For the 1st time in forever...we're not going to Disney!

[MommaPeel]

They do offer discounts for BMG if you went to the park that day. Perhaps you can look into that while you are on site.

 

[staley98]

We were there yesterday and it was packed. We had fun, but will probably try Aquatica next time. There were thongs everywhere (young and old) and I've heard that Aquatica is very nice.

 

[lazer]

They do offer discounts for BMG if you went to the park that day. Perhaps you can look into that while you are on site.

We will definitely check into that. Thanks!

 

[lazer]

We haven't done much as far as planning goes...only because we just aren't planning much! We've got one more HP movie to watch and still have a list of movies to watch (movies that have rides/attractions at Universal).

My son (5 years old) is really into Harry Potter and Simpsons lately, so he's beyond excited to visit the places from the tv show & movies...and especially to ride Gringotts.

In random news, we rescued an adorable pit bull from our local rescue. Her name was Precious, which was weird to say often. So, she is now Luna Lovegood. Told you the obsession was strong

79 days until our first Universal Visit!

 

[schumigirl]

We haven't done much as far as planning goes...only because we just aren't planning much!

79 days until our first Universal Visit!

I love the no planning thing!!!!! I can`t read things that are planned to the minute.........

79 days........it`ll be here in no time.........I love the fact your son watches The Simpsons and the HP movies........he will adore both areas at Universal I`m sure.

I used to not like Simpsons very much, but it can be funny especially the bits that go over the kids heads

 

[lazer]

I used to not like Simpsons very much, but it can be funny especially the bits that go over the kids heads

My husband has always been a fan, me not so much! But, it's growing on me. Most of it is over his head, but he's only 5...that'll change!

 

[lazer]

We're so used to 8+ days at Disney that I'm getting nervous about only having 6 or 7 park days at Universal. I know, crazy talk

I've been making little lists in my head of what has single rider or express pass. Watching some videos on YouTube just to get my oldest (5) excited. Still haven't figured out if we will do water park or not. Depends on our energy and if I feel like chasing a 2 year old around to swim in what probably won't be too warm of water (those water parks need to heat their pools..haha).

 

[schumigirl]

I'm sure you'll be fine with that amount of days.......I know what you mean though.

As for water parks.........decide when you get there.........that's the beauty of a universal trip........you can do what you want

 

[lazer]

Haven't updated in awhile. We're getting closer...3 weeks!

I've been picking up little things here and there for the drive (12+ hours). We usually wrap up little gifts and our kids open them at every state line and other major stopping points. Unless they're asleep, obviously. This trip I've found quite a few Hulk things for my 2yo (who is obsessed with hulk) and a few things for the 5yo (he always gets a $5 bill as one gift, and he can spend it ANY WAY he wants at the next gas station, which is always interesting).

My packing list is typed up and two reservations have been tweaked and are all set (Mythos and Jake's).

Other randoms: my husband found a $2 bart lanyard, so 5 yo has two to choose from now (that and a STL Blues one). Park hours printed (early closures make me excited to time to explore city walk, the resorts, and a few things outside Universal). I'm also excited to stop by Ikea while we're there and pick up a few things on my list (the closest one is 5 hours away, until the STL one opens next year).

 

[angryduck71]

IKEA just opened up in KC... not sure which city you're from... but if STL is close...

 

[mrsabbott]

That is a cute idea about gifts at each stop!

I did little goodie bags for each kid, filled with stuff to keep them occupied on the trip. Some things were a hit, but others made a huge mess! I think that I am going to invest in some more headphones so that they can watch a DVD without hubs and I having to listen to it too! I might have to come up with a cute gift idea for them though.. Hmmm...

 

[lazer]

That is a cute idea about gifts at each stop! I did little goodie bags for each kid, filled with stuff to keep them occupied on the trip. Some things were a hit, but others made a huge mess! I think that I am going to invest in some more headphones so that they can watch a DVD without hubs and I having to listen to it too! I might have to come up with a cute gift idea for them though.. Hmmm...

Headphones are a must! Almost all of the gifts are from the dollar spot at target (notebooks, stickers, hot wheels, Chapstick). Some are random snacks they don't get often...but love. Everything is more fun when you have to unwrap it! Haha.

 

[lazer]

IKEA just opened up in KC... not sure which city you're from... but if STL is close...

Yeah, I'm in St. Louis actually, but won't go to KC for awhile. Crowds will be crazy and I'd rather just go to Chicago to visit college friends and throw in an IKEA stop.

 

[lazer]

Added another night to our stay, so we'll have 6 nights at Royal Pacific and one at Cabana Bay. It'll give us another park day (to maybe hit up some favorites again)!

 

[lazer]

We will be riding rides two weeks from today

 

[schumigirl]

We will be riding rides two weeks from today