Basking in the Glow of the (not so) Creepy Clown -2/11-Pictures, Final Thoughts, PTR!

[brookelizabeth]

Merry Christmas Brook, to you and your cute family
Thanks for the sweet Christmas Wishes to all of us readers!

I loved your hefty update Those pictures of the Disney Store in NYC make me want to send you my credit card I hope to see that one day We have only been to NYC twice (each time to see a Broadway play--B&B and The Little Mermaid) and we have gone to the old World of Disney store. I think this new Disney Store looks so much better. Im not sure why people are giving it bad reviews I hope to get there again someday
I cant wait to see the MSEP. It is the one I remember from my early Disney years, and I am excited to see it in May. We always watch from Frontierland in front of the candy store
I love the picture of Henry in front of the castle. So cute!!!
We have been listening to the Wishes CD for weeks now, and Alexa can sing it perfectly. She talks about seeing the fireworks and Wishes, so I can understand Henry losing intrest in that popcorn once it started! I cant wait for Alexa to see Wishes again...I think she will be singing it too!
Sorry you had the puke incident! After all your trips with the puke, you have become a pro! Puke freaks me out, but isnt it nice to get a new shirt out of the deal. Cute one too!
Merry Christmas to you, Joe and Henry.....and I pray 2011 will be a blessed year for you all too

I don't really understand the bad reviews of the Times Square store either. It is SMALL in there, but everything in NYC is, except the crowds. There is a ton of merch. If you, or anyone else, wants anything-let me know! I am in that area often. I can pick something up for you, no problem!

Henry seemed to really start to love fireworks on this trip, he's all about them now. Joe has a few simple firecrackers in a box in the house and he talks about the "fire box" often. He wants to light those babies up! I bet Alexa will be singing and enjoying every second of it!!

I've dealt with WAY too much puke at Disney. I was so relieved to know he was fine-just eating WAY too fast. And thrilled with the shirt!

Loving all your updates.

Henry looking at the trains-so cute!!

Goodies from Germany-Yum!! It is so fun getting packages at this time of year.

You are much better than I am. Hearing your story about walking all over the Boardwalk that day after 9 hours at Epcot. I would have laid down on the bed & I would have been DUN!!! to you to keep going & going like the Energizer Bunny!!

Great pics & video of the EP. Cannot wait to see it in May. I like Spectro but am looking forward to something I have not seen yet.

I hope you have a magical Christmas with your "boys" & look forward to more pics & updates.

I was probably the grumpiest Energizer Bunny ever though! In Epcot I didn't even think about all the walking, we were having such a great time! But the rain and the hunt for Community Hall just did me in!

Hi Brook! I just logged on & noticed your report said "a whole slew of updates!" I wish I had time right now to read them all but I'm getting a bunch of food ready for Christmas Eve! I will read them later tonight or Sunday afternoon.

Merry Christmas to you & your family!!!!

I hope you had a great Christmas!!!

What a fabulous way to end a night.

My DD was a puker so I understand becoming a pro in dealing with it.

Merry Christmas Brook to the whole family.

I have dealt with puke on almost every single trip. Thankfully this time there was NO sickness involved, just the inhaling - literally - of food! Poor kid! We talked about catching puke (LOL!) on the boat ride back from DHS, didn't we??? That was a discussion with you, right??? I think you had mentioned catching someone else's kids puke just because you were there at the pool and it's default reaction. I'm a puke catcher as well! (whoa, that could be dangerous if the tag fairy is lurking!)

Wow, lots of great updates! It sounds like you are having a fun holiday season. I really liked those pictures of the Pooh toys. So cool!

And of course it sounds like you had a great day in the parks too.

Have a good Christmas!!

Aren't those Pooh toys amazing? I was in awe. They are so loved on and so sweet looking. I didn't know the story behind Christopher Robin either. That makes me all about Down with Darby! Bring back Christopher Robin!

Your post about ground zero really makes me want to go vist that spot. good to know thw muesum well be open when we go next yr for christmas. The Disney store in NYC also looks great.

Hope you have a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Next time I go down to Ground Zero I'll bring the SLR and grab a bunch of pictures - it's really interesting to see it and to see the progress there too.

I hope you had a great holiday as well---Happy New Year!!

 

[KatMark]

Happy New Year to you and all of your family.

 

[Poolrat]

I have dealt with puke on almost every single trip. Thankfully this time there was NO sickness involved, just the inhaling - literally - of food! Poor kid! We talked about catching puke (LOL!) on the boat ride back from DHS, didn't we??? That was a discussion with you, right??? I think you had mentioned catching someone else's kids puke just because you were there at the pool and it's default reaction. I'm a puke catcher as well! (whoa, that could be dangerous if the tag fairy is lurking!)

