I can't believe we're still in one piece! A GG TR - updated 3/19/09 !

[BarbieGal457]

Hello everyone! For the past week or so, I've been completely away from the DIS..sad yes, but it was for a wonderful reason - I was at the WORLD SERIES!! And, my team WON IT ALL!!!! And to end the month-long party, I went to see the loves of my life, the Backstreet Boys, 7th row Saturday!! It was lovely. I've seen them so many times, but never so close. My favorite Floridians (and a Kentucky-an? What are residents of Kentucky called? Anyone?). Although Nick, my absolutely dream man, is from Tampa Bay, I'm okay with that, since my Phillies...ahem...schooled them. Ahhh, life is good. I have tons of pictures and stories I want to share with everyone, but this is just a quick update.

My friends finally booked their flights, so I was able to set up Magical Express for them. From today, we're only 60 days away!! I'm so so excited.

I just now called and booked lunch at the Whispering Canyon Cafe for January 6th, which is our free day, for me and Mike. Lauren&Lou and Gianna&Frank are spending the day at Universal/IOA, and Jessy&King are heading out to look at hotels. Mike&I have decided to lounge around that day and just really relax. I thought a nice late lunch - since we have a late dinner - would be nice, and he'll get to see a different resort without being rushed. At home we love going out to eat so I think we'll have a good time.

I'm actually looking into getting a spa treatment at the GF earlier in the day, and then going back to lay by the pool and then off to WL for lunch. I'd try meeting him there, but it'll only be his 3rd full day working with Disney transportation, and I'm not risking losing him somewhere! Our lunch is 1:45pm, so I think we should have a nice morning, and then time after lunch. Our dinner is at 9pm at Raglan Road, but we're going to try to get in at T-Rex. I called and they said they're not taking reservations until February 09, so we'll try our luck.

I'm quite undecided if I should take my laptop on the trip. I'm bringing a power strip since we'll have so much to plug in, and I don't want to crowd the room more, especially the little table, but I don't know if I want to spend $40 on a 4GB memory card in my camera I'll never use again, since my 1GB fits a ton now. Any opinions/advice?

I've been shopping sooo much lately, and now am spending a lot of money on the twins' Christening, which is this Sunday, the 9th. I had planned to have both my credit cards paid off by the trip, and now I won't make that goal, but I'll still be pretty close I think. I can't wait to see my suitcase on this trip!!

That's it for now, but I plan to have my World Series pics up soon! I'm also on Yahoo! Sports and in the Phillies commemorative World Series edition of Sports Illustrated! WAHOO !!

 

[SheaBear]

I followed you from the Jan. 2009 board and read all of your pre trip. Great job.

 

[backinoz]

Yet another Snowbird who's followed you to your pre-trippie - you seem to have everything under control - hope it all goes to plan (and your 'tummy troubles' behave themselves while you're in the 'world').

Something I thought I'd mention though - You may want muster up all your courage for arrival day and make sure you do Splash Mtn as it's going into rehab on the 4th for 2 weeks.

Cheers!

 

[Disneylove1228]

love your update!

Cant' wait to see pics!!!!! =]

 

[BarbieGal457]

I followed you from the Jan. 2009 board and read all of your pre trip. Great job.

Hey there! I'm so happy to see you're here! I know this is way after you PMed me, but I still think it's so funny how small the world really is!

Yet another Snowbird who's followed you to your pre-trippie - you seem to have everything under control - hope it all goes to plan (and your 'tummy troubles' behave themselves while you're in the 'world').

Something I thought I'd mention though - You may want muster up all your courage for arrival day and make sure you do Splash Mtn as it's going into rehab on the 4th for 2 weeks.

Cheers!

Hello fellow Snowbird! I've been lacking over there lately, I get busy for two days and then can't catch up to everyone else! I think that so far, the plan looks pretty good. For right now I'm hoping they all make their flight on the 3rd, since they are pretty hard partiers and New Year's is right before. In Philly, we have the Mummers parade on January 1st, and then everyone goes to 2nd st (or 2st if you're a local) and the string bands perform again and march down 2nd st. It's complete madness, and no one really pays attention to the drinking age, or laws against public drunkenness, but it's usually a pretty good time. Considering my friends are very hard partiers, I think I'll be calling them at 4am to wake them up on the 3rd!!

