December 2009 - A Celebration of many things

[MadilynnsMomma]

Madi went to see UP! in July and did very well! I am planning on taking her to see Christmas Carol, non 3D, on Monday!

 

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

NICE TRAIN PICTURES!!!!!

I don't think the train is coming anywhere near Pittsburgh or Cincinnati!? I can't believe the movie comes out this weekend. Before we know it, we'll be packing for Disney!!

 

[JoJo1980]

Thankyou for sharing your lovely day with us and those photos are great I hope you had a nice time and I definately agree that we should all have fridays off we went to world of disney when we visited new york back in may and I could have spent all day in that shop

 

[exwdwcm]

yes, your Grand Central station pics are gorgeous- you should totally go out a few days and just take some pics! We don't have that many interesting things around here to shoot! Some longhorns? lol

it makes me regret not seeing the train tour- they did come to Dallas back in early Sept, but it was during the week and I hate having to drive downtown dallas, never can find parking etc.

 

[nic100308]

Oh, my dear friends....I am in LAMINATING HEAVEN!!!!

Trust me, it exists and I will update you tomorrow on my laminating fun!!

 

[MadilynnsMomma]

Oh, my dear friends....I am in LAMINATING HEAVEN!!!!

Trust me, it exists and I will update you tomorrow on my laminating fun!!

I just went to click on the "like" button, then realized I wasn't on facebook

 

[mandy2012]

Thanks for joining the party, and no worries, just read at your leisure! Don't worry about the lay-off, it was just a blessing in disguise. And I really have a completely different and new perspective in life. And, after having this year with a low stress job that's not demanding on my personal life, I realized that it's just been so nice to spend time with my family and friends and most importantly DH. Sometimes things are the way they're meant to be. It was devastating at first, but I wouldn't change this past year for anything. Even the times that were hard and when we struggled, it was all worth it. And one day we'll look back and remember this as one of the best times in our life. In a way that being poor with my DH is fun, kind of hard to explain.

Thanks for stopping by and I'm glad you have enjoy my PTR!!

I know exactly what you mean. I also had a demanding job where I was unhappy, and quitting that job was the best decision I made. I love waking up to the love of my life everyday and just spend all day with him. We are both happy, but after Disney he will be getting a job so I guess I will be at home all alone lol

 

[mandy2012]

Oh and thanks for posting those Christmas Carole pics!!!

 

[nic100308]

I am a DIS delinquent. I know I told you that I would update you on my OCD Paperwork/Laminating fun, but life sort of got in my way. Okay, so I’m going to try to fill you in on a little bit of what’s going on.

Last week was sort of a long week. Honestly, at this point it’s not even worth my energy to go through the specifics, plus after having some time to examine them they just seem so trivial. There are times when things seem like such a big deal, and then once you have a second to really think about them they’re not big at all, or they just don’t matter anymore. And all of this craziness, aggravation, and nonsense has a reward: the reward is DISNEY.

My just for now job kind of sucks, but in 16 work days I am done with this place forever!!! My boss pretty much said there was no point in coming back after my vacation (I planned to leave in January anyway) I’ve been waiting for my real job (a really good job with great benefits) to come through and the good word is January 1 (well the first work day after New Year’s). So, no more poopy job after Disney!!!!

So Friday after work I went out with my girlfriends. They don’t drink, so when I go out with them I usually don’t either, but it was a crazy week so I needed a beer!! Anyway, I’m glad that Friday night started to upwards turn of everything. I had such a good time with my friends. We had dinner and then went ice skating!! I love it when I meet up with these particular friends because it’s so no pressure, no pettiness, and just fun. My one friend is a flight attendant for Jet Blue so she has a crazy schedule, and my other friend travels a lot for work. So sometimes we can only meet up like once a month, but we never seem to mind. We don’t put any guilt or pressure on each other and if it happens to be a month before we talk, then so be it!