Yes we did talk about puke catching. Totally forgot about that. hopefully I will remember when I am finally writing that part of the TR.


HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! I "saw" you logged in at David and Kathy's. 2011???
Maybe. My wheels are turning.

 

[brookelizabeth]

What an awesome slew of updates!!! I meant to just pop on the boards real quick and wish everyone a Merry Christmas, but I got sucked in by all your posts!

First of all, thanks for taking us on the Christmas tour around NYC, those trains looked so cool. And, that new Disney store may be a disappointment to some, but it's WAY nicer than the one we have

Now, for your trip update - I didn't let your warning deter me, and I looked at the pictures of the clown slide After the initial shudders I did fine though I must admit that it does look really fun! I'm curious, they won't let Henry ride down with one of you will they? I think he'd be okay on one of your laps, but no way would I send him down by himself!

I'm amazed by your picture of Main Street at nearly 5:00, it looks empty - how awesome!

This is one of my favorite parts of seeing Philharmagic

Fantastic pictures from the MSEP! And thanks for the video - put a smile on my face, I just love that music.

Oh, and MERRY CHRISTMAS JOE, BROOK & HENRY!!

Nope, kids have to go solo down the Disney slides. I wish I didn't know this rule because I would just break it. But since I do know it, I can't bring myself to break it! A Dad did go down with their 4 year old while we were at the BW pool and got a short, but stern, lecture from the life guard. After that the 4 year old went down again and again-he loved it!

The little hands during Philharmagic is sooooo sweet.

I hope you and your family had a great holiday and a happy New Year!

I see I have my work cut out for me reading your "slew of updates". Actually, it's never really work reading ANYONE"S updates- I love them all, but tonight, I only have time and energy to wish you and Joe a GREAT Christmas full of wonder and meaning, delight and joy!! Have a wonderful day!!

I so understand! I've been playing catch-up for the past few days because I didn't have enough energy to read and all. I hope you had a great Christmas!

to Brook, Joe, and Henry!

Merry Christmas Book, Joe and Henry!!!!

Merry Christmas Brook, Joe, and Henry!!

Merry Christmas, Brook, and to your beautiful family too.

Have the Merriest Christmas EVER!

Brook- I hope you, Joe, and Henry had a wonderful Christmas!

Thank you everyone!!! I hope to share a few Christmas pics soon. We had a great holiday - it was quiet and relaxing and fun!

What I meant about my meltdown is just that I'm over exhausted. Too many things going on with work and the stress remaining from my grandma's passing.

Oh man. I hope you are doing better now and that work slows down!

I really like the Tiki room. And philarmagic is one of my faves. I can watch it 5 times during a trip

I can't believe we have skipped it so many trips! It will be done next trip! The Tiki Room was fun, but I know Joe wasn't crazy about it, so it'll just be one of those "if we have time" sorta things.

So I am trying to get all caught up on your slew of updates but DH wants to watch a movie. Anyhoo looks like a fun day around the pool and you took some amazing pictures! I am hoping to take some like you in Sept. I am always impressed at how good you are. And guess what??? DH got me photography lessons for Christmas!!! I have a Canon Rebel XTi and I try to change the settings but I really don't know what I am doing but hopefully soon I will. Ok anways I am hoping to finish up the updates tomorrow.


Hope you guys had a great Christmas!!!

Thank you for the compliment on the pictures! The key is to take a LOT! We take thousands, literally! Then you can pick your best. I often have 2 or 3 (or more!) of the same thing, just at a slightly different angle so I can get my favorite. There are some amazing photographers on the DIS here, I feel like my pics are nothing compared to theirs! But I do enjoy it! The lessons will be great! They will teach you a ton I'm sure. You'll learn that camera really well and be a pro!

Ok, I finally had time to read all those updates. Love the NYC pictures. What a beautiful place. I love all the Pooh stuff. I was always a big Pooh fan as a kid.
The updates were fantastic and you got great pictures of the parade. I'm stil lup in the air about seeing it though. I really like Spectro so much. But we'll see what comes into play once I make my plans.

I love Spectro too. But, it was kinda fun to see a new one - and who knows how long it will be there? It might disappear soon and never have a chance again to see it. I really like the music too, but I know some people find it annoying!

Thanks for all the updates Brook - they were all fantastic.

