Gearing Up For a Birthmasiversary With the Mouse! - A Dec 09 PTR

[Elevationist]

That's one reason I ordered a cross-body bag for my Disney trip, which I've blathered about in my pre-trip report here: The Return of the Wizard and the Cheerful Dwarf

I carry too much crap to use one of those Vera Bradley bags, and need something more durable than quilted cotton because I'm rough on stuff, and this is what I came up with! Baggallini Around Town Bag I'm sensitive to sun too (get dark blotches on my forehead and have to spend months using expensive creams to get rid of them), so I've got to have a bag big enough to stash my floppy hat when indoors or the sun goes down.

I have been miiiighty tempted by the Baggallini. My concerns are:

(1) Weight. The Baggallini looks kinda heavy & bulky in all the photos I've seen. I want something light-weight. I have Lupus and suffer from chronic rheumatoid arthritis. I use an ECV in the parks, but try to park it and walk as much as I'm able to because I hate completely depending on the stupid scooter. (But I've accepted that without one, WDW just isn't possible for me.) The larger bags I've carried in the past have always just put even more stress on my joints because of the weight of them.

(2) Strap Length. Being tall, large-busted, and round about the middle, I need a bag with a VERY long strap in order to be able to wear it slung cross-body. The Vera Bradley Hipster has a 50-some-odd inch adjustable strap which, from all accounts, stays put without tearing up your shoulder of hurting your neck.

(3) Dimensions/Capacity. I kind of want a smaller bag to prevent me from over-packing, like I tend to do for park days. Any bag I have, if there's space, I seem to fill it. I figure that if I start with a smaller container, and it will force me to truly only bring the necessities. (And instead of a hat, because I hate hats, I opt for SPF 70 waterproof/sweatproof sunscreen!)

(4) Portability. Something small like the Hipster, I can leave on comfortably while driving the ECV. Larger bags I am constantly taking off, putting in the basket on the front so I can drive, then wrestling it back on again when I get off of the ECV.

(5) Price. I can get the VB Hipster on eBay for around $20 including shipping, if I'm not too terribly picky about the fabric (and I'm not). The lowest deal I've been able to find on the Baggallini is around $70 bucks. Biiiiiiig difference!

My one and only concern about the Hipster is that it is just cotton, and not at all waterproof. But I plan on having a gallon-size ziploc bag to put things like cameras and cell phones into when we hit Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids.

 

[Elevationist]

great minds think alike!

(On the toilet, no less.)

 

[Elevationist]

Got my 6:00pm Boma time I wanted on 12/6!

I used the suggestion of searching for a party of 4 instead a party of 2, and it worked out perfectly. Got the exact time I wanted, and now have an extra hour to spend in Animal Kingdom.

Hooray!

 

[jenbear123]

That's terrible what happened with your backpack incident. I have a story that might change your viewpoint of evil Disney thieves.

My sister and I were in MK for evening EMH. She was wearing an over the shoulder handbag, with her wallet kept in a zippered pocket in the overlapping flap. (I wish I had a picture - sorry - I'll try to describe it best I can) We both were a little parched so we decided to buy a drink at a random refreshment stand in Tomorrowland. We both paid for our drinks and headed towards BTMR in Frontierland. Out of habit, or for some other reason I can't remember, checked that same flap to make sure her wallet was there. As we were heading up the ramp to get in line, all of a sudden I hear "I can't find my wallet. Where's my wallet?" Trying to stay calm, I take out my handy little keychain light and look through every pocket of her purse. It simply wasn't there. Immediately we briskly retrace our steps back to Tomorrowland in a hope that we'll see it somewhere, anywhere, lying on the ground. After about 20 minutes of desperately searching the ground, we told a CM that we had lost a wallet. He told us to report it to Lost and Found, located near TTC and also check with Guest Services on the way out of the park. I think he told us something like that. My memory is foggy. Anyway, my sister was an absolute mess She was really really upset and there was nothing I could do... or was there? Earlier in the trip, she had mentioned she wanted one of those big balloons with the Mickey heads. So, of course, I bought her one to cheer her up. It was something like $10 for a balloon but I didn't care. I had to cheer her up. On our way back to WL, she was still sobbing a bit but there wasn't much we could do until the next morning. Fast forward to 6am. She takes the bus (by herself) to TTC (which was really crazy let me remind you as there was no direct bus from WL to TTC...later on she found out that TTC is right across the street from WL ) and waits at the Lost and Found (near the Disney Kennel) for it to open. At around 7:30am, I roll out of bed and text her phone to see where she is. She replies with "They found it. Someone turned it in last night. Everything is here." There was magic in the air that morning, that's for sure! A kind soul had found the wallet and turned it in. Nothing was missing. She had all her credit cards, driver's license, health card, and over $200 cash, all intact. It was a magical moment

Anyway, I just wanted to point out that there are still some honest people in this world. My sister was very fortunate.