Anyway, after I came home I had already forgotten about all the aggravation of the week. When I walked in the door I had 2 very wonderful surprises waiting for me:

1 – A DVD of Ty’s (disneyaddicted) amazingly talented daughter signing and a Kermie t-shirt she made me!!!! It’s she cute, it’s Kermit wearing Mickey ears!! I was so excited I instantly started to plan the day I was going to wear it. Ty, you are the bestest!!!!
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WAIT FOR IT
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2- MICKEY MAIL!!!!!!!!!
this calls for the banana dance

Yes that’s right dear friends, it is completely official!! We have everything now!! Magical Express, Mickey Mail, Final Itinerary. It is all set!!!!!

Friday was the savior of my week. By the time I walked in my door I had forgotten about all the BS that seemed to follow me this week. But when I came home on Friday none of it mattered and then I was rewarded with some Disney happiness. It was at that point I realized that none of it was important, Disney was important. Only Disney!! I am a good person (and Greg too, more so than I) and I do the right thing. There truly is a reward for good people and it is called Disney. This happened to be a week I started to get weak and started to waver, but I pushed through and then I was reminded of my wonderful reward that will be here in 25 days!!

Such a magical thing, Disney is. I find it so funny that this has taken on a whole new meaning for Greg and me. Non-Disney people just don’t understand and it’s not even worth it to try to explain. This trip is so much more than just a vacation. It’s a second honeymoon (more so than a first anniversary celebration), the point at which we get a fresh start, a second chase, the beginning of our new beginning. Getting here was a journey: financially, emotionally, and methodically. It holds so much more meaning than anyone could understand.

Okay, so before I get myself into some Disney happiness, sentimental tears I will again promise you that by tomorrow I will have an update on what I’ve been up to Disney wise. Not terribly exciting, but anyone who is into organization might really like it!!!

Thank for reading and have a magical day!!!

 

[nic100308]

PS- I have started my holiday season early and broke out the Christmas music today. I am so loving it!!!!

 

[nic100308]

Since it is almost time for my to relinquish power I am now in the “I must review, make sure I have everything, and make sure I am prepared for anything” mode. So this thread is dedicated to my OCD-ness and all the paperwork that will be accompanying us to WDW.

This is our itinerary. It simply states what days we will be going where and what time things like ADR’s, parades, and special events/activities are. Nothing fancy, but it is in “Walt Disney” font which just makes it so cool. Plus it’s laminated.

Quick background on the laminator: So last week I was at work by myself. My co-worker was out sick and the bosses were…well not here. Things have dramatically slowed down here, so I was kind of bored. So I was doing some Disney stuff when Greg informed me that they had a laminator. Well, that started a multi day project and I have basically laminated everything that I could since.

These are our Dining Credit Tracker Cards. There is a little Mickey for each credit that we get for TS, CS and snack. This way as soon as we use one we can just cross it out and know exactly what we have left. They too are laminated so they don’t get nasty in our bags, and a Sharpie will allow us to cross off Mickey’s

So, but this time I’m on a roll with the laminator and Greg informs me that they also have LUGGAGE TAG LAMINATES!!! Well, that’s what sparked these little beauties. I made tags for our luggage and carry on bags, plus I made “if lost” tags for our park bags and cameras. They’re two sided, so I really customized them with different pictures of characters we like.

Disney documents:
This includes out email confirmation, paid in full confirmation, MVMCP tickets, La Nouba tickets, our Mickey mail, our reservation sheet (which has dates, times and confirmation numbers of EVERY reservation made) and our Christmas shopping list (so we don’t loose track of anyone)

Jet Blue & Magical Express:
This has a copy of our Jet Blue itinerary & email confirmation (we have kiosk check in). This also contains all of our Magical Express information.