I was only able to spend a week in NY for Christmas when Mark was out there, but loved it. I've actually bought him things online from the transit museum that he still loves.

I also just noticed this...I think Mark and Henry have the exact same bathing suit! Is Henry's orange? If so - they match!

That hilarious about the bathing suit! Henry's is red though - from Target. Where is yours from? I wonder if they are the same, just different colors!

Henry got several Transit Museum gifts this year - including a train t-shirt, the N train (Brooklyn to Queens), that's our train. He ripped the package open and insisted the shirt go on. He didn't take it off all day - and even slept in it!

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas Brook! Thanks for reminding us that it's a time to reflect on all of the great things we have in our lives!

And your pictures from Wishes are amazing!

Hope you have a Happy New Year!

Thank you! I hope you had a great holiday too!

What a great lineup of updates your put up!! I do love JC at night, but I love the MSEP even more. "Shhh, don't tell anyone, but I cried a teensy bit in August when it rolle by me.

I won't tell anyone. I get it though-we all do! I cried at the first sight of our view from the resort! I cry at Disney stuff all the time...

 

[brookelizabeth]

I wasn't on the Dis for several days so when I logged on, there were updates galore!

The pictures of the Disney Store makes me wish our little bitty one in our local mall hadn't closed. I miss it so.

What a wonderful day at the pool and then at the Magic Kingdom. I can tell you had a great parade viewing spot by looking at your pictures. As always, Henry is adorable.

If you ever need anything from the Disney store just let me know! I'd be happy to pick it up. Hopefully they reopen one near you, I've heard a few are reopening...

I really enjoyed the parade from Frontierland. There is something magical about being with the Castle, but being so close to the floats was awesome too!

Caught up on your slew of updates - what a fun day at MK! You shared some wonderful pictures as usual! I've so enjoyed living Disney vicariously through you and your family! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year...

Thank you! I hope you have a great holiday Leanne!

Brook, Joe and Henry I hope you had a magical magical Christmas!

I'm (finally!) all caught up...and still feeling your pain from the soda refill saga...yikes!

Nice new shirt Henry

LOVE the NY updates.....I used to be able to go every December for work and I miss it!!!!!!!!!!!

That ordeal with the Community Hall/soda refill/snacks - ugh! I was happy to be banned to the room.

How nice to get to come here in December for work! Expenses paid with all the beauty of the holidays! If you ever do get here again, let me know!

Hi! Hope that you had a wonderful Christmas. Thanks for the very thoughtful Christmas wishes.

I thought the new Disney store was pretty cool, but I have nothing to compare it to. I was particularly impressed at how well the store handled the crowds compared to the Toys R Us down the block! Shouldn't be surprised, I suppose.

Your day of swimming and MKing sounded truly magical. Just can't wait to be there myself. Looking forward to hearing more. And your son is just the cutest, the picture in front of the castle in his spiffy new t-shirt is definitely a keeper!

You are so right! Toys R Us is a NUTHOUSE usually! The crowds were much more bearable to the Disney store, even though it was busy, it was doable. We have a Toys R Us giftcard for Henry and I'll have to face it again soon...

I hope to have another update posted soon - I meant to this weekend, but we'll see. I still have several threads to get caught up on here - several I am subscribed to and haven't even begun yet! Yours I have a start on, but still lightyears behind!

 

[MeMom]

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! I "saw" you logged in at David and Kathy's. 2011???
Maybe. My wheels are turning.

Yes on that 2011 idea.

I'm trying to talk Jackie and her family into going for a long weekend cheapy trip, and she is defintely showing signs of 'biting'.
Anita said today that they'd never stayed for the New Year's festivities.
There are others who are making tentative plans already, too.

I think it's all very obvious. Everybody has Christmas at home and then leaves that night or within the next few days and rings in 2012 on the beach.

 

[brookelizabeth]

Hey BE! Finally caught back up again!

Great update as always. Love the MSE photos! MSE was the first night parade I saw so it is more nostalgic for me than Spectro. But it’s been just over 20 years since I last saw it so it’s hard to remember and compare.

Love the photos! You did a great job on the night shots!

Oh, and I’m glad to hear that Mickey’s Philharmagic was a hit. That was Hailee’s favorite attraction of the entire trip.

Howdy, hello there! I do remember Hailee enjoying Donald's BUTT and I actually thought of you and her the instant we turned around and saw those white feathered cheeks!

I so hope you are able to return to WDW and see the MSE. I can certainly see why it generates that emotion in many people who went as children. It really is a magical parade!