I have nightmares about Disney too! Most often it's about me getting to Disney and I have forgotten my camera at home or that I brought my camera but left the batteries at home Something silly like that. Another one is that I forgot my luggage entirely and don't have time to go back to get it or else I'll miss my flight! Disney really gets to you sometimes... even in our dreams!

 

[Elevationist]

That's terrible what happened with your backpack incident. I have a story that might change your viewpoint of evil Disney thieves.

My sister and I were in MK for evening EMH. She was wearing an over the shoulder handbag, with her wallet kept in a zippered pocket in the overlapping flap. (I wish I had a picture - sorry - I'll try to describe it best I can) We both were a little parched so we decided to buy a drink at a random refreshment stand in Tomorrowland. We both paid for our drinks and headed towards BTMR in Frontierland. Out of habit, or for some other reason I can't remember, checked that same flap to make sure her wallet was there. As we were heading up the ramp to get in line, all of a sudden I hear "I can't find my wallet. Where's my wallet?" Trying to stay calm, I take out my handy little keychain light and look through every pocket of her purse. It simply wasn't there. Immediately we briskly retrace our steps back to Tomorrowland in a hope that we'll see it somewhere, anywhere, lying on the ground. After about 20 minutes of desperately searching the ground, we told a CM that we had lost a wallet. He told us to report it to Lost and Found, located near TTC and also check with Guest Services on the way out of the park. I think he told us something like that. My memory is foggy. Anyway, my sister was an absolute mess She was really really upset and there was nothing I could do... or was there? Earlier in the trip, she had mentioned she wanted one of those big balloons with the Mickey heads. So, of course, I bought her one to cheer her up. It was something like $10 for a balloon but I didn't care. I had to cheer her up. On our way back to WL, she was still sobbing a bit but there wasn't much we could do until the next morning. Fast forward to 6am. She takes the bus (by herself) to TTC (which was really crazy let me remind you as there was no direct bus from WL to TTC...later on she found out that TTC is right across the street from WL ) and waits at the Lost and Found (near the Disney Kennel) for it to open. At around 7:30am, I roll out of bed and text her phone to see where she is. She replies with "They found it. Someone turned it in last night. Everything is here." There was magic in the air that morning, that's for sure! A kind soul had found the wallet and turned it in. Nothing was missing. She had all her credit cards, driver's license, health card, and over $200 cash, all intact. It was a magical moment

Anyway, I just wanted to point out that there are still some honest people in this world. My sister was very fortunate.

Very fortunate indeed! I'm so happy that everything turned out fine. In my case, I know for certain that I was robbed. My friend I was traveling with, who was standing beside and slightly in front of me, even remembered seeing me put my wallet in my bag and zip it closed when I was buying us some drinks to sip on during the parade. I reported it and checked with Lost & Found daily, but no dice. About a week after I got home, I got a phone call from a guy telling me that he found my wallet in the Magic Kingdom parking lot, but of course all the cash and cards were cleared out of it. It just had my IDs and my business cards and such, which is how he got my phone number out of it. He offered to send it to me, so I gave him my mailing address and told him to send it C.O.D., and I would cover the cost of shipping. But... I never received it, nor did I ever hear from him again.

I have nightmares about Disney too! Most often it's about me getting to Disney and I have forgotten my camera at home or that I brought my camera but left the batteries at home Something silly like that. Another one is that I forgot my luggage entirely and don't have time to go back to get it or else I'll miss my flight! Disney really gets to you sometimes... even in our dreams!

Isn't amazing how this stuff seeps so deeply into our subconsciousness?

 

[disneyaddicted]

I can't believe that I haven't posted on this PTR in so long. I think I got confused because I see you on alot of other PTR's that we are both posting on and we chit chat there, so I'm always thinking I'm caught up with you. Duh! Blonde moment...again.

I'm glad you got the ADR's (or most of them) that you were hunting. Persistance pays off.

I have Disney bad dreams all the time. Most of mine are always about being at the resort and not being able to make it to parks or ADR's. One time I drempt that we were leaving WDW and we hadn't done anything but stay in the hotel room the whole time.

That stinks that you had your wallet taken out of your bag. From all my years of travel and having a paranoid mother I am constantly checking my wallet, and making sure all zippers are cosed. I also try and carry my bag with the zipper or snap to open facing inwards against my body.

