Having a GRAND time - the NEW Official GF Chat Thread PART 3

[mickeynut1]

Hey, Chan.......Glad to hear Lucy's appointment went okay . I have not done any baking yet . I think I'm going to start later in the week.......maybe do it Friday and Saturday . We go to DH's parent's Sunday to celebrate and then my parent's on Christmas Day .....so I will be baking this weekend for Sunday and then probably again right before Christmas so everything is fresh .


Shel......That pic is so cool .


Deb

 

[mandymommy4]

Hey ladies, I typed this up and am posting on several boards. It is too important to not post every where I can.

I will get to teh good stuff in the AM. I am exhausted!

We had a scary situation at DHS and I wanted to share it with all the parents. This is long but please read.

My kids were playing on the Honey I Shrunk the Kids play ground and my DD3 went in one of those little cave like things with my older two kids that only children can fit in and did not come out with them. We don't know what happened but my husband and sister started looking for her immediately and calling her name. We think she got scared and stayed in it then came out while they were looking for her.

I was at the bath room with my DD2 while this was happening and as i was walking back towards the playground I noticed a child's scream that reached a pitch and intensity i could not ignore, and I recognized the voice. It was my DD3 screaming "mommy, daddy, mommy, daddy" in a mans arms and she was reaching with both arms towards the playground. I had no idea she was missing but adrenaline kicked in becasue I knew this was not right and I ran like I never have. He was already outside and LEAVING the playground area and walking towards the Streets of America through the archway. I started screaming her name and ran to him. I don't remember much beside he had on a hat and sunglasses and he said "she was lost" then he was gone, and not back into the playground either, it all happened so fast it is a blur.......another mother got a CM because I was hysterical as was DD3.

The CM that we talked to did not seem to think that it was a big deal and kept saying "ma'm he gave her too you". We went to guest services immediately and reported what we could to security, but honestly there was not much I could tell them because it was a big blur and i don't remember anything but glasses and hat....... the same thing most of the men wear at Disney. I also know he was light skinned and did not have a foreign accent. I can't tell you if he was even wearing clothes.

I believe this man was not trying to find help because he walked past several CM and was leaving with her. He did not return to the playground and did not stick around, he vanished.

WE will NEVER go in that play area again. We have never cared for it because it is so crowded and hard to keep up with your kids. We have ALWAYS stayed right with our kids while in this playground. We had 3 adults watching 4 kids and this happened. I don't understand how a man could walk out with a little girl screaming "mommy, daddy" and reaching out like she was and no CM stopped him.

My husband has always been edgy at WDW and I thought he was being silly. NOT now! Unfortunately we are thinking about not getting passes next year, it has affected us to that point.

I was so worked up I got sick (bless the people in first aid) from what happened that we went back to the hotel, we had FP for TSM and gave them away.

I could not go to the tree lighting meet.

I could not be around crowds anymore, even if they were DIS crowds.

I did not sleep at all and could not get the image of my baby girl screaming out of my mind.

This morning we went to Epcot but by 10 I could not handle it because i was so jumpy in the crowds and we left and came home.

I am thankful tonight that I was able to kiss my baby and say prayers with her.

I know this is kinda a down post and not the up beat, light hearted post that normally are on this board but out story needs to be shared.

PLEASE! WATCH YOUR CHILDREN, DON'T LET YOUR GUARD DOWN AT DISNEY

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Mandy I am so glad you are okay!!!!!

 

[Alicnwondrln]

I am freaking out just reading your post!!!!!

 

[mickeynut1]

Mandy that is so scary!!!!! I'm so glad everyone is safe and back at home . I think we all feel safe at Disney just because it's Disney.....but you're absolutely right......we can't ever let our guard down no matter where we are!!!! Your story gave me the chills.....but it is reality in today's world which is very sad . We never know from day to day what is going to happen. I kiss my boys and tell them I love them every night......sounds silly since they're teenagers........but that's something I've done since they were babies. Some tell me I'm an overprotective mother but I don't care........too many freaky things happen nowadays. I'm so glad everything worked out for the better and your DD is ok . How frightening that must have been for you......I hope you're doing ok yourself .

 

[Lives4Disney]

Mandy....I am shivering...that is SO CREEPY!! It's a nightmare. I am stunned......totally freaky shivery stunned.

I can't believe it...and I AM SHOCKED by the CM's lame a@@ reaction. NOboyd bothered to try and find this freak!?!?!?!

omg...I am so sorry this happened to you and I hope your DD is OK.....that is just the scariest thing I have read in a LONG time.


