Now Bring Me That Horizon ~ It Begins P115

[TarzansKat]

First off, let me say that I am enjoying your TR!! Secondly, I am not a Vera fan myself but since coming to the Dis I have found myself many a time on the VB website looking for deals! I got a hipster which I tried out on a trip (trial run for my trip to WDW in December!) and loved it. The hipster might be a little small for your needs, tho. I just got a bucket tote which was on sale and I used the 10% coupon. Got to love a sale where you can get a $57 purse for $22.50! I say, got for the sale!!

Hey! to the DIS, my friend!

I think the Hipster will work for me as long as I carry one of my other totes or DH has a backpack to keep the bigger stuff in. I am all about getting myself a new bag. I'll admit I had huge guilt about the cost (even on sale) and DH just said to me, just buy it! Say no more, dear husband.

What happened to the Teva Ochoa's you bought for the Christmas trip? I think you bought them in 3 colors? Could you wear them?? Were they comfortable?? I have been eyeing a pair and want to know if they are comfortable.

First off, ! Second, WOW!!!! I can't believe someone actually remembers that! Yes, I did buy them from Sierra Trading Post for a very, very good deal. Something like $17 a pair. I've worn the white/black ones since then, and I have to tell you, they definitely do not have enough support for me. I believe I wore them all of half a day on the way down and I knew they wouldn't be enough for Disney. I like them at home, around town, and I debated returning the green and blue, but for that price, it's probably not worth it for me to ship them back. I don't know if I'll wear them, and quite frankly I'd love to get rid of them. What size do you wear?

Also, have you thought about a bagallini messanger bag. We have this and it works great, and has pockets for everything, and is comfortable wearing.

I know I've heard of the baggalini brand on the DIS, but wouldn't even know where to begin. Thanks for the suggestion, I'm going to go ahead and google it.

We are planning a trip for December 1-12, and staying at POR. I am worried about crouds but really want to see Disney once at Christmas. Also our twins turn 8 on December 8th, so its their Golden Birthday and a surprise trip. We usually go every year in late January and early February. We will go back to those times but one time for Christmas first.

Keep the report coming!! I love it!

Oh, my goodness, what an exciting trip, and an exciting birthday for the twins! Honestly, I felt the weekend that we went in December was very, very crowded, but I don't think it's like that during the week. I think on the weekend you get a lot of locals who want the same thing we want...to see our beautiful parks decorated for the holidays! And it's really an experience everyone should have at least once, I think.

I love your Vera choices -- like you said, I think the Hope Garden one screams Pop the most, but all of them would match your resort nicely. I think I like the Daisy one or the Cupcake Green one the best for you!

Thank you, hon. I was wondering how you liked your hipster on your trip?

 

[maroo]

I love my baggalini!



I can't find the link...but someone on the Theme Park Hints board gave me a great link to a website that sells them AND a website to get a code (www.retailmenot.com) and I got mine for $28 with shipping.

I bet they would help you over there to find a good site that has them...I know it was not the baggalini site...it was another one that sold them, too.

Then they shipped it to the wrong place (I ordered it three days before I left on that quick trip) and I got TWO by the time I got the first one, too!

And I think they have lime green in some baggalini types. But I got mine in black because it matches more stuff and still use it when I am not at the parks.

 

[TarzansKat]

Thanks for the info, Maroo! I love that retailmenot website. It is fantastic for coupon codes. Use it all the time!

 

[Charleston Princess]

Thank you, hon. I was wondering how you liked your hipster on your trip?

Um, well, even with the bigger size from the design I had last year, I still ended up changing to the little lime green backpack on day 3. The hipster actually plays into one of my less-than-stellar moments on the trip.

 

[TarzansKat]

Um, well, even with the bigger size from the design I had last year, I still ended up changing to the little lime green backpack on day 3. The hipster actually plays into one of my less-than-stellar moments on the trip.

Huh. Without getting into something you feel wasn't your finest moment , did you just feel like you didn't have enough room in it? And what's the lime green backpack, a baggalini or something else?

Can I interrogate you about your bag choices????

 

[maroo]

Um, well, even with the bigger size from the design I had last year, I still ended up changing to the little lime green backpack on day 3. The hipster actually plays into one of my less-than-stellar moments on the trip.

Uh oh.

 

[eandesmom]

Signing on quite late here

Couple of notes..

VERY cool on the teacher thing. Scary, exciting and wonderful all at once.

Teva flip flops are the bomb but...might I suggest you check out the keen Waimea h2's? I think they are more comfy than the Venice or Newports but give better arch support than the Tevas. They come in black. I just got the rice bag ones to replace a similar flip flop that Keen doesn't seem to make any more that I did quite a bit of hiking in. Pricey but waterproof, antibacterial and worth it (IMHO lol).

http://www.onlineshoes.com/productpage.asp?gen=w&pcid=130617

Also on the Teva's, have you checked locally? I got mine at our local REI and it was not a color they had online. Just a thought.

I'm SO with you on the pink comment!

Love your tank top ideas and shirts. Here's the thing. Let it go on the Halloween family thing. Pick your battles. As you know a happy child who will put on their costume without a meltdown is far more important than how cute everyone looks in the pictures. Although there are other models...Wall-R?

On group T's...you can get something with the year on it it but not Disney related and you might be surprised with everyone wearing them. My family did that in 04. A team 2004 shirt from old navy. Fairly ugly actually but cute in a group picture.

There are adorable female tanks and T's once you get there....a million times cuter than what's online or at department stores, so you may want to reserve a spot for some shopping or check ebay.