 

[Elevationist]

I can't believe that I haven't posted on this PTR in so long. I think I got confused because I see you on alot of other PTR's that we are both posting on and we chit chat there, so I'm always thinking I'm caught up with you. Duh! Blonde moment...again.

OMG! It's the illustrious Ty! I am so flattered and honored that you finally decided to grace MY PTR with your presence once more!

Good to have ya again. And yeah, we do chat it up alot on the same PTRs! Haha.

I'm glad you got the ADR's (or most of them) that you were hunting. Persistance pays off.

Indeed it does! A part of me knows that Le Cel is probably a lost cause, but even if I don't get it, no big whoop. I'm quite happy with my ADR line-up now. Le Cellier would simply be the cherry on top of my sundae.

I have Disney bad dreams all the time. Most of mine are always about being at the resort and not being able to make it to parks or ADR's. One time I drempt that we were leaving WDW and we hadn't done anything but stay in the hotel room the whole time.

Good lord, I'm 99.9% certain that I've had that same dream!

That stinks that you had your wallet taken out of your bag. From all my years of travel and having a paranoid mother I am constantly checking my wallet, and making sure all zippers are cosed. I also try and carry my bag with the zipper or snap to open facing inwards against my body.

Yeah, that definitely was an eye-opener, for sure. I was a naive 19-year-old, wrapped in the happiest magical bubble that is Walt Disney World. Ever since then, I've also been uber cautious about my belongings. Lesson learned!

 

[Elevationist]

I have decided that I should start typing updates in color. I love pink. It's my favorite color. I wish I could type in this color pink, and it wasn't so darn difficult to read on a white background! I love red too, though. This blue is kinda pretty. It reminds me of Cinderella's gown. But it's also a bit of an eye-strain. Too many people use purple shades, so that's out. I'm not all that into green. Or orange. Well then, I guess red is the winner!

OKAY! Now that is sorted...

The biggest news of the day is that today is payday for both me and Ron, so I just gave Mickey Mouse more of our money. We're close now! We will be settling up the rest of our balance in 1 week... and not a moment too soon. Our next payday is October 16th. Guess when our due date for our WDW package is? Oct. 17th. Go figure. (Then maybe he'll stop sending Goofy and Donald around to threaten to break my legs if he doesn't get paid!)

I've also added Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre for lunch to our ADR line-up.

Also, and now I'm doubting my choice of park bag. (If I wasn't second guessing myself over something, I'd be terribly bored! ) I was planning on buying this Vera Bradley Hipster bag on eBay next month. Now I'm starting to wonder if it's going to be too small and get soaked too easily. I think maybe I like this Baggallini that Wrexie linked. But gosh, it's so far out of my price range. I mean, I can keep an eye out on eBay for a gently used one, I suppose. I'm shooting for a max of $30 bucks. Also, the nylon weave strap makes me worry that it's going to get uncomfortable and start cutting into my neck at after extended wear during the day. One of the things I liked about the VB bag is the soft cotton strap. I am also kinda digging this one, but the strap only extends to 48", and I need 54" or better. So I dunno what I'll end up with now!

Oh, and back to The Great Croc Debate! So I found out tonight that 30 minutes from my house is................. a Crocs Outlet Store. Guess where I'm heading soon? Dunno if I'll buy anything there, or come home and order something online. But I'm looking forward to getting to put some on my feetsies and walking around in them, just to find out if they are all that they're cracked up to be. Will be cool to hopefully try out different styles and such, and see if I can't find a sandal style that will work. After reading so much here, first I want to look into these, and if those don't seem like they are going to work for WDW, then I'm going to try these.

Now that I have developed a circle of friends here, I plan on writing up a post this weekend, telling you more about me and my life. I promise it's going to be thoroughly uninteresting and painfully dull... But it will be there, for any who have nothing better to do than read it.

Okay, that's all I got for this morning. Thanks for sticking with my PTR, everybody. Ya'lls are the bestest!

 

[MyMuse]

Wow! I was so far behind! So many things to talk about!

Re: As you know, I love my Excel spreadsheet, but I have yet to make a screencap of it (I have to get to that). I will eventually make a day by day for my actual plans. But for right now, I have all things at all parks per day listed, then a box at the end of the column for my plans for that day.

So, just in case, I know what is going on EVERYWHERE. Yes, I'm that .

Re: I know what you mean about names, my older sis and younger bro are named after family members and their names mean something to both my parents. Me? I'm named after a Yankee.

My dad was baseball obessed and his favorite team was the Yankees. I'm named after Mickey Mantle. I was actually supposed to be named Mickey, but my mother changed it to Michele at the hospital when doing the birth certificate. Can you imagine??? He did call me Mickey for awhile but the nickname never caught on (I'm guessing Mom had something to do with that... ).

