whatever that turns out to be, waiting for you. DW is a large city with all sorts of people needed to keep it going. You already have many connections there.

What a special lady you are, you see the magic in a child's smile. You would be amazed at those who do not. You even have the added joy of knowing that you made it possible. Is a mitzvah??? Hope I got that one right. LOL

Your religiously illiterate friend, SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-22-2004, 04:36 PM

HI ladies! I am back from my wondeful week at WDW. Linda, we looked for you on the way down in COlumbus... On hte way home we decided to try coming thru Seymour (ie, Mellencamp country) and then Bedford. Hubby decided that ALL Indiana routes are equally slow... I did tell the manager at the Orlando Perkins that my pal back in INdiana thinks his restaurant is tops; I htink it made his day!

We had a great trip and I was very lucky. I felt fine most of the trip except for pressure and lots of potty stops! I think I am on such a high when at WDW that I feel no pain! The weather was nice and we had a ball. I thought of all of you on Friday night, our last. We had 6:30 dinner at Kona Cafe, then went out by the Poly pool. It was warm enough for the kids to swim, and the rest of us watched the fireworks from a table near the beach. Just as the show ended, the EWP came by! My hubby said they need to "update it" and I told him NO -- us Disney-crazed love it just the way it is!

Hope you all had a good week. I have graduated from college and grad school both and STILL want to go on the college program -- wonder if they'll take me at 39? I spoke to an intern from Stockton State College in NJ -- or whatever they call it now -- she was down for 4 months and working at the gift shop in the Poly. What a dream come true! She said she came right after Xmas and was thrilled to be missing all the winter in NJ. Her parents will come down in June, right as she finishes up. I am already telling my kids "they have to go to college in Florida!"

SlightlyGoofy

03-22-2004, 06:12 PM

Colleen!! Welcome home and I am happy that you had a great time in spite of all the potty stops. There is a thread somewhere on the DIS that deals with the very best restrooms. LOL

I almost offered to meet you at 65 to say hello but I did not want to delay your trip. I know how important it is to get on the way and make as many miles as you can so that you can carefully plan when you hit Atlanta.

LOL, thanks for passing on my best to the manager of the Perkins. He might even remember me as I told him that I was a mystery shopper, not something I do often, to explain that my impression of the restaurant was that of a professional.

Thank you for sticking up for the EWP. Tradition is as important as innovation. There is plenty of room for both at DW. I am morning the loss of Food Rocks. It was hokey and that is why I loved it.

How did you get from Seymour to Bloomington? You might have been near my house if you took any part of 31 or 9. Maybe we can plan a meet soon?

I envy your education. What was your major? What did you do before you decided to take on the biggest job of them all, raising your kids? Will you return one day? I regret not working outside the home very much. Was good for everyone else in the family except for me.

If your kids go to college in Florida you must keep a good eye on them as we have had several local kids meet some religious fanatics who led them astray and it was not a pretty thing. One girl barely survived. Sending kids to college is frighening in any case, no matter where they go. If they are busy working at DW in their spare time you will not have to worry so much. LOL Just think of the discounts too! One of my friends has a son who works for security. I am so jealous.

Will you write a report about your trip? If so, please let us know when so we can read all the details. I may learn something new for our upcoming trip.

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-22-2004, 07:55 PM

Linda, fear not. Soctt works at IU so the kids can go there for half price -- a hard deal to beat. I just tease that as soon as they are graduated, we are going to Florida. If they go "away" for school, I will likely hide out in the bushes! It makes me laugh to think of my kids with "religious fanatics" because we are offical agnostics. I grew up Catholic and that sort of "ruined" religion for me, no offense to other Catholics. Scott's Dad is a Lutheran minister (retired) so if the kids ever feel a need for religion in their lives, they can ask HIM all the questions -- I am NOT the one for that kind of guidance! I also have friends of various religions who can answer their questions, and often say that someday, if I ever feel a need for the spiritual, I will join up with the Unitarians. They let anyone join, even fallen Catholics! :)

We stopped in Seymour because we saw a sign for a Perkins! We had dinner there, then followed 50 thru Brownstown and into Bedford, then up 37. As I said, it probably saved no time but it avoided 46 from Nashville, which I hate. Were we close to you? It was a very pretty ride.

Scott and I came to IU for grad school. I was an undergraduate anthropology/art history major, lots of great info and "mind-opening" but few jobs. Came to grad school and got a master's in folklore, figured I'd be a professor. But the other students were really brilliant and I was miserable in the program. Switched over and got a degree in counseling psychology, which I loved. Before the kids I worked as a care manager for the elderly in rural Owen County. I worked for the Area Agency on Aging and set up home-delivered meals, visits, transportation to docs, etc. It was a nice job but I was ready to give it up by the time #2 was born. I have been home since. I am PTO prez at our school, I think I have told you. Not sure what to do about working. Next year Ian goes to first grade and I would LOVE a paycheck, but am not willing to miss school functions, weekends, evenings, and summers, so I am afraid I will be unemployed for a while. I have thought about being a very over-educated sub teacher! I would love some type of job at IU but with the kids in school I just don't see it happening. We'll see what comes along. Meanwhile, our school always needs volunteers. Next year will be a challenge for me, and I really need to figure out what I am doing in this new phase of my life.

I liked "Food Rocks" too. I still miss "If You Had Wings" which used to be in Tomorrowland. I can still hear the song...

I posted a "review" of our trip on the DVC Board. It's there if you want to check it out!

SlightlyGoofy

03-22-2004, 09:58 PM

Colleen, my bil, who lives in Bloomington, is an overeducated and underpaid substitute teacher. It would be a solution for you in that you would be working while your kids are in school and home when they are and can work when you want. John, my bil, tells me that he could work everyday if he wants. He is a great teacher. Very rewarding, even though you are not paid what you are worth. With your background you could teach many things. With my mental disabilities I could not do much of what you have done but I surely do applaud what you chose to do. especially the Meals on Wheels etc.

You were not too far away either from Seymour or the other side of Columbus. I live about 15 miles from either. I am often in Brown County as I am dropping off or picking up Tom from one of his "weekends". We go to Bloomington occasionally to visit his brother and family also. We eat at Ryan's when we go. John lives on the Elletsville side of Bloomington. I know where Elletsville is cause there used to be an adult drive in movie theater there (no, I did not, just did not like to drive by with the kids LOL)

Your children are more in danger of being taken in by religious fanatics cause they got to rebel against something. I figure my two grandsons will become agnostics because they are made to go to church most every night and twice on Sunday. LOL I am religious but do not care much for most organized religions. Am against anything that smacks of "I'm better than you are" stuff. I applaud difference. Makes for a balanced, if untidy world.

Half price and an I.U. education? Hard to beat. I might have to get a janitors job there myself so I can qualify for poor Dalton's education. His family does not believe in saving for education. I saved and never got to spend a dollar on higher education. Go figure. (sigh) Several of my bil's graduated from I.U. If I could convince myself that it would not be wasted money (would be) I would dearly love to finish my degree. Would be mere vanity, I fear.

I bet the Perkin's in Seymour was disappointing after the Crossroads one. Next time give the Ryan's a try. Pretty good. I love the fact that they have two versions of several things and some diet desserts that I can have. Yummm! Weigh in tomorrow, must NOT think of food. (big sigh)

Wasn't the "If You Had Wings" the one that had the roller coaster simulation tunnel? I loved that, was as close as I'll ever get to one. I hunted for it for several trips before I found out it was gone. They have got to keep some things for us chickens.

I am going to check out your report. Looking forward to the details.

Slightly Goofy/Linda

colleen costello

03-22-2004, 10:10 PM

Linda, Perkins was just fine. Not as nice as the Orlando one, but I did notice that even though it was winter outside, I did feel "back home" in Indiana. The waitress was sweet and the other patrons looked like neighbors to me. I said to Scott that it isn't as gorgeous as Florida, but I do love Indiana. One day you and I can meet in Nashville and blow our diets together! :)

I went to college at a little private school in Pennsylvania, Lafayette College. Lots of wealthy kids go there; I had a grant. There were more than a few parents who worked there because their kids went free, provided they got accepted. A nice woman I recall worked at the office in the Arts Center. Three of her kids went free. Back then it was $11,000 a year; currently it's about $28,000. Great perks for those employees!

I hope my kids go to IU. I enjoyed it after a small college with only 2000 students. I want them to be close by. I know how hard it is to leave home. Even though Indiana is a better place for me -- I am a Jersey girl at heart but the Midwestern pace suits me better -- I will never enjoy living 800 miles from my parents. I didn't "plan" on it -- it just happened. I still hold out hope that my parents will retire here. Meanwhile, we get together often, especially at WDW!

I remember a comic some time ago where the kid of hippie parents was terrorizing them by becoming a conservative Reagan youth. You are right about kids "rebelling." I guess to spite me my kids could become a nun and a priest! YIKES!

I am tired and still feeling a little yukky. I guess "pieces" of that darn stone are still flying around inside. I see the doc on Wednesday and hope I am all done for a while with procedures and the like. Enough for now! Mickey was the best medicine. I swear I didn't feel crampy again til yesterday when I got home! :) I htink returning to cold made me cranky.

I can close my eyes and I am on the Polynesian beach and I can see the fireworks and hear the kids in the pool... AAAAAAh...

helenabear

03-22-2004, 10:13 PM

Hi all... busy life and finally getting to catch up on all my friends here :)

Angie, so nice to see you stop in! Glad you had fun at Marti Gras... some day I will have to make it down to New Orleans for the big event! Usually I just stay at home and pig out ;)

Lisa, glad I am not the only one who has had trouble. It is particularly bad when you are trying to catch up ona group like this. I know it's been off and on so maybe the weather or viruses have been causing trouble. Sounds like you got some of the snow we did... jsut as some would melt, we'd get more :( Even flurried this morning! I want the real spring ::yes::

Yep, both my sister and husband post here. Luis hasn't posted much or for long. My sister and I found the site here at the same time,b ut one of us spends much more time here than the other ;)

Depply, glad you enjoyed your break! Awfully early in the year for us though. We don't see any spring breaks until march/april here!

Linda, my sister likes Disney, but I admit not near as much as I do. I am the "Disney Freak" of the family, that's for sure! As for that walk around WS in the morning before it opens? I am not sure it would be worth it... it might be more worth it to get to Epcot early and walk through it the other way. THey only let you walk by Canda & UK at that hour.

Lisa, good luck studying for the GRE this summer!! And I say what the heck, go for that WDW posistion... might be a good excuse to move down there ;)

Colleen, welcome back!!! So glad you had a great trip!!! I liked food rocks, but I admit If you had Wings was not a favorite, but of course we'd ride it at least twice... it was cheesey but fun I think. So I guess I must have liked it really :teeth: I truly very much miss World of Motion though... I like test track but that ride was not to be beat! That and Horizons... awwww the old days!

Well I am getting e-mail notifications that you all are still chatting so I will submit and say hello to all I might have missed :)

FPgurl04

03-22-2004, 10:50 PM

hi! depplyinluv requested i visit this lovely thread, so here i am. :wave2: someone might need to help me settle in....

