We wanted to surprise them, but we also wanted them to be in on the planning somewhat, so we decided to surprise them yesterday.
We did a treasure hunt for them. We started with one riddle, which they had to figure out the answer to, then go to that place and retrieve the next clue, and so on...
The treasure hunt ended with them finding 3 things:
1 - Two Gifts Bags (One for Each);
2 - A Scroll; and
3 - A Paper Chain
They were told they had to read the scroll first. This is what it said:
Now that Summer is Almost Here,
It's Time to Start Thinking About a Vacation This Year,
I've Talked to Your Mom & Dad, and They Both Agree,
That on September 29th, You're Coming to See ME!!
I Can't Wait for You to Join Me in the Florida Sun,
You'll Meet Me & My Friends and We'll Have Loads of Fun!!
Love, MICKEY MOUSE
Well needless to say, they were VERY EXCITED!
Then we explained that the paper chain (which my DH made with a Disney Character and a Number on each link), was to count down the days until we leave, starting with yesterday - Day #114!!! (Yes, we certainly still have a ways to go!!)
And Finally, they got to open their gifts, which were small back-packs filled with stuff they can take with them on our trip. (Autograph Books, Fat Pens, GOH Badges, Disney Princess Disposable Cameras, Pennies and Quarters for the Pressed Penny Machines, Disney Dollars, etc.)
The whole surprise went off perfectly! They were soooo surprised and thrilled to death!!!!
Whatever your SIL and her niece plan, I'm sure it will be wonderful! Yesterday is a day my family & I will remember forever! It quickly became one of my all-time favorite memories!!
GOOD LUCK!!