Chan

 

[Maxie86]

Mandy: OMG that is scary. I can't believe nobody noticed her screaming for her mommy and daddy, especially the CM's. They should be trained to watch for that. Glad everything turned out ok. I don't know how you will get over that feeling and be comfortable in crowds again.

Chan: What a nice story about Lucy. Glad everything went well at her appointment.

Gaylord Palms is absolutely fabulous. Pictures do not do it justice. The decorations are beautiful. We went to ICE this morning and it was great. They give you parkas to wear, but my nose was very cold by the time we left. It is 9 degrees in there and there were people in there with shorts on. They were a bit cold. I am surprised they let them in, they say you need long pants and no open toed shoes. We go home tomorrow. It takes so long for your trip to come and then it is over way too quick. Time to get ready for bed. TTYL

 

[tinklvr64]

Hi Gals and M&P...

Well today was a looonnnggg day back at my regular job in the school office..It was sad not being in the classroom with "my" kids..Hopefully soon!

OKAY..Mandy WAY SCARY!!! OMG its like one of those bad movies on TV....I cant even imagine what you were and still are thinking and feeling. You are right..we put our defenses down just cause we are at Disney but there are freaks everywhere! Glad you are all safe! What a way to celebrate

Kristin WELCOME BACK!!!!!!! Give us the details girlfriend!

Chan we are at Celine Dion tomorrow night!!!! But its suppose to snow oh great the Eisenhower will be a mess getting to the United Center..I am meeting my friends at Cheesecake Factory in Oakbrook and then on to the show! I have been gearing up by playing only Celine music today.

Kelly glad you are back home safe and with power!

Vanessa get ready cause here you come Anywhere in GF will be good!

OK off to bed...Goodnight and ttyt everyone!
dawn

 

[vbarry]

Mandy- I am so sorry that you had to go through that and hope you guys are ok. I am glad you posted it though. I just pulled out the ID wrist bands I put on the girls and thought yesterday that I did not need them since they are not toddlers anymore and I will not have to worry about them running off. Well they are wearing them now and I am going to be watching them at all times. My dh is always scared about this type of thing but I just don't think about it much. I am very, very glad you posted. Take care. That is a very scary thing I am sure to get over.

Dawn- You will have your own classroom soon!!

Well- I did some power shopping last night since we are having a family Christmas this weekend with my side of the family. This is the second year without my dad so I am hoping it is much better than last year.

It is going to snow today and is so darn cold. I need to go to UPS and hopefully I make it!

Well Marie...Oh I mean my MIL pulled out the "Poor Me" card yesterday. She was on the phone telling me how she has not put up a tree nor has she bought a gift. She will probably just go out to eat with my FIL on Xmas day and on and on. I could not sleep for awhile last night because of it but I just told myself that she had her chance to go and chose not to.

OK I better get to work. 1 week from today I will be at the GF!!! I did book the limo service to and from the airport since the ME lines have been reported LONG lately and I know I will not feel like waiting. Miguel is putting in a bottle of champagne for our Anniversary!! WOOHOO! I will be a bit tipsy before I even get there.

Have a nice day everyone!!

 

[Tinker*Shell*Bell]

Mandy I don't even have words for what happened to you. I am so sorry. I know you are still shaking. I would be. I am stressed just reading it. I want to tell you I am sorry a million times and give you a big hug.

 

[mickeynut1]

Morning Gals and M


DS is home again today . I hate that he's missing more school but I guess it's better than him going and getting worse and end up having to miss more days in the long run . It's just as well because it keeps me home........and today is COLD with SNOW on the way . We're supposed to get 2-5 inches with the first few coming tonight around rush hour time . And then Thursday is supposed to be an icey mix .


Vanessa........Have a nice Christmas celebration this weekend with your family . I'm sorry your MIL is doing that to you . Try not to let it bother you.......just keep reminding yourself of the awesome time you're going to have .


Dawn......You will have your own classroom full of kids in no time . How excited you must be . Have a good time tonight at the Celine concert .


Maxie......Glad you had a nice time at Gaylord Palms . ICE looks awesome.....I was telling DH about it the other day . I know what you mean about vacations going so fast . So much preparation and excitement goes into planning them and then it seems like they're over before you know it . But the good thing is you have a spring trip to look forward to . Have a safe trip home . Can't wait to hear more about it when you return .


I'm sure I'll be around most of the day if anyone wants to chat......since DS is home I'm not venturing out anywhere .........gotta get as much Dis-ing in when I can .