SlightlyGoofy

03-23-2004, 09:32 AM

Howdy there neighbor! "lou-a-vull" I well remember gettting that lesson once upon a time. My children were even born there. LOL No rules around here, just pull up a lounge chair or jump into the Jucuzzi and chill. We are a bunch of Disney loving people who have set up a virtual suite overlooking the lagoon with front row center seats for the EWP and a great view of fireworks every night. Your wish is our gentlemen's command. Unlimited credit card good at any place on property (dreams do not cost money). I am the senior member of the group, six grandchildren but still have the soul of a child, most of the time. LOL I will let the others introduce themselves as they would blush if I were to do so. Welcome to the Suite and may you return many times.

Helenabear, thank you for the great advice about not doing the early entry at WS. Are you able to go in from the other direction before anything opens or are you talking about walking to the back portion and working your way forward? We usually go in by way of Mexico and I had been thinking of going the other direction for a change and then we would be right in place for Illuminations. We always watch at the Cantina.

Colleen, I know what you mean about Indiana. I like it here also. Are your parents still working? If and when they retire it should be no problem to get them to move closer to their grandchildren. Cheaper living here to boot. College town with lots of fun activities. No problem. Hope you are able to give us good news about your stone being obliterated soon. Pain is no darned fun. Amazing what a distracton can do to ease it though and Disney is the best. Hope your memories of the trip ease the day.

It will be a close call as to whether I lost, gained or stayed even this week. Will have to work harder next week. Have a loss for the month but I hate breaking my losing streak.

Slightly Goofy/Linda

helenabear

03-23-2004, 09:56 AM

FPgurl04, nice to see you here as well :wave2: I hope you stop in often :)

Linda, before WS officially opens, all you can really do is just walk the main path between the International Gateway and Canada. They don't really let you go anywhere else around there. Actually some tours might be going on at that hour and they would be the only ones allowed to go off the main path. As for Illuminations... the Cantina is a good spot to watch... probably would be very good to start the time off at Canada and make your way that way. I have watched Illuminations from many places and not sure I have a favorite. I do watch it from the bridge at the International gateway more often than not though... easy to just stroll up to.

I hope you do well with your losing streak! I have slowly been working on that myself :) It's funny how you talked about how much you love Indiana as well. I was just looking yesterday at housing in Tampa. I don't plan on moving, but I think I am officially 100% tired of Ohio winters. And I would love to be right by the beach :) Dreams though... maybe some day I'll live in warmer climates!

colleen costello

03-23-2004, 10:10 AM

If you girls are meeting in World Showcase, have a meal at Resturant Marrakesh. We had lunch and it was wonderful. We had a lunch special with a salad, a chicken shish kebab and a dessert that was baked apple in a sort of crepe with almonds and honey on top. YUM. I suspect this isn't low-carb but the musician and belly dancer were wonderful too and salads were on the menu. It is dark and cool in the restaurant and very beautiful with tile and plaster work -- a real "oasis" on a hot day. Check it out! :)

When are you all meeting? I know I will miss you by a little but couldn't recall your exact days and who is going? FIll me in, I am nosy! :)

helenabear

03-23-2004, 10:16 AM

Colleen, you just mentioned one of my favorite restaurants!!!! I love going to Marrakesh for any meal. They have an appetizer, Chicken Bastilla, that is big enough for a full meal and only $5.95 and the Kebabs are wonderful!! My favorite dessert there is Bastilla... it is to die for!!! I always have wonderful service there and I went there twice for dinner last time. Almost always able to walk up and get a table w/o any wait!

colleen costello

03-23-2004, 05:01 PM

Marrakesh is wonderful. It really felt good to cool off in that beautiful room. My body was sore from walking and I was feeling sort of non-stop bathroom urges, getting off my feet was GREAT. You really feel like you are in another country there. What is the dessert you mentioned? OUr lunch special came with the apple-thing, is your dessert like baklava? I remember that from eating there ages ago... i NEVER forget food! My husband is a real fusspot and even HE liked Marrakesh.

FPgurl04

03-23-2004, 07:20 PM

:wave: hey!!!

urgh. just say hello then i gotta go. oh well! it's ravioli time!

SlightlyGoofy

03-24-2004, 10:02 AM

Marakesh was on my "New to try" list last trip but Tom was not thrilled with the menu offerings. I liked the looks of the counter service place there also. I like to try new things. After the debacle of the Japanese place, Tom picked that one, I might be able to get him to try Morroco this time. Many of the restaurants at DW qualify as attractions in and of themselves IMHO. I often go in just for a dessert or something in the high priced but interesting places. Being considerate I only do so on off hours so as not to tie up a table at meal times.

Am headed out to start clearing the flower beds. Spring is springing. LOL

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-24-2004, 07:42 PM

Linda, try lunch. That shish kebab is as 'normal" as you can get. It was just marinated chicken pieces skewered with veggies. It was delicious and my fussy Scott devoured it.

I got my stent out! Thank goodness... If I tinkled one more time I was gonna scream! They pulled the nasty thing out today and I feel SOOOO much better. The doc asked how I did and I told him I was on a "Mickey high" so I didn't even need the painkillers! :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-24-2004, 08:40 PM

Colleen, I know what you mean by a "Mickey" high. When I get off the exit and see those purple and red signs I just am thrilled. I know that I am home. Being able to get up in the morning and go do what I want without any responsibilities!! Is the only time I get to live like my dh. LOL

Tom eats many different types of food, he just does not understand menus very well. He often asks me to order for him as I know what he likes better than he does. Either that or he has decided that ordering for himself is too stressful. (grin) I would never let him order for me. (double grin)

Pop, pop. fizz. fizz,what a relief it is. I know well the feeling of freedom when you are unhooked from medical devices. I am happy to hear that you are free, free at last!! LOL I am in awe of how you did at DW in your condition. Did you ever have to leave the line for a break? Wait until you reach my age and you gotta go, gotta go, right now - all the time! You get used to it after a bit and do not notice it much. I just sip at an occasional water fountain as opposed to carrying around my usual quart of water.

Bomba's, Hollywood & Vine and Perkin's are always on our list. Boatwright's for breakfast is a good one. Used to always do Akerhaus but have not since they have changed how they do things. It is a very cool and relaxing experience. I don't care for the loud and busy places too much. Fresh is the one I insist on this time. It sounds wonderful. Lunch, as I don't do breakfast. A can of V-8 and I am set for the day until lunchtime.

What did your kids love the most? Any adventures? Do you have the laundry caught up? (smile)

Slightly Goofy/Linda

helenabear

03-24-2004, 10:52 PM

Linda, if your dear husband can handle the restaurant at Japan, then he will be just fine at Marrakesh. The kabobs are very "tame" and even a finicky eater like myself loves this place!!

Colleen, the Bastilla is not the one like baklava. This one is light, thin pastry squares topped with a vanilla pudding tasting creamy sauce. It is to die for!!! Light, not too sweet and perfect!

Glad to hear that you also got your stent taken out! Must be a relief!

Well I got my hair cut last night... about 8-10 inches were taken off. I like it but I am not sure I love it yet... strange to go from long to "short" (it's below my shoulders still). My friends seem to like it though.

colleen costello

03-25-2004, 10:31 AM

Helenabear, the bastilla sounds great -- next time! And good luck with your haircut. Isn't if funny how a haircut affects our self-=perception? I am an overweight 39-year old Mom, and I hardly even use makeup. But if I think my hair is screwy it drives me NUTS. Last visit out regular hairdresser was ill, and another woman in the shop took over. She did my bangs all goofy and I was devastated. I hardly have a fancy haircut but those goofy bangs had me in fits! Aren't we silly about hair? I hope you decide you LOVE your new look! :)

We did have some new adventures at WDW. The kids rode Space Mountain for the first time and LOVED it. Also tried Primieval Whirl at AK and Dinosaur. We went into the Festival of Lion King show and they sat us up front with my Mom on her scooter. This led to Scott being selected to stand up and lead the audience in "warthog calls." It was hysterical! Scott is quiet and shy (not like me!) and it was SO funny... He was a good sport and we had a really good time.

We had great a great dinner at Chef Mickey's and I got wonderful photos of the kids with all the characters. Also had a nice early dinner at the Crystal Palace. More great photos. Overall we just enjoyed the beautiful weather. I felt uncomforable walking, not miserable. My parents move slowly anyhow so I was in good company. I did use the potties a lot but that's really nothing new for me! I feel SO much better today. Glad to be returning to "normal."

IASW Rider

03-27-2004, 12:50 PM

Very belated "welcome" and "hello" to FPgurl04!

And very belated "welcome back" to you, Colleen! So glad to hear that you are feeling better and loved hearing all of the details about your vacation! It's wonderful that you and your family had such a nice time! And I have to add my 2 cents - we think that Restaurant Marrakesh is great, too! You should definitely try it, Linda - I'll bet that Tom will find lots of things that he'd like to eat, there. I remember having a salmon dish that was great, and a really unusual and interesting salad, too. I think that Frank had the appetizer that Elaine had mentioned - it looked really good - and I think that he had some sort of beef or lamb dish as his main course, which he really enjoyed. It's really nice in there and it's rarely too crowded, from what I understand!

Glad that you made it to the Kona Cafe, too, Colleen - that's our all-time favorite WDW restaurant! And it's so neat that you watched the EWP from the Poly beach..........that's what Linda and I are going to be doing.........in exactly 50 days! :)

I miss "If You Had Wings", too - that was one of my Mom's favorites and one of my childhood favorites, too! Wow - Eastern Airlines.........seems like a million years ago! And I'm also so sad about Food Rocks closing - I was looking forward to seeing it just one more time - after spending the past year studying nutrition, it would have had even more "significance" to me...........besides, I just love that Pita Gabriel and Neil Moussaka! :) Oh well - at least I have the show on video!

You'll have to post a picture of yourself with your new haircut, Elaine! I'm sure that it looks great! :) But I'm sure that it was a big adjustment and a brave decision to make, since you have that beautiful, long hair that probably took such a long time to grow! I had let my hair grow really long, a few years ago, and I remember that it was a big decision for me to cut it to shoulder length - it was so weird not being able to reach around my back and be able to touch the bottom of my hair, after I had first cut it! I'm sure that you look wonderful, as always! You'll have to show us pictures!

How are you doing, out there, Depply? And Angie? And Wendy?

Ooh - I think that Wendy left for WDW, today, if I'm not mistaken. BON VOYAGE, WENDY!!! Hope that you have a wonderful trip! :)

Not too much to report from here - I've actually been sick with my annual "change of weather illness", this week. It seems that every time the weather changes from cold to warm or vice versa, I get completely thrown off kilter and wind up with weird, flu-like symptoms. It's finally getting a bit warmer, here, and I can't even enjoy it because I keep feeling feverish and weird. I'm trying to take the weekend to "rest out" whatever this is. I have an exam to study for and we rented some DVD's, so it will be a low key weekend.

I know where Lafayette College is, Colleen - that's in Easton, isn't it? That's where my college fraternity (Alpha Phi Omega, the National Service Fraternity) originated! I think that we should both run down to Orlando and join the College Program - we can definitely convince them to take a 39 year old and a 37 year old! Anyone else with us??? Who says that you have to be a "traditionally aged college student" to participate in the College Program?? :)

Hope that all is well with all of you and hope that you're all having a nice weekend! Talk to you soon! :)

IASW Rider

03-27-2004, 12:54 PM

P.S. I loved your story about Scott being selected to lead "warthog calls" at the "Festival of the Lion King" show, Colleen - that is great! I will have to go over to the DVC Board and look for your trip report - I love to hear all of the details! Will you have any of your photos posted anywhere on line, so that we can see them, by chance? I'm sure that those photos at Chef Mickey's and Crystal Palace (2 more restaurants that we love!) came out great!

colleen costello

03-27-2004, 03:32 PM

I am going to try to set up a web page this weekend. We have high-speedinternet through the local cable company and I know I can set up a page there, insert my Diney photos and post a link. (right?") Teh you all can see them. But all this sounds overwhelming -- gotta figure out HOW to do it! Luckily, my warthog is a GEEK and he can help me!