Lastly. Vera. I love the prints but I find they get too bulky to quickly to look as cute on as I'd want. And as much as I like the prints by themselves...having them match my outfits always opened up a whole other issue so...I don't go there. But they are cute (and yes, it does look like pool tiles!).

lol

 

[Charleston Princess]

Huh. Without getting into something you feel wasn't your finest moment , did you just feel like you didn't have enough room in it? And what's the lime green backpack, a baggalini or something else?

Can I interrogate you about your bag choices????

Oh, I plan on writing a whole chapter about that episode -- don't you worry! If I am going to be writing about the rest of the family and their diva moments, I figure I better include mine, too.

Frankly, it just wasn't big enough and I don't even carry that much. Here are the typical contents of my purse at Disney: VB zippered ID case that holds my driver's license, KTTW card, and cash, a pack of gum, my camera (which isn't very big), my phone, and a park map (why I don't know since I can navigate those parks with my eyes closed). But some days I would also end up with Chelsea's phone, Charles's blood sugar meter, and assorted small purchases like a magnet or postcards.

So, I switched. The lime green backpack is actually a Nike one that my FIL gave to Chelsea forever ago. It's very small for a backpack and perfect for tossing all the carp that one accumulates during a day at a park. I keep coming back to it.

Uh oh.

Oh, trust me -- everyone had a temper tantrum in my family on this latest trip.

 

[If U Had Wings]

I have to pipe in about Baggalini's. I bought a lime one from Bags Buy this year for my trip. I ended up really loving it. I liked all the pockets, and the fact that it was a bit water resistent. My last trip I had carried a Vera like knapsack, I had liked it, but when it got wet, (and it did because it rained constantly) I didn't like it quite so much.

My only issue with my baggalini was that it was a sling style, and a large strap cutting me across the chest isn't always the most flattering for me, but I was very comfy wearing it just over one shoulder. If you like sling styles this wouldn't be an issue.

 

[eandesmom]

I have to pipe in about Baggalini's. I bought a lime one from Bags Buy this year for my trip. I ended up really loving it. I liked all the pockets, and the fact that it was a bit water resistent. My last trip I had carried a Vera like knapsack, I had liked it, but when it got wet, (and it did because it rained constantly) I didn't like it quite so much.

My only issue with my baggalini was that it was a sling style, and a large strap cutting me across the chest isn't always the most flattering for me, but I was very comfy wearing it just over one shoulder. If you like sling styles this wouldn't be an issue.

I think I bought that one lol! Never used it. It is cute but...Also have a Kavu Keeper, never used. I really need to sell these Both very practical, very cute but not really me. At the end of the day I'm a backpack in the locker and everything else goes into my pockets. Cargo Capri's are my bag of choice lol. I thought I could make them work. They have a ridiculous amount of pockets!

 

[TarzansKat]

VERY cool on the teacher thing. Scary, exciting and wonderful all at once.

Exactly. I'm having a really hard time finding a school that has what I want that takes non-traditional (working) students. A little frustrating, but what can I do?

Teva flip flops are the bomb but...might I suggest you check out the keen Waimea h2's? I think they are more comfy than the Venice or Newports but give better arch support than the Tevas. They come in black. I just got the rice bag ones to replace a similar flip flop that Keen doesn't seem to make any more that I did quite a bit of hiking in. Pricey but waterproof, antibacterial and worth it (IMHO lol).

I've actually tried the Keen Balis, and I think the Waimea is similar. The problem I had with those is that they really cut into the top of my foot.

Love your tank top ideas and shirts. Here's the thing. Let it go on the Halloween family thing. Pick your battles. As you know a happy child who will put on their costume without a meltdown is far more important than how cute everyone looks in the pictures. Although there are other models...Wall-R?

You know what? I am totally with you on this one. It's just my mom is stuck on the whole Peter Pan thing. I'm going to post about it later, I just...I'm having a hard time right now.

There are adorable female tanks and T's once you get there....a million times cuter than what's online or at department stores, so you may want to reserve a spot for some shopping or check ebay.

Oh, for sure! I always reserve a spot for shopping!!!

So, I switched. The lime green backpack is actually a Nike one that my FIL gave to Chelsea forever ago. It's very small for a backpack and perfect for tossing all the carp that one accumulates during a day at a park. I keep coming back to it.

Thanks for your big description. I know how you feel. I had a bag like that, that I used every year for Disney, and it's finally falling apart. At the seams, literally. If it were even close to being held together, I'd use it, but it has finally met its end.

My only issue with my baggalini was that it was a sling style, and a large strap cutting me across the chest isn't always the most flattering for me, but I was very comfy wearing it just over one shoulder. If you like sling styles this wouldn't be an issue.

I do like the idea of the sling style. To me, it's just my comfortable, but again, it depends on how big the strap is. One reason that I'm partial to the Veras.

 

[TarzansKat]

I know, I know. What kind of a title is that?

Two words.

Toy. Story.

Lately, we've been watching. And we own Woody and Buzz. And when DS pulls Woody's string, and he says, "There's a snake in my boot," it becomes, "There's a frack in my boat."

No, DS, it's, "there's a snake in my boot!"

DS - "There's a frack in my boat!"

And so we begin this angst filled chapter with a little bit of laughter. Because, quite frankly, I could use some. I've got a lot of personal stuff going on today, and I find that when there are situations I can't control, I always turn to the trip and see what I can tweak, any ressies I didn't think of, any different way to do the plans. Sometimes it drives me crazy, and sometimes it feel so helpful to have control over something.