And my last name begins with a "M". Of course, she could have named me Minnie instead of Michele and could have started the Disney love waaay early.

Re: I'm the same way with backpacks. I use messenger bags because I can see it at all times and it is easier to access what I need. I don't know if it is in my nature or from where I live, but I lock up everything! My mailbox, my car, my luggage...I need to know that my items are always safe.

I recently found a parkbag that I really like. I bought it from Sierra Trading Post online and it works really well. I'm also busty and I like bags to hit me in the right place on my hips. I have a pic and little review in my PTR. And, it was $19.15, shipping included.


Re: Awww, I'm sorry about your nightmares. Maybe this trip to Disney will banish them!

Re: ADRs...I LOVE Sci-Fi. I thought the place was great. In fact, it is the only place that I have repeated on this trip. You'll love it. I believe I have YouTube vids from inside the place, if you want to check it out.

Re: Crocs...nah, I can't do it. I did go on a hunt earlier this year for sandals that met my every need. I found them at JCPenny's; they are called Nature Walk and they worked beautifully at WDW.

Whew! Holy Buckets! That was long. I had so much to catch up on!

 

[Elevationist]

Wow! I was so far behind! So many things to talk about!

Welcome back, lady! Talk away, it gets lonely in here when I'm by myself!

Re: As you know, I love my Excel spreadsheet, but I have yet to make a screencap of it (I have to get to that). I will eventually make a day by day for my actual plans. But for right now, I have all things at all parks per day listed, then a box at the end of the column for my plans for that day.

So, just in case, I know what is going on EVERYWHERE. Yes, I'm that .

Actually! I am in the middle of working on another spreadsheet that will have park hours, show times, parade times, party times, EMH information, ADR information, etc etc etc. I'm planning on printing it on the reverse side of my itinerary spreadsheet paper. See? You're no more than any of the rest of us!

Re: I'm the same way with backpacks. I use messenger bags because I can see it at all times and it is easier to access what I need. I don't know if it is in my nature or from where I live, but I lock up everything! My mailbox, my car, my luggage...I need to know that my items are always safe.

I recently found a parkbag that I really like. I bought it from Sierra Trading Post online and it works really well. I'm also busty and I like bags to hit me in the right place on my hips. I have a pic and little review in my PTR. And, it was $19.15, shipping included.

You mean your PPPB? This one, which is now $32 bucks? Looks like you got a DEAL, girl! It definitely is an option style-wise, though. And they do have the purple one on eBay, which is the one I like best. One question, though: All the websites I looked this thing up on, none ofthem have the actual length in inches of the strap when it's fully extended. If it's less than 54", then no dice. I don't suppose you'd be willing to find out for me?

Re: ADRs...I LOVE Sci-Fi. I thought the place was great. In fact, it is the only place that I have repeated on this trip. You'll love it. I believe I have YouTube vids from inside the place, if you want to check it out.

Yeah! I never really took alot of interest in it until this trip, when I was reading reviews and seeing photos of it here on the DIS. I eventually found myself wishing we had time to do, so I decided to sit down and work it into the schedule. I think DBF will really think it's neat, so I'm not going to tell him aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaanything about what it's like, and let it be a surprise.

Re: Crocs...nah, I can't do it. I did go on a hunt earlier this year for sandals that met my every need. I found them at JCPenny's; they are called Nature Walk and they worked beautifully at WDW.

Unfortunately, my huge mammoth monster waterski-like feet prevent me from shopping most places. I wear a ladies size 13. SOMETIMES a 12, but only occasionally. And I get SERIOUSLY tired of wearing men's sneakers and sandals, so I figure with Crocs, at least they are unisex! And they SO go up to a ladies size 12, soooo... fingers crossed!

 

[MyMuse]

Actually! I am in the middle of working on another spreadsheet that will have park hours, show times, parade times, party times, EMH information, ADR information, etc etc etc. I'm planning on printing it on the reverse side of my itinerary spreadsheet paper. See? You're no more than any of the rest of us!

I feel much better!

You mean your PPPB? This one, which is now $32 bucks? Looks like you got a DEAL, girl! It definitely is an option style-wise, though. And they do have the purple one on eBay, which is the one I like best. One question, though: All the websites I looked this thing up on, none ofthem have the actual length in inches of the strap when it's fully extended. If it's less than 54", then no dice. I don't suppose you'd be willing to find out for me?

Yes! I love my PPPB.
Wow, I really did get a deal. The Budget Boards rock! Still, it's totally worth the extra $.