I am calling WDW later to make PS's for June. What fun! :) Mom wants Kona Cafe and Chef Mickey's again! :) Here we come~!

SlightlyGoofy

03-27-2004, 04:15 PM

Gee, just discovered that you all are chatting up a storm and I am left out again. Darn those missing reminders. At my age I need reminders for most everything, breathing etc. (sigh)

Helenabear, bet your hair is lovely. I was so glad when my daughter cut hers as you could then see her lovely face. She has such a nice shaped face and you could not see it before plus she was spending far too much of her life in an effort to care for all that hair. If you decide you don't like it you can always grow it back out. How does Luis like it? When I cut mine Tom was aghast but since he did not have to take care of that awful mess I have chosen to leave it as it is. Same hairdo as I had in the first grade but for me, it works. LOL

Colleen, do you wait until after the first trip to make plans for the second? I do. I can only think of one thing at a time for fear of getting everything wrong. I loved Kona Cafe but have never tried Chef Mickey's. Have added Marakesh to my agenda for this upcoming trip. Tom likes different foods but for some reason he gets allergic to the prices at DW. He is not price conscious too much of any other place. I do not like wasting bucks but will spend if the value is there and ambience and a different experience are worthwhile IMHO. I cannot eat much anyway so I might as well be amused while dining. Maybe I can do a belly dance - I am over qualified. LOL Looking forward to your web page. I set one up years ago but let it fade away. I am older overweight woman and I do not much care about how I look at all. Clean is my only requirement nowadays. I love my hairdo as I can just run my fingers through it if I should forget to comb before leaving the house. Wearing shoes is about as formal as I get. Always have paint or garden dirt under my nails. I joke that I was given the choice of being beautiful or useful and chose the one that I was capable of achieving. LOL

Rider, am I correct that the If I Had Wings show was the one that took you through a tunnel that simulated a roller coaster? I figure, if anyone would know, it would be you. LOL Tom has always enjoyed Akerhaus, he loves any place where you can get all you can eat. I take a book with me when we eat at a buffet. Six hours is his current best for eating time. Would not be so bad if he would gain weight but he does not, not much anyway. Life is NOT fair!!! We saw Food Rocks each time we were in EPCOT because we knew it was going away. The last show the woman next to me was roaring with laughter at all the 'in' jokes. I loved it!!

Jstmee, you lucky duck. You are either in or headed toward the Suite for real. May your days be sunny (not too) long (not too) and fun filled (way too). Safe journeys are earnestly hoped for you and yours and magical moments in between!

Finally figured out why I was invited to a banquet last week. I was embarrassed to find out that I was an honored guest. I do not usually attend these sorts of things but it happened that I had nothing to do and was looking for a meal without having to cook. LOL The lady told the story of how the kids attack me when I go to the school. Says more for the kids than me though. I am hoping to be able to work with them this summer as well. There is one girl that needs a bit of help and she might be able to catch up. They are thinking of leaving her back, reading is her only problem. She is shy and just needs some confidence.

Dalton's reading continues apace. He is reading 2nd grade books and even some 3rd grade (with a bit of help). I bought him an "I love Jesus" necklace for a reward for learning the books of the Bible. Amazing work IMHO. Learning to walk the walk is a lot harder than learning to talk the talk though. Austin's report card was pretty good. They are bending over backward for him though. Hope he never has to compete in the real world as it will be a shocker. He is a good kid though. I had a lapful of 12 year old today. My legs are a bit bent but my heart is full. (smile)

Counted my slacks this morning and I fear I am going to have to buy a few new clothes for my trip as I do not like to do laundry on vacation. For what it costs to do laundry at DW I can go to Wally World and buy a couple of outfits. LOL

Going to see "Calendar Girls" tomorrow. Love the "We're gonna need bigger buns" line. Miss Meringue just came out with some sugar free versions so life is good. (I am a woman of simple tastes)

Frying catfish for dinner. One of Tom's favorite meals. I do it to soothe him because he has to share me with the grandkids so much this week. Dalton just went home and it is time to get some work done. (shucks!!)

Hope you are all having a great weekend and finding more fun than chores to do.

SG/Linda (49 days and counting)

colleen costello

03-27-2004, 04:26 PM

I like to plan as many trips as possible at once. This year we got to do WDW FOUR times, and I have loved it. We did Spring Break 2003, then Scott and the kids and I went in June 2003 and bought the annual passes. We went with my parents in November (Dad's idea to have Thanksgiving together for a change!). They came to Indiana for Christmas as always... Then we did Spring Break 2004 and we'll go again in June for Scott's conference (really just an excuse to go...). Scott is a bit sick of Mickey but NOT ME... Twice a year is not too much at all, and this "special" year has been GREAT! I swear I will never get sick of going.

Linda, what is this diet you are on? I think it's Atkins... I know you have lost lots of weight. I am struggling... Chubbier than ever. Scott showed me old WDW "home movies" today and I look like a different person back before 2 kids... I was SO skinny! Seems like a lifetime ago. Linda, as you are doing well I will shamelessly solicit TIPS... How are you doing it?

SlightlyGoofy

03-27-2004, 06:37 PM

Colleen, you lucky lady. Not just getting to go to DW so very often but having such a close and loving family. I am never envious of others material goods but a family is something I have always yearned to have. Well, one that gets along at any rate. LOL

I have been changing my evil ways for about two years now and have lost between 80 and 90 pounds (according to the day of the week). I lost almost 50 pounds on WW (loved counting points instead of calories and had a wide range of choices) and then switched to TOPS where I lost the rest. Stalled a bunch last year but for the first time in my life I did NOT gain the weight back so I am considering it a success and moving on. So far this year I have had a loss (small) each and every week almost. It is much harder to lose now and I still have a long way to go. I fear it has to be an individual thing. What works for one will not work for another. If you would care to send me a diary of what you eat and like I could help you find some better substitutes. I love chocolate so I drink a cup or two of diet hot cocoa each day to curb my hunger. We all gained it differently and all must find our own way. Diets do not work IMHO. Life style change, starting with keeping track of what you eat, where and why is the first step on the Journey. It is so hard for women as they are responsible for the care and feedig of the rest of the family and often will not take the time to care for themselves. Just too darned tired sometimes. I feed Tom pretty much the same food I eat but he gets a bigger portion and I add bread and dessert and such to his meal. I am doing the South Beach Diet right now. I love meat so it is easy for me, right now. I will swtich to something else when that fails to get me where I want.

My dream diet is the Disney World Diet. With all the walking and diversions available there I can eat anything I want and have never gained a pound while there!! LOL

I use several websites that have lots of recipes and such. If you want them please send me a pm and I will send them to you.

Hoping to win the Powerball for many millions ----

Linda, now that you have won the lottery, what are you going to do?

I am going to Disney World!!!!! (for at least six months until I get the weight off and then I am going back again) LOL

SG/Linda

colleen costello

03-27-2004, 11:02 PM

Linda, thank you for your tips. I am following the food pyramid now, very much like the old WW where you counted the exchanges, pre-points. I am going to an RN who does weight management and we are trying to focus on "making good choices and adding exercise" and overall my diet is much better. Unfortunatley, I am not losing! At least I am no longer gaining, but I am 50 pounds or more over my limit and it's not healthy. The antidepressant I take for anxiety and insomnia has been a Godsend, but I have packed on the pounds as the doc warned I might. I see pics of me at WDW and I hardly recognize the person with my family -- I look like Jabba the Hut from Star Wars! :(

We got a new Target store in Bloomington and I went tonite with one of my girlfriends. Bought Easter candy for the kids, but carefully -- everything is in small portions and sealed in plastic eggs so I won't mess with it! If there is chocolate in the house I can hear it calling... Purposely bought stuff I don't like.

I am laying off meat (not trusting the cows) and never ate much of it anyhow. Also hate cheese. I don't think low carb is for me! :) Trying to fill up on healthy food but filling up is near impossible since I started on the medicine -- I am truly hungry most of the time and it's hard to get "full." Really scary for someone who is "a fatty at heart!" I also like the WDW diet -- my nurse says when you walk all day you can eat what you like. I try to eat healthy at WDW so I have energy (limit junk, soda pop, eat fruits and veggies and of course a few Mickey Head bars) and I don't usually gain there either. I wish you lived closer so we could walk together!

I DO keep reminding myself that if my biggest problem is that I am fat, I am lucky. But at times it REALLY gets me down...

depplyinluv

03-28-2004, 10:14 PM

Hello all!!:wave:

welcome FPgurl04!

I told you this place was great!

I can't believe they haven't kicked us out yet! lol :o

sorry i havent been on much ladies, ive had softball tryouts all week and i havent been home at all saturday adn sunday...

however i did get to finally see Secret Window!:bounce:

linda i wish there were really such a thing as the disney world diet, i think the whole world would be such a happier place:o

helenabear

03-28-2004, 10:59 PM

Hi all... checking in quickly... work has been really busy for me lately and so has after work stuff. Not sure when my life will be back to normal!

Colleen, you are so right on the hair!!! Right now this cut isn't "me" and when I look in the mirror I just see someone else that isn't quite right. At least I tried it and know how I feel :p
How did you like Primeval Whirl? I have been on that one twice and not sure I will be riding that one again :eek: It just jars me a lot!

Lisa, I have no intention of taking pictures of my hair like this. I really hope that it grows quickly. I am lucky and usually it does, but I guess I don't want to remember it this short. I haven't had this short since I was about 16 or so. Now I remember why ;) I do hope you are getting over your illnesses quite soon!!! My sister gets the very same colds.

Linda, fortunately Luis agrees with me... he likes it better longer. He likes it more than I do right now, but we both think it needs a few inches. It was actually not a trouble at all for me long, it's more of a pain shorter actually. I have to spend more time styling it and I hate that. How sweet about the banquet though and I am so very happy for you losing all that weight!!! That is so wonderful to do!

Colleen, I have also been working on losing weight... lately I just get on a bike mroe and do Pilates. It really seems to be helping me. I want to be the same weight I was when I met Luis and I am about 25-30 pounds off. I hope to get most of that off by summer :) I am sure you look beautiful though... oddly the one thing I have been working on more than anything else is to be able to look in the mirror and like what I see no matter what... sure is hard, but my husband is a good support for that. I can relate on teh medicine though... that is the reason why I gained weight and am glad I am off to help make sure it doesn't go back on.

Hi there Depply!!! Acutally there is a whole new rule now... there are no longer any page limits on the length of threads. We were about 20 pages off, but now we don't ever have to move!!!!! How were try outs for you!?

