DIS Meet Dec 8 07

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opps..double post!

That's how you rack up posting numbers

 

[plutojudy]

I am getting so excited. We are going to Disneyland next week. We haven't been to Disneyland in 10 years!

 

[Pooh_Girl]

Happy Halloween Everyone!!!!!

 

[Pooh_Girl]

We finally have some of our pictures done from our trip!!!

http://s223.photobucket.com/albums/dd267/Disney_Pooh_Girl/Disney 2008/

Let me know what you think!!

 

[wdwtheplacetobe]

OK, it IS snowing here! Just a bit (I understand it's actually sticking out in Freehold), but it's snow nonetheless!

Beth

We have been to your hometown!!! We were there for a Wedding in May, it's a Beautiful place!!!

 

[BethC1952]

We have been to your hometown!!! We were there for a Wedding in May, it's a Beautiful place!!!

Thank you! We do what we can to keep it nice.

Beth

 

[TheTXTaylors5]

Hello All! I hope everyone is doing well. Sorry I haven't been on in awhile.

We had an amazing trip to WDW and on the DVC Member cruise in September. Probably won't do another DVC Member cruise (NOT worth the DVC points & oop $$$$ IMHO). But, it was fun. We're taking my Mom and nephew with us on a Disney cruise next December. My Aunt & Uncle from CA might join us too. I can't wait to have my family experience DCL too. We had another magical time at WDW. We definitely plan to attend another MNSSHP in the future. We loved it! Now that we have done all three (PPP, MNSSHP & MVMCP), MNSSHP is our favorite.

Some trip highlights . . .

We arrived home late Monday night, September 29th. This was the first flight for Cole and Emily. They did great on the flights. But, we plan to drive for future trips. The whole logistics of it all . . . security (Cole freaked and thought they were taking his shoes going to MCO. He was better and more understanding on the way back), waiting for the plane and ME, park 'n fly, transportation to port and the parks. We prefer to have our own car.

WDW was fantastic! However, the love bugs did bother us more during the back-end of our trip. Why do they call them love bugs? No one loves them.

We stayed at the Beach Club Villas at the beginning of our trip. This is our favorite resort and area. The kids finally got to play and have fun at Stormalong Bay. The resort itself was a nice get-a-way. Our mission . . . ride Toy Story Mania!

We followed the advice of other DISers and got to rope drop during an EMH (AM). There were still a lot of people there. Bill made the mad dash to the TSM FP machine and got us FPs for later and then we proceeded to ride it stand-by when a friendly CM ushered us into the FP line. So, we got to by-pass the longer line. That was a nice magical way to start the day. We have never attended EMH (AM), we're more night owls. Well it is true, the early bird catches the worm. We were heading out of DHS by 2 PM having rode TSM twice, RNR three times, Great Movie Ride, Star Tours and the Indiana Jones Stunt Show. Then, we went back to BCV for more fun at Stormalong Bay.

Epcot is one of my favorite parks. I like to casually walk through World Showcase and Soarin' is one of my favorite rides. Bill and I put Will and Emily into the Sandcastle Club at the BC one night (after they pretty much begged). We had a nice picnic meal of chicken and rice from Nine Dragons take-out for dinner and then went to ride Soarin' with our earlier obtained Fast Passes. (Cole was fast asleep during dinner and Soarin'. He cooperated. Yay!!!!!). Bill got to ride Soarin'. But, by the time he got out it was closed. That is the slowest loading ride ever! But wait, he told a CM I was waiting with a sleeping child upstairs. So, you know what they did????? Have you ever ridden Soarin' by yourself? I did! They led me through the exit and waited for the last ride to finish and then ushered me into an empty room. I had the pick of seats. The CMs even decided to ride with me. That was a very magical moment.

I was so excited when we boarded the beautiful Disney Wonder.

I would LOVE to live on Castaway Cay. It is so beautiful. Cole did not cooperate enough to stay in Flounder's for Bill and I to venture down to Serenity Bay. We'll just have to go back. We received goodies from DVC every night in our stateroom. Our bags were almost over the weight limit going to MCO. I did some repacking and shifting to make sure we weren't over the weight limit coming home. Somehow, we were under-weight. I honestly don't know how. But, I wasn't complaining. It was safe to say, our suitcases were a little full coming home.

After the cruise it was onto Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. We've visit this resort in the past, but never stayed here. It is so big and grand. Very cool! We are big fans of the boat to Magic Kingdom. On our first night, we had a reservation at California Grill during Wishes. So, we took the boat from WL to CR. That was VERY convenient too. Dinner was yummy. But, they didn't have the pre-ordered special birthday cake I ordered for Emily. So, they gave us a complimentary birthday cake. The view is great. But, is not somewhere we would plan to eat again. Service was very lacking and the food VERY over-priced for what you get. It has been marked off our "To Do" WDW list.