You get me?

Something! Tomorrow, my son starts his new preschool and I'm very, very glad, but also a little nervous. I'm 99% sure he's going to love it, but it's the first time I'm leaving him with someone for full day care other than family, and no matter how wonderful the place is or how great a time I know he's going to have, it still is a little exciting and nervewracking all at once.

I'm sort of unhappy with work, since I decided to make a major life change, little things seem harder to put up with. I just need to remind myself they are little things. One day at a time, one step at a time, this job equals health insurance for my family and I need to make it work so I'm not miserable.

I'm having trouble finding a college that has the program I want that takes a non-traditional (working) student. Never mind the cost. I can't even think about that yet.

And I just have to put it out there. It makes me sad to write this, but today we're going to discuss TK's fatal flaw.

Trying to make everyone happy.

It especially pertains to this trip. Even though I know it's impossible, even though I know my mother will never, ever like everything I pick, I still try to talk to her about the trip. Solicit her opinion, even. And it always, always blows up in my face and makes me so upset.

And then I talk to my husband and he reminds me that this is our trip. That everyone was invited along for our family vacation. And that if they don't want to come, they don't have to. And that if they don't want to eat where we want to eat, they don't have to.

God bless him. For the most part, that's true. But there's also the slight element of nothing you plan or do is possibly going to live up to what I think it should be, so you can't even try. And I'm sure that if she knew I felt this way she'd be horrified and think I was misinterpreting her.

It's hard to misinterpret that she hates the menu at Ohana's, but that when I suggest alternatives, she doesn't seem really excited about those either.

It's hard to misinterpret that she won't acknowledge the fact that it would be better to let DS be what he wants for MNSSHP instead of trying to force our ideas onto him. I really, really take exception to stifling the creativity of a child. If he doesn't want to be Peter Pan, heck, even if he changes his mind and doesn't want to be Wall E, as long as I can come up with / make whatever he wants to be, then that's all that matters. This shouldn't be stressful. This should be fun.

And right now, I don't feel like it's fun. I feel stressed. Because every time I try suggest a new idea for an ADR or for costumes I get a non-reaction. Or a face that indicates that's not what she wants.

And I have such a hard time dealing with that. Why am I so worried about what everyone else wants? Don't answer that. I know you'll all say it's because I'm a nice girl who loves my family and wants to make them happy but it's also because I can be a big ole pushover.

And this really brings into sharp relief why I HATE family trips. There, I said it. Ms. Family Orientation herself just said it. I'm glad we're all going. I'm really looking forward to being in the World with my Dad. That hasn't happened since before my son was born, so at least 5-6 years.

But traveling with my Mom is traveling with my Mom. I love her. She's my mother and she's one of my best friends, and once upon a time our idea of Disney used to be the same. And now, it's still sort of the same, but mine is slightly different. And that is totally okay with me. Because she should be able to go off and do her own thing. But if she wants to do our thing, it would just be nice if there were less rigamarole about it. Less, well, we just want you all to be happy, when that's not always true. Admit you have wants, that's fine. Make your own ADRs, that's fine. I don't have a problem with it, I don't. I do have a problem with complaints and lack of problem solving.

And it just makes me feel like I don't know what to do.

Like I want to hang it all.

Which I won't. I mean, we are going. And my son is so excited to go to Disney in September with everyone. I guess I'm just frustrated because this trip could be the last one for a long time. In 2010, my DS will go to kindergarten, and who knows what point I'll be at in my education, and maybe we won't be able to make it to the World.

Alright, I'm going to stop the rant, be grateful you're still reading and tell you about my ideas. See what you think and if you have any other suggestions. I'm open, and I appreciate your input.

Tuesday - Arrival Day - I'm going to make a reservation tonight. I hadn't been planning on it. I like getting there and having a totally open evening. But with that many people (we'll be seven), I really think we should have a dinner reservation. So, since we're going to Epcot and it's been such a long time, I'd really like to try Nine Dragons. I haven't been since it was renovated, and my DS loves Chinese food. Heck, we all pretty much love Chinese food, so I'm excited about this.

Wednesday - The Last Full Day with my Dad - AM plans are for the Magic Kingdom. I had wanted to do dinner at Ohana's, but I'm not sure. My mom's not thrilled and I'm totally second guessing myself. Part of me thinks it would be so much fun to head to MK early, and then eat a late breakfast (1120) at Chef Mickey's. Kind of like breakfast for lunch. I can just picture the seven of us with those characters, and it would be kind of nice to work it into the day. I could see some really good pictures, and then we could focus more on rides instead of character meet and greets.

Thursday - MNSSHP Day - If we ditch Ohana's and go to Chef Mickey's, this morning will be completely open. Seriously? I LOVE the idea of an open morning. I love having nowhere to go. We could wake up and go swimming, we could go to Downtown. I had an awesome lunch at EoS, so that could be really nice to do before the party. Even a later lunch to tide us over. Or just having fun at the hotel. Nothing wrong with that, you know?

Friday - DHS Day - Sci Fi Dine In for Lunch. Non-negotiable. It'll just be me, DS, DH, and FIL for this one, and there's some DHS stuff we want to do that Mom's not interested in, so this could be a nice time apart day. Most likely, we'll end up paying for this oop, since I'm filling up our TS credits elsewhere, and this seems like the least expensive one. (Given that I'll most likely just get an app or salad and we won't all order dessert. I mean, I have my Villian Candy Store and junky apples to think of!)

