~How TWO trips became...who knows? ~ It's a TRIP! and an upgrade.... 4/22

[All7OfUs]

No, perfectly clear! And if you believe that, why don't you go on a trip with me next September???

Okay, enough goofing around. I think I get it, but even if i don't, I know you're going to have a great time! You are THE perfect person to go with, as you've done your homework, and more, for those with wheelchairs! good job, maroo!

 

[maroo]

I'm so confused about this one huge thread.

I think I'm confused from being confused??!!??!!??

At least I didn't write in PINK!

If you can do two at once, I can do three!! lol

No, perfectly clear! And if you believe that, why don't you go on a trip with me next September???

HA!


Now we REALLY are going to confuse them all... with 4 trips to talk about. Geez!

Okay, enough goofing around. I think I get it, but even if i don't, I know you're going to have a great time! You are THE perfect person to go with, as you've done your homework, and more, for those with wheelchairs! good job, maroo!

You are so sweet!

This will take an extra step in the research, because Rachel may actually be able to ride a few more rides than Lauren...that has yet to be determined yet! But, I hope to have an update out soon about what we HAVE decided! And then I need you guys to help me with a few other things!

 

[MRNsMommy]

I think I like the idea of all of them being combined...easier to keep up with just one! Can't wait to hear about ALL of them!

 

[that's nice]

At least I didn't write in PINK!

If you can do two at once, I can do three!! lol

Now your just trying to show me up!

It's OK though. I saw you read my PTR. I might be gaining on you!!!LOLOL

 

[maroo]

Now your just trying to show me up!

It's OK though. I saw you read my PTR. I might be gaining on you!!!LOLOL

I always read your pre-trippie! I am subscribed and everything!

Sometimes I lurk.

 

[TarzansKat]

Okay, I was confused, but I think I get it.

You're going in December with friends, January for the half marathon...when are you going with "strangers?"

Wait a minute. You're going for free dining. I'm confused. Which friends belong to which trip?

 

[maroo]

Okay, I was confused, but I think I get it.

You're going in December with friends, January for the half marathon...when are you going with "strangers?"

Wait a minute. You're going for free dining. I'm confused. Which friends belong to which trip?

I am so sorry you are so confused!!!

I will put up a cheatsheet here in just a minute...

 

[maroo]

Let's review, shall we?? Because I think I have confused all of my friends!


September 2009 Dates: Sept 4 - 9, 2009
Cast: Maroo and Sharon (teacher, friend from FL)
How Long: 6 Days
Where: POP Century
Travel: By CAR!!!
Purpose: Free Dining - need to make LOTS of ADR's!
Touring Plan: Relaxed



** To BE DETERMINED...these are changing!!! For the better, I hope!!
December 2009 Dates: December 15 - 20, 2009
Cast: Maroo - I am going as mostly a friend, but also a assistant to Rachel (soon to be 21, uses a power chair) and her Mom, best friend and extended family
How Long: 6 days
Where: Animal Kingdom Lodge (Savannah View)
Travel: By car
Purpose: MPS Conference
Special Activity: Candlelight Processional, Osbourne Lights, MVMCP
Touring Plan: Busy!


January 2010 Dates: TBD
Cast: Maroo, probably solo
How Long: ??
Where: ??
Travel: By air
Purpose: Half Marathon!!! My very first!
Special Activity: Hopefully a MASSAGE after my race!
Touring Plan: Focus on marathon, but some parks


September 2010 Dates: TBD ** See Link in Siggie! Separate Pre-Trippie for this trip!!! **
Cast: Maroo, All7OfUs (Leisa) and Lee Ann (not on the boards yet)
How Long: 10 Days, probably
Where: ??
Travel: By car
Purpose: Tour the parks, Dining
Special Activity: TBD
Touring Plan: Commando AM, Very relaxed PM

 

[TarzansKat]

Good. We're solid now!

Thanks for the cheat sheet, I was having trouble getting the trips straight!!!

 

[maroo]

Good. We're solid now!

Thanks for the cheat sheet, I was having trouble getting the trips straight!!!

I was debating this weekend. Trying to decide whether to let the pre-trippie DIE!

Just let it go out to DIS cyberspace.

To let it rest with all of the other half done pre-trip and trip reports...