Hi to everyone else I missed. Hope everyone has a great day .


Deb

 

[BlueSkies]

Good Morning Everyone

Mandy What a scary story...thank God you heard your DD!! Hope that you are feeling a little better today...I dont know how you shake that awful what if feeling....when our kids were little their school actually had a stranger danger info meeting for parents...how to define who was a stranger etc....what a world this can be sometimes...

Dawn I saw Celine a few years ago in Las Vegas her show was amazing!!! Have a great time...

Vanessa Do not let Marie B guilt you!!! YOu invited them...they decided not to come along....you're going to have a great time...

Shelli and Deb Its funny about the teens they want to be so grown up but inside they are still little kids (kind of like men are!!! -sorry Marvel!-you know its true... )

Channing Glad to hear that your appt went pretty well with Lucy...now you both dont have to think about it until next year...

Maxie Glad you had a good stay at Gaylord Plams...and that ICE sounds like something...I know how the trips do seem to fly...have a safe trip home...

I'm going to (as Vanessa said) power shop today...I am determined to be done with all my shopping by tonight...

Then believe it or not DH does all of the wrapping!! What a guy...he can watch tv and do this at the same time and dosent mind....and he does a great job!!

Wish me luck......hope the stores arent to busy...

 

[BlueSkies]

Channing Have you seen that thread GF RPC or Poly Concierge... what do you think...JK I know how you feel about the Poly...I have never stayed there...DH really favors the GF (thank goodness!!) I always say I'd like to try it one day...but then we always book the GF!!! And when I do stay else where (CR is the only other place my family likes)...I wanna be at the GF anyway...

 

[Alicnwondrln]

good morning cheeseballs!

 

[DisneyMomx7]

Hey ladies, I typed this up and am posting on several boards. It is too important to not post every where I can.

I will get to teh good stuff in the AM. I am exhausted!

We had a scary situation at DHS and I wanted to share it with all the parents. This is long but please read.

My kids were playing on the Honey I Shrunk the Kids play ground and my DD3 went in one of those little cave like things with my older two kids that only children can fit in and did not come out with them. We don't know what happened but my husband and sister started looking for her immediately and calling her name. We think she got scared and stayed in it then came out while they were looking for her.

I was at the bath room with my DD2 while this was happening and as i was walking back towards the playground I noticed a child's scream that reached a pitch and intensity i could not ignore, and I recognized the voice. It was my DD3 screaming "mommy, daddy, mommy, daddy" in a mans arms and she was reaching with both arms towards the playground. I had no idea she was missing but adrenaline kicked in becasue I knew this was not right and I ran like I never have. He was already outside and LEAVING the playground area and walking towards the Streets of America through the archway. I started screaming her name and ran to him. I don't remember much beside he had on a hat and sunglasses and he said "she was lost" then he was gone, and not back into the playground either, it all happened so fast it is a blur.......another mother got a CM because I was hysterical as was DD3.

The CM that we talked to did not seem to think that it was a big deal and kept saying "ma'm he gave her too you". We went to guest services immediately and reported what we could to security, but honestly there was not much I could tell them because it was a big blur and i don't remember anything but glasses and hat....... the same thing most of the men wear at Disney. I also know he was light skinned and did not have a foreign accent. I can't tell you if he was even wearing clothes.

I believe this man was not trying to find help because he walked past several CM and was leaving with her. He did not return to the playground and did not stick around, he vanished.

WE will NEVER go in that play area again. We have never cared for it because it is so crowded and hard to keep up with your kids. We have ALWAYS stayed right with our kids while in this playground. We had 3 adults watching 4 kids and this happened. I don't understand how a man could walk out with a little girl screaming "mommy, daddy" and reaching out like she was and no CM stopped him.

My husband has always been edgy at WDW and I thought he was being silly. NOT now! Unfortunately we are thinking about not getting passes next year, it has affected us to that point.

I was so worked up I got sick (bless the people in first aid) from what happened that we went back to the hotel, we had FP for TSM and gave them away.

I could not go to the tree lighting meet.

I could not be around crowds anymore, even if they were DIS crowds.

I did not sleep at all and could not get the image of my baby girl screaming out of my mind.

This morning we went to Epcot but by 10 I could not handle it because i was so jumpy in the crowds and we left and came home.

I am thankful tonight that I was able to kiss my baby and say prayers with her.

I know this is kinda a down post and not the up beat, light hearted post that normally are on this board but out story needs to be shared.