Saturday - AM - Animal Kingdom, PM - Dinner Ressie at the Brown Derby. I know, right? Originally, I was all about Citrico's for my birthday dinner. Now, not so much. Another point of contention. The thing is, during my May trip, without revealing too much, I had some...digestive issues. And the Brown Derby has things on the menu I can eat, that I love, that do not make me sick. And I really want to pick a restaurant that has food I can enjoy and won't leave me...in the bathroom all night. Sorry, tmi. Anyway, everyone likes the Brown Derby, so this is cool, but I know when I change my mind it can throw people off.

Sunday - We have a lot of time before we leave. I've seriously considered putting another ADR on this day. I really liked having a character breakfast on our last day on the December trip. It was rather nice. I've been thinking about Tusker House, but I'm not sure. I'm really open to suggestions here, but I just think the safari gear would be so cute. It would take a chunk of time to go to AK and back, and that's the only thing that makes me hesitate...do I really want this to be my last park? Or, am I brave enough to try Crystal Palace again? Maybe it would be different for breakfast. You know, now that I'm rambling and you're all still listening, maybe I could make this a ressie just for the three of us. I mean, I can ask everyone if they want to come, and if they don't, they don't have to. That could work right? Hmmm.... I'll have to talk to DH. I've always been intrigued by food art from CP for breakfast. It looks really yummy. Hmmm...

Well, guys, thanks for listening. I really needed to get that out. I know I hint and dance around the issue and I just can't anymore. It's too hard when it's so frustrating.

Thanks again.

 

[eandesmom]

DS - "There's a frack in my boat!"

ok, this may not make you smile but all I thought when I saw this was Battlestar Galactica. Frack is a another word for....

Trying to make everyone happy.
And right now, I don't feel like it's fun. I feel stressed. Because every time I try suggest a new idea for an ADR or for costumes I get a non-reaction. Or a face that indicates that's not what she wants.
But traveling with my Mom is traveling with my Mom.

Like I want to hang it all.

Oh wow. You poor thing! Major life changes all around and a huge group trip on top of it. I'm totally new to your TR and gosh, I want to give you a hug!

You sound like my sister if she was planning a trip that my mom would be on. She completely stresses about it and feels my mom reacts much the same way to her. Even though it "is" your trip, it doesn't make it any easier. One thing we did on our huge trip 4 years ago (20 of us, 2 rental houses and my super planning mom) was lay it all out for her very very early on. We told her that there were just too many of us, too many agenda's to try to be together all the time. We picked 1 or 2 nights to plan eating dinner together and other than that, just did the best we could to hook up as much as possible. We had a couple of days that were planned to be together at certain parks, and others that were open. This really helped us do what we wanted without feeling bad but still see her enough. In that situation, Ohana, if she doesn't have an idea she likes better I'd just do it and kindly explain that you'd love to eat with her but need to book something and if she wants to come up with something else or do her own thing, that's ok too. It is impossible to please everyone and sometimes you just have to make a choice and move on.

We have a blended family of 6. Someone is always less than thrilled. I try to pick the lesser of evils and that's really all I can do. So when it came to our ADR's everyone got one they loved and everyone got one they probably could have skipped. At the end of the day, it worked out. I will be in your boat for our next big trip (somewhere between 6 and 20 depending on who all goes). It will be interesting to see how it shakes out, I can me feeling like you do. Heck I feel like it right now just with the 6 of us a a summer camping trip, thwarted no matter which way I turn (the joys and blessings of blended family life and 2 households). Just know, this too shall pass and you will have an AMAZING trip but also know you can't change other people. If she wants to disagree about you forcing your child into a costume he doesn't like, that's her choice. Choose what you compromise on and hold on what you believe in, that's all you can do. It is ok to "agree to disagree"

ADR Thoughts

1. We had a bad experience at the CS here but I'd be willing to try it, it would be a really fun group place and for 7 you definitely want ressies. Trust me as a group of 6 or more (always), you will want them. I've been in WDW as a big group without them, no fun. Funny part is, as a big group, you might have an easier time at some places![/B]
2. Bfast could be a good compromise
3. ITA! An "planned" lazy day is key I think that's the whole point of CS[/B]
4. your birthday, pick what you want, enough said
5. I just heard a HORROR story about CP so I don't think I will go there anytime soon. Due to kitchen "issues" they were closed and didn't call ANYONE to tell them. So everyone with an ADR was just out of luck. Ruined a certain 10 year olds birthday. CP offered no placement elsewhere, no compensation, just "we're sorry". They ended up at CS at Pecos. Aack! I'd do Tusker lol.

--------------------------------------------
Listen to Mustn'ts, child,
Listen to the Don'ts.
Listen to the Shouldn'ts, the Impossibles, the Won'ts.
Listen to the Never Haves, then listen close to me.
Anything can happen, child, Anything can be.

-Shel Silverstein

 

[If U Had Wings]

I do like the idea of the sling style. To me, it's just my comfortable, but again, it depends on how big the strap is. One reason that I'm partial to the Veras.

PM me if you'd like to borrow mine. I only really use it on vacations, so it just sits there otherwise. I won't need it until December. Even if you just would like to check one out without having to go through the rigamarole of having to order and send things back.

Something! Tomorrow, my son starts his new preschool and I'm very, very glad, but also a little nervous. I'm 99% sure he's going to love it, but it's the first time I'm leaving him with someone for full day care other than family, and no matter how wonderful the place is or how great a time I know he's going to have, it still is a little exciting and nervewracking all at once.