Well I should get to bed... long day at work tomorrow. Good night all

depplyinluv

03-29-2004, 10:44 AM

yay!!!!! we don't have to move! , although seeing the moving guys might have been nice..;)

tryouts went fairly well, especially because i have a chance at makin JV ...theres freshman, JV, and V....

but i have them all this week too...the only good thing is im burning tons of calories by doing it!:)

hope everyone has a good day!!!:wave: ...better be getting back to school work..hehe....:sunny:

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 10:46 AM

Hbear, your advice is good. The nurse I am going to is trying to help motivate me in regards to exercise because she swears it's easier to MOVE than to really change your diet. As we get older (I am 39!) it gets harder to lose just by limiting food. I am a "blob" by nature and it is hard to get active, but I am trying. The unfortunate reality is that I am so chubby that exercise doesn't FEEL good -- I have to force myself to do it! Luckily the weather is getting nice for walking outside because I HATE my treadmill!

Good luck to all of us with our weight struggles AND our struggles for self-acceptance! I am working on my web page now (actually Scott is) and I took a leap of faith and selected a photo with ME in it... I will post the address once it's ready so you can all see some of our vacation photos. :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 01:27 PM

Colleen, you must move closer to me and then you will feel much skinner. I would probably love to be what you weigh. If I manage to lose the other 70 pounds I still will not be skinny. Not made that way but I used to look pretty good even when I weighed 180 or so. I am sure that the sands have shifted though and I may be more bell shaped than hourglass anymore. LOL I hate my treadmill as well. Wallking short distances, over and over again works for me, sort of calming. Have read that walking slowly builds more muscle mass. Anything is better than nothing. The good news is that my doctor says I will lose about 30 pounds when I have my surgery, instantly. Since I will be somewhat a normal size by then it should be a drastic difference. LOL I am a volume eater also and have found that massive amounts of veggies with small amounts of meat or protein is the way for me. I have several such recipes that have gotten me through this last couple of years if you are interested. Do you like Pumpkin Pie? I cannot wait to see your vacation pictures. Do you have a digital camera? I went to look at a HP combo but they were out. Was awfully cheap. Do not want to waste money on something and then have to buy again to get something worthwhile.

Depply, what is your favorite softball position? Tells a lot about a personality LOL. I will be your cheerleader. Look for the old flabby lady with the dusty pom poms. (grin) How did you like Secret Window? Don't have to ask if the star was good or not. LOL I love all those things you put on your emails. I used to have a few things but they disappeared over and over and I got tired of putting them on. Might try again one day but cannot do the fancy stuff you do. Love it!! If everyone would act like they were in DW everyday the world would be a better place. Ever notice that when one person is nice it spreads and the reverse? Acting nice when someone is not seems to stop most foolishness in the bud also. JMO

Helenabear, I would take a picture of your new hair style so that someday in the future when you get the urge for a change you will be able to remind yourself not to go back in that direction but I am sure that you look great either way. Life is too short to have to mess with your hair, if longer is easier, go with it!! I am so grateful that we are not going to have to move, although Depply's comment about moving men has me thinking. I love to watch men work. Don't see much of that around here. LOL

Rider, we went to see Calendar Girls yeserday. Was a fun movie. IMHO nobody under the age of 40 should be allowed to pose naked. Almost anyone looks good at 18. Those who manage to look so at 40 deserve to be able to strut their stuff. LOL I hope your life is not getting too complicated. I worry about you. Not that you cannot do anything you set your mind to but that you might fail to realize what a special person you are and how much you have to give to anything you chose to do. One day you will look back upon these days and be so grateful that you did not end up on some paths. Is the way life works mostly.

I am going to go get a huge cup of diet hot cocoa as I have been out, in the rain, working on the yard. Have to get ready for a yardsale at the fairgrounds this weekend too. Hope I can get rid of a bunch of stuff. The remainder will go to San Souci rather than return home. Have lots of children's stuff as I am only keeping the special things as Dalton outgrows things. Sort of sad, packing away my baby grandkid stuff. I will miss having a lapful of baby. Austin is 12 and was sitting in my lap the other day (ouch) so I may have a few good years ahead of me. Dalton only wants to sit there when he reads or is tired. Getting to be too old, he says. (boo hoo).

Linda/SG

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 02:57 PM

Linda, tell me about your walking. I see Lynn, the nurse, on Wednesday and she will kick my butt if I havent' been exercising. Can I walk in my kitchen for 20 minutes, around the island? If I don't get dizzy will this work?

Funny you mentioned the weight "180." I also look reasonable at this weight. When I weighed that, none of my friends believed I weighed that much. Now 200 has come and gone and I am feeling so hopeless... I laugh with my friends that if I don't get my act together, I'll eventually be so fat I won't get out of the house and Richard Simmons will have to do a show from my bedroom! I actually saw this once, years ago. Ironically, the woman's name was "Happy..." Yikes. The poor thing is probably dead now. It's scary when you see a future like that and fear that could actually be you someday!

When is your surgery, when is your WDW trip, and what is up with Tom? Scott is much younger but works hard at not working around the house... I call him "Condo Boy" because he needs a condo, not a regular house... He hates to work outdoors and it's all I can do to get him to MOW regularly! Thanks goodness our lot is wooded so the neighbors don't have to see our ratty lawn! Scott is well-respected at his job and a real go-getter there, but at home I tell him he is useless! Poor thing -- I tell him if I get hit by a bus some weekend, he'll have to move to the nursing home by Monday. :)

Candlemaker

03-29-2004, 03:32 PM

Originally posted by depplyinluv
Hi all!:wave:

Linda you crack me up:rotfl: my mom says im the snootiest person there is and my brothers and sis say im the most immature person. I really do thank you for your kind words, i dont hear them very often.:( however i am very spoiled, im not a brat even though my mother says i am very disrespectful and i have disregard for all my items. :rolleyes:
anyways id say thats pretty cool!::yes::

:wave2:

Miss Depply,

I am appalled that you have the nerve to post information like the above here. These people would think that your mother is a cruel and wicked person...you are not the snootiest person, as you say, but you do have snooty qualities...come to grips with yourself girl.

Your younger brother doesn't say you are immature, and neither does your 2 year old sister!

You are disrepectful and you don't take care of the things you are given. You don't help out around the house and not even care for "your" cats.

Do not come into a public forum and trash your family...or you can forget all of your little privvies!

helenabear

03-29-2004, 03:53 PM

LOL, moving men is a bonus, but I kind of like having just one home here.. much easier to find :)

Depply, I wish you all the best during the remainder of try outs!! Thta would be cool if you made JV!!!

Colleen, that nurse seems so very wise! I think that my excercise has helped me tons more than eating right ever did. NOt that I am not trying more, but just that what really gets the pounds off is the movement... at least I find that true for me :) I think the trick though, is finding something to do that you *enjoy* doing. I hate treadmills, but I love my bike. I hate aerobics, but I love doing Pilates. That's a huge key for me :)

Linda, what surgery will you be having done? It would be nice to lose 30 pounds like that though. And it isn't just the look that I am not happy with my hair... I've had this length before and have pictures of it, but my hair has gained a lot more wave/curl than it had and for me remembering the pain it has been to keep styled nicely is enough for me never to go back. I will probably take a picture in a month or so when it is a little longer :)

I am not one to get into personal arguments, but I would hope that in the future they are not brought here for all of us to see. I remember how I was when a teen, so I take all family talks with a grain of salt. Not that they aren't big to Depply, but I do know that just because at a moment, someone appears to be talkign low of a family memeber, does not mean that the family is bad, wicked or anything like that. Anywho, I just hope I don't have to see that kind of talk here in the suite again. You can all hate me for it, but part of friends is coming here for a place to talk and maybe vent... not to start trouble. JMever so veryHO

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 03:55 PM

Aah, how I look forward to the days when my babies are old enough to post on the internet... NOT! :)

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 04:00 PM

Good exercise advice, Helena -- I think you are right. I love food TOO much and am never going ot be "perfect" there. Lynn the RN says the exercise helps overcome that! I actually just did 30 minutes of low-impact aerobics to Michael Jackson's greatest hits. You can't not move to "Billie Jean!" I caught some scary glimpses in the mirror but kept right on going... :)

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 04:03 PM

Hi there Candlemaker, I am assuming that you are a relative of our dear Depply. Please do not worry, dear Depply is safe here and we have never had the idea that she comes from a mean family, quite the contrary. LOL She is such a wonderful addition to our little group and fits in so well in spite of being the youngest, to my oldest. LOL I raised two of my own and helped with raising many others and Depply has never given me a hint that she is a troubled youth of any kind. Lucky gal to have two families to love and watch after her and she has so many opportunities. I can tell that she knows it too. Just a bit of teen angst about feeling down that one day. We all go there from time to time, even us old ladies. (smile) Please do not take away her privvies? We love our youngster, depply much. I am not one bit surprised to see that she has someone watching over her internet activities as I can tell she has been nicely raised. Good for you.

Colleen, LOL, walking around and around your kitchen island will only work if you do NOT stop at the refrigerator on your tour. I have found that the further I walk from the kitchen the skinnier I get. Our bodies have a thermostat that keeps us from getting bigger and bigger and bigger usually. A few unlucky individuals have grown so big that they must be cut out of their homes. I love Richard Simons as I think he is a sincerely good person. Would be hard to take full time though. LOL My daughter is about 180 and I have told her that since she does not gain any weight and can eat what she wants she should leave well enough alone. Not everyone is made to be pencil slim. I see friends who suffer over each and every pound when they could be 5-10 pounds heavier and look great and be able to enjoy life also. Balance, is what I preach. I am the first to say that gaining and gaining over the years is not a good thing. Wish I had been smart enough to figure that out when I were a youngster. LOL

We are booked into DW mid May for 11 days and then a few days at a retirement community on the way home. Fairhope is becoming a fast approaching dream rather than a reality. (sobbing)

My dh has never been a go getter from day one. He is quite a bit older than I am (14 years). He informed me right after we married that he was too old to mow lawns and such. I was only able to get him to go to work all these years because I did everything else, including shoveling the snow from the path to the garage (75 feet or so). His parents and brothers tell me that he used to leave home (was living at home at 38) and they would find him at the state park sitting instead of going to work. Now that he is retired, he sleeps until 10-11 almost everyday and then gets up and walks about 25 feet to the kitchen where he spends the day watching tv and eating. He is happy. It would drive me nuts to do nothing. If I could be assured of a jury of women I might consider something drastic. (I think I am kidding) He is in great health and I am not. You know what happens to a race horse that cannot race anymore? Hope life is as kind to me in my dotage. (wry grin)

At least Scott is a worker somewhere. All men would be that way if they can get away with it or stand it. I have friends whose husbands are picky and do everything cause they do not like how their wives do things, it is our curse to be perfect. (ROTFL)

As far as Scott or Tom having to fend for themselves in a nursing home one day - nope, there are a bunch of older women out there who are so desperate to have a man in their lives so they will be snatched up quickly. Tom would enjoy a nursing home, not much different from what he has now. It is arranged that when I croak he will move down with one of his brothers. It will be my revenge. LOL

Have just paid the bills for the month and it balances to the penny. Small things like that make me happy. Back to the yard for a bit, tiny yard, lots of flowerbeds to clean. Tom tells people that I am the boss and he explains it this way "I have seen the job and I don't want it". Neither do I.

Slightly Grumpy/Linda (smiling through the irritation) LOL

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 05:20 PM

Helenabear, hating you is not possible. LOL I have been a mother, still am, and well remember being a child/teen (would never want to go back there). It is so hard trying to raise your children safely and to be productive happy members of society but it is also very hard being a fragile person in the midst of changing from child to adult.