To give it up altogether!

But I really do need help planning stuff and getting ideas from you guys!

So...should I keep on writing this? Or is it all just too confusing?

 

[KathyRN137]

But I really do need help planning stuff and getting ideas from you guys!

So...should I keep on writing this? Or is it all just too confusing?

I don't think it's too confusing, especially if you reference the particular trip you're currently discussing...



Kathy

 

[that's nice]

Don't let it die!!!!!!!

I think your cheat sheet post has summed it all up!!!!

OK.. what do you need help planning???????

 

[maroo]

** December Trip! **

Ok...I need your help with Christmas!

Here is the plan so far...so that you guys are aware...

We are staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge (thank you Joyce and Rachel!). We arrive on a Wednesday and check out on a Sunday.

Plans so far...

Wednesday, December 16th
- arrive and check in to AKL
- If we have time - Soarin' (not sure what else would be top on our list??)
- Late lunch at Le Cellier (2:30 ish?)
- 5:00 show Candlelight Processional
- Immediately leave the park and head to DHS
*** Ellie (4 yrs old and the only child on the trip) and family don't arrive until the afternoon - so they will meet us at DHS!
- Toy Story (don't laugh out loud...we would like to ride it...if possible!)
- Osbourne Lights after the park closes - we plan to wait around as long as they will let us and let the park empty out as we watch the lights.

Thursday, December 17th
- MVMCP!!!! (I am so excited about this, that I will list it first!)
We have no idea what else to do on this day...?? Not planned yet!
We are definitely taking a nap or sleeping in, though!
?? What do we wear???


Friday, December 18th
Joyce has MPS meetings today
- Sleep in! We were out LATE last night!
We have no plans for today, either?
- MUST Go to bed early...early day tomorrow!

Saturday, December 19th
- Early ressie at CRT! As close to 8:00 as possible! For all 7 of us?? Not sure on that yet? This is VERY early for us. It will take a while to get ready and out the door...
- I personally hope that we get to catch Spectro and Wishes on Saturday night? Not sure we make it that long, though?

Sunday, December 20th
- Check out and drive home...long drive!



So...we don't have much planned yet. We wanted to get the Candlelight Processional "out of the way" before Ellie got there, because we want to see it, but did not think that Ellie would enjoy that as much as we would.


We have medical issues that will need to be considered and won't be planning any other meals. Rachel may get tired and need to rest. So we are only doing those TWO ADR's!


So...help me...poke holes in my plan! Add suggestions? What Christmas activities are we missing???

I would like to go around to the resorts? I know they are beautiful!

What else do we need to catch?

 

[maroo]

Don't let it die!!!!!!!

I think your cheat sheet post has summed it all up!!!!

OK.. what do you need help planning???????

Thanks for the support on keeping this thread going!

I have put out a call for help on the Christmas trip!

We are having a "Disney" meeting this evening and I would love to start getting some advice!

 

[kimmylaj]

well i can certainly answer the what to wear to mickeys mvmcp...customs of course....matching longsleeved tees with mickey heads and santa hats or if you so choose, holiday iron ons... you must all coordinate it will look so cute in the pics. we went two years ago for the first time. it was amazing, crowded but amazing. we slept in went to downtown disney and went to the park around 5 ish and got in with our party tickets. we tried to make the first night before christmas show, but got closed out. we had lined up about 45 minutes before. we were upset, but went to see some characters. we were able to get in the second showing of mickeys night before christmas, first parade, two dance parties (tons of fun) the castle forecourt show and cookies and cocoa and a glimpse of the fireworks. we only did one ride. we spent a lot of time getting character pics, because we wanted them in their christmas clothes LOL . my kids have pics in their mickey and minnie jammies with mickey and minnie in their christmas outfits. (we waited about 45 minutes for that) but what a christmas card. so i would have to say be prepared read as much as you can and decide what you really want to see. i still feel bad i missed belles story time, but it is a reason to go back. osbourne lights was our favorite thing about the holiday and mgm had a great christmas parade then too. it is just so magical have fun. sorry for the rambling the whole thing started because i was just going to tell you to wear customs (what a shock right?) who knows you might want to throw in a twirl skirt

 

[KathyRN137]

My advice for the MVMCP is the same as Kim's... Get to the shows and parade route as early as possible!!!