We had a CRT 8:10 am reservation the next morning. This is where the boat came into play again. However, we had to take a boat to CR and then the monorail to MK. It was pure chaos when we got to the MK entrance. I think everyone was either eating at CRT or CP or having their hair done at BBB. There was a longgggggggggggg line to get in. So, I highly recommend getting to MK at least 30 minutes before your reservation. Once we got into MK, we had to wait forever at the check-in at CRT and then the line to meet Cinderella. We finally sat down around 8:50 am for a 8:10 reservation. This is another thing checked off our "To Do" WDW list. The breakfast was great and character interaction was amazing. But, definitely NOT worth the price. But, I highly recommend it at least once for a little princess. Emily (and Will) loved seeing the princesses (Princess Aurora, Snow White, Princess Jasmine, Bell and of course Cinderella). Cole played shy. I pre-ordered Emily the chocolate slipper for dessert. Our server was FANTASTIC! He was right on top of everything, didn't rush us and even presented Emily with the slipper with a candle on top. Also, he put a birthday card on our table for all the princesses to sign. Great start to our MK day.

Emily got to chose the first ride of the day. One of her favorites . . . Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We did the Rider Swap. When Bill rode w/Will and Emily, I had my first sighting of the "Dream Team". They were at the exit of BTMRR handing out Dream Ears. I kept mumbling "come on honey hurry up!". We have never won anything official during "YearS of a Million Dream". But, we've had lots of "magical moments". They came out about ten people too late. However, all was not lost. A very nice gentleman saw me with Cole at the exit. He gave Cole his hat. Another wonderful "magical moment".

Bill and I had another "Date Night". This time we hired Kid's Nite Out to watch the kids in our room at VWL. We used them this past May and loved our sitter. So, I requested her again. She remembered our children. I don't know if that was a good sign or not. One thing I DON'T recommend, MK on a Saturday night (We had been at DAK earlier in the days it was great! Rode EE three times!). There was definitely a different feel than past visits, more locals and just way too crowded. We got FP for BTMRR, rode HM stand-by, ate at Cosmic Ray's and then got FP for Space Mountain. Bill and I never get to ride together (unless we hire KNO). So, it was a treat to ride with Bill. We just caught the boat heading back to WL. It's amazing how much quicker you can get around without a stroller and dragging tired-whining kids. We got to watch Wishes from the boat. Truly amazing. Then, Bill and I grabbed Mickey bars from the snack bar and watched the Electrical Light Pageant from the beach before heading back to three sleeping kids.

On Sunday (our last night at WDW), we attended Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. It was really fun. But very hot and humid. Next time, we'd probably wait until the middle or end of October to attend this. We didn't mainly trick-or-treat, but if we saw a stop we'd stop. We love the parties for the short or no lines for rides, fireworks and parades. Emily and I got to ride BTMRR without getting off. She was VERY happy. We have never seen a parade from Main Street. We aren't patient enough to sit on Main Street for an hour, there are ride to be ridden and fun to be had. We DID get to see the Halloween parade from Main Street. Very cool. We all agreed, it was our favorite party of the three. Don't get me wrong, I still like MVMCP. We're going in December. However, we DON'T plan to attend a P&PP again. That was NOT worth the money in my opinion.

What an amazing trip. It was sad to leave WDW. But, we'll be back for Thanksgiving and the first week in December. I called Disney last week to add a few days at the beginning of our trip. Since we are driving, I didn't want to arrive on Thanksgiving and have to deal with all the holiday traffic. So now, we arrive on Sunday, November 23rd, OUR "actual" ANNIVERSARY. For our anniversary, I surprised Bill and made an ADR at V&A and called Kid's Nite Out to watch the kids in our room. I can't wait!

- Jennifer

 

[TheTXTaylors5]

"Happy Voting Day 2008." DID YOU VOTE?????????????

Bill and I both did early voting on Friday.

Snow! You people are talking about snow and it is still in the 80's here. I want some of that cold weather. I bought a case of Duraflame logs last week. They are sitting by the fireplace teasing me. I want to use them!

I haven't read too far back, almost time to pick-up Ms. Emily at school. I'll catch up when I get back.

Beth - How is your DDIL and the babies? She has a few more months doesn't she? Please give her my best.

Jennifer

 

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"Happy Voting Day 2008." DID YOU VOTE?????????????

Bill and I both did early voting on Friday.

Jennifer

Annette and I did this afternoon

We're in Dallas for Thanksgiving ..... maybe we can "meet" up?