I sincerely hope that Candlemaker and Depply are able to sit down and talk about whatever is going on. Having been privileged to get to know Miss Depply for a bit I can tell that she is a kind, sensitive and bright person. Hollering (in private) is a whole lot better than silence. Might not like everything we hear but having to guess what each other is feeling is a whole lot worse and seldom works. I do not require to know about it though.

Colleen, LOL, I dance to the old Motown songs from my youth. Working out in front of a mirror helps me diet, makes me too sick to eat. LOL I am looking forward to reading your dear ones posts in future years. Bet they have your style and wit. I finally burned a stack of letters that my darling daughter wrote to me through her teen years. I had thought to give them to her when her kids were teens but then thought better of it. LOL I do still have a picture I took of her room. There was carpet somewhere underneath all the stuff. LOL Also have a picture of what our new garage looked like after our ds decided to pull the engine in his old car while we were away. (ahhhh!!) Always told them that I was not supposed to be their friend, they had plenty, they needed a mother, boy did they need a mother. LOL If you are doing your job right your kid thinks you are mean, until they have kids of their own and then you have the great pleasure to hear your words come out of their mouths while dealing with their own children. (hard part is to keep from laughing though)

Slightly Goofy/Linda

TalkisCheap

03-29-2004, 06:13 PM

Hello there!

I was looking around because I was a tad on the bored side and came across this thread and said to myself "I do wonder what this is?" So I have decided to drop by and ask you what your thread is 'about'. Anyhow, I just thought I would drop in and inquire after this thread. I am off to continue my reading of Pride & Prejudice - it has me totally enraptured(though I have seen the movie a billion times, the book is somewhat more captivating....)

-Ms. Caroline:tongue:

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 06:27 PM

Hello Ms. Caroline

I am another one who finds the book better than the movie. When you watch a movie you are seeing someone elses imagination. I prefer my own. LOL BTW, Elizabeth and Darcy get together in the end. (grin)

We are a virtual suite of friends who met on a thread a couple of years ago. We love all things Disney and enjoy knowing each other and meeting new friends along the way. Not usually very tempestious around here as today though. LOL

We are sort of the Seinfelds of the DIS are we are about nothing, just the visissitudes of life. Please feel free to wander the Suite and know that all are welcome here and we look forward to your adding a chapter or two to our gathering.

Slightly Goofy/Linda

depplyinluv

03-29-2004, 06:48 PM

hello ladies!

hey hey caroline! nice ter see ya here!pirate:

colleen ive found that exercise is good for you....after softball practice i actually feel refreshed...just not after running because i hate running....:) keep up those michael jackson aerobics!

lol

linda i find that the more bored that i am , the more likely i am to go eat! and then i usually dont stop eating until i feel like im going to explode...then i go to the bathroom...and eat again! cursed refrigerator! :)
i really cant imagine you in a nursing home....:(

my favorite softball position is ....second base ithink, not to far to throw and its not that hard if i have to dive every now and then:)

but i might have to play pitcher this year, which isnt bad because ive actually developed quite the arm::yes::

secret window i found hysterical. i really don't know why, but i thought is was hilarious. and of course i liked it, even if i could guess then ending 10 minutes into it:o

i totally agree w/ you, when you're nice people (usually) are nice back.......if you dont mind me asking, what are you getting surgery for?

:wave2:

TalkisCheap

03-29-2004, 07:09 PM

Thanks Slightly Goofy, I am happy I am welcome! I do think I shall a bit...maybe sit down and enjoy some more fine reading!

Ahoy Depply! So nice to see you! I had not noticed you posting here, at least I feel better knowing someone! Oh and I do wish you the best of luck with softball(are you still in tryouts?)and if you are through with tryouts, I wish you the best of luck during the season(if you made it, which I am not sure of...)But, how in the farthest stretch of the imagination, can you not enjoy running?! Running is possibly my favorite thing in the world(besides eating...darn food). I live for Track and Field and Cross Country seasons. But, alas, we are entitled to our difference of opinions.

I so wish I was back in Florida, though, enjoying the warmth. Blasted Maine weather!(I know I say that, but I could not imagine living another place else...except maybe Germany, though I am not big on sausage)

Aarg! My sister's cell phone is ringing off the hook, and I was placed in charge of answering it( :confused: ) and so I guess I must attend to that:mad: . I shall stop by a little later then.

-Caroline:tongue:

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 07:13 PM

Caroline, you're in Bush country up there! My parents vacation in Maine in the fall, they go to Bar Harbor and Acadia Park and they LOVE it. I have never been... someday! One year they did lots of stops on the way home to PA -- LLBean store in Freeport would be HEAVEN for me! -- and they visited Kennebunk and saw the older George Bush... off in the distance on his large property, I guess. My parents are big Democrats but it's still nice to see a celebrity... Anyhow, Maine sure is pretty but the cold would KILL me... I like the summer!

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 07:28 PM

Oh my, if only Rider and Angie would drop by we would have a full house. Jstmee is too busy enjoying the real delights of DW to bother with us. Lucky duck.

Caroline, so right in that everyone is entitled to their opinions. Is the theme of the Suite IMHO. LOL I am heading to Florida in a few weeks to meet up with Rider so I am dreaming of Florida as well. I am reading a book by Jimmy Carter right now. Have read many of his other works but this is fiction and extremely good also. I love historical fiction, when well researched. Would you please be so kind as to introduce yourself around? I am a 55 year old homemaker/grandma/tutor in Indiana. Oldest (not necessarily the most mature though) member of the Suite. (grin)

Depply, I used to love to run. Used to time myself running to and from downtown when I was a kid. Like flying when I went running over the hill. Afraid it would kill me to try to do that again though. Asthma has a way of slowing people down. LOL When I get to the nursing home I am instituting some changes. I do much volunteer work in them now so I know just what has to change. Elton John will come in to play his songs instead of those Golden Oldies that are played now. Wheelchair races will take the place of Bingo. We will stay up late and sleep later. With our cell phones and computers we will be able to keep in touch with the world at large and exchange ideas with others instead of being cooped up in a room and forgotten. A menu will be available for us to chose our meals from. The heck with the rules, we will overcome them as we have everything else in our lives and spend our dwindling incomes on stuff from e bay and Amazon.com leaving nothing for our children to inherit. (I are a nasty old lady) LOL Just got off the phone with my friend, Mary. She went to the hospital last night. She looked so good the other day I am shocked. Her son has not found the time to visit. Very busy moving into the nice home he bought with her money. Shame on him. Since I have known him since he was a kid I have a full right to be shocked at his behavior.

Colleen , is there nowhere that you have not been? I have pretty well covered the mid sections of the country but there are small pockets in the East that I have yet to enter.

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-29-2004, 07:48 PM

caroline....those who have chronic awful stupid reoccuring dumb nasty horrible(notice the synonyms) asthma like me know how absolutely horrible it is to run....running for me is jogging a mile in 20 min on an indoor treadmill
....running if i have to this is what its like:

o man i hate running....hmm i wonder if i have my inhaler....o boy ....lungs...s.tarting ...to....die...ok now i need to stop...i wish these werent tryouts....o i hate running....*cough wheeze*

not fun, let me tell you!
especially if you're the slowest and your lungs die out on you because they collapsed when you were 5 years old!

:)

Linda ill definately work at that nursing home! i love e.j.! and heck, i could be in the wheelchair races, you would all still beat me:p

im sorry for your friend mary, too. My friend brittany just went to the hospital sunday for diabetes complications...but she should be out tomorrow or wednesday...i hope:(

SlightlyGoofy

03-29-2004, 08:42 PM

Depply, I had completely forgotten that you have asthma. From what I have read childhood onset asthma is much worse than that us old geezer get. How in the world do you manage to do all that you do? What kind of rescue inhaler do you use? Have you had many bad attacks? How do you handle medication in school since they got so sensitive about things? They had a program here on kids not being able to have their inhalers in class. Scary thought. I carry one in my purse, one in the car and one next to the bed. I am thrilled when I have to throw 3 expensive meds away because they have expired because that means I have not been too sick. I carry prednisone with me on trips for emergencies but have to admit that I will do without it sometimes so that I can use it at Disney and enjoy myself. Makes a world of difference but the side effects are not good if you use it all the time.

I am so sorry to hear about your friend. Diabetes is such an insiduously nasty disease. It is hard enough for adults to handle (although I have many friends who have it and do not, a big worry) but for a young person who is trying to be 'normal' to have to deal with it is very hard indeed.

If I ever go to a nursing home I will hope for caregivers like yourself. Life would never be dull with you around. LOL

SG/Linda

depplyinluv

03-29-2004, 08:57 PM

linda i dont know how i do all that i do, but its hard. lol i use the albuterol inhaler....it gets me by, except for when i lose it, which is all the time..

i havent had a serious attack in awhile because i try to keep my inhaler close by me at all times...in school im supposed to have one w/ the nurse but i carry it around in my bag because those stairs are murder!
:rolleyes:
i use a flovent inhaler twice a day (2-3 puffs) and i also take singular

i know how diabetes can be hard, my friend has had it since she was very little...
:(

lol the nursing home would be a "patch adams" type of an atmosphere...then they'll probably come to close it down because of all the fun we would have:eek:

:wave:

TalkisCheap

03-29-2004, 09:04 PM

Wow, Depply, I am very sorry you have such bad asthma! I can understand, then, how you can not like running. My 'sister'(best friend) has very bad asthma and so I can ALMOST relate to you, but I was blessed with having perfect lungs, and a natural 'runners' build, and a high tolerance for pain(perfect for running our cross country course which scares even the most well trained athletes who are not used to the course...we affectionatly refer to the large hill smack dab in the middle of the course you must go up 3 times, Demon Hill, though sometimes called a mountain) anyhow, a little about myself -

I am thirteen years old(just had my birthday on Valentines Day) and I live in the wonderful state of Maine and have for all my life, 8 years of which I have resided in the perfectly wonderful town of Kennebunk. I play a variety of sports including Cross Country running, Track and Field, Basketball, Softball and Tennis. I also downhill and cross country ski, and have played the piano for what is now my 7th year. I Irish Step Danced for 2 1/2 years before finally having to give it up because of the terrible pain it was causing my already bad knees. I am totally in love with everything Disney, though I went for the first time just on the 18th. I am homeschooled and currently in 7th grade. My mom is my teacher, and my favorite subject is reading. As for my future, I WILL(not even Want)to attend Villanova University in Pennsylvania. I hope to spend a year in Germany studying abrode because I am very taken with the whole German language and culture. I want to major in something in the buisness field with a minor in german, as i hope to be fluent in the language. I would like to pursue a career at the F.B.I. I have an older brother, a freshman at Villanova and a sister, a junior at Catherine McAuley high school in Portland, Maine and the captain and #1 tennis player at the defending state champions in tennis.

Well i guess thats it.....talk to ya'll later

-Caroline:tongue:

helenabear

03-29-2004, 09:09 PM

Well chatty group here... I was on th e phone with a friend for a n hour and a half and now I need to do things around the house...

But welcome Caroline!!! Good to have you here!!!! I do wish I could stay for a short while, but really I was on the phone too long as it was!!!!

Glad to see this place is hopping though :teeth:

FPgurl04

03-29-2004, 09:29 PM

:wave: hey everyone! just back from chicago. i had a great time and it's a lovely city. i got to see and actually touch a REAL pair of manolo's. i almost died. i'm still in heaven. i would die to have a pair of manolo's. and i got a really adorable graduation dress from bloomingdale's. i'm excited.