We did the party in '05 (Pre-DIS) and we couldn't get seats for the last Mickey's Twas the Night Before Christmas a half-hour before the show!! It was completely full!

We managed to find a so-so spot for that awesome parade.... again, half hour before parade time!! I know you'll probably have Rachel in the w/c, but those H/A spots fill up very quickly, so don't wait!

I thought the parade alone was worth the price of the party!!

Oh... and I got the cutest hairband with Minnie ears / sparkly Santa hat at the Emporium!!!


Kathy

 

[mrsksomeday]

There are 2 parade locations reserved for persons with disabilities. One at Liberty Square and one to the right of the Partners Statue when you are looking at the castle. I would make sure to get there at least an hour before the parade maybe more depending on how crowded the party is. We usually go to the second one because it usually isn't as crowded.

 

[All7OfUs]

I think that cheat sheet was an immense help- at least for me! I think I was thoroughly confused before this, and even got screwed up on one of our phone calls once or twice!

So, Christmas help... sorry, never been there, or done that. But it all really does sound fun! Someday, I'd LOVE to see the Candlelight Proc. It looks so beautiful from the pictures and descriptions.

Questions... will you guys be using WDW transportation or your own van?? Will you take the boat over to DHS from Epcot?? Just wondering how long you had in mind for hopping.

Could someone stop at DHS earlier and pick up TSM fast passes for you all on the way to EPCOT?? That might give you a better chance of riding it?

Open to suggestions??

Why not tour the monorail resorts on your party day?? After a good sleep in, of course! You could leisurely hit the GF, and the Poly, eat lunch at one of those, see the decorations, etc.. then get over to the MK in plenty of time.

I think with the med. issues, you are very wise to limit the ressies! And the 2 you've picked sound great! I think just playing the rest by ear will be good. Maybe you will get to try some CS you haven't before

Just my 2 cents

Liesa

 

[maroo]

These responses are ALL in reference to the Christmas Trip!!

well i can certainly answer the what to wear to mickeys mvmcp...customs of course....matching longsleeved tees with mickey heads and santa hats or if you so choose, holiday iron ons... you must all coordinate it will look so cute in the pics. we went two years ago for the first time. it was amazing, crowded but amazing. we slept in went to downtown disney and went to the park around 5 ish and got in with our party tickets. we tried to make the first night before christmas show, but got closed out. we had lined up about 45 minutes before. we were upset, but went to see some characters. we were able to get in the second showing of mickeys night before christmas, first parade, two dance parties (tons of fun) the castle forecourt show and cookies and cocoa and a glimpse of the fireworks. we only did one ride. we spent a lot of time getting character pics, because we wanted them in their christmas clothes LOL . my kids have pics in their mickey and minnie jammies with mickey and minnie in their christmas outfits. (we waited about 45 minutes for that) but what a christmas card. so i would have to say be prepared read as much as you can and decide what you really want to see. i still feel bad i missed belles story time, but it is a reason to go back. osbourne lights was our favorite thing about the holiday and mgm had a great christmas parade then too. it is just so magical have fun. sorry for the rambling the whole thing started because i was just going to tell you to wear customs (what a shock right?) who knows you might want to throw in a twirl skirt

Thank you so much for all of the hints! I told the group last night (we had a Disney "conference call" - how funny is that? ) that we had to all wear matching shirts! Justin was not on the call and I am sure he will freak, but the rest of us have decided to wear matching shirts! So, now I just need some design ideas!

My advice for the MVMCP is the same as Kim's... Get to the shows and parade route as early as possible!!!

We did the party in '05 (Pre-DIS) and we couldn't get seats for the last Mickey's Twas the Night Before Christmas a half-hour before the show!! It was completely full!

We managed to find a so-so spot for that awesome parade.... again, half hour before parade time!! I know you'll probably have Rachel in the w/c, but those H/A spots fill up very quickly, so don't wait!

I thought the parade alone was worth the price of the party!!

Oh... and I got the cutest hairband with Minnie ears / sparkly Santa hat at the Emporium!!!


Kathy

We are definitely going to get there early! Our only object during the Christmas party will be to do the Christmas stuff...if we get to ride anything else, it will be a bonus!