Completely understandable. Just think about how much fun he's going to have, and how much he'll enjoy telling you all about it.

I'm having trouble finding a college that has the program I want that takes a non-traditional (working) student. Never mind the cost. I can't even think about that yet.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. I hope you find something. They definitely don't make it easy for working adults.

And I just have to put it out there. It makes me sad to write this, but today we're going to discuss TK's fatal flaw.

Trying to make everyone happy.

Your a libra, it's unavoidable. I always feel the same way. I make myself a wreck trying to keep everyone happy and content.

It's hard to misinterpret that she hates the menu at Ohana's, but that when I suggest alternatives, she doesn't seem really excited about those either.

It's hard to misinterpret that she won't acknowledge the fact that it would be better to let DS be what he wants for MNSSHP instead of trying to force our ideas onto him. I really, really take exception to stifling the creativity of a child. If he doesn't want to be Peter Pan, heck, even if he changes his mind and doesn't want to be Wall E, as long as I can come up with / make whatever he wants to be, then that's all that matters. This shouldn't be stressful. This should be fun.

And right now, I don't feel like it's fun. I feel stressed. Because every time I try suggest a new idea for an ADR or for costumes I get a non-reaction. Or a face that indicates that's not what she wants.

I don't mean anything personal by this, but it's sounding like she's just being difficult. All you can really do is listen to her concerns, and try to incorporate a few of the things that preferably she's most concerned about. But on a group trip it can't be all about her and what she wants. You have to go with what's best for everyone.

Halloween costumes are such a small insignificant part of the vacation overall, it's not worth making yourself miserable over. Go with what makes DS happy, because he is the child and who's most important, and your mom should want him to be happy on this trip. I'm sure she'll be fine once your there and she sees him having a great time.

And this really brings into sharp relief why I HATE family trips. There, I said it. Ms. Family Orientation herself just said it. I'm glad we're all going. I'm really looking forward to being in the World with my Dad. That hasn't happened since before my son was born, so at least 5-6 years.

But traveling with my Mom is traveling with my Mom. I love her. She's my mother and she's one of my best friends, and once upon a time our idea of Disney used to be the same. And now, it's still sort of the same, but mine is slightly different. And that is totally okay with me. Because she should be able to go off and do her own thing. But if she wants to do our thing, it would just be nice if there were less rigamarole about it. Less, well, we just want you all to be happy, when that's not always true. Admit you have wants, that's fine. Make your own ADRs, that's fine. I don't have a problem with it, I don't. I do have a problem with complaints and lack of problem solving.

I completely agree and can commiserate, especially after our difficulties last year. My SIL and her dad, no matter how much they love one another really don't travel well together at this point in their lives.

Which I won't. I mean, we are going. And my son is so excited to go to Disney in September with everyone.

Just stay focused on this, and when everyone starts giving you grief remind them of this. Last year my brother, SIL and I had to pull both fathers aside at various times and remind them of this. I don't know what it is about grown grandparents at Disney sometimes. Learn to go with the flow!

Tuesday - Arrival Day - I'm going to make a reservation tonight. I hadn't been planning on it. I like getting there and having a totally open evening. But with that many people (we'll be seven), I really think we should have a dinner reservation. So, since we're going to Epcot and it's been such a long time, I'd really like to try Nine Dragons. I haven't been since it was renovated, and my DS loves Chinese food. Heck, we all pretty much love Chinese food, so I'm excited about this.

I think a ressie for the first night is a good idea. Everyone should be at their happiest at this point, and it makes a nice start to the trip. Nine Dragons is a great choice.

Wednesday - The Last Full Day with my Dad - AM plans are for the Magic Kingdom. I had wanted to do dinner at Ohana's, but I'm not sure. My mom's not thrilled and I'm totally second guessing myself. Part of me thinks it would be so much fun to head to MK early, and then eat a late breakfast (1120) at Chef Mickey's. Kind of like breakfast for lunch. I can just picture the seven of us with those characters, and it would be kind of nice to work it into the day. I could see some really good pictures, and then we could focus more on rides instead of character meet and greets.

I don't think you could go wrong with either of these choices. Chef Mickeys would provide a greater variety of foods for you mom though, and the picture opportunities would be fantastic. (And getting to bypass some of the meet and greet lines would be a great bonus).

Thursday - MNSSHP Day - If we ditch Ohana's and go to Chef Mickey's, this morning will be completely open. Seriously? I LOVE the idea of an open morning. I love having nowhere to go. We could wake up and go swimming, we could go to Downtown. I had an awesome lunch at EoS, so that could be really nice to do before the party. Even a later lunch to tide us over. Or just having fun at the hotel. Nothing wrong with that, you know?

I think a free morning is a great idea, and an even better argument for Chef Mickey's the day before. A free morning is great for some decompression from too much family togetherness.

Friday - DHS Day - Sci Fi Dine In for Lunch. Non-negotiable. It'll just be me, DS, DH, and FIL for this one, and there's some DHS stuff we want to do that Mom's not interested in, so this could be a nice time apart day. Most likely, we'll end up paying for this oop, since I'm filling up our TS credits elsewhere, and this seems like the least expensive one. (Given that I'll most likely just get an app or salad and we won't all order dessert. I mean, I have my Villian Candy Store and junky apples to think of!)

I'm thinking of doing this one this trip too, just because I've never been there and want to check it out. It will be a nice break for your family.