Hi Brook,

Okay, before Disney commentary, are you guys okay with the GREAT WHITE death that came your way??? I can't believe it was only a few posts ago that I asked you if you had gotten any weather and you said "not yet....." 26 inches later!!! Yikes, I hope you weren't one of the unlucky ones that got stuck on a subway train..... I hope that your Christmas was wonderful and that you enjoyed the day with Joe and Henry!

WOW!! So many updates! Great ones to boot! I love the MSEP pictures, especially the little tid bit about Pete and his dragon playing "Hide and Go Seek". Very clever! How awesome that you found Disney rain jackets for $10! What a deal! I think it's adorable that Henry got so into Philharmagic, reaching for the jewels.

Thank you for your Christmas post. You hit the nail right on the head when you stated how blessed you realize you are. I can agree wholeheartedly. I have things that I wish were easier sometimes, but knowing that my daughter, husband, and myself are healthy and happy just reminds me that I do have it easy. I am so glad that you are on the boards and that I was able to find someone like you!

Did we really get that much snow?!?! I thought it was closer to 15", but never heard an official count. The first couple days were crazy! We are used to a lot of snow, but people here are muchhhhh slower digging themselves out and the snow plows don't come by nearly as often. I think 1/2 of Minnesota's road budget goes to snow removal!! So even though it didn't seem like that much snow to us, it was overwhelming. The trains were a mess for days! It's all melting now and everything is slushy puddles.

The $10 rain jackets were a great deal! I saw them in quite a few shops, I hope they continue having things like that. It's not a super high quality one, but it did the trick.

Thank you for your sweet words! I sometimes get caught up in daily life, and when I do take a minute to reflect I realize just how good I have it.

What great updates Brook! All of your snow must be keeping you indoors, which works great for us here, wanting updates. Ha!

I love any excuse to buy something Disney. Sorry poor Henry threw up. Poor kiddo! Sounds like you and Joe handled it all calmly though. Great job mom and dad!

I'm glad you saw Philharmagic. That's my favorite 3-D show there!

We actually adventured out in that snow! We are tough Minnesotans! The first day we didn't-just hung out at home, took Henry out to play for a bit. The next day we attempted to walk to dinner, we were quite a sight trying to push a stroller though snowbanks. I have been able to get caught up quite a bit here though!

Philharmagic is excellent! I can't wait to see it again! It's going on the Must Do list!

Just checking in on our snowbound friends. We have hints of snow left in spots, but we're back to normal other than that.

I've been peeking in on Dave and Kathy's Poly cam throughout the day. It's pretty and sunny, but the people walking by do have long sleeves and light coats. No snow, though.

We are melting now - but we were snow bound there for a couple days. Henry was thrilled with it all, but I gotta tell ya, walking home in a blizzard isn't exactly fun.

Did you see the temp tonight during the NYE broadcast? 63! Such nice weather! I remember last year being cold, cold, cold, then NYE was the nicest day.

Hope you guys are doing okey.

We are! Thanks for checking in! We dug ourselves out!

Oh Goodness - see that you got a few flakes.

Hope all is well and you are keeping warm and dry.

Thank you! You guys are all so sweet checking in on us! The blizzard was pretty crazy - I posted pics on Facebook, I'll have to share here too. We didn't let it really stop us though, we are used to the white stuff!

 

[brookelizabeth]

Hi Brook! Wow, when you said you had some updates you weren't kidding!! I loved it!
I'm glad to see that Ground Zero is changing... it is a hard place to be... so glad there will be a wonderful memorial to those who perished there. My DH was there a month after the towers collapsed and it was very difficult and moving.
I LOVE the photo of Henry by the castle at night! What a cute picture!
Are you doing a PTR for your next trip? Seems like you aren't but let me know if I have missed it.
Hope you had a magical Christmas!

I can't imagine being here just a month after those towers fell... I was here 6 months later and it was still really really difficult. Memorials everywhere downtown and workers covered in dirt and dust coming out from the site. It was so incredibly sad and hard. It's like new life seeing actual construction there now!

I haven't started the PTR yet. I'm not good at managing two reports...and our dates might have changed. (to May...for a good reason! I might have a job! Nothing is definite yet, so I haven't changed/announced anything though.)

I haven't been on DIS for 6 months and now that i'm back, i'm so glad your TR was the first thing I read!!! Your pics are wonderful!

So glad you are back!!!! Thank you for reading!!

So sad about Henry shrinking! I would hate to explain to Carter why he couldn't ride something he had already gotten to ride. I was glad you decided not to ride without him.