I'll check it out when I return home. But I'm 5'7", busty and sort of broad shoulders. It's roomy enough strap that it doesn't cut into my neck, it comes to a comfortable low level on my hips and still has room for me to extend it. If that helps at all, right now.

Unfortunately, my huge mammoth monster waterski-like feet prevent me from shopping most places. I wear a ladies size 13. SOMETIMES a 12, but only occasionally. And I get SERIOUSLY tired of wearing men's sneakers and sandals, so I figure with Crocs, at least they are unisex! And they SO go up to a ladies size 12, soooo... fingers crossed!

I have somewhat broad feet and I range from 9 to 10. My sis is a 13 and occasionally fits a 12 as well! She does find it really difficult to get shoes. She finds her size(s) at The Avenue stores.
True for the Crocs though, but I have no idea how high up Nature Walks go. I liked them so much, I bought 2 pairs and the salesgirl gave me an extra discount!

 

[TiggerAllie]

I'll be interested to know what you think of the Crocs... I find them too "foamy" and I much prefer sandals to the traditional Croc styles. My DP got a pair of Disney MJ-Crocs while we were down there last summer, and she likes them.
Personally, I LOVE my Keens because they are super durable and waterproof. They can be on the expensive side, but I did find this good deal for the kind I have on Ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/KEEN-NEWPORT-H2...ewItemQQptZUS_Men_s_Shoes?hash=item3a5385fe11
That'll be close to your size, but you'd probably need to try them on somewhere first to make sure.

 

[Elevationist]

Why does ice cream taste best when eaten straight out of the carton? Mmmmm.

In other news... I just finished Spreadsheet #2 (to be printed on the backside of the Itinerary spreadsheet that I posted about earlier in the week). It has an ADR chart, listing information for each date, like Restaurant Name, Location, Time, ADR#, and any special notes. Below that is a bigger chart, listing by date all the relevant info (operating hours, EMHs, parade times, fireworks & show times, etc) for each of the four theme parks as well as Downtown Disney. I'm pretty happy with it, I might do a screen cap and show it off sometime this weekend.

Going to the Crocs outlet store in the morning when I get off work. I can't afford to purchase anything right now, but at least I'll know if they are something I want to buy for the trip! I sure hope I like them.

Also, roll call: Who is going to be at DHS on December 5th?

Additionally! I am wanting to get some kind of Disney-themed manicure the day before we arrive. Has anybody ever done this? Do you have pics? I have lots of ideas, I just don't know if my cute little Vietnamese nail peoples will grasp what I'm asking for.

 

[JoJo1980]

Bit late with the nanner dance, but YAY for Boma

I'm liking your red, why has it never occured to me to fiddle about with fonts and colours? Me thinks that is a good move Red suits you

YAY for giving mickey more money, we are going to pay ours this weekend as its all due next week anyway - the exchange rate is going a bit bad so i'm wondering whether to order our spending money too before it goes worse This always happens to us on every trip! We look at it for months and its great, then 2 months before our trip it always goes looooow!

Oooo sci-fi diner We are doing lunch their aswell and I cant wait!! Not been before and am sooo excited (What happended to you not changing your adr's anymore?! I'm totally the same though, you keep telling yourself you are not going to look online but you just cant keep away )

Oh heck, i'm no good when it comes to bags, I'd be buying them all and taking them all and using a different one each day I'm lethal with bags!! It's my Grandma's fault - she used to LOVE bags, bless her Just looked at the Piazza bag and thats cute!! I'd love something like that, i love pockets!!

Back to the good old croc debate, I like those cleo one's they look cute! I dont know if anywhere in the UK sells them so I'm either gonna have to look online or go somewhere to buy them once we're in Orlando. Did have a nosey on their website and they do have lots of different sandal type designs that I like, so might give a pair of them a try

I'm looking forward to getting to know you more and listening to your stories, that's what friends are for

Because it feels naughtier when you have it straight from the carton, thats why it tastes even better

Your spreadsheet plans sound great, I need to get organised and do mine, only 7 weeks left!!!

Hope you have fun at the croc store and manage to find something you like

I'm not at DHS on the 5th We're doing AK & then Ohana that evening, might see if we can fit in disney quest between those two aswell.

I bite my nails so i'm not one to give manicure advice

 

[Elevationist]

Bit late with the nanner dance, but YAY for Boma

Yay, my favorite shopaholic has returned to my thread!

I'm liking your red, why has it never occured to me to fiddle about with fonts and colours? Me thinks that is a good move Red suits you

I've gotten that comment for many years. Red has been my color since high school. It's only in the last year or two that pink started to nudge past into first place for my color affection.