There are 2 parade locations reserved for persons with disabilities. One at Liberty Square and one to the right of the Partners Statue when you are looking at the castle. I would make sure to get there at least an hour before the parade maybe more depending on how crowded the party is. We usually go to the second one because it usually isn't as crowded.

Thank you!!!! I don't know if Ellie will make it to the second parade? I think we are going to have to play that by ear! Hopefully we can get good "seats" so that Rachel can see.


Christmas Party Plan:
- Arrive at 4:00 or earlier (with a ticket)
- Ellie is getting a BBB makeover today, probably in the late afternoon so that she will be all pretty for the big party!
- Eat an early supper
- Line up for Twas the Night Before Christmas early for the 7:00 show
- (Depending on how long Ellie is going to stay up) Line up at the front of the castle by the statues (HC seating area) for the 8:30 parade
- Have someone get us Hot Chocolate and cookies or some sort of snack while we wait
- Watch the castle show as we wait and take lots of pics of the beautiful castle!
- Watch the parade
- Possibly try to catch some characters or a ride before Wishes
- Not sure where we will be for Wishes?
- MUST get to a DANCE party at some point in the evening for Ellie - this was BY FAR the favorite part of our Halloween Party experience with Lauren

If we can stay out later with Ellie (and Rachel, for that matter), then we will try to catch the second parade!

 

[that's nice]

** December Trip! **
Plans so far...

Wednesday, December 16th
- arrive and check in to AKL
- If we have time - Soarin' (not sure what else would be top on our list??)
- Late lunch at Le Cellier (2:30 ish?)
- 5:00 show Candlelight Processional
- Immediately leave the park and head to DHS
*** Ellie (4 yrs old and the only child on the trip) and family don't arrive until the afternoon - so they will meet us at DHS!
- Toy Story (don't laugh out loud...we would like to ride it...if possible!)
- Osbourne Lights after the park closes - we plan to wait around as long as they will let us and let the park empty out as we watch the lights.

Thursday, December 17th
- MVMCP!!!! (I am so excited about this, that I will list it first!)
We have no idea what else to do on this day...?? Not planned yet!
We are definitely taking a nap or sleeping in, though!
?? What do we wear???


Friday, December 18th
Joyce has MPS meetings today
- Sleep in! We were out LATE last night!
We have no plans for today, either?
- MUST Go to bed early...early day tomorrow!

Saturday, December 19th
- Early ressie at CRT! As close to 8:00 as possible! For all 7 of us?? Not sure on that yet? This is VERY early for us. It will take a while to get ready and out the door...
- I personally hope that we get to catch Spectro and Wishes on Saturday night? Not sure we make it that long, though?

Sunday, December 20th
- Check out and drive home...long drive!

So...help me...poke holes in my plan! Add suggestions? What Christmas activities are we missing???

I would like to go around to the resorts? I know they are beautiful!

What else do we need to catch?

I will put my .02 in.

Wednesday------I have to agree with All7OfUs with having someone be the runner to TSM on the first day before you get to Epcot. By the time you get to DHS the FP will all be gone... but you might get lucky with a shorter standby wait. If this is going to be your only Epcot day I would make a list ranking the top rides and try to see how many you can hit.

Thursday----- Once again I will double what All7OfUs (Liesa?? I think??) said..... Sleep in. Have a late breakfast then head over to the monorail. You can stroll through CR, Poly, & GF. Have a late lunch 2-3ish. Then head to MK for the party. I'm pretty sure you can get in with your ticket at 4pm. As what to wear... I'm a guy, I just put on whatever is clean! LOL I'm sure you ladies will have some cute christmas attire. I would keep a jacket with you though... it might get cool once the sun goes down.


Friday----- You said you wanted to sleep in. When you get up maybe AK would be an option. You can get there late and leave early. Hit a few rides or a show and you can be back early to AKL for dinner. Or just go back and get ready to go to DTD or somewhere??


Saturday----- With the early ressie you can stay at MK till the early afternoon then go back later to catch Wishes. I don't know if this is a good option though with the wheelchair.?.?.?

Sunday----- After you check out goto Kona for breakfast and get your last 'taste' of Disney ie: Tonga Toast. You can see the castle from here and say your goodbyes.

DISCLAIMER: these are only suggestions. YMMV

Tim