Saturday - AM - Animal Kingdom, PM - Dinner Ressie at the Brown Derby. I know, right? Originally, I was all about Citrico's for my birthday dinner. Now, not so much. Another point of contention. The thing is, during my May trip, without revealing too much, I had some...digestive issues. And the Brown Derby has things on the menu I can eat, that I love, that do not make me sick. And I really want to pick a restaurant that has food I can enjoy and won't leave me...in the bathroom all night. Sorry, tmi. Anyway, everyone likes the Brown Derby, so this is cool, but I know when I change my mind it can throw people off.

Brown Derby sounds like a great choice! It's one of my favorites.

Sunday - We have a lot of time before we leave. I've seriously considered putting another ADR on this day. I really liked having a character breakfast on our last day on the December trip. It was rather nice. I've been thinking about Tusker House, but I'm not sure. I'm really open to suggestions here, but I just think the safari gear would be so cute. It would take a chunk of time to go to AK and back, and that's the only thing that makes me hesitate...do I really want this to be my last park? Or, am I brave enough to try Crystal Palace again? Maybe it would be different for breakfast. You know, now that I'm rambling and you're all still listening, maybe I could make this a ressie just for the three of us. I mean, I can ask everyone if they want to come, and if they don't, they don't have to. That could work right? Hmmm.... I'll have to talk to DH. I've always been intrigued by food art from CP for breakfast. It looks really yummy. Hmmm...

Are you planning on doing a park your last morning? If you are, and you really want to do a character breakfast I'd pick one near the park I want to go to. If your not planning on going to AK, it's a bit of a hike to get over there just to eat. There is always the ones at the resorts - Lilo and Stitch at Ohanas, Alice at the Grand Flo, and the one over at Cape May.

Well, guys, thanks for listening. I really needed to get that out. I know I hint and dance around the issue and I just can't anymore. It's too hard when it's so frustrating.

Hang in there! Just remember it's just a vacation, and no matter what you do, or how much planning goes into it things will change, and not everything is going to work out perfectly. Do your best, and leave some room to enjoy being there with everyone you love most! And give everyone who starts to drive you nuts and remind them that the important part is to enjoy being together.

 

[TarzansKat]

ok, this may not make you smile but all I thought when I saw this was Battlestar Galactica. Frack is a another word for....

For once, I was being naughty, and didn't even know it!!!!

Oh wow. You poor thing! Major life changes all around and a huge group trip on top of it. I'm totally new to your TR and gosh, I want to give you a hug!

Well, thank you, my dear! A little compassion makes the world go round, and I certainly appreciate it. I'm feeling not at all myself today, and your big hug makes me smile.

You sound like my sister if she was planning a trip that my mom would be on. She completely stresses about it and feels my mom reacts much the same way to her. Even though it "is" your trip, it doesn't make it any easier. One thing we did on our huge trip 4 years ago (20 of us, 2 rental houses and my super planning mom) was lay it all out for her very very early on. We told her that there were just too many of us, too many agenda's to try to be together all the time. We picked 1 or 2 nights to plan eating dinner together and other than that, just did the best we could to hook up as much as possible. We had a couple of days that were planned to be together at certain parks, and others that were open. This really helped us do what we wanted without feeling bad but still see her enough. In that situation, Ohana, if she doesn't have an idea she likes better I'd just do it and kindly explain that you'd love to eat with her but need to book something and if she wants to come up with something else or do her own thing, that's ok too. It is impossible to please everyone and sometimes you just have to make a choice and move on.

Wow. 20! I thought I had problems with 6-7. That's a lot of people. It's so hard in these situations. I know I should just say, this is what we're doing. If you'd like to join us, you can. But it's hard! I want everyone to like what we're doing. What's wrong with me?

We have a blended family of 6. Someone is always less than thrilled. I try to pick the lesser of evils and that's really all I can do. So when it came to our ADR's everyone got one they loved and everyone got one they probably could have skipped. At the end of the day, it worked out.

You know what, good for you. I need to take a tip from you and just go with it.

It is ok to "agree to disagree"

Am I allowed to print that out and hand it to people at will?

ADR Thoughts

[*]We had a bad experience at the CS here but I'd be willing to try it, it would be a really fun group place and for 7 you definitely want ressies. Trust me as a group of 6 or more (always), you will want them. I've been in WDW as a big group without them, no fun. Funny part is, as a big group, you might have an easier time at some places!

I'm sorry, hon, what do you mean by CS?

[*]ITA! An "planned" lazy day is key I think that's the whole point of CS

I am all about the planned lazy day. I am seriously leaning towards this now.

[*]your birthday, pick what you want, enough said

Never mind that I'm turning thirty and appear to be going through my mid life crisis way early.

[*]I just heard a HORROR story about CP so I don't think I will go there anytime soon. Due to kitchen "issues" they were closed and didn't call ANYONE to tell them. So everyone with an ADR was just out of luck. Ruined a certain 10 year olds birthday. CP offered no placement elsewhere, no compensation, just "we're sorry". They ended up at CS at Pecos. Aack! I'd do Tusker lol.

Wow! I didn't hear about that, but that's horrible. We didn't have the best experience there the last time we at there, but it was a grumpy child and nothing to do with food or service.

--------------------------------------------
Listen to Mustn'ts, child,
Listen to the Don'ts.
Listen to the Shouldn'ts, the Impossibles, the Won'ts.
Listen to the Never Haves, then listen close to me.
Anything can happen, child, Anything can be.

-Shel Silverstein

That's a great quote.

PM me if you'd like to borrow mine. I only really use it on vacations, so it just sits there otherwise. I won't need it until December. Even if you just would like to check one out without having to go through the rigamarole of having to order and send things back.