Great updates!

It was not easy! I was grateful for the easy distraction of another ride near-by. Thankfully we won't have to deal with that again since he's past 40 inches now in bare feet!

Whew, that was a lot of updates. I love Henry's hat he wore to the train display. He looks like a little gentleman. I love all of the original Pooh animals. You could tell they were really well loved. I too would have had a melt down with all that trekking around you did and then with the incident at the gift shop would have just put me over the edge. I can't remember what else I was going to say. I should have taken notes while I was reading. haha

I thought those Pooh animals were so sweet-and yes, you can tell they were well loved! I can imagine Christopher Robin toting them around.

about the notes! I feel the same way sometimes!!! It's okay-no worries!

Brook, I have to ask you what kind of camera you have? Your shots are awesome, especially the ones of Wishes. Did you use a tripod? I'm so excited to capture pics of Wishes for our upcoming trip but I'm kind of nervous at the same time that they'll come out crappy as usual! I do have a new camera, a dslr finally! Hopefully that will make a difference.

Thank you!! We have a Canon XSi and, nope we don't use a tripod. But I DO take a LOT of pictures. I probably have 100 Wishes pictures, but most aren't good and/or are blurry. I try to hold my breath even so I shake less when I'm taking pics like that! Joe has a steadier hand though, so I think I'll make him do it next trip. What DSLR do you have? We set our Canon to a high ISO (800 or 1600) and open the aperture up as much as we can and then let the camera decide on the time. Works pretty well. I'd love to have a tripod, but we lost our mini one...gotta get a gorillapod or something sometime!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I can kind of help you and give an answer. I know she has a Canon Rebel...I "think" it's the xs model.

I don't think Brook uses a tripod, but I could be wrong.

You are good Jen! You are right on both!

Thanks Jen! Darn, I was hoping she had a Pentax since that's the new camera I have! Her pics are really good!

I've read good things about Pentax's though too.

Me too! And Jen knows her stuff-way more than I do! I used to be on top of the latest and greatest, but it's truly fallen to the side as a hobby. Someday I'll pick it back up again!

I had so much to catch up on, I don't even know where to begin commenting but...I'm caught up!

Let's see:
More NYC Christmas pics.
Hitting the pool at Beach Club.
Space Mountain.
A little yak and yeti invades CHH , but inspires a new shirt purchase.
Philharmagic.
MSEP.
Wishes fireworks -- you got some GREAT pictures!

love it. Was it Marv posting only in similes over on your TR? Or was that Liesa's, or Tim's?? Too funny!

Happy New Year Brook

Happy New Year!

happy new year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy New Year!

I plan on having a rockin' NYE with a 5 year old, 4 yo, 3 yo and 2 yo! Nachos, cupcakes and Despicable Me. WOO-HOO!​

Happy New Year Brook, Joe, and Henry

Thank you everyone! We had a great time ringing in the New Year with 2 laptops-one on Times Square, one on the Magic Kingdom. We have yet to see Despicable Me, how was it? It looks cute!

Happy New Year, Brook!

I'm finally caught up on the gazillion updates you've made in the past month! Yes, DH and I are sitting here on New Years Eve playing with our Christmas presents -- iPads! -- because after traveling for a week, sitting on the couch on the Internet feels like the greatest luxury ever!

Just a few comments (gotta prove that I really read it all, right? ):

-so happy Henry loved Test Track!
-can't believe poor Joe rode Imagination twice! That ride just makes me sad compared to how it used to be. But I suppose it's probably better with a little one.
-sticky toffee pudding from Rose & Crown...drool
-I'm so impressed you made it for nine hours in Epcot with a 3-year-old. That is truly impressive!
-"pros on puke" Truly something for the resume!
-I am so happy to finally know where to get an "I [Mickey ears ] NY" shirt! I looked all over WDW for one in October, no luck...it's so good to know it's just a subway trip away!

Anyway, I loved your updates! Hope you're having an excellent New Year's Eve; see you next year!

For the resume! Hilarious!!! I did have an interview the other day, I wonder what my (hopefully) future boss would think about that????!

Isn't the iPad fun? Joe has one, and man, they are slick. The DIS tends to be a big slow sometimes on it, but overall, it's so easy with it being so small and light. Love that.

And yes! the Mickey Ears NY shirts are right there in the middle of Times Square! You just gotta deal with Times Square itself to get one. But so worth it.