PLEASE! WATCH YOUR CHILDREN, DON'T LET YOUR GUARD DOWN AT DISNEY

I am so sorry this happened to you. I always was nervous in that playground too, but never sure why.

Your story hits home for me. My mom tells the story (I don't remember it) that when I was two my family was at a big department store and I got lost. She was running around looking for me and spotted a man carrying me out of the store! She said she just about jumped on his back and grabbed me. He too said he was looking for my parents - who looks outside of the store?

Thank you for reminding us that even at Disney who know who is lurking around just looking for an opportunity.

 

[mandymommy4]

Morning ladies!

I am feeling better this morning. DH and I were kinda torn all day yesterday with emotions ranging from feeling stupid that this happened to feeling bad if this guy was a concerned citizen to playing out what could have happened. We are in the process of writing a letter to WDW to let them know what happened and how it was handled and how dangerous the area is. There should be cameras monitoring the exits or like those numbered hand stamps chuck E cheese uses........ IDK I do know that it was an amazing God thing that I was where I was to see her being carried by that guy. DD2 had to go potty again (had just gone less then 30 min earlier) and then when we got there was a line and the ladies in front of me let me skip because she was doing the pee pee dance and whining. I didn't ask they offered. Then it normally takes fro ever in the potty with her because she has to do it all by herself but this time she let me help her and we were out in a snap. Then she wanted to stop and look at something and that took about a min. That put me in the perfect place at the perfect time.

I am not gonna dwell on it and am trying to think positively so I can get over this quicker.

Ok, I have a lot to catch up on everything I missed but I do know that Kristin is back, Kel lost power but is back home and Maxie liked the Gaylord (I knew you would!) and Ice!

The weather is great here so Siobhan should be happy! She can wear shorts!

OK, I am getting pictures together and will post about our weekend later!

Can't wait to hear about K trip and from Siobhan!

Have a good day guys!

 

[mickeynut1]

Mandy.....I'm glad you're feeling a little better this morning . Things happen for a reason and everything you mentioned about DD2 having to go potty and looking at something took just the right amount of time for you to be in the right place at the right time. I know it's hard not to think of the "what ifs".....but just keep remembering that everyone is okay .


Kelly......How is the weather by you ? I hope things are getting back to normal and no more storms are headed your way any time soon .


Deb

 

[m&pForever]

Lucy lost more side vision out of her left eye...BUT her central vision has stayed the same and that part of her retina looks pink...healthy. And she had some cysts on her retinas and the left one is the same..and the right eye is the same or better. Weird since she would NOT take the prescription drops.....

Im glad you received some good news about Lucy even with losing a bit more side vision.

Well Marie...Oh I mean my MIL pulled out the "Poor Me" card yesterday. She was on the phone telling me how she has not put up a tree nor has she bought a gift. She will probably just go out to eat with my FIL on Xmas day and on and on. I could not sleep for awhile last night because of it but I just told myself that she had her chance to go and chose not to.

I think it would do you and my wife good to have a drink and toast to crazy parents/inlaws

We had a scary situation at DHS and I wanted to share it with all the parents. This is long but please read.

..... It was my DD3 screaming "mommy, daddy, mommy, daddy" in a mans arms and she was reaching with both arms towards the playground. I had no idea she was missing but adrenaline kicked in becasue I knew this was not right and I ran like I never have. He was already outside and LEAVING the playground area and walking towards the Streets of America through the archway. I started screaming her name and ran to him. I don't remember much beside he had on a hat and sunglasses and he said "she was lost" then he was gone, and not back into the playground either, it all happened so fast it is a blur.......another mother got a CM because I was hysterical as was DD3.

The CM that we talked to did not seem to think that it was a big deal and kept saying "ma'm he gave her too you".

I believe this man was not trying to find help because he walked past several CM and was leaving with her. He did not return to the playground and did not stick around, he vanished.

I don't understand how a man could walk out with a little girl screaming "mommy, daddy" and reaching out like she was and no CM stopped him.

Mandy do not doubt yourself for one second that this was a concerned citizen. He was not! If he was then he was a complete moron.
Someone who was concerned would not leave the playground but would talk to a CM there. And there are plenty there right? We visted that spot last time. I thought a child couldnt enter or leave without an adult
I remember seeing many many CMs.

anyone concerned would see where she was reaching for and stay there...in that area...
anyone with half a brain doesn't bring a lost child around but stays right in the area and seeks help there.
I am disgusted that CM said that to you. What was the guy going to do? run away with her in his arms? fight you? play tug of war? of course he would hand her to you...he doesn't want to get caught or bring attention to himself.