YAY for giving mickey more money, we are going to pay ours this weekend as its all due next week anyway - the exchange rate is going a bit bad so i'm wondering whether to order our spending money too before it goes worse This always happens to us on every trip! We look at it for months and its great, then 2 months before our trip it always goes looooow!

Maaaaan. I've yet to travel internationally, but someday I will. And think the whole exchange part is what I will look forward to the least. It totally blows my mind.

Oooo sci-fi diner We are doing lunch their aswell and I cant wait!! Not been before and am sooo excited (What happended to you not changing your adr's anymore?! I'm totally the same though, you keep telling yourself you are not going to look online but you just cant keep away )

I blame the DIS! It's all you people's fault! If I didn't spend so much time reading TRs and Dining Reviews, I wouldn't be constantly finding more restaurants that I want to work into our trip! I've never had ANY interest in Sci-Fi until recently. After reading reports and revies here, and seeing photos of the inside of it, I just know it was a unique experience that Ron would love. So I just haaaaaaaaaaad to work it out somehow!! I haven't mentioned it to him at all, though. He just knows we're having lunch somewhere that day, but I haven't shown him anything about it at all. I want to see his genuine reaction when he walks in.

Oh heck, i'm no good when it comes to bags, I'd be buying them all and taking them all and using a different one each day I'm lethal with bags!! It's my Grandma's fault - she used to LOVE bags, bless her Just looked at the Piazza bag and thats cute!! I'd love something like that, i love pockets!!

I really like that one too! Shame that it's not long enough to go across my big ol' belly.

Back to the good old croc debate, I like those cleo one's they look cute! I dont know if anywhere in the UK sells them so I'm either gonna have to look online or go somewhere to buy them once we're in Orlando. Did have a nosey on their website and they do have lots of different sandal type designs that I like, so might give a pair of them a try

Yeah, I'm hoping that their size 12s will fit me, because it's the highest they go in the ladies styles, like those Cleo sandals. If not, I'll have to go with the traditional unisex Crocs, and see how those feel on my feet. Ron is kinda rollin' his eyes over me getting Crocs, but he knows I'm after comfort, and that the more happy my feet are, the more pleasant I will be! So I promised him that if i have to get traditional Crocs, like the Cayman style, then I will get them in a neutral color, like black or brown. Nothing wild like lime green of neon orange or anything!

I'm looking forward to getting to know you more and listening to your stories, that's what friends are for

You are SUCH a darling.

Because it feels naughtier when you have it straight from the carton, thats why it tastes even better

QUITE true, I think that's exactly what it is!!

Your spreadsheet plans sound great, I need to get organised and do mine, only 7 weeks left!!!

I think I need a hobby. I spend all of my free time on Disney stuff.

I'm not at DHS on the 5th We're doing AK & then Ohana that evening, might see if we can fit in disney quest between those two aswell.

Aww, that's too bad! In order to get our Sci-Fi booking, I had to do it for a Party of 6. I was hoping you would be in DHS so I could invite you and your DH to lunch with us!

I bite my nails so i'm not one to give manicure advice

Haha! My nails are my only physical feature that I actually enjoy, so I tend to have lots of fun with them!

 

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

hi!!! I just wanted to say I'm in too!!!

I'll be at WDW in Dec as well but after you guys (Dec 10-15).

Gotta love the joys of renting a car!! My family lived our WDW trips with a rental car each trip and last year when I worked at WDW (internships) I had my car so it was a blessing to not have to pay the money for one but we checked into a rental car from Orlando for the 5 days and it's over $300!!!! My dad said once upon a time they used to be like $150 for a 7 day trip so I guess you got a great deal compared to Orlando rentals and that was even a AAA discount!!

Can't wait to read more!

and ps...

I loveeee my crocs. I'm a Pre-K teacher and we can't wear flip flops or open toe shoes but we can wear crocs and myself and my co-teacher live in them!!

 

[Elevationist]

hi!!! I just wanted to say I'm in too!!!

I'll be at WDW in Dec as well but after you guys (Dec 10-15).

Gotta love the joys of renting a car!! My family lived our WDW trips with a rental car each trip and last year when I worked at WDW (internships) I had my car so it was a blessing to not have to pay the money for one but we checked into a rental car from Orlando for the 5 days and it's over $300!!!! My dad said once upon a time they used to be like $150 for a 7 day trip so I guess you got a great deal compared to Orlando rentals and that was even a AAA discount!!

Can't wait to read more!

and ps...

I loveeee my crocs. I'm a Pre-K teacher and we can't wear flip flops or open toe shoes but we can wear crocs and myself and my co-teacher live in them!!

Yay! Welcome!

