You’ll never get me on a cruise. Unless it’s to ALASKA! Recap and New PTR Link! 2/1

[eandesmom]

Originally Posted by tinacaplan

Just popping it and saying hi! Enjoying reading your packing plans and excited for you that you only have eight more days until you leave!

Hi Tina!!!!!!!!!

7 now

Originally Posted by MAGICFOR2

I'm in Klamath Falls - about 3 hrs South on the same side of the state. Similar geography, just small and dumpyish.

Ah but you are close to Crater Lake! Well, closer than we are at least. We keep talking about taking the kids there. Are there actual falls there? I can't recall.

[MAGICFOR2]

Originally Posted by eandesmom

Hi Tina!!!!!!!!!

7 now



Ah but you are close to Crater Lake! Well, closer than we are at least. We keep talking about taking the kids there. Are there actual falls there? I can't recall.

Yes, it only takes about an hour to get to Crater Lake. You would come in on the North side - which is closed for about 9 months of the year due to snow. If you do decide to do so - come before next Fall so we can have a DISmeet!

There are no Falls in KFalls. I think there used to be a rapids area but time and dams have changed it. There are actually alot of great outdoors things to do here - you guys would probably have alot of fun visiting. There is a lodge at Running Y and hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, rafting type things around. There are bald eagles and pelicans galore. Spring is the best time to see the birds. The boys would have fun at the lava beds caves and there is a visitors center with lots of educational information on the Indian wars and the science stuff.

Wow - for a place I don't like to live, I sure gave you a great tourism plug!

[treece2122]

Saying hello and letting you know I'm loving your PTR so far. Can't wait to find out more info about your cruise and how you enjoyed it.

You're a way more organized packer than I am! I usually have all of my clothes spread all over the bed and toss things off that don't fit....which usually means I forget something important. I can't tell you how many "necessary" items I've had to purchase on trips, only to throw them into the back of the closet and never wear them again. I think you've inspired me to pull together a packing list the next time I go on vacation (whenever that may be).

It's getting closer; I'm so excited for you!!

- Christine

[eandesmom]

Originally Posted by MAGICFOR2

Yes, it only takes about an hour to get to Crater Lake. You would come in on the North side - which is closed for about 9 months of the year due to snow. If you do decide to do so - come before next Fall so we can have a DISmeet!

There are no Falls in KFalls. I think there used to be a rapids area but time and dams have changed it. There are actually alot of great outdoors things to do here - you guys would probably have alot of fun visiting. There is a lodge at Running Y and hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, rafting type things around. There are bald eagles and pelicans galore. Spring is the best time to see the birds. The boys would have fun at the lava beds caves and there is a visitors center with lots of educational information on the Indian wars and the science stuff.

Wow - for a place I don't like to live, I sure gave you a great tourism plug!

You sure did! I still remember Crater Lake as magical from my childhood. It is very much on the short list for next summer, that, Oregon Coast or DC but DC is likely not in the pocketbook thanks to college tuition so it will be one or the other or perhaps a combo (though they aren't remotely close as you well know). I'm going to have to hit you up for info if we ever make it down, it's been on the list for a while! It would be summer though for sure.

Originally Posted by treece2122

Saying hello and letting you know I'm loving your PTR so far. Can't wait to find out more info about your cruise and how you enjoyed it.

You're a way more organized packer than I am! I usually have all of my clothes spread all over the bed and toss things off that don't fit....which usually means I forget something important. I can't tell you how many "necessary" items I've had to purchase on trips, only to throw them into the back of the closet and never wear them again. I think you've inspired me to pull together a packing list the next time I go on vacation (whenever that may be).

It's getting closer; I'm so excited for you!!

- Christine

Hi Christine and Oh that will happen too, it will all end up the bed and I'll pull and add and end up messing something else. If anything I over think things. I have to though as my husband and kids always forget something we have to buy! I do make the kids lists but Jeff really should fend for himself. It will be interesting to see what he forgets...

[Sleepingbooty]

Hey! Thanks for the link, I don't know why I couldn't get over here from clicking on the one in your siggie?

I didn't realize the cruise was coming up so quick!

Your packing list is amazing.....ly large! You MUST take a picture of the suitcases before you leave! But I get ya - it would be impossible to pack light for an Alaskan cruise, too many weather variables.

[eandesmom]

Originally Posted by Sleepingbooty

Hey! Thanks for the link, I don't know why I couldn't get over here from clicking on the one in your siggie?

I didn't realize the cruise was coming up so quick!

Your packing list is amazing.....ly large! You MUST take a picture of the suitcases before you leave! But I get ya - it would be impossible to pack light for an Alaskan cruise, too many weather variables.

Welcome Rebecca!

Oh my gosh it's obnoxious and I keep changing things on it. Adding, deleting, it's crazy. I am definitely over-thinking but what else is new!

[MAGICFOR2]

Hi Cynthia! I'm heading out and just wanted to wish you Bon Voyage! Have a great trip, how ever many shoes you wear, and come back with lots of pics!!!

[eandesmom]

Originally Posted by MAGICFOR2

Hi Cynthia! I'm heading out and just wanted to wish you Bon Voyage! Have a great trip, how ever many shoes you wear, and come back with lots of pics!!!

LOL! The number of everything is up in the air though I certainly hope to actually wear anything I take. Rather sad though when you justify a new pair of shoes to replace two you were going to bring (thereby reducing the number of shoes you bring, but not the number you own).

[eandesmom]

I SOOOO wish I could take Monday off! But of course, am totally slammed and really need the day. Far too many people are out at the same time and I'm rather concerned about no email access...

Making progress on everything though, boys should have theoretically finished the FE's while I was at work today and made a dent in their laundry. Jeff was supposed to waterproof shoes while I was at work (he work's from home on friday's) but I'm betting it didn't happen. Weekend will be nuts as tomorrow is really booked solid with stuff that is non trip related, but I really really hope to get all our packing done on Sunday.

The last of the packages for the trip arrived (jeans for Evan and the Dramamine/sea bands and one last pin) so that's good, theoretically I have only 2 small errands left. Bailey's and possibly exchanging one of the boys dress shirts (since of course they like one tie better than the other and are fighting over it...I'd have gotten the same one but it was all they had!). Rewards $$ are transferred and the CC notified.

Spoke to a co worker today who is based out of Anchorage. He's in Juneau right now and says it's pouring, with High Winds.

We will be SO bummed if our flight gets cancelled so fingers crossed. On the positive side it is lovely here today so may be cooking down at the lake and enjoying it. Already starting to see leaves fall which is odd given that we've had so little real summer weather and I noticed on Wednesday night that the darkness creep has begun...it was getting dark at 8 when I left zumba. The lack of darkness will be a welcome relief even if it is cold, I'm ready for long days before fall starts.

I hope to have at least one more update before we go but in the meantime, have a great friday night everyone and weekend!!

[DisMomAmy]

It's amazing that no matter how much preparation you do ahead of time, there's always a mad rush to get everything finished up in the end!

I hope the weather cooperates & you have a great trip!!

[rentayenta]

How did I not know you were going on a DC? To Alaska no less? My STM stinks but I am so glad I found this. I've been researching the DCL. Can't wait to read all about!

[eandesmom]

Originally Posted by DisMomAmy

It's amazing that no matter how much preparation you do ahead of time, there's always a mad rush to get everything finished up in the end!

I hope the weather cooperates & you have a great trip!!

Scary weather updates in Juneau today...I've spent the morning looking at backup excursion plans! Today is shot, off to a family party after our normal sat morning (gym, swim lessons, kumon, errands) but hopefully tomorrow the packing will commence. I did get everything except the bailey's picked up...now if we can just get the shoes waterproofed, laundry done and Jeff's missing daypack located we will be good. FE's are done and ready to be packed though.

Originally Posted by rentayenta

How did I not know you were going on a DC? To Alaska no less? My STM stinks but I am so glad I found this. I've been researching the DCL. Can't wait to read all about!

Jenny!

Hmmm...maybe b/c I haven't seen on on my never ending TR in a bit? It IS in my siggie though. I haven't posted on FB about it at all is probably why...don't want to rub it in to K&T.

[eandesmom]

Looking at the weather the sun is supposed to start coming out in AK. Which means the forecast changes from "rain" to "showers"

Right now there are high winds and flood advisories! Highest temp in the 10 forecast for our port days is 59, lowest 48.

Spent the morning outlining backup plans if our excursions get cancelled due to weather. I can't believe we didn't think of that! I really hope I never need to look at the list but at least now have an idea of what we can try to rebook if anything happens. I doubt ziplining will get cancelled (not sure what would make it get cancelled, googled and can't find anything on it), and the float plane excursion will fly in rain BUT if visibility is awful (mist/fog) they will cancel the flight as you aren't seeing what you paid for.

Fingers crossed!

[Happydog]

Originally Posted by MAGICFOR2

I'm in Klamath Falls - about 3 hrs South on the same side of the state. Similar geography, just small and dumpyish.

Hey, I know where that is! I used to drive through, on my way to my parents house from CA! 97 I think it is?

[Happydog]

I am having a hard time wrapping my head around the weather report! So different! But hope that the rain doesn't prevent your fun from starting no matter the temps! It will be great fun I am sure, and I would have never thought about having a backup, either, so it is good that you did! Hope you have a wonderful time if I miss your departure !!!