We have seen children with that 'lost' look on their faces before. I always have my wife watch the child or say hello while i get a CM to help.

I would never ever pick up a child to 'go find some help'

regarding this
I don't understand how a man could walk out with a little girl screaming "mommy, daddy" and reaching out like she was and no CM stopped him.

It remindedme of when my kids were younger and we were leaving Epcot. My dau did not want to leave and was giving us a hard time by the fountains near spaceship earth. I picked her up and she screamed and kicked while we walked out. I said to my wife that people are going to think we were kidnapping her. That is the only thing i can think of why he was able to get past any CMs

Thank God you came out when you did. And thank you for spreading this message everywhere you can and by writing to Disney. I'm sure many people will remember this and keep a stronger eye on thier children. Who knows how many people you will have helped by this. I hope knowing that brings you a tiny bit of comfort. I will certainly have this in my mind next week.

 

[m&pForever]

I have to add...
when we were in that playground my 2yo wanted to climb thru also.

I wasn't thinking of someone taking him but i was concerned he would climb something he shouldnt or fall so i went with him. Yes i squeezed through the tiniest of places and hit my head and hurt my knees.

the kids can go in one area and can come out on the other side...you aren't sure exactly where they might come out especially if you are not familiar with the playground

Bottom line..i will not be going there anymore... Thanks Mandy!

 

[goofygal531]

Mandy: OMG! You gave me chills! That is so scary! I HATE that playground! I would have beat the cr@p out of that guy and called the police. There is no way he was "getting help". That's BS! Thank GOD you were right there.

Send your letter to this email address: wdw.guest.communications@disneyworld.com Make sure to include your phone number. THEY WILL CALL YOU BACK!! I would indicate that this was a kidnapping attempt, it will get their attention. Changes need to be made to the playground and this incident may have some impact. Make sure to indicate that you left the parks both days early and that your trip was "ruined". They will give you no expiration, two day park hopper tickets for those days you left. Not that your looking for compensation right now, but six months from now they'll come in handy. You can even give them away to friends, your names won't be on them.

Oh, my! This calls for a group hug!

Chan: Glad Lucy's DR visit went well. Next Tuesday I'm planning on making your Gingerbread cookies. Can you post details on how to make the house from scratch. How do you construct it? I'm so not a baker or builder! Also, is there enough dough to make a house and few cookies? How many days in advance do you make everything before you build? Maybe I'll make the dough Sunday night, Bake the cookies Monday so he can build Wednesday. Is that good? He's all into decorating, so the house will be simple. aka Hansel and Gretle small

DS4 has turned into the little baker. He wants to bake every night! Last night he made choc chip cookies w/DH. I didn't see what they did as I put the munchkin to bed then fell asleep early myself. This morning I discovered HUGE cookies on the counter! They made about 10 cookies out of the whole recipe!! Men! They might have made more, I forgot they could have each eaten a bunch!

Deb: Signature Restaurants are truly a WDW dining experience. DH and I used to go to them all the time before the kids came along. WDW used to be all about the food He actually asked me recently when can we go back without the kids! I said when they're both in college! When my little one is old enough for the kid's clubs, then we'll probably go an enjoy romantic meals again.

Last June, for my Bday we got a sitter from Kid's Nite Out and went to eat at Narcoossee's. The food and service were amazing. The kids were fine, but DH didn't like leaving them with a "stranger". DS4 actually had fun and didn't care one bit that we left. DS1 fell asleep and never knew anything This Nov trip, being a holiday, we didn't want to leave them. We felt guilty. We did go on the DVC tour (nothing better to do on T-giving and we were strickly doing it for the free fasspasses!). DS4 stayed at the DVC kid's club and LOVED it! DS1 fell asleep the whole time. The tour only last 90 mins and with the fastpasses, we got to walk on TSM! So it was worth it to us and we discovered that DS4 likes the kid's club and would stay there happily. I might even send him to the Neverland Club for a few hours in June. He loves hanging out with other kids.

Oh, but what was my point of all this..... Oh, the food! Yes, go enjoy all the Signature Restaurants! They're amazing! We love California Grille and Brown Derby.

I'm off to do the laundry that I didn't do yesterday. I wrapped presents instead! DS4 has no clean school uniforms for tomorrow Bad Mommy!

Have a good day everyone!
Mare