 

[brookelizabeth]

Happy New Year, Brook~~Joe~~Henry!! You made a good decision to stay home instead of all that NYC Times Square craziness Here's hoping for a Blessed 2011 for your family

I couldn't believe those crazy crowds on the webcam! Noooo thank you! I much prefer my cozy apartment. Plus, how else would I watch the live feed from the Poly?!

Hi Brook, I "see" you over there. I am glad that I am on central time as I don't know if I will make it to midnight here at home.

It was fun over there! Lots of folks I knew, and some I didn't! Over 300 viewers--just incredible!

Happy New Year Brook, Joe & Henry.

Very cute video of Henry & the countdown.

You braved going out into the city tonight???

We did! Can you believe that? Slightly crazy, but I was craving a burger from a certain burger joint, so we went for it! I'm glad we did--minus the whole wet shoe thing.

Happy New Year to you and all of your family.

Thank you Kathy!! Happy New Year!

Yes we did talk about puke catching. Totally forgot about that. hopefully I will remember when I am finally writing that part of the TR.


HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! I "saw" you logged in at David and Kathy's. 2011???
Maybe. My wheels are turning.

It's total instinct! We are such Moms! I will try to remember that bit too when I write about our meet and remind you when you get there!

I would LOVE to do 2011. Oooooh my yes! As Joe and I were watching we both said, "I wish we were there." IF money allows then perhaps....

Yes on that 2011 idea.

I'm trying to talk Jackie and her family into going for a long weekend cheapy trip, and she is defintely showing signs of 'biting'.
Anita said today that they'd never stayed for the New Year's festivities.
There are others who are making tentative plans already, too.

I think it's all very obvious. Everybody has Christmas at home and then leaves that night or within the next few days and rings in 2012 on the beach.

I'll have to tell Joe I'm getting peer pressure on the 2011 NYE trip. I love it though, keep it up! I want to! If the money is there, it won't take much convincing to Joe to do it again. This year we'd probably come on the 30th and just lay-low then do touring in early January.

The more I think about this, the more I'm about it! It really is such a fun time to go and Dave and Kathy said tonight they want EVERYONE on their lawn next year. What's that saying, "Be careful what you ask for"???

 

[MeMom]

I would LOVE to do 2011. Oooooh my yes! As Joe and I were watching we both said, "I wish we were there." IF money allows then perhaps....

I'll have to tell Joe I'm getting peer pressure on the 2011 NYE trip. I love it though, keep it up! I want to! If the money is there, it won't take much convincing to Joe to do it again. This year we'd probably come on the 30th and just lay-low then do touring in early January.

The more I think about this, the more I'm about it! It really is such a fun time to go and Dave and Kathy said tonight they want EVERYONE on their lawn next year. What's that saying, "Be careful what you ask for"???

They did say that, and they're such nice people, how can we not go??? You can't even comprehend the magnitude of those fireworks unless you have seen them in person. I was watching tonight and just thinking of how last year I was holding a tiny little Bella and covering her ears and watching that amazing display.

Since you have the 'luxury' of coming in later and then hanging out after the rest of us go back to school, you would be in very good shape to enjoy a trip without the crowds. We plan to leave Christmas afternoon - if we get that good flight price like we did last time - but I'll have to be back at school on Monday, so we'll just have to fight the crowds. We know how to do that pretty successfully, though, and what we can't do will wait for another trip. I think a big DIS meet on Dave and Kathy's lawn is sounding like an exciting end to this year that has just begun.

We will all need flashing Mickey ears, of course.

 

[brookelizabeth]

They did say that, and they're such nice people, how can we not go??? You can't even comprehend the magnitude of those fireworks unless you have seen them in person. I was watching tonight and just thinking of how last year I was holding a tiny little Bella and covering her ears and watching that amazing display.

Since you have the 'luxury' of coming in later and then hanging out after the rest of us go back to school, you would be in very good shape to enjoy a trip without the crowds. We plan to leave Christmas afternoon - if we get that good flight price like we did last time - but I'll have to be back at school on Monday, so we'll just have to fight the crowds. We know how to do that pretty successfully, though, and what we can't do will wait for another trip. I think a big DIS meet on Dave and Kathy's lawn is sounding like an exciting end to this year that has just begun.

We will all need flashing Mickey ears, of course.

And this time Joe and Henry WOULD make it!!

I haven't a clue when the kids go back to school here, so we might not get that luxury after all...I forgot my baby is going to be in SCHOOL. Where did the time go? I'm excited for him, yet how can it possibly be already that time??

I digress. We will be flying to MN for Christmas this year, so flying a few days later to Orlando will be expensive, and tricky. However, it can be done, if the finances allow. Time will tell, but this is certainly on my mind!!