Depply, what is your favorite softball position? Tells a lot about a personality LOL. I will be your cheerleader. Look for the old flabby lady with the dusty pom poms. (grin) How did you like Secret Window? Don't have to ask if the star was good or not.

softball positions tell of personality??? well that's news. can u analyze mine? i love second base and outfield. lol.
has anyone else seen secret window? it's a little quirky, and without the lovely star i wouldn't have liked it, but it was funny and different and i liked it. chico the dog is my hero.

so how is everyone here? i haven't had a chance to read anything so i don't know what's going on. all i know is carebear caroline posted here so :wave2:. anyway, gotta go check out some other things. see you later. and try to stay dry slightlygoofy, if it's raining in your area.

colleen costello

03-29-2004, 09:30 PM

It's nice to have an age range here. For the newcomers, I am a Hoosier by way of New Jersey. Grew up in NJ ( I am 39) and went to Lafayette College in Easton PA, then moved to Indiana for graduate school. We stayed put and I have two Hoosier-born babies. My daughter Erin is almost 10 and my boy Ian juts turned 6. I am at home with them and volunteer a lot at our school. My parents live now in PA, right by my college campus, and we travel to Disney once or twice a year together.

Welcome!

PS: Linda, I feel I have been "nowhere" -- I am not a brave traveler! Definitely not the "tour Europe with a backpack" type. Just East Coast and WDW!

TalkisCheap

03-29-2004, 09:31 PM

:wave2: hey sandypants! I'm glad you had a good time!

well, my favorite softball positions are 1st base and shortstop....but i'm always placed at third base because I have a pretty good arm....I always wanted to be a pitcher...but I couldn't really nail that windmill motion.....:(

-Caroline:tongue:

IASW Rider

03-31-2004, 05:04 PM

Wow! So much activity in our little Suite, lately - it's hard to keep up with all of you!

First of all, welcome Caroline! :) Nice to have you join us! I have a good friend who grew up in Kennebunk, and I visited her several times up there (I also visited her when she later moved to Portland) - it is really pretty, up there! That's so neat that you are home schooled and that you know that you definitely want to attend Villanova!

I'm a 37 year old married full-time student - currently in the process of a career change. I spent 15 years working in the financial services / brokerage industry, and am now back in school, in the hopes of eventually pursuing a career in the field of public health / nutrition. My DH and I have no children, but we do have 5 cats! We'll be returning to WDW (where we were engaged, spent our honeymoon, and our first anniversary!) in exactly 46 days (this will be my 14th trip there and my DH's 5th!)! :)

Sorry that I haven't posted in a bit - I was suffering with my annual bout of bronchitis, this past week, and today is the first day that I've felt relatively "human"! It's a good thing that I'm finally on the mend - we will be hosting Passover here on Monday and Tuesday nights, and I will need all my energy for the preparing and serving of food, entertaining, etc.!

I wish that I was better at softball, Depply, FPgurl04, and Caroline - I never could seem to "get the hang of it". I joke that the only sports that I can play well are those that involve nets - volleyball and tennis (and badminton and ping pong.......! :) ). I was Varsity and JV captain of volleball when I was in high school and I won a few tennis awards, as well. As much as I love watching baseball (I'm a lifetime NY Mets fan!), I was never great at playing softball. (I think I was always too afraid of getting clocked in the head if the ball was hit towards or thrown to me!)
:(

How is your friend doing, Depply? I hope that she is feeling much better. My mom had diabetes - I'm very familiar with how devastating it can be. I hope that your friend is doing well!

How are you doing, Elaine? OK - I definitely understand why you wouldn't want to post pictures of your recent hair cut. But you figure, if nothing else, at least you tried - then realized that you weren't thrilled with it - so you'll know not to do it again! I guess in a way, that's better than always wondering what it would have looked like had you tried it - if nothing else it served that purpose! And they say that in the warmer weather, hair tends to grow more quickly - so since it's getting warmer now, I'm sure that it will grow back to a length that you prefer, before you know it! I still insist that I'll bet it looks great, now..........! You're just being modest, that's all! :) And I loved what you said about the important thing being the ability to look in the mirror and to like what you see, no matter what - that's great!

Hi Colleen! Hope that you are feeling completely better, now! Have you been able to get your WDW pictures on line, yet ? (can you tell that I am an absolute "picture freak"? I drive poor Elaine crazy, every time she goes to WDW, asking if or where she has posted her pictures!) Can't wait to see them! I can certainly relate to the feelings that you were expressing with regard to weight issues, as well. God knows, I saw 180.......and 200........come, as well (......fortunately, they've since "left"! But it was quite a journey.). I know the feeling of looking at a photo and not quite recognizing myself or being disappointed with the way that I look. But please remember that we are always more critical of ourselves and our appearances than the way that we actually are and appear to others. I'd be willing to bet that you look great in your WDW photos and in general! And as you said, there are so many more important things in life than our weight (......even though it may not seem that way, sometimes!). You are obviously a very kind, sweet, considerate person with tons of personal and professional accomplishments and a great sense of humor! It sounds like you have a wonderful and warm family and lots of great relationships in your life! You definitely have people here in the Suite who understand "weight stuff" and are here for listening and support! I know that these folks have been here for me, through my bouts with the plateaus, and the like! :) It sounds like you are on a great plan with a knowledgable RN and I'm sure that you will be seeing progress and great success in no time! I work out solely with videotapes at home - as Elaine said, I think it's best to stick with what you enjoy the most, and I really prefer exercising at home to going to a gym or health club - and if you find one or some that you like, like the Michael Jackson one, it can really pay off! Plus, then you can exercise at whatever time of day is most convenient for you. I'm not on any formal diet plan - I just kind of "do my own thing" - eat what "feels right" to me (after years of experience gaining and losing numerous pounds, I've sort of figured out what "works for me"!) - and do 30 - 40 minutes of aerobics every day. I've lost 88 pounds thus far and hope to lose a few more. It sounds like you are on a great track and will be seeing some great results before you know it! :)

Hi Linda! I just bored you via e-mail, so I'll just say "hello" for now, here! 46 more days, my friend! :)

Hey out there, Angie! Hope that you're having a great time at WDW, Wendy!

Well, time to get a few things done around the house, now that I have some energy back! Hope that all is well with all of you and that you're all having a nice day! :)

colleen costello

03-31-2004, 05:20 PM

Rider, thanks for the kind words. I know my friends and family don't think of me as anything but wonderful -- gotta keep telling myself that! I have an appointment with Lynn (nurse practitioner) tonite and that always does me good.

Tell me about your rendezvous with Linda at WDW, please? How did this come about... Sorry I am missing you girls by a few days!

I am working on the website, pics by this weekend (even one of me, chubby or not!)

IASW Rider

03-31-2004, 05:32 PM

Wow - when did you sneak in there, Colleen? See that - you're so skinny that I didn't even see you slip into the Suite! :) You are doing an amazing job - you are really motivated and have a great attitude and I know that you're going to be reporting your great successes very soon!

It's so funny that we will be missing eachother at WDW, this year, because for the past 4 years, DH and I have been at WDW during the same time that you will be there in June! We just decided to go in May this year because it coincided best with our school schedules - usually we like to be there in early June to celebrate our wedding anniversary and the anniversary of our engagement! I literally missed Elaine by HOURS, last year - she was leaving WDW on the day that we were arriving! And then the year before, we were there during the same week as Angie and her family, and we played phone tag and kept missing one another! THIS year, we are lucky enough to be arriving at WDW on the same day as Linda and Tom.........AND WE ARE GOING TO MEET THEM - I am not going to "blow" a chance to meet one of our Suitemates, again! :) We are going to meet for dinner at the Poly.........and of course attend a performance of the EWP, afterwards, on our first night there! I keep hoping that fate will bring all of us Suite folks together at WDW at the same time, one of these years..........it could happen...........I just know that some time in the future, we will all be watching the EWP from the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, together! :)

Have you made all of your PS's for your June trip, yet? That is so exciting! It's so neat that you will be able to go back so soon! :)

FPgurl04

03-31-2004, 06:21 PM

colleen, i'm a kentuckian by way of nj. i was born there and moved here when i was 9. the thing that i had to become accustomed to down here was the language! i am constantly made fun of for saying "drawer" like "draw" and "sneakers" instead of "tennis shoes."

anyway, i have to leave now. hope everyone's having a nice day!

colleen costello

03-31-2004, 11:02 PM

FPgurl, glad to hear from another Jersey girl! I will share a funny Indiana story. After I graduated from IU, I started working as a care manager for the rural elderly, about 15 minutes out from where I live. It gets kind of "hicksville" fast and I visited seniors who were homebound and set up services for them. Anyhow, it was another world from where I grew up in East Jersey. The town my office was in, was the county seat and had the big courthouse. No one back in Jersey could quite believe that the parking meters around the courthouse took PENNIES! Wow! The funniest thing was the Kentucky jokes. One nice woman in my office grew up in Kentucky in the 1930's and was literally "a coal miner's daughter." The local guys from here in Indiana would tease her. I never knew it, but Hoosiers LOVE Kentucky jokes about Kentuckians being "backward," "rural," etc. They teased Jo terribly, until finally one day I confronted then and said "Look, I am from Bayonne, NJ and as far as I can tell, you are ALL hicks!"

This caused quite the stir... Yet here I am years later, calling myself a Hoosier (if a fast-talking one that says "my undies go in the draw" and "I am going to the store, can I get you suttin?"

IASW Rider

03-31-2004, 11:31 PM

That's a great story, Colleen! :) Gotta love us Jersey girls! :) Whereabouts are you originally from in NJ, FPgurl04? I also say "draw-er", "sneakers", "subs" (as in sandwiches), and pronounce things like "bag" as "beyeg" instead of "baaaaaag"! :) My DH is from South Jersey, so his accent is more Philadelphia-like - he says "hoagie" (sandwich), and pronounces "South" as "salth", etc.!

Hope that you're all having a good night! :)

TalkisCheap

04-01-2004, 11:38 AM

hey again, everyone!

Hey Rider(shall I call you that?), thats so cool that you knew someone from Kennebunk. I love it there...and I can't think of living anywhere else...Though, I know I probably will have too(especially if I want to really go into the F.B.I, and I REALLY want to do that).

Haha I love when people talk about accents...I make fun of my mom and her family because of their strong Massachusets accents. I, however(like my dad), am a born Mainer yet i do usually pronounce my r's except on some words...that 'slip' out. The words I get made fun of most for saying(and when I was in Florida...some people gave me funny looks when I said them...) are room, I don't say "Rooooom" I say "rum" and roof, i don't say "roooooof' I say well, it's hard to type..best way to describe it would be like the sound a dog makes, "wroof" no long o. It's wierd and even my 'mainah' friends make fun of me. They also ALWAYS have to comment about the way I say "really(rooly)" and "stupid(stUpid)"(Apperently I really pronounce the U...though I don't hear it) and I have (grr) gotten into the habbit of saying Ya'll because my best friend lived in florida for 7 years before moving up here, and her parents were both born in florida and I am ALWAYS around people saying "Ya'll". The way I say words(beside the dropping of r's) isn't really a "Maine accent" it's just..the way I say my words and I ALWAYS get made fun of :( ;) .

Oh goodness! I got my high school entrance exam test results back...and I'm too nervous to open them....:eek: I hope I didn't fail !!!

