09/29/2005 SEPTEMBER 29th I REFUSE TO GIVE UP!

[oscarmoraz]

I am leaving for my before the cruise trip to WDW. Aimee's Minnie Mouse dress came. She is going to be Mickey's girlfriend she told me. I have to get her some ears at WDW for her.

Have a Safe trip GrandmaD...SEE YOU SOON! So glad the dress arrived on time!

We are finishing up on our last shopping items! I do enjoy the shopping mode!

Can't wait until we are all sipping a drink at the pool area, baking under the sun...with the great big smiles on our faces and the children running around having a Wonderful time!

WOOHOOO!
Cindy

PS when does everyone else begin their vacation journey?

 

[oscarmoraz]

I am starting to pack, what I can. It is still really warm and humid here in Maryland. I will probley be up the night before we leave doing wash. I have started packing new items I bought just for the trip. I feel like I have so much to pack as we are spending a week at wdw after the cruise. I am packing some dressier things for the ship, and more comfortable thing for wdw. I am also getting a box ready to be shipped to wdw. Just things we are not going to need on the ship. No use in them taking up room in our suitcases.

I also have ordered some buckets from Shirley! The kids and DH will be so supprised!

I am still working on the costumes. The stores around here have out Halloween candy, but no costumes yet. Hopefully they will be out soon. If not I will have to order from somewhere online.

Still no docs. My TA is out of the office this week, she said she will call me first thing Mon. morning so she can get everything to us.

Congrats Grandmad on getting your docs!

Only two weeks to go!

I have our suitcases out and are filling them with what we are bringing...I will organize and sort through all of the items next week. I know I have forgotten something...lol...so I am sure I will be on a scavenger hunt as well princessh.

I believe we will dress Sierra up for the embarkation. We plan to arrive at the port at 11:00. But, we may as well give her the full affect. The poor child has been waiting very patiently so her energy level will be pretty high that day!

I am also packing her bathing suit in our carry on luggage. As I am sure after we eat lunch she will see the pool and will want to join in on the fun.

Let's send good energy vibes to Mother Nature for Wonderful Weather!

Any luck on your docs yet?
C

 

[oscarmoraz]

Laurabearz - There is a link to a Disney Journal for Children to keep on there trip -http://www.disneydollarless.com/journal/journal.shtml. You may want to make your children thier own Disney Memory book to start the surprise. get them a disposable camera to take their own pictures. Maybe a letter from Mom telling the Surprise Disney planning story - How it was so hard to keep it from them and How much fun. You can print the journal page from the link and add some of the photo pages(clear plastic pages from Walmart with sections for pictures)
A Map of Disney, Orlando or the map of where the cruise goes. allearsnet.com has some disney interesting facts and mousy mindbogglers to give as hints as to where you are going- make a guessing game with hints.
I made one for Greg and Aimee' to record all the excitment leading up to the cruise and for on the cruise. It is a good English type excercise for them to express in their own words and have it put on paper. It also makes a good story to read when you come home."Once a upon a time ....and happily after cruise.

Grandma D...you are a true Martha Stewart! All meant is a very good way! Thank you for all of your tidbits and wonderful ideas! I still have alot to learn on being a Grandma! You have got to be the Worlds Best Grandmother!
Cindy

 

[oscarmoraz]

So far I have heard from PrincessH, GrandmaD and mrs.avee8r!!!

Laura, please add us to the Meet List!


C

 

[oscarmoraz]

The Nolen family will be aboard too Jennifer, Darren & Olivia DD5 (turning 6). This is our very first cruise & we are sooo excited! We will be celebrating Olivia 6th birthday on Oct 1st! She is most looking forward to the dolphin encounter and playing with kids. Any others with children close to her age?

Welcome to the Nolen Family. I will be sailing with DH, Troy and Grand Daughter, Sierra who is 4.

I cad feel your excitement!
Cindy

 

[oscarmoraz]

Just got an email from DRIVER!!! WOO HOO

Here is a link to June 2005 Navigators and lots of other 'Wonder' information and pictures!!! EDITED TO ADD... The DIS blocks the link so if anyone wants to EMAIL me, I will pass it along!


I have figured out day 1's itinerary! LOL I also have a good idea about day 2 and 3 too.

There are 3 shows (in this order)... Hercules, Golden Mickeys and Dreams. Right now I am thinking we will see Hercules and Dreams, skipping Golden Mickey's in lue of a night out for DH and I.