And I'll proudly wear those flashing Mickey ears with you!

 

[DisMomAmy]

Wow - that's cool that you were so close to Times Square last night!

I love Henry's New Year's countdown!

Sounds like you had a fun night - pretty uneventful here... Watched "Family Game Night" on the HUB like we do on the average Friday night, then the kids went to bed. I think DH & I made it until about 11pm.

By the way... I sent you a PM a few days ago... not sure if you go it or if your box is full or something??

 

[MeMom]

And this time Joe and Henry WOULD make it!!

I haven't a clue when the kids go back to school here, so we might not get that luxury after all...I forgot my baby is going to be in SCHOOL. Where did the time go? I'm excited for him, yet how can it possibly be already that time??

I digress. We will be flying to MN for Christmas this year, so flying a few days later to Orlando will be expensive, and tricky. However, it can be done, if the finances allow. Time will tell, but this is certainly on my mind!!

And I'll proudly wear those flashing Mickey ears with you!

I thought about that, for sure, that Joe and Henry hadn't really had the full experience, as they were in transit.
And Henry was...well... asleep!

Henry is too little for it to matter if he misses a few days of school for an awesome Disney trip. The teacher in my room (moi ) is going to take three days off for our February/March trip for that very reason. We were going on spring break, but flights were high, so we looked at backing it up a little. Flights were much better, and we got the free dining, so it was a GO! I'm not one of those 'don't miss school for any reason' people. I rarely miss, so when I do, I don't feel guilty.

It's always about the finances for me, too, so I understand. I have some bills that will thankfully be paid off by May. I am hoping nothing comes along to take their place, and then that money can be saved for the Christmas trip.

Anyway, we can keep it on the wish list for now - that we can have a whole yard filled with DIS friends. Our plan for this year is that Trent will come home for Thanksgiving and we'll go there for Christmas, so more than likely, we will be there.

 

[Charleston Princess]

Happy New Year, Brook, Joe, and Henry!!! I love Henry's countdown!!! I can just imagine the craziness of Times Square on NYE!

Little did I know, I would find the enabling going on over here, too! It's everywhere!!! Brook, it would be so cool to get a chance to meet up with you next NYE! Charles said if I could find the money, we could go, so I am going to start saving my pennies!

 

[jenseib]

I love that video. It's too cute. We went over across the street to BIL's house and I think it's the first time Claire has been to a NYE party. She was a little baffled about the countdown, but enjoyed the kisses.

 

[brookelizabeth]

Wow - that's cool that you were so close to Times Square last night!

I love Henry's New Year's countdown!

Sounds like you had a fun night - pretty uneventful here... Watched "Family Game Night" on the HUB like we do on the average Friday night, then the kids went to bed. I think DH & I made it until about 11pm.

By the way... I sent you a PM a few days ago... not sure if you go it or if your box is full or something??

We did have a fun night! It was very relaxing, but enjoyable. Watching the MK fireworks, even via webcam, is just awesome.

I did get your PM, I'm so sorry I haven't replied - I have been behind here and trying to catch up, then was planning on tackling the PMs. I will get to it today! There may have been a change in our plans--it's all still up in the air, I'll explain all in the PM.

I thought about that, for sure, that Joe and Henry hadn't really had the full experience, as they were in transit.
And Henry was...well... asleep!

Henry is too little for it to matter if he misses a few days of school for an awesome Disney trip. The teacher in my room (moi ) is going to take three days off for our February/March trip for that very reason. We were going on spring break, but flights were high, so we looked at backing it up a little. Flights were much better, and we got the free dining, so it was a GO! I'm not one of those 'don't miss school for any reason' people. I rarely miss, so when I do, I don't feel guilty.

It's always about the finances for me, too, so I understand. I have some bills that will thankfully be paid off by May. I am hoping nothing comes along to take their place, and then that money can be saved for the Christmas trip.

Anyway, we can keep it on the wish list for now - that we can have a whole yard filled with DIS friends. Our plan for this year is that Trent will come home for Thanksgiving and we'll go there for Christmas, so more than likely, we will be there.

So a teacher is saying it's okay that Henry misses school. I like the sound of this. It is true though, it's pre-school, not his Senior year (gulp!)....and besides, my parents pulled us out of school MANY years and it didn't ever phase us any. A few days missed is okay! Thanks for reminding me of that. I just immediately think he can't miss anything, but that's just not the case. A few days is fine.