Yeah, this rental car thing will be a new experience for me. I've got a ton of knowledge in all other travel topics, but this is one that I've always managed to avoid. Hell, I could probably avoid it again this time if I'd been taking better care of my car the last few years. But I'm a total chick when it comes to car maintenance, so it's really no surprise that I've run it into the ground.

DBF agreed that the $272 for 9 nights with the car seemed pretty good. Of course, when we booked it we didn't know about the $150 deposit on top of that! But at least now we can plan for it accordingly. And like I told him, it will sort of force us not to blow every last penny we have at Disney World. Now we'll be able to get home, get our deposit back, and have a bit of money to last us until our next paychecks.

Yay, another Crocs supporter! Like I said, I've heard so many good things about them. It's a shoe that people seem to either really love, or really hate. Not often is there anybody on the fence about them. I'm heading over to the outlets in about 45 minutes to check them out, and find out what my feet think of them!

 

[JoJo1980]

Yay, my favorite shopaholic has returned to my thread!

Awww bless

I've gotten that comment for many years. Red has been my color since high school. It's only in the last year or two that pink started to nudge past into first place for my color affection.

Pink is so cute, I tend to have a soft spot for purple & yellow - random colours I know Some of my wedding flowers were yellow roses and lilac freesia

Maaaaan. I've yet to travel internationally, but someday I will. And think the whole exchange part is what I will look forward to the least. It totally blows my mind.

We've only ever been to america - even though the rest of europe is close to us, we've never been! America is the place we love, i'd be happy taking every single holiday of my life there We've visited orlando twice before, and also vegas and new york - would love to go to LA one day, but would have to lose a lot of weight before I was brave enough to go there with all the movie star pretty people

I blame the DIS! It's all you people's fault! If I didn't spend so much time reading TRs and Dining Reviews, I wouldn't be constantly finding more restaurants that I want to work into our trip! I've never had ANY interest in Sci-Fi until recently. After reading reports and revies here, and seeing photos of the inside of it, I just know it was a unique experience that Ron would love. So I just haaaaaaaaaaad to work it out somehow!! I haven't mentioned it to him at all, though. He just knows we're having lunch somewhere that day, but I haven't shown him anything about it at all. I want to see his genuine reaction when he walks in.

The Dis really does need a warning attached to it You get addicted without evening realised I love the layout of the diner and cant wait to sit in one of those cars!! Will feel like i've gone back in time or something I cant wait to hear all about his reaction in your trip report!!

I really like that one too! Shame that it's not long enough to go across my big ol' belly.

Do they sell them at any shops near you? Maybe you could try it and see if its ok, because sometimes different bags can sit differently depending on the makes and the size of the actual bag itself not just the strap?

Yeah, I'm hoping that their size 12s will fit me, because it's the highest they go in the ladies styles, like those Cleo sandals. If not, I'll have to go with the traditional unisex Crocs, and see how those feel on my feet. Ron is kinda rollin' his eyes over me getting Crocs, but he knows I'm after comfort, and that the more happy my feet are, the more pleasant I will be! So I promised him that if i have to get traditional Crocs, like the Cayman style, then I will get them in a neutral color, like black or brown. Nothing wild like lime green of neon orange or anything!

Let me know how you get on I'd be going for black crocs if I was getting the traditional one's, or a neutral colour like you said - a bit less 'in your face' kind of thing, especially for newbie croc wearers like us

I think I need a hobby. I spend all of my free time on Disney stuff.

Oh heck, if you need a hobby then so do I

Aww, that's too bad! In order to get our Sci-Fi booking, I had to do it for a Party of 6. I was hoping you would be in DHS so I could invite you and your DH to lunch with us!

Aww that would have been wonderful!! Thankyou for thinking of us

Haha! My nails are my only physical feature that I actually enjoy, so I tend to have lots of fun with them! princess

:

I used to have long nails, years back, and used to love painting them and putting different things on them - but just started biting them and cant get out of it - think its something I do when i'm stressed

You are a very pretty girl, you hear me!! So start enjoying those features too!!

I know what you mean though, I'm Pooh sized - or maybe heffalump sized, and it drives me insane but I havent got the time / energy / motivation to do something about it at the moment, but it's my new years resolution for this year - so it'll get sorted I've just gotta stay positive, but i'm never any good at that

 

[Elevationist]

Pink is so cute, I tend to have a soft spot for purple & yellow - random colours I know Some of my wedding flowers were yellow roses and lilac freesia

Purple and yellow and super cute together! Especially in pastel or pale shades. Well done!

We've visited orlando twice before, and also vegas and new york - would love to go to LA one day, but would have to lose a lot of weight before I was brave enough to go there with all the movie star pretty people

Whatever! Compared to me, you're a twig, lady!