Copies:
I make copies of everything; confirmations, tickets, ME tags, extra copies of our itinerary and reservation list, and anything that was received from Disney. My feeling is if something happens and I at least have a copy, maybe something can be done. It may not to anything, but hey if we’re in that situation then it is worth a try. I actually have two of these: one which I will carry with me in my carry on and another that will be put in my suitcase.

In addition to all my wonderful paperwork I have the “Ultimate Packing list from mousesavers.com which I uploaded to excel and customized for our needs. I also have a “Things to Purchase” list. I’ve been picking up a few things every week and stashing them.

These clear, vinyl folders I have everything in were something I discovered at my old job. I would use them when I was preparing travel documents for people. They come in very handy, and I love that I can see through them and they are a little sturdier than paper folders. And I love an excuse to use the label maker.

I also include a little label stuck to the top of the luggage flap with our name, phone number, address, and destination just in case the tag goes missing and so does the luggage (Greg taught me that one)

Nothing like a little organizational porn, huh?!?!? My old boss used to travel A LOT and I would go through this at least 12-15 times a year. Sometimes more. And that was for trips to Korea, Hong Kong, Oevel (Belgium) and God knows where else. LOL all this prep is like second nature to me. Plus at least now it’s for us and not for me to send someone else somewhere.

On some level organization like this is fun for me. Well, lets face it; it is down right fun for me on all levels. I don’t mind it, it’s kind of a comfort. Plus, as I have stated before, I relinquish all control freak power the second I get on the plane. Well before that, Greg handles the tickets. One time you drop the tickets outside the airport and never again are you trusted with airline tickets. The cop standing outside found them, so no harm no fowl right? Actually before that we thought I left them in my MIL’s car. I have never to this day, and the 5 years since, seen Greg as livid as I did at that moment. So, when we walk out the door to go on a trip, Greg becomes responsible. So I do everything I can to prepare for every and any “just in case” because once we’re there I don’t want to have to worry about anything even if we do run into a catastrophe.

So, not the most exciting of posts, but maybe someone out there has taken something from this. LOL I know there was no need for pictures, but I’m a visual person and our itinerary was so pretty and color coordinated and in DISNEY FONT!!! Honestly, Greg and I may have a little OCD in common because when I sent him the itinerary he came in about a half hour later to show me his wallet size and to inform me he put all the confirmation numbers into his phone, you know just in case.

Cheap Chic tip:
1) Before you go food shopping, make a menu for dinner throughout the week and stick to it. Planning actually saves us a lot of cash. Also we end up with leftovers that Greg takes for lunch.
2) To save on extra baggage fees (and leave room for souviners) consider doing a load of laundry at your resort. Target has a travel sized Tide (I think for $1) bring your supplies and even if it costs you $5, or even $10, still so much cheaper than an extra baggage fee.

Tune in next time and I'll fill you in on my Thanksgiving menu and holidat preparation.

Thanks for reading and have a magical day!

23 DAYS!!!

 

[LOVEMY3KIDDOS]

I love those luggage tags! I wonder if I can get my hands on some homemade laminated tags?? Do they do that at Staples I wonder?? It would obviously have to be sturdy enough! I am going to do a bit of investigating!!! Anyway, you are all organized and set to go! I am so worried that I am forgetting something with all of my lists! I am going to post everything on my PTR in the next few days and ask for everyone to look them over and assist me in filling in the blanks wherever they may be! I feel like I want to make everything on big posterboard so I can hang it like in a board room and it is easier to see and cross off!! LOL Major anxiety going on on this end!!! And....lucky you...got your Mickey Mail!!!! I am still waiting! Not very patiently...but waiting!

 

[DONTMINDME]

I got the self laminating tags in that size at Wal-mart in the office supply section they work for dis badges too The ones I got are 5 in a pack for 2.50and they are nice and sturdy and very easy to use I love them for the thickness and price. Hope that helps.
Nicole great lists I love the dining count down but I didn't see a margatita party meet on the 4th at Epcot with Billie, Jojo and me. Did you forget us?You are joining us aren't you? We would be lost without you.