Joe and I actually discussed it quickly this morning. His response, "Ya! I would LOVE it!" so, if all lines up, we'll be there! I am keeping it in mind and might even book a room at the 11 month window just to have it.

Happy New Year, Brook, Joe, and Henry!!! I love Henry's countdown!!! I can just imagine the craziness of Times Square on NYE!

Little did I know, I would find the enabling going on over here, too! It's everywhere!!! Brook, it would be so cool to get a chance to meet up with you next NYE! Charles said if I could find the money, we could go, so I am going to start saving my pennies!

Times Square was craZy! Even just the bit 17 blocks away was crazy, I can't imagine being IN it. Yucko! The webcam that we watched sweeping the crowds was more than enough for me. I'd much rather be at the Poly!!

on NYE! I hope it works out!!! It's such a unique time, the crowds are unreal, but everything is plussed. Osborne Lights, snow on Main Street, the Christmas parades, the Castle Lights, Holiday Wishes, Holiday Illuminations, the AMAZING NYE fireworks...and more. Seriously, it's magical!

And a mega-DIS meet on top of that.

I think I'm going to start hunting for nickels in the couch cushions.

I love that video. It's too cute. We went over across the street to BIL's house and I think it's the first time Claire has been to a NYE party. She was a little baffled about the countdown, but enjoyed the kisses.

Aw! That's so cute!! I think Henry was a bit confused by it all too, but he didn't care, he got to knock down pillows and stand on the couch. In a couple years we'll let him stay up late and watch it all. He has to understand the concept of a year first though.

 

[brookelizabeth]

As many of you know on December 26th the east coast was bombarded with a blizzard!! It started on Sunday morning while we were at church - and it didn't deter this crazy family - we continued on and decided to go SHOPPING that day.

We grabbed some lunch after church and then trekked onward to the train, the icy steps down into the subway station should have been a warning, but nooooope. We had decided to just go to the Queens Mall since it would be easier than navigating the busy streets of Manhattan with a stroller in the snow.

We eventually got to the mall and it was a MADHOUSE! Unreal! It's always busy, but this was something else. I was looking for a pair of jeans, but ended up buying absolutely nothing, but Henry used some Christmas money he received from relatives and purchased:

He was all about getting a set with a crane. It was a great purchase though, he plays Legos every single day!

We also got him a Tron hoodie from the Disney Store.

After we eventually left the mall the snow was heavy and coming down fast. Pushing the stroller through the snow was an ordeal. We were very happy to eventually be on the train - dripping wet, with everyone else, as we all slowly defrosted.

The snow didn't let up until about 5 am the next day and we woke up to a winter wonderland!

Henry wanted to go out and play, so after 20 minutes of dressing

He liked throwing the snowballs....at me....

We were out there for maybe 10 minutes and he was done! We had a great time though!

It's so strange, it's only about 2 feet of snow, which for Joe and I, coming from Minnesota, is nothing. However, Minnesota dedicates a very large sum of money to snow removal, so snow plows are out the second the snow slows down and there might be one day of hairy driving, but life continues. Here---not so much. A tiny path down the sidewalks get shoveled by the shop owners, the snow plow went by once before 8 am. Joe went into the City for work the next day (he later found out he could have worked from home!), and everyone was walking down the middle of the road because it was slightly less deep than the sidewalks. The trains were all messed up and it took him a lot longer to get to work, it was 30 minutes before one even came to our stop!

It's still a mess out there, but getting better due to it melting. We have adventured out with the stroller everyday since Tuesday and it's getting easier. When I lived here before I was married and had a child I barely remember winter. I do remember one big blizzard, but I didn't think much of it because I just had to be concerned with me facing the elements. Oh, how life changes with a family!

 

[Poolrat]

Thanks for reminding why I moved south.

I can't speak for the city but on Long island they would start plowing as the snow fell. I did see some news footage and the plow blade was sparking because it was scraping the street. Yup, that is what they would do.


The worst part is the "black" snow. That nasty, get everywhere, never melting until Easter snow.

This last go around here things got clear pretty quickly. Even in my pictures, the road is clear already from use and melting. They even put brine on our neighborhood streets, which they never used to do. Getting out of the neighborhood was the worst part. I guess enough Northerners moved down to show 'em how it is done!

i think we all are starting to save for NYE 2011! Booking at 11months wold mean you could book NEXT MONTH!

 

[MeMom]

Well, not being from Minnesota or New York,
I have only this to say,
"That's a lot of snow!"
That's like five years worth of Tennessee snow.
I know you love it there. I guess there's a good spot for everyone. I think I'll be happy right where I am.