BTW ... great trip report!

 

[TheTXTaylors5]

Annette and I did this afternoon

We're in Dallas for Thanksgiving ..... maybe we can "meet" up?

BTW ... great trip report!

We'll be in Florida for Thanksgiving this year (and next year!). We plan to hit MK or DAK in the morning and then off to Daytona Beach to my Dad's for dinner. He has a winter home down there. The winters in MA can be brutal. Sorry, we won't be in town. Have a great time with your son.

Thanks on the Trip Report. We had an amazing time. With all the great trips we've had to WDW the past few years, joining DVC was such a great fit for our family. We love it and can't wait to use points for Adventures By Disney too!

Jennifer

 

[BethC1952]

Beth - How is your DDIL and the babies? She has a few more months doesn't she? Please give her my best.

Jennifer

DDIL is having a very rough pregnancy. She's not due until 2/6/09, but if things don't improve, the babies will be delivered the week after Thanksgiving. DDIL's doctors have said that the babies would probably be able to go into the regular nursery and not the NICU at that point. We can only wait and hope and pray. The babies are actually doing pretty well, it's DDIL who isn't. Her pelvic muscles have relaxed and the bones have separated, so she's in some pain most of the time, and doesn't leave the house without a wheelchair. She's also got problems because she has low blood volume, and the babies are taking a lot of that volume for themselves, so she's frequently weak and dizzy, another reason for the wheelchair. Life around here is a bit hectic! We obviously won't be going to WDW in the near future. It will probably be May before I get there again, and that will be for the Teddy Bear and Doll Weekend, and then back home again because I'm probably going to England for a week in June, again on Teddy Bear business.

On other topics--New Jersey doesn't have early voting, so we all went and voted today, including DDIL in her trusty wheelchair. It's the first time in all the years that we've lived in this voting district that we had to wait on line. We haven't missed an election of any sort in almost six years here, and we're usually around #80 when we vote in the early evening. Today we voted early (just after lunch) and we were already in the 180's!

As I'm typing this, ABC news has just projected that Obama is the winner. I wish him well...it's a job I wouldn't EVER want!

Beth

 

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...it's a job I wouldn't EVER want!

Beth

me either

 

[Pooh_Girl]

Jennifer-I'm so glad you guys had a great time. I LOVED MNSSHP too!!! We unfortunately missed a lot of the activities because we did camp out for about an hour and a half for the parade. That just means we'll have to go back!!! I would definately pick a different time to go though. It was SO crowded when we went. It sounds like you guys had better luck with crowds. The kids looked so adorable in their costumes!!! I'm also glad you and Bill had some time to yourselves too. That's always nice when parents get some time alone without the kids.

Beth-I'm sorry DDIL is having such a rough time with her pregnancy. I really hope that everything works out and everyone will be okay. Let us know if there is anything we can do for you guys!!!

 

[JsMom2]

Yes we're still alive!
It's been awhile since I've had a chance to check in.

Beth, I hope DDIL is feeling better. I'd avoid taking those babies out early if at all possible. I had a troop in Germany who's wife was induced at what they thought was a "safe" time. The baby was more premature than they thought and almost didn't make it!

We also had a great time at WDW and the DVC member cruise. We did the MNSSHP on Sept 19th. I thought it might be crowded because it was a Friday night, but the park was like a ghost town! We walked on every ride - they were even letting folks stay on Big Thunder and ride again - and got tons of candy. We even watched the 2nd parade from the hub on Main street without any wait at all. I usually avoid that area because of the crowds, but there was no one there! Definitely a great time to go!!

The Disney trip was our last of the summer, so we were finally able to unpack

Next up is a cruise to Morocco, Spain and Portugal in December on the Norwegian Jade. The prices on that cruise have been dropping like a rock! In January we're going to go back to LA, spend a few nights at Disneyland with my family (thanks to DVC!) and then take a Panama Canal cruise from LA to Ft Lauderdale on the Coral Princess. We're going to Guatemala, Nicaragua, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Aruba (obviously not in that order), and I'm almost done with our tours in all the ports.

November is one of my busy months at work, which is definitely a nice change. And now I'm just waiting to find out where we'll be going next summer.....

I hope everyone is well!

Take care,
Wendy

 

[BethC1952]

Yes we're still alive!
It's been awhile since I've had a chance to check in.

Beth, I hope DDIL is feeling better. I'd avoid taking those babies out early if at all possible. I had a troop in Germany who's wife was induced at what they thought was a "safe" time. The baby was more premature than they thought and almost didn't make it!