The Dis really does need a warning attached to it You get addicted without evening realised I love the layout of the diner and cant wait to sit in one of those cars!! Will feel like i've gone back in time or something I cant wait to hear all about his reaction in your trip report!!

I just hope my belly/chest area will FIT in the car... the seating looks pretty narrow...

Do they sell them at any shops near you? Maybe you could try it and see if its ok, because sometimes different bags can sit differently depending on the makes and the size of the actual bag itself not just the strap?

Not that I know of. I tested using my purse. I just wear it as a shoulder bag, but it has a strap that extends up to 55". So as an experiment, I extended it, then tried wearing it cross-body instead, and it just barely worked. Another couple inches shorter, and there would have been no way.

Let me know how you get on I'd be going for black crocs if I was getting the traditional one's, or a neutral colour like you said - a bit less 'in your face' kind of thing, especially for newbie croc wearers like us

I struck GOLD at the Crocs Outlet today! Post coming up about it in a few minutes.

I used to have long nails, years back, and used to love painting them and putting different things on them - but just started biting them and cant get out of it - think its something I do when i'm stressed

Don't be stressed, honey! You're going to DISNEY WORLD!

You are a very pretty girl, you hear me!! So start enjoying those features too!!

I love it when people tell me such sweet little lies.

I know what you mean though, I'm Pooh sized - or maybe heffalump sized, and it drives me insane but I havent got the time / energy / motivation to do something about it at the moment, but it's my new years resolution for this year - so it'll get sorted I've just gotta stay positive, but i'm never any good at that

HEFFALUMP-SIZED. I'm so stealing that. Although I still say you're a teeny thing next to me. I worked for the last 5 weeks to lose weight, lost 15 pounds. Then put 10 of it back on in 2 weeks. Now I'm just in this sort of "Oh, eff this" mood about the whole thing. I know I need to get back on the wagon, though. *sigh* I just haaaaaaaaaaaaate being hungry all the time!!!

 

[Elevationist]

So I went to the Crocs Outlet today.

HOLY CRAP. I STRUCK GOLD.

I walk in, and the very first thing I see is a big alien green (yes, just like the DIS paint chips) sign hanging there:

"BUY ONE PAIR, GET ONE PAIR FREE!"

This was totally for real. Nearly everything in the store qualified. Then I talk to a sales girl, and find out there this weekend they are also taking an automatic 20% off any purchase.

So after looking around for a VERRRRRY long time, walking all over the store in various styles, falling in love with styles only to find out that it was unavailable in my size in a color I liked, debating and waging mental warfare on myself... I finally picked 2 pairs, and bought them.

First up...

Yep, those are the CLEO style that I went looking for originally! I like them alot. They fit more snug than regular Crocs, they're more like a regular sandal with a Crocs sole. I want to get a super-cute Disney-themed Mani/Pedi before the trip, and I like that I'll actually be able to show off my toesies! And I can wear these shoes to work at my full-time job (hotel desk clerk/night auditor), so they will have use beyond just Disney World.


Then for my second pair, I chose...

These are the MARY JANE style Crocs. They're alot like traditional Crocs, but in a bit more feminine style and don't cover the entire top of your foot, which makes me quite happy. That strap on the back can be removed too, if I want. They fit like regular Crocs do, a bit loose and such. I am bringing these to Disney World as well, in case the Cleos fail me. They had the Disney Crocs in this style also, with the little Mickey heads for holes, but they only go up to a size 10. Boooo. But I'll live. I think for Disney I might pick up some of those Jibbitz charms to decorate them with, and Disnify them that way! (That link there is to the Crocs official site, but I think amazon.com and eBay have better selections. I'm digging this pack!) Also, I can wear these to my part-time job (assembly in a kazoo factory), so again... practical beyond just vacationing!

They had quite a few pair that I really liked once I got them on my feets! The problem was finding the styles i liked in a color I liked in my size.

Sassari - I loved these, not for Disney, but for work at the hotel. but alas, they did not have them in black in my size. They do, however, on the website. So I might order a pair eventually.

Patricia - Another pair that I thought would be great for work, not so much for Disney. They weren't part of the BOGO sale those, so I passed on them for now.

Adara - I actually liked the way that these felt on my feet a bit better than the Cleos, but again... The only colors that they had in a size 12 were pretty horrible. And they don't have my size AT ALL on the website. Oh well, obviously these were not meant to belong to me!

So! My haul was 2 pairs of shoes, original total price of $55 before tax. I paid $25.43, including tax.

I can has bargains? Yes I can!