Oh, sheesh! You don't have to do that, but thank you! I will let you know if I change my mind. Right now, I went ahead an ordered a Vera. After DH, insisted, how could I resist?

Completely understandable. Just think about how much fun he's going to have, and how much he'll enjoy telling you all about it.

He's been very into the whole process. Picking what blanket and lovey he wants to take for nap time, knowing I have to label some of his clothes now, telling me what he wants for lunch. It just...he's growing up. You know?

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. I hope you find something. They definitely don't make it easy for working adults.

What's killing me right now is the lack of options, and the pricetag. If I could just find a state university with a good program, they're significantly less.

Your a libra, it's unavoidable. I always feel the same way. I make myself a wreck trying to keep everyone happy and content.

I know. It's an endearing and horrifying quality, all in one.

I don't mean anything personal by this, but it's sounding like she's just being difficult. All you can really do is listen to her concerns, and try to incorporate a few of the things that preferably she's most concerned about. But on a group trip it can't be all about her and what she wants. You have to go with what's best for everyone.

No, that's the thing. I know she is. And she's having a hard time right now personally as well. Having had my son for three days a week, now that he's going to a new school, she's down to one. So I think there's some, I understand what you're doing is best for him, but I resent you for taking him away from me going on right now. Having family watch your children can be unbelievably complicated.

Halloween costumes are such a small insignificant part of the vacation overall, it's not worth making yourself miserable over. Go with what makes DS happy, because he is the child and who's most important, and your mom should want him to be happy on this trip. I'm sure she'll be fine once your there and she sees him having a great time.

You know what the thing is? I'm not really jazzed about being Wendy. I like the idea of how comfortable the costume is, but it's not something I would pick on my own unless we were doing this whole group thing. And I'm having a devil of a time finding Captain Hook accessories (the coat, etc) to add to DH's pirate clothes from his Jack Sparrow costume. Part of me really really wants to hang it all and let everyone go as who they want. I even thought of how we could use Nana's bonnet and have her be one of the women who chases the pirates if we went that route (with DH as Jack and myself as Elizabeth again). I thought it was funny, my mom didn't.

I think a ressie for the first night is a good idea. Everyone should be at their happiest at this point, and it makes a nice start to the trip. Nine Dragons is a great choice.

Exactly. And it'll be a nice break from the World Showcase.

I don't think you could go wrong with either of these choices. Chef Mickeys would provide a greater variety of foods for you mom though, and the picture opportunities would be fantastic. (And getting to bypass some of the meet and greet lines would be a great bonus).

I think a free morning is a great idea, and an even better argument for Chef Mickey's the day before. A free morning is great for some decompression from too much family togetherness.

I'm really leaning towards this. I also keep forgetting that we have park hoppers (and Mom and Nana have annual passes), so anyone could really do whatever they wanted on the free morning, you know? And I really wanted to try Ohana's, but Mom's displeasure with it has really put a damper on it for me. At least I know for a fact that she likes Chef Mickey's, we eat there every trip.

I'm thinking of doing this one this trip too, just because I've never been there and want to check it out. It will be a nice break for your family.

I just found out on another thread that they have yummy alcoholic beverages too. Ask me how much more excited I am now?

Brown Derby sounds like a great choice! It's one of my favorites.

You can't go wrong with the Derby.

Are you planning on doing a park your last morning? If you are, and you really want to do a character breakfast I'd pick one near the park I want to go to. If your not planning on going to AK, it's a bit of a hike to get over there just to eat. There is always the ones at the resorts - Lilo and Stitch at Ohanas, Alice at the Grand Flo, and the one over at Cape May.

You make a good point. I also thought of a possible princess breakfast in Norway. I'd love to do that, but given that my son has a bit of stranger anxiety (only with adults, not usually kids), I don't know how he'd react to that.

Hang in there! Just remember it's just a vacation, and no matter what you do, or how much planning goes into it things will change, and not everything is going to work out perfectly. Do your best, and leave some room to enjoy being there with everyone you love most! And give everyone who starts to drive you nuts and remind them that the important part is to enjoy being together.

Thank you for your kind words. I really needed a good reminder of why we take these trips in the first place.

To enjoy ourselves.

And it is a vacation. From your lips to God's ears.

 

[eandesmom]

Wow. 20! I thought I had problems with 6-7. That's a lot of people. It's so hard in these situations. I know I should just say, this is what we're doing. If you'd like to join us, you can. But it's hard! I want everyone to like what we're doing. What's wrong with me?

Well of course you do, we all do. Bear in mind I come from a large family so we are always at least 6! My mom has gotten a lot better with age, with multiple grandkids, us all laying down the law before the event...and a glass or two of chardonnay or a gin and tonic helps. I can play dictator too when I want to

One thing that helped on this last trip was balancing buffets with sit downs. Most of the buffets have basic (boring lol food) so for those who want exotic, it works, if not fine too. Boma is a great example of that for us. 2 out of our 4 kids are less adventuresome, 1 quite a bit so. I refuse to let her dictate what the rest of us eat. We did actually pick one place that really was each persons top choice and it balanced out amazingly well.

Yes, your birthday, you may print out and hand out at will. repeat after me. "It's my birthday and we are going where I want to". End of conversation.

I'm sorry, hon, what do you mean by CS?

LOL Counter Service.

Never mind that I'm turning thirty and appear to be going through my mid life crisis way early.

Just wait till 40. Amazingly it is so much more angst free.