 

[creativeamanda]

I thought I was OCD--you've got me beat, hon! I love the tags.

(and I laminate stuff, too)

 

[floridascgirl]

I your luggage tags. What program did you use and/or how did you size them so perfectly? I really want to make a set after seeing yours! One more question, did you just do a Google search for your images? My DH11 would love the pirate.

 

[JoJo1980]

I'm so happy that your mickey mail arrived and that your friends cheered you up after a bad week

WOW i looooove all off your planning items!! Those luggage tags are so cute I like the idea of the little credit trackers for your meals & snacks too! I use the clear wallets as well, they come in handy dont they, I also use some clear one's that look like an envelope and have a little press stud on the flap. I also take a back up set of info with me incase something happens to the original lot

I'm loving your tip about planning your meals before you shop, I've been doing that since we moved in the house and i'm glad i'm not the only one who does it As well as saving money it also helps me figure out what we need to buy easier whilst i'm in the shop.

 

[nic100308]

I love those luggage tags! I wonder if I can get my hands on some homemade laminated tags?? Do they do that at Staples I wonder?? It would obviously have to be sturdy enough! I am going to do a bit of investigating!!! Anyway, you are all organized and set to go! I am so worried that I am forgetting something with all of my lists! I am going to post everything on my PTR in the next few days and ask for everyone to look them over and assist me in filling in the blanks wherever they may be! I feel like I want to make everything on big posterboard so I can hang it like in a board room and it is easier to see and cross off!! LOL Major anxiety going on on this end!!! And....lucky you...got your Mickey Mail!!!! I am still waiting! Not very patiently...but waiting!

I am sure you can find something that would work. Maybe even those clear cases that you just slip the paper into. Let me know what you find!!

Sometimes I get myself a little crazy and I get carried away with the organization. LOL for awhile I was debating copies of our insurance cards and drivers licenses. Greg informed me that I was getting crazy, what do you guys think??

Anyway, it helps that Greg takes a second look at things and lets me know if I'm missing anything and skipped anything. I think a second pair of eyes, or third, definitely helps. No worries, Mickey mail will be to you soon!!!

I got the self laminating tags in that size at Wal-mart in the office supply section they work for dis badges too The ones I got are 5 in a pack for 2.50and they are nice and sturdy and very easy to use I love them for the thickness and price. Hope that helps.
Nicole great lists I love the dining count down but I didn't see a margatita party meet on the 4th at Epcot with Billie, Jojo and me. Did you forget us?You are joining us aren't you? We would be lost without you.

Good tip! Erin, did you see Walmart has them!!!

Margarita party!?!?! I know not what this is. I am meeting Jojo at Mexico at 2 on 12/4 for a drink and then we're off to our ressies at Rose & Crown. Was that your plan too?!?!

I thought I was OCD--you've got me beat, hon! I love the tags.

(and I laminate stuff, too)

LOL I'm not that bad, just very organized. Oh boy if you were around when I was planning my wedding. My vendors and reception hall would stare at me like they couldn't believe their eyes. I had spreadsheets and balance sheet and charts and everything was in it's own vinyl folder with a label maker label on it!! LOL I was even early to my own wedding. The church lady made me hang out in the Rolls, she said "we're not ready for you and this has never happened before, so sit tight and have a glass of champagne."

I your luggage tags. What program did you use and/or how did you size them so perfectly? I really want to make a set after seeing yours! One more question, did you just do a Google search for your images? My DH11 would love the pirate.

I did it all in Power Point. I love power point because you can manipulate images fairly easily. All the are came from google. I just looked up "Disney clipart" but oddly enough no good Kermit clipart. I was bummed!! The sizing was pretty easy too. I just measured the "tag" area of the laminate and then drew a box using the box tool that was the right size. Mine was 3" x 2" and power point has a scale at the top so I used that as a guide.