-Caroline

IASW Rider

04-01-2004, 01:37 PM

Hi Caroline!

I'm sure that you did a wicked good job with your High School Entrance Exam! (There's my contribution to your Maine-speak! :) ) Seriously - I'm sure that you did wonderfully! Are you applying to a private high school?

My friend who grew up in Kennebunk now lives in St. Louis. So - just like you were saying with your "y'all's" - it's funny to have always known her to have a strong New England accent........and now hear her speaking with southern "drawls" and intonations!

You can definitely call me "Rider"........or "Lisa"..........or whatever else you might like to call me! :)

Have a great day, Everyone! :)

FPgurl04

04-01-2004, 04:47 PM

good story colleen! so you're from bayonne huh? my grandma lives there and i grew up there. i was born in west orange, lived in bayonne until i was 3 or 4, then we moved to aberdeen. i also say "suttin" except it comes out more like "sum-um." i also say "Flaarida" instead of "Floorida" and "Aarange" instead of "Oorange" and "Faarest" instead of "Foorest." i'm also made fun of for the way i say parrot (pARRot) and carrot (cARRot) instead of "Peerit" and "keerit." i still do drop r's sometimes and pronounce "the" as "da." another thing i always get a kick out of is the kentucky definition of traffic compared to the new jersey definition of traffic. anyone know what i mean??

i'm sure u did fine caroline. if I did fine, YOU did fine. but i had my mom open them because i was too afraid too. :rolleyes:

urgh, i have 2 softball practices tonight; one at 6 and another at 8. grrrrrr....oh well.

have a nice afternoon everyone. :wave:

TalkisCheap

04-01-2004, 05:05 PM

Yes, Rider I applied to private high school in Portland - Cheverus High School. I did do fine, but I was still so nervous...even though it did not really matter because I am only in 7th grade and just took the test for practice because I never take timed tests, being homeschooled. But, I did fine, as everyone told me I would, and won one of 5 scholarships they handed out to the highest scorers of the incoming freshman....but, of course, I had to turn it down and i'll have to try and win it again next year.

Well, I must be going running now, despite the yucky rain and cold temperatures....or else I'll never be in shape come track season(yay, only a few more days!!)

-Caroline:tongue:

IASW Rider

04-02-2004, 04:06 PM

CONGRATULATIONS, CARLOLINE!!!!!!!!! :) :) :)

That is fantastic news about your entrance exam and the scholarship that you were offered! And to think that you did all that and you're not even quite ready to officially apply - imagine how great you'll do "for real", next year! That is amazing! :)

It's so interesting that your track season is in the spring - ours was always in the fall!

How did your practices go, FPgurl04? And I'm sure that you did a wonderful job on your entrance exams, too! :) By the way, I pronounce "Florida", "Orange", "Forest", "Parrot", and "Carrot" the same way that you do! :) I grew up in Edison (Central NJ, near New Brunswick) and have lived in Somerset (just 5 miles away!) for the past 14 years.

Hope that you're all having a great day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

04-03-2004, 09:57 PM

I posted in here the other day and it has disappeared. I know that it was taken as I stuck around long enough to see the posting. It was an awesomely "wicked" post too! LOL

Cannot remember a darned thing I wrote except comments on everyone's baseball position. Seems that most are the type who want to hang loose and enjoy the game rather than be in the heat of it all. I was awful at every position as I am near sighted. I was better at basketball as the ball was larger. LOL

Guess I am the only one here without an accent. (grin) Would it not a sad world if we all looked and talked alike? (yawning at the thought)

I am 55 years old and I got in trouble for talking in class. well weight loss club anyway. I have a friend who sits next to me and while she has the face of an angel she is a devil in disguise. When we have roll call we are to respond to a question. As my last name begins with a W I am the last to be called on (odd since my maiden name began with an A so I used to be first for many years). I always make a wise aside to her as to my answer and the last couple of weeks she has stolen my answer when she was called upon. This week,being the devious sort, I made up an outrageous answer that she would not dare use. She started out alright and mid sentence she did a reverse and used my wise acre answer. I dissolved in laughter and tears. At lunch afterward a couple of members informed me that I must grow up. I have spent the last couple of days thinking about that fact, some deciding that I am wrong and some wondering how in the heck I can accomplish something that I have, hereaforto, not been able to do. Today I got the most wonderful letter from one of the other ladies that I drive home often. She was concerned about something I had said on the subject of religion (she misunderstood me) and wanted to assure me that I was salvagable. (grin) As a post script she said that I was fun to be around. It made me feel much better. I am going to attempt to control myself a bit though. Anyone know where I can get some Grumpy pills? LOL

Rider, 42 days and counting!! Have my doctor's appointment and will get my drugs so I can enjoy the magic. I keep forgetting to tell about what the surgery is for. I have a huge hernia and need gallbladder surgery and if I have the 'tummy tuck' done at the same time insurance will pay for it. Have heard that if I get a reduction elsewhere they will pay for that also. Too much perfection would be more than this poor old soul could stand though.

Caroline, isn't it a wonderful feeling to know that you have unlimited possibilities in front of you. You done great gal!! You have obviously learned that learning is fun!! I just read the greatest article about homeschooling. My dil homeschools but not for the right reasons IMHO. Is a difficult situation. I do not much care for the public school system but I work within it to do what little I can here and there. Cannot complain if you are not willing to do your part IMHO. What sort of distance do you run?

Colleen, I just got a shop down in your neck of the woods, Tumbleweed. Doubt I will do another as the pay is sort of short for such a long distance though. I happen to be a coal miners daughter as well. Used to go barefoot in the crick back home too. Now that I have a bit of money I are no longer a hillbilly but a Mountain William. LOL BTW, if the worst thing anyone could say about me is that I am overweight I would be loud and proud! Doubt that God used cookie cutters when he made us, we are always evolving (my sil would hate that as he is dead set against evolution LOL). Guess we expire when we attain perfection. Gosh, am I going to live a loooong time!!

Am a bit more dippy than usual as I have been operating on no sleep and had a very long hard day. (is my excuse and I am sticking to it )

Slightly Goofy/Linda

TalkisCheap

04-03-2004, 10:36 PM

Thanks Rider! I guess it was very relieving to win it...At least know I know I really should do better on the test next year...and so I won't be as nervous. Though, I might be more so, because it will actually count next year....Wow, I can't even imagine myself in HS, it is such a scary thought!(Especially the getting up wicked early, and the homework part....that is going to kill me!)

Linda(can I call you that?) I run(Spring Track and Field) the 400, 800, and 1500 meters, as well as the long jump and my favorite event in the world the high jump. In the summer track league I participate in, they offer the 3000 meter so I run that with my best friend Shawn. I really am not very good, though I do love the sport so much. My dad and mom both run(my dad seriously, my mom just to stay in shape) and my sister and brother both abandoned running for other sports...or to be lazy in my brothers case. I suppose I love the high jump the most because I am the best at it - Last year I placed 4th in the 11-12 age group in the state of Maine. And, I hope I get to compete in maybe some national tournaments when I get to high school.

In cross country, I run as many as 5 miles with my team. It's much harder, running through the woods and for much longer distances, but it really is a lot of fun. One boy on my team, Garnet, is SUCH a good runner...I swear he is going to be an olympic gold medal winner...and i'll be sitting at home yelling at the tv, "I DID CROSS COUNTRY WITH THAT KID!!" He is incredibly good, I am pretty sure he placed something like 4th or 5th in New England...and something like 40th in the nation. Whatever it is, he's 11 and really good(and smart, he skipped a grade).

Omph...My feet hurt so much! My mom calls me an 80 year old woman because of all my aches and pains...LOL! I have an excuse! Last night was the school dance...dancing takes a lot out of and 80 year old ;) .

Hope you guys had an awesome day(Like Me!)!!

-Caroline

FPgurl04

04-04-2004, 12:02 AM

you're so smart carebear!!! you're probably a great runner too. i on the other hand....well we won't even GO there!

my practices went well RIder. my coaches seem to like me. i was honored because one of the coaches told me i had the best glove on the team. everyone on our team gets a nickname at one point, so now they're calling me "Kirby" because they say my glove is like a little vacuum and kirby is a type of vacuum. i was like alrighty then. i thought they were talking about the little pink nintendo guy!! but that's alright.

so what's new everyone? how has everyone's weekend been? i went shopping this weekend and watch POTC and Benny and Joon. i also hooked another girl on Johnny Depp. my work now is complete. haha!

DUKE IS WINNING! go DUKE! if they win tonight and monday, i win the pool and $140! yay! go DUKE!!!

colleen costello

04-04-2004, 11:29 AM

I recall that I lOVED "BEnny and Joon," it was very sweet. Must watch it again someday!

Linda, the new Tumbleweed has me curious! Friends and I have talked about going. It would at least be easy for you to find -- right on 37 just below the 46 bypass, across from Kohl's and Cracker Barrel. There is also a Texas Roadhouse there that is wildly popular; I bet the Tumbleweed will get some overflow from the folks who don't want to wait two hours THERE! Also on the resturant front, we got a new place over by the mall called DeAngelo's. Scott and I are THRILLED because they have real-live, East Coast pizza. We went on Friday night and on Saturday night we ordered out another pizza -- I hope the place does well because I am HOOKED! :) It's hard to watch the calories when new places keep opening up...

All's well here. It's cold again today and I am dreaming of Florida!

TalkisCheap

04-04-2004, 02:38 PM

Haha Sandypants, I'm not that smart...and as for the running...I only love it...i'm not very talented...I'm actually very very slow...but I work on it..and I hope I get faster...and more milage so that I can run the 5 mile race by my house next year...and finish under an hour(hopefully like 55...but I won't push it)...thats my goal.

Haha, thats so funny that you got your friend into Johnny Depp...all my friends think hes old..and ugly. Bah! And then there is my friend Shawn who is like "I never saw POTC and I don't want to!" she thinks like every cute person ever is ugly...and so I feel like hurting her...plus shes a yankee...but I won't go into that again ;) . The only thing I will say reguarding baseball, though, is that the Red Sox season opener is today!!! YAY! I'm so wonderfuly excited..this is like, what I live for...BASEBALL SEASON!!(i'm just a tad obsessed with sports...and the Red Sox in particular...if you hadn't guessed ;) )

I watched Apollo 13 yesterday...I love that movie! I love so many movies...speaking of movies, I think i'm going to go watch Tombstone...YAY! I am totally in love with that movie..as I have been for a loooong, loooong time(but I have to watch Andy Roddick beat Coria first!! Yay! Go Andy(oh and Sandy(I think it was you that said it) was right about Andy and Mandy breaking up..I hadn't heard...yay! I never liked her any way...he was too cute for her :teeth: )

-Caroline

depplyinluv

04-04-2004, 08:56 PM

Caroline did you have to take the SSAT's??? thats what i took in 7th and 8th grade to get into Berwick academy and Brewster academy and Phillips Exeter Academy and Phillips Academy....

speaking of accents...my mom talks like shes from boston/revere (they have no 'r's) and my dad talks w/o and accent accept today at burger king he ordered a strawberry milkshake only he pronounced it "strewberry"it was kind of funny..hes from danvers, MA so he has a few accented words here and there.i dont really have an accent except for i say wicked a lot and i say a lot...a lot.