OMG the CP thing boggles my mind. What is worse is my friend is a travel agent! And her son is autistic. Apparently he handled it better than she did. I would have been. Well...you wouldn't want to see me if htat happened to me.

Alright...here's another quote for you

---------
If you're going through hell
keep going.

-Winston Churchill.

 

[TarzansKat]

One thing that helped on this last trip was balancing buffets with sit downs. Most of the buffets have basic (boring lol food) so for those who want exotic, it works, if not fine too. Boma is a great example of that for us. 2 out of our 4 kids are less adventuresome, 1 quite a bit so. I refuse to let her dictate what the rest of us eat. We did actually pick one place that really was each persons top choice and it balanced out amazingly well.

One of the reasons I love buffets so much is because I'm not terribly fond of children's menus. My son is much more adventurous, and much more interested in eating what we're eating that so called kid's food. So it's nice, because at buffets, he can have whatever he likes.

Yes, your birthday, you may print out and hand out at will. repeat after me. "It's my birthday and we are going where I want to". End of conversation.

Maybe I need to put that on a shirt!

LOL Counter Service.

Okay, that's what I thought! I wasn't sure if you were referring to a restaurant. I can see why with a large group CS could be a bit of a nightmare.

Just wait till 40. Amazingly it is so much more angst free.

I just need to remember, this too, shall pass.

OMG the CP thing boggles my mind. What is worse is my friend is a travel agent! And her son is autistic. Apparently he handled it better than she did. I would have been. Well...you wouldn't want to see me if htat happened to me.

I don't even know how I would have reacted. Especially if I had a disappointed child.

Alright...here's another quote for you

---------
If you're going through hell
keep going.

-Winston Churchill.

I watched Meet the Robinsons for the first time tonight. I swear this relates. It had a great theme to it, and a great quoet.

-----------
Keep moving forward.

-Walt Disney

 

[If U Had Wings]

Oh, sheesh! You don't have to do that, but thank you! I will let you know if I change my mind. Right now, I went ahead an ordered a Vera. After DH, insisted, how could I resist?

Can't resist that!

He's been very into the whole process. Picking what blanket and lovey he wants to take for nap time, knowing I have to label some of his clothes now, telling me what he wants for lunch. It just...he's growing up. You know?

It's a bit scary watching them grow up. I can't believe my younger niece will be starting first grade next year. She's completely unenthused about having to go to school all day long.

You know what the thing is? I'm not really jazzed about being Wendy. I like the idea of how comfortable the costume is, but it's not something I would pick on my own unless we were doing this whole group thing. And I'm having a devil of a time finding Captain Hook accessories (the coat, etc) to add to DH's pirate clothes from his Jack Sparrow costume. Part of me really really wants to hang it all and let everyone go as who they want. I even thought of how we could use Nana's bonnet and have her be one of the women who chases the pirates if we went that route (with DH as Jack and myself as Elizabeth again). I thought it was funny, my mom didn't.

I don't blame you, Wendy's not really all that exciting. I say just go with whatever you want to be! I love the idea for using the bonnet. You'd just have to give her a rolling pin to chase after him again. Ha!

I'm really leaning towards this. I also keep forgetting that we have park hoppers (and Mom and Nana have annual passes), so anyone could really do whatever they wanted on the free morning, you know? And I really wanted to try Ohana's, but Mom's displeasure with it has really put a damper on it for me. At least I know for a fact that she likes Chef Mickey's, we eat there every trip.

Ohana's may be an easy thing to give up to make your mother happy. Then you can insist on having your way somewhere else, like MNSSHP.

I just found out on another thread that they have yummy alcoholic beverages too. Ask me how much more excited I am now?

You'll be looking for that drink after a week of family vacation!

Thank you for your kind words. I really needed a good reminder of why we take these trips in the first place.

To enjoy ourselves.

And it is a vacation. From your lips to God's ears.

You'll end up having a wonderful time!

 

[TarzansKat]

Can't resist that!

I know! When the man gives the green light for seemingly frivolous spending, it's best to take advantage.

It's a bit scary watching them grow up. I can't believe my younger niece will be starting first grade next year. She's completely unenthused about having to go to school all day long.

I think I'm having a harder time with this than I will with public school, since this is the first time he's being taken care of by non-family. I got a little misty while I was packing his lunch in his new Transformers lunch box.

I wrote him a little mama loves you note. Am I a dork, or what?

I don't blame you, Wendy's not really all that exciting. I say just go with whatever you want to be! I love the idea for using the bonnet. You'd just have to give her a rolling pin to chase after him again. Ha!

So I've been totally eyeing these custom made pirate wench costumes on ebay. Who doesn't want to be Jack Sparrow's wench?

Ohana's may be an easy thing to give up to make your mother happy. Then you can insist on having your way somewhere else, like MNSSHP.

I'm really leaning towards this. DH and I discussed it last night, and we think the open day is a good idea.

You'll be looking for that drink after a week of family vacation!

And that ressie is about mid-vacation, so I'm sure it'll be needed even then!

You'll end up having a wonderful time!

I know that in my heart. I'm glad I have the DIS and such wonderful people to share my planning with. I sometimes feel like no one else get its. Thank god I found a place where everyone's as crazy as I am.

We're all mad here, right CP?

 

[Charleston Princess]

Oh, TK! It can be so hard trying to make everyone happy on a family trip!

Actually, it sounds like you need more than one hug!

I like your plans -- also, we love, love, love the Tusker House buffet -- the characters in their safari gear, the theming of the restaurant, and the food itself. Whether you want Animal Kingdom to be your last park is the big question here, I guess.