I'm so happy that your mickey mail arrived and that your friends cheered you up after a bad week

WOW i looooove all off your planning items!! Those luggage tags are so cute I like the idea of the little credit trackers for your meals & snacks too! I use the clear wallets as well, they come in handy dont they, I also use some clear one's that look like an envelope and have a little press stud on the flap. I also take a back up set of info with me incase something happens to the original lot

I'm loving your tip about planning your meals before you shop, I've been doing that since we moved in the house and i'm glad i'm not the only one who does it As well as saving money it also helps me figure out what we need to buy easier whilst i'm in the shop.

Thanks, the luggage tags stemmed from being bored but they did come out really cute. LOL and then once I had one I was on a roll.

You know I looked for those envelope ones. I have used them in the past but couldn't find them anywhere. I ended up with an envelope type but it has a zip top. I used that for our reservation cards and designated tip money. I wanted something more secure because we were keeping money in there.

Yes, the menu definately makes shopping a lot easier. It also helps us stay on or close to our grocery budget. Plus I'm a planner so I like to look for recipes and say "Oooo this would be good for dinner on Wednesday!"

Oooo I forgot about our reservation cards. I read this one on the boards somewhere. Someone said that because the restaurants can be crazy, loud and very busy, they put the name of the restaurant, their name, party size, and reservation number on a slip of paper and when they checked in they just handed the slip to the person at check in. I thought this was brilliant!!

 

[nic100308]

The tree is emptying, we’re already down to 21 days (tomorrow) and I can’t even believe how fast it’s going. It doesn’t feel like that long since the last time I posted trivia, but I have a pile of Santa Mickey’s. Okay, trivia time!!

Day 30 – What company sponsored the “It’s A Small World” ride when Disney World first opened?

Day 29 – What was the only movie, personally produced by Walt Disney, to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture?

Day 28 – In the Haunted Mansion, you enter a room with portraits on the wall, and the walls appear to stretch. In Disney World which of the following is true: are you descending (like an elevator), or is the ceiling being raised?

Day 27 – What are the names of Cinderella’s wicked step-sisters?

Day 26 – What Disney World ride has a giant alligator named Old Smiley?

Day 25 – Which animated Disney movie is the best selling home video of all time?

Day 24 – Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is the newest attraction in this building, which has seen several different attractions since WDW opened. What attraction was the first?

Day 23 – Who provided the voice for Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove?

Day 22 – How tall is the tallest ride in WDW and which ride is it?
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answers below
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Day 30 – Pepsi
Day 29 – Mary Poppins
Day 28 – The ceiling is rising
Day 27 – Anastasia & Drizella
Day 26 – The Jungle Cruise
Day 25 – The Lion King
Day 24 – If You Had Wings
Day 23 – Eartha Kitt
Day 22 – 199 ft, Tower of Terror

I’ve been thinking of what to do with all these Santa Mickey’s when our countdown is finally over. A part of my want to save them for the next trip, but what if that’s not during Christmas. Then I thought maybe some gift tags, but they have numbers on them. Then I thought about using some in my scrapbook, but I couldn’t possibly use all of them. Ornaments? Some fashionable earrings? Anyone have any ideas??

PS- For whatever reason I started to get Disney Family Magazine and emails too. Anyway they had this super cute craft that I thought you guys might like.

instructions: http://family.go.com/entertainment/...ble-mickey-mouse-santa-christmas-candy-box-t/
template: http://a.family.go.com/images/cms/disney/mickey-christmas-candy-box-printable-photo-1109.pdf

Enjoy!!!

 

[MadilynnsMomma]

Thanks for sharing the pictures! I love a fellow OCD'r! I also love that Greg is into it! Asking Shamus for opinions is like pulling teeth!

Love the Mickey Santa candy box!

 

[creativeamanda]

Okay, can I just say I'm a bit jealous--all of your tickers say weeks while mine still says month. Darned school/work for getting in the way of Disney vacationing!