She's feeling a little better today, and her doctor has prescribed some exercises to strengthen her pelvic muscles so the pain is easing a bit. Fortunately, we know EXACTLY when these babies were started--modern medical miracles and all that. They're going to leave the babies in as long as they can, and if DDIL keeps improving, they'll probably stay inside until at least Christmas. We're hoping and praying for the best!

Next up is a cruise to Morocco, Spain and Portugal in December on the Norwegian Jade. The prices on that cruise have been dropping like a rock! In January we're going to go back to LA, spend a few nights at Disneyland with my family (thanks to DVC!) and then take a Panama Canal cruise from LA to Ft Lauderdale on the Coral Princess. We're going to Guatemala, Nicaragua, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Aruba (obviously not in that order), and I'm almost done with our tours in all the ports.

November is one of my busy months at work, which is definitely a nice change. And now I'm just waiting to find out where we'll be going next summer.....

I can't wait to see pictures from those trips! WOW!!!!

November is one of our busy months here too (annual plans and progress reports), and it's also our shortest between holidays, conventions and a bit of vacation time. I wish that there was a trip to WDW at the end of the month, but I guess two more grandchildren will have to do!

Of course, we're already planning next year's trip. I imagine it will be quite like mounting an expedition to some remote location with all the stuff we'll have to bring for two babies! No more camping for Jim and me, but we'll stay at a resort (maybe AKL) and they can all come and visit when they can't stand the tent any more.

Beth

 

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Yes we're still alive!
It's been awhile since I've had a chance to check in.

And now I'm just waiting to find out where we'll be going next summer.....


Take care,
Wendy

I understand the "move" anxiety. The Officer in charge of all the finance work for The Salvation Army South came to visit. He asked me how I felt about staying or moving Our moves usually come out in May.

 

[TheTXTaylors5]

DDIL is having a very rough pregnancy.

I'm sorry to hear that. I am sure she is very uncomfortable and ready to deliver. But, the longer they are inside the better. I hope she makes it to Christmas. That would be the best Christmas present ever to your family. What a blessing. How is your DGD doing with all this? Sometimes, it is the hardest on the "only" child in the house. I am sure it will be a BIG adjustment for her. She is old enough to be a little helper. Emily acted like a little Momma when Cole was born. It was cute. Girls seem to have a built-in nurturing nature.

I understand the "move" anxiety. The Officer in charge of all the finance work for The Salvation Army South came to visit. He asked me how I felt about staying or moving Our moves usually come out in May.

What did you tell him???????

Jennifer

 

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What did you tell him???????

Jennifer

I told him that I felt like we should stay until all of the changes I had made worked out. Although it would be easier to ask for a new assignment ..... maybe back in Texas or even Florida.

The best choice for the Army is for me to stay and I think we will.

 

[Pooh_Girl]

I think Robby and I are going on another Disney Cruise!!!! WOOHOO!!!!! I was talking him into doing the 4 days get 3 free at WDW in January, but since we are going to Alaska with his family in May, he won't have enough time to take another vacation until August. So we are thinking of doing the December 12-19 western. Anyone else on here thinking of doing that one?? I think you should!!! We need to have another dis meet!!!

 

[BethC1952]

I'm sorry to hear that. I am sure she is very uncomfortable and ready to deliver. But, the longer they are inside the better. I hope she makes it to Christmas. That would be the best Christmas present ever to your family. What a blessing. How is your DGD doing with all this? Sometimes, it is the hardest on the "only" child in the house. I am sure it will be a BIG adjustment for her. She is old enough to be a little helper. Emily acted like a little Momma when Cole was born. It was cute. Girls seem to have a built-in nurturing nature.
Jennifer

Shannan (my DGD) is doing pretty well with all of this. She's been insisting since her third Christmas that some year mommy was going to give her twins for Christmas--a brother and a sister. She's been right about things like this before, so we've adopted a "wait and see" attitude!

I think Robby and I are going on another Disney Cruise!!!! WOOHOO!!!!! I was talking him into doing the 4 days get 3 free at WDW in January, but since we are going to Alaska with his family in May, he won't have enough time to take another vacation until August. So we are thinking of doing the December 12-19 western. Anyone else on here thinking of doing that one?? I think you should!!! We need to have another dis meet!!!

It's funny--we just started thinking about this. I'm canceling my proposed trip to London in June. I just can't make the dates work with other things that are happening. So Jim suggested that we take Shannan to WDW in May since I'm going anyway for the Teddy Bear and Doll Weekend and then take a trip by ourselves in December. Since we've already done the Eastern, he thought the Western might be nice--and, of course, that week would be perfect because we'd be home for Christmas.

I'll keep you posted on our plans. I think another DIS meet would be great!

Beth