I've read about the Splash rehab, and that's what's making me want to do it even more. I've even had dreams that I'm on it, and it turns into Summit Plummet (another I refuse to do). I hope it isn't as scary as I'm thinking! I just hate the stomach drop, not the height. Is it really as bad as I'm thinking, or will I be ok? Mike is terrified of most rides, and I always tell him that I never will lie to him if something drops, is scary, etc. So far he's always trusted me. It obvious that it drops, and he knows that I can't give him advice since I've never done it. I really want to be prepared since the last thing I need is another hysterical version of me to deal with when I'm already scared!! I've watched video ride-throughs, but I haven't found one to show me the drop yet..the suspense!!

love your update!

Cant' wait to see pics!!!!! =]

Thanks!! I just got them all in the mail - combined with 2008's Disney pics, it came to 491 pictures!! The box was enormous. I'm going to do an update when I get home later tonight since life has slowed for a few days, and will post them all tonight!

 

[backinoz]

Try this video on You Tube - you'll have to wait 'til near the end for the drop but it also shows you the other wonderful stuff you see on the way.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1_qhQqP-RE

My DD rode it back in 2001 - she was not quite 5 years old at the time, and although she does not have a fear of heights, she does have a fear of falling (i.e. does NOT like stairs/bridges/walkways where she can see through the boards to the ground/water below - it doesn't stop her from going on these things though - she's too stubborn to let her own fears get the upper hand). She found Splash to be fine though - rode it twice with DH & I while we did the 'babyswap' with our other DD who was not quite 3 at the time.

Good luck whatever you decide, but I LOVED the theming of this one - maybe a little old fashioned, corny & kitsch for some, but perfectly disney IMHO.

 

[BarbieGal457]

Thanks for the link! I'll definitely check it out when I'm done with tonight's update. I am definitely going to at least try it once, I just need to. I feel like my Disney experience isn't complete without it. I have the same fears as she did/does, it seems. In Urban Outfitters, they have very open stairs where you can see about four flights down - I take the elevator!! That said, ToT I will never do unless I've had five too many drinks. It's an entire ride based on what I avoid - stomach drops!!

 

[BarbieGal457]

The 2008 World Series. Where shall I begin?

My entire 20 years have been spent as a Philadelphia sports fan. A burden, many may say. For 20 years my faith, hope, love, devotion, and belief has never waivered. Not even when Mitch Williams ruined my childhood in 1993 with a 3-run 9th inning homer from Joe Carter in Game 6 of the World Series, effectively breaking all our hearts (and earning some death threats in the process). In fact, I have fond memories of that World Series, even though I was only 5 at the time. The last time Philadelphia had won a championship was with the Sixers in 1983, with the Phillies having won in 1980. I was born in 1988, and thus, missed all of our prior successes. My father took me to a local diner, the Melrose, for my favorite desert, a Danish. We rushed home in order to catch the game. He snuck me through our basement window, where my mother, who was ironing, pulled me through and set me onto the floor in front of the screen. The purpose of this little maneuver was to avoid having to run through our (Polly Pocket-sized) rowhome and risk missing a single moment. Philadelphia fans - like others - are superstitious creatures. We continued this process for every game. Until Game 6.

I had not had a Danish since.

I continued on the road of the tortured Philly fan. The Sixers almost brought us the pride in 2000, but no, not yet. The Eagles in the Super Bowl in 2004? Keep dreamin’.

The reason for our failures was clear. It was The Curse of Billy Penn. Philadelphia’s City Hall has a statue of William Penn atop it, where he was able to look out on his city at all times. City Hall is roughly 548 feet high, which is ironically the number of homers the great Mike Schmidt hit. We won our hearts out with him atop the city.

Until 1987.

Liberty One was the first to build higher than Billy, and the trend continued. And no, we’re not some baseball-only curse, we’re an equal opportunity hex!! Every team in the city failed, miserably, and often in heartbreaking and comical ways. We also began to dress up Billy in team jerseys [see below], which was seen as yet another curse. When the Phils reached the post-season in 2007, we pleaded for the jersey to stay far, far away from Billy, and they listened.

My family has been within Philadelphia sports for generations. My father left, however, and worked for the travel and airline industry for over 30 years until 9/11. He was then laid off, and assumed a position with the Philadelphia Phillies. One of the perks of his job are tickets to every game from Game 1 of Spring Training til Game 7 of the World Series. He also gets one roadtrip with the team a year, a trip