:)

Linda dont ever grow up, you're great just the way you are! my dad almost had his galbladder removed but he went in for another ultrasound and there wasnt anyting there so...

a tummy tuck? o i see people getting that on t.v. alll the time! lol plastic surgery has become so popular thes days...i wish you the best of luck!::yes::

have a good night everyone! got to study for my romeo and juliet test tomorrow!

FPgurl04

04-04-2004, 09:52 PM

well, well, well, carebear a red sox fan. tisk tisk. lol. we may have some controversy around here as i am a HUGE HUGE HUGE HUGE yankee fan. i love derek jeter and alex rodriguez. they are so cute! :teeth: i can't believe the yanks lost their opening game to the devil rays!! they played in japan which is really weird. do u believe in the curse of the bambino carebear?? i do. ;)

i remember i took the SATs last year for a Talent Identification Program. i ended placing for one of the highest scores in the state. now duke sends me all this stuff. speaking of Duke, the darn blue devils lost!!!!!!!!!!! waaaaaaa!!!!!

hope everyone had a great weekend. think of Johnny tomorrow when you get up for work and school (my first day back from spring break. :mad: blah)! i hate mondays unless they're holidays! :teeth:

:wave2:

helenabear

04-04-2004, 10:08 PM

Boy, it has been really busy lately here... between work, visitors here at home, and other such things, I haven't been able to keep up the way I wanted to around here.

First off, a little about me... I am 27, live in Ohio (and have all my life). Married, no kids, but two wonderful cats. I try to get to WDW as much as possible, and usually wind up going w/o Luis since he isn't into WDW too much :p I have no true accent at all... just boring midwest "non-accent" I guess :teeth:

Oh shoot... just as I sit down family calls... wishing you all the best... I will have some busy busy times at work over the next few days but I do peak in to read and think of you often :)

depplyinluv

04-04-2004, 10:26 PM

helenabear, everyone has a cool accent!!!

:)

glad to hear from you again!

hmm seems like everyones giving some backround info here...well might as well...

im a freshwoman (:)) in high school, born and raised in NH, i like to play golf and softball and soccer...i like going to the gym, love to watch tv....i have the cutest dog in the world who has about 100 different names...and the prettiest kitty too, named jack...i try to also go to wdw as much as possible, lately ive been staying at the boardwalk!

(gotta love those chocolate croissants!):teeth:

SlightlyGoofy

04-04-2004, 10:33 PM

Depply, not a lot of chance that I will ever grow up, never fear! Some people like me others do not, is life. I do not like everyone else equally either. Hard as it is to believe many people do things differently than I do, I cope and many people are able to do the same with me. LOL Tummy tuck is not exactly the right word. When you lose almost 150 pounds there is a whole lot of excess skin to cut off. A word to the wise, the best way to control your weight is to watch it when you are a little bit overweight rather than to wait a lifetime and have to fight such a huge amount. I figure I will drop dead about a minute after I attain my goal, at least I will NOT have to spring for an oversized casket. Sick humor? Yep. LOL

Helenabear, I envy you younger wives who have the freedom to do your own thing from time to time. I really feel that is good for a marriage, Too much togetherness is as bad as too much apartness. Family calls are only bad when they are asking for a loan. LOL

FPgurl, my claim to fame is that I placed 3rd in the state of Ohio in the National Merit Scholarship progam. Not sure if they still have it or not. Was a Presidential Scholar once upon a time but I believe that has changed also since I think it is lot harder than when I competed. Met Kennedy and LBJ. I found a pencil box for my little guy with the presidents portraits on it. He loves the presidents and is looking forward to visiting Washington DC next year. Not sure why he is so interested. I asked if he wanted to be president and that was not it. He does want to live in a mansion though. LOL WTG Kirby!!! You guys make me feel sooo old. Electrolux,LP's so many things that you have never heard of. LOL

Caroline, is no way that you cannot be good at something you love. Might not be the first, every time, but have to be better than most and having fun is the main thing anyway. When you are young it is a time to try everything and find your niche in life. Take your time and enjoy yourself before you have to settle down and do all those responsible grown up things whether you like them or not. LOL

Colleen, you can call ahead for the Texas Roadhouse. Much better to wait in your own living room rather than their cramped quarters. I shop for them also. Not quite sure where you are telling me the Tumbleweed is as all I really know about Bloomington is College Park Mall and where my bil lives. He lives near the train tracks toward your part of town. I am directionally challenged. Thank heavens for Mapquest. I will probably only do this shop once since it only pays $20. Not worth my time really but doing it as a favor for the scheduler. Seymour is a lot closer for me. I am glad to be in a tiny town without much in the way of temptations. Only the soft serve up on the corner to lead me astray.

I bought some diet chocolate to get me through tomorrow. Is tax day around here. I do them myself and feel I deserve a treat. (grin) I hate numbers. Words are my forte.

SG/Linda

TalkisCheap

04-05-2004, 06:15 PM

Depply - I don't think I took the SAT's...but I really don't know what their called. Berwick Academy..isn't that in Maine? A whole bunch of my sisters friends go there...as well as her ex-boyfriend who was really cute...but thats besides the point ;) .

Sandypants - I don't believe in the curse...I just believe the Yankees go out of their way to get the best despite the salary cap and just pay the extra millions. The red sox may not win, but they're what I've grown up on and baseball season is basically what I live for. Haha the red sox lost their home opener too...Pedro had a bumpy second inning, but calmed down for the next 4...but then Timlin came and totally lost it for us...and we had no offense. Anyway, have you ever been to a yankees game? I've never been to Yankee stadium, but I got to an orioles game and saw them play the yankees, and I've been to 2 red sox games...and now I'm making my family take my every year. I just love Fenway...and when I get older after I retire I want to be a comentator for NESN like the RemDawg because he's the best, and I've always wanted to be a play by play announcer..but my parents told me I should get a real job :( .

Slighty Goofy - I'm not that good at track, but even if I was terrible, I would still love it. I just love everything about it. I obviously love to run, and then when you get to do the long jump and high jump on top of it...thats like Heaven!!! But, I'm so mad! Despite what my countdown says, track is getting postponed because the head coach is sick...and the other two coaches are wicked nice...but couldn't handle 10 kids...let alone the 90 that do it. So, it doesn't start for another week...and I'm very sad.

LoL, my friend just told me the most hilarious thing ever. She is trying out for the school softball team and so the coach walks in and tells the girls to get their gloves and line up...and three girls in the corner are like "You, like...Need gloves to play?!" and she says they were totally serious...I DIED laughing at that one!!

Oh my goodness...today was the best day ever, I GOT MY BRACES OFF! YAYYYYYYYYY! It was the most wonderful thing ever...and I'm happier than a clam at high tide!! Yay!

-Caroline :sunny:

IASW Rider

04-06-2004, 12:54 PM

Hey everyone!

Sorry that I haven't been around for a few days, but we've been busy getting ready for Passover (which started last night). We're hosting it here for the first time - lots of fun but tons of work! Who knew that we had so many dishes to put out, organize, wash, etc.???? Anyway, the Seder went really well, last night, and hopefully today's will go well, too!

Wow - we have so many great athletes in the Suite! That's so neat that you do all of those events, Caroline! Now, when you say "high jump", do you mean like pole vaulting? (Forgive my ignorance) Or is it just the highest jump off the ground (as opposed to the Long jump - the longest distance)? Congratulations on getting your braces off! :)

Oh goody - FRgurl04 roots for a NY baseball team..........of course, it's not the "right" NY team, but that's OK..............LET'S GO METS!!!! :) :) :) Hey - since you scored so outstandingly on your SAT.........could you help me study for the GRE, please?? :) And Depply still needs to help me with my math and science, too.......! :) Congratulations on that great compliment from your softball coach! :)

Hey Depply! How did that test go? I'm sure that you did a great job! Between you and FPGurl04, Johnny will never have to worry about his career or his popularity! The 2 of you should become his personal managers! Caroline - if all of your friends think that Johnny is "old and ugly"..........who do they like, out of curiosity???

Glad to hear that East coast style pizza has made its way West, Colleen! But I hope that that doesn't mean that you won't come and visit the Point Pleasant Boardwalk, this summer! :(

How are you doing out there, Elaine? Welcome back Wendy! Stop by the Suite and tell us all about your trip, when you have a chance! Hi out there, Angie!

Hi Linda! 41 more days! :)

I didn't realize that you were going to have to have surgery. Will you be having the procedure(s) over the summer? Does the hernia cause you very much pain? I hope not! :( Are you definitely considering having a tummy tuck when you have the gall bladder and hernia operations? Please don't do anything dangerous! :( That is so neat that you were a Presidential Scholar and met 2 of our Presidents! That is wonderful! And needless to say, placing in the top 3 in the state of Ohio for National Merit Scholars is extremely impressive, as well!

I have no great academic achievements to report...........no great athletic achievements to report, either............no recent career achievements............boy, I'm getting depressed, here! :) Well........I've been to WDW 13 times - THAT'S an "achievement" of sorts, I guess! :)

Hope that all is well with all of you! Have a great day! :)

SlightlyGoofy

04-06-2004, 06:47 PM

Dear Rider, the days are flying by and soon it will be time for dinner at the Poly. I am so happy that it will be my first meeting with you at a place that is new to us also. I love new experiences. Not so sure I deserve many kudos for getting high marks in school. I was extremely lucky to have grown up on a deprived (poor) and depraved (mother was a brain, but warped) household. Growing up without a lot of distractions gives you much freedom to use your imagination and find ways to entertain yourself. Wish more kids could have that experience. LOL I want to wish you a good Passover. Do you keep Kosher and use different dishes for different dishes? Do you do it like a pitch in or are you in charge of all the cooking? Did you watch the Peter Jennings show last night? It was most interesting, lots I knew and some new. It was wonderful to see the general area where things happened. It was very well balanced IMHO. Not dumb enough to do anything dangerous at this stage of my life. Any surgery is hard on me nowadays. I survived many before I got this sick but I would hate to work this hard to lose weight and then croak. LOL The 'tummy tuck' is a necessary thing not a vanity thing, so are the other things. Hernias are more dangerous when they are small and mine is huge. Achievements? You don't think you got not stinkin' achievements? That is so darned funny. I doubt you get into Rutgers, now or then, by not being outstanding. You had a wonderful job, lost through no fault of your own, just bad timing for the financial business. You are awash with friends of all kinds and from the sound of things you keep them your entire life. Accomplished, talented, wonderful, and sweet, you are!! Take that!!

Talk, I could not handle 10 kids either. LOL My sil, who is NOT known for his patience, is the most wonderful coach. If he acted ,like he does with the kids on his team, all the time, I would nominate him for sainthood. Nary a child is left out and if a meltdown comes he is understanding. He does not favor his own either, is a bit hard too since my youngest grandson is a bit of a basketball whiz. Congratulations on getting the braces off. I can imagine how you must feel. Are your beautiful teeth worth the pain and irriatation you had to endure?

Ever have one of those days? Yesterday was one, one of the most wonderful ones, that is. A friend came over and installed a handrail on the basement steps. I was able to go to the basement for the first time in over two years. He came back later and put up the new plantation blinds I had been having trouble with. I put up some weatherstripping on the windows today and cut and stained the remaining toe molding to be installed in a bit. I can finally start putting the furniture in. The weekend after Easter I am sending Tom for a weekend visit with his brother so I can do the bathroom. It is hard being old AND particular. (grin)

SG/Linda