I also think we are skipping Pirate night. It doesnt start until 945, and the fireworks last all of 2 minutes... too late, and not enough bang. BUT if the kids seem siked for it, then we will go see Golden Mickey's and pirate night and skip Dreams for DH and I's night out. But frankly I would rather usethat night to pack, not drink. LOL 3 nights, is just to short! LOL

And the packing delemia has been solved! I totally forgot that my oldest 2 are both in school (my oldest started 2 weeks ago, DD4 started today!) So I will have from 830 am until 1130 am to pack!! Thankfully the BOY doesnt talk much, so I doubt he will blow my plans! LOL

Laura you have mail!

3 nights isn't long enough is it...lol.

I can feel your excitement through your posts. I will need to stop by the Dry cleaners to pick up our clothes. They have been there for over a week...I just haven't had time.

I will be running around like nuts next week, with no time to spare...I can already see it!

Hope the first days of school was great for the children! Sierra started Pre-K a few weeks ago. I think it was harder for us than her! lol

When are you going to let the cat out of the bag on the BIG plans? They will be so stoked!
C

 

[oscarmoraz]

WOOOO HOOOOO!!!!

I decided to order pirate stuff.... I know I said I wouldnt, but I couldnt help it! I had mentioned to my girls that we were going to a pirate party (when the busted me looking at costumes 2 months ago) and My oldest asked about it again.... SO I broke down and orders some costumes for us. I will have to make DH's SMEE costume, but I dont think it will be that hard... White shirt, blue paint and blue pants! LOL

Argh...Booty Laura!

I haven't even attempted this yet...gosh where did all of the days go...lol!

C

 

[oscarmoraz]

Just got off the phone with Dinsey Cruise and orders Bon Voagage decorations for both rooms and Chocolate and Champaine!! I also have an order with Shirley for sand pails filled with goodies for the kids!

So we are all set for entering FUN cabins!! LOL

I even pulled the boy's clothes out... and will sneak up stairs and grab a couple of the girls things.

Still need to clothes shop for DH and I, and maybe buy the girls some new dresses for the cruise!

Laura,

What are the details with Shirley? Sounds like a great idea! Not sure I have time though.

Girl, you have went all out in making this a great cruise for you and your family! Your family is going to be so thrilled, Mom!

C

 

[oscarmoraz]

Hey Cindy! I was 'wonder'ing when you would find your way back here. Congrats on becoming a g-ma again. I love the name Natalie!!

We are on Deck 6 starbord mid ship. I have desided to go nuts with door signs and so far have 2 made. I will do 2 or 3 more before it is all said and done, but plan on bringing supplies for the girls to enhance them! LOL

STILL keeping it a surprise, but I am trying to figure out what I will say at what point... HUH...

Wake the kids up early (why mommy... you have to be a school early today sweetie.. oh ok) Load them into the car.. (why are their suitcases in the car mommy? Well... maybe we are not going to school today? WHAT?? REALLY?? WHere are we going mommmy... Um it is a surprise!) Arrive at the airport... it sucks that DD6 can read, so I doubt I will be able to hide the ORLANDO fact. (DD6 MOMMY MOMMY we are going to WDW?!?!?!? Oh that sign is wrong... they changed our gate at the last minute, they just didnt have time to change the sign... prolly wont work, but if I tell them we are at one gate, then go to the secnd gate, it might work... lol)

then we have 2 1/2 hours on the plane to fend off their questions... I plan on just keeping a smirk on my face. If we manage to keep Orlando a secret until we land, both the girls will know where we are in nanosecond we walk into the terminal. LOL

I am trying to figure out when to tell them about the cruise...

We have one night at the COntemporay before the cruise... Do we play dumb, and then spring the cruise on them in the morning (we have an early Chef Mickey reservation befroe heading to the port) Should we continue to say nothing until we are at the port? Should we fess up on the plane??

I guess I am leaning towars spilling the beans on the plane. The kids are 6,4 and 2 and at that age, they are better knowing the plan than not, if that makes sense. Transitions work better if they are aware of them.

It would be a lot easier if we were staying at Ron Jons or the Raddison (not at WDW). I mean they will be super tickled to be staying at the Contemporay.. and if I dont say anything they will think we are there for the week....

UGH UGH Why do I let this stuff consume me! ROFLMBO

I cant wait! I cant wait!

You are too funny! Sound slike you have it all worked out...great ideas Laura! I'd make sure everyone makes a trip to the bathroom before you spring it on them! lol...including yourself!

I can only imagine their faces...no school? and a WDW trip...you are such a good mom!

C

 

[oscarmoraz]

We were booked in a 12 GTY for the 9/29, and Disney has now assigned cabin numbers for some (at least mine) of those rooms - you can check online - I found a nice little upgrade when I checked my room #, and the kids are very excited about it!!!

Thank you for this info...I am going to check now! So glad I am reading the board! LOL

Cindy

 

[oscarmoraz]

Thank you again for the info on the GTY reservation updates !

Laura we are in 2603...just skimmed our way past the noisy cabins as listed on http://www.dcltribute.com. 2nd Seating.

Ok..so now we are one step closer...I am so use to RC...not knowing your cabin until you arrive at the port.

Something else great to share with Sierra today!
Cindy

 

[oscarmoraz]

What has everyone planned for CC? Since Sierra is 4, is she able to do a few of the excursions, though the recommended age is older, as long as one of us are with her?

Cindy

 

[Laurabearz]

Hey CIndy!!! Got your email! You STILL have NOT received your Docs??? I hope they come this week. (((((hUGS)))))

Reading how excited Sierra is, makes me want to break down and tell the girls. lol (I wont, but am tempted! LOL)

I saw that I had just missed you last night (today prolly too, as I see your online at the very moment!) I was going to post more on CC, but I didnt want you to think I was stalking you!

I havent even started packing... a cold front moved in yesterday and today, but not sure how long it will last.... but cold is better for my plan... the girls wont miss their summery stuff if it is in the 60's!


We leave on the 28th for 1 night at the COmtemporary Resort! We will hit the Magic Kingdom the momment we get there. I would really like to pop over to Epcot and try SOARING, since they were still building it when we were there last.... I hear it is awesome. But I think my DH will say no to that idea! Too much! LOL

 

[oscarmoraz]

Just added everyones name to the first post! WOO HOO We are a GAGGLE!!!!!!

I got your email PrincessH!!!

I started working on the group sign today, I think adding everyone's cabin number would be cool. I am also thinking of just having our DISBOARD screen names on it... like Laurabearz and family and then a little plug for the DIS and Cruise Critic (if ya'll dont mind... I know Cindy is a HUGE CC fan, and I learned a lot there too, but since this is from the DIS.. I will leave it up to the rest of you. ) Right now I am thinking the sign will say something like... Here... there.... everywhere... from surfing the net to surfing the seas, freinds on the DISBOARDS having a Magical time aboard Disney's Wonder..... Or something catchy like that... gotta see how it all fits.

Sooooooo anyone else game???

I am up for anything...sounds very catchy!

We really have a creative bunch!

Time is flying by!
C

 

[Laurabearz]

What has everyone planned for CC? Since Sierra is 4, is she able to do a few of the excursions, though the recommended age is older, as long as one of us are with her?

Cindy

We dont really have a plan for CC lol. We will start out as a family at the beach, swim, snorkle, etc. I would also like to see about renting bikes for a bit. I hear the kids clubs do a lot of fun stuff on CC, so at som point we wil loose the girls to that.... And there is some BBQ that is suppose to be good.

I guess swim, eat, bike, snorkle, sun bath... sand castles and the like!

Cindy?? Anyone?? Are you still staying on the ship at Nassau? I am pretty sure we are. We took the girls downtown Chicago on Labor Day (DH's birthday!) and Madeline was concerned about all the homeless people (we saw maybe 5) and wanted to give them all money. Which is great... but unrealistic. I dont think the girls are old enough to understand what they will see if we get off the boat.... I had a hard time explaining why the few poor folks we saw that day, were homeless... I tried to explain that those people made a lot of wrong choices in their lives.... (I wanted to say, they didnt listen to their mother! But didnt) Anyway, I would like to avoid those types of questions for at least a couple more years!

 

[oscarmoraz]

Stalking...lol. You are too funny! I have been so busy and finally had some downtime on the boards last night...all dedicated to Disney since this is our priority! Plus we are leaving for Cherokee today. So the relaxed time is catching up with me, as there is so much to do beforehand! Gosh, I think we are more excited than Sierra...lol.

We have been coloring Disney pictures. I still need to find the magnets to put on the door to hang the pictures. I had to make a list...lol!

For some reason I don't think the 3 days are going to be enough. I am hoping she doesn't miss mommy too much. Last weekend she went to Cherokee with us, which was a little over 4 days...she only said she missed mommy 2 or 3 times...but then again she was surrounded by her cousin, Great Grandma and Aunt...so I am sure she will be preoccupied once on the Disney Cruise.

She asked me what the Disney Park will do while Mickey and Mini and the Princesses are on the 'boat' with us...lol. (I promise I am trying to teach her the cruise term.) I told her that they cannot be in the same place at the same time, so they will be spending all of their time us...she asked if they would be on a vacation too...lol. Her eyes got real big and she smiled ear to ear. Sometimes you have to wonder if they play along for our own enjoyment...lol.

I was trying to print out the scrapbook journal pages...but need to refill my ink cartridge...lol. That is a pretty awesome site! We will have fun filling those pages out.

Well I am going to check the other boards and wait for DH to come home so we can get on the road.

Everyone try to contain yourselves...lol. We only have a few more days before we bust! I am so glad we booked when we did. We have a fun bunch to share this experience with!

Thank you again for making this board Laura!
We are now at the countdown mode! Breath, Count to ten and Breath again!
Cindy

 

[oscarmoraz]

Just wanted to say Thank You for all of the good wishes and prayers for Diana and Little Natalie…

This is our newest addition to our growing family of girls…lol. Also, a new member to the Disney Cruise Family in less than 1058 days…..we are Pinked out!

Everyone Have an Awesome, Fun and Safe Weekend!
Cindy

 

[Laurabearz]

Natalie is an ANGEL! Thanks for sharing a picture!

Here is a picture of my kids taken a year ago! LOL

And one of DH and I. I am in the middle lol and DH is the handsome fella in the green plaid shirt. The other guy is a DISboard member and at WDW CM, who we hooked up with for a night at Jellyrolls!

 

[oscarmoraz]

We dont really have a plan for CC lol. We will start out as a family at the beach, swim, snorkle, etc. I would also like to see about renting bikes for a bit. I hear the kids clubs do a lot of fun stuff on CC, so at som point we wil loose the girls to that.... And there is some BBQ that is suppose to be good.

I guess swim, eat, bike, snorkle, sun bath... sand castles and the like!

Cindy?? Anyone?? Are you still staying on the ship at Nassau? I am pretty sure we are. We took the girls downtown Chicago on Labor Day (DH's birthday!) and Madeline was concerned about all the homeless people (we saw maybe 5) and wanted to give them all money. Which is great... but unrealistic. I dont think the girls are old enough to understand what they will see if we get off the boat.... I had a hard time explaining why the few poor folks we saw that day, were homeless... I tried to explain that those people made a lot of wrong choices in their lives.... (I wanted to say, they didnt listen to their mother! But didnt) Anyway, I would like to avoid those types of questions for at least a couple more years!

LMAO...they didn't listen to their mother!!! Too funny!

We are staying on the ship in Nassau, for sure! Though the Perfume Shop is one of the rare places which carry one of my favorite perfumes...can you guess the name...Laura...lol! But I am passing as I prefer to not to 'drag' Sierra off the ship just for my selfishness...plus I think it will be a great day for her to enjoy and hang by the pool, without the crowds...lines can be so boring and frustrating for a 4 year old...lol! And we can work on our tan

AS far as CC, I am on the same page as you. We are just going to play it by ear and take the day as it unfolds. I am sure Sierra will want to venture off with the other children, which is great.

Laura, are you planning to take a Disney Cruise every year? I know school will play a factor for Sierra next year but...2 days of missing school should not be too bad...we just have to get clearance from mom. Plus, as the other grand daughters reach 3 we will have our hands full, but Sierra will be old enough to be the boss of them...lol.
C

 

[Laurabearz]

LMAO...they didn't listen to their mother!!! Too funny!

Laura, are you planning to take a Disney Cruise every year? I know school will play a factor for Sierra next year but...2 days of missing school should not be too bad...we just have to get clearance from mom. Plus, as the other grand daughters reach 3 we will have our hands full, but Sierra will be old enough to be the boss of them...lol.
C

I dont think we will cruise every year. It cost too much! LOL We need 2 rooms... which adds up. I do plan on rebooking on board, a 7 day cruise, for sometime in 2007... and I am considering the 4 day Disney Vaction Club cruise which is Oct 2006. But we like to travel A LOT, so cruising is not a cheap way for us to do it. (two rooms, veranda, is pricey!LOL) The only way DH would apporve of the 7 day is if we rent out our Disney Vaction Club points to help cover the cost. Which means skipping a couple of WDW vacations to do 1 cruise. That is asking a lot from me! I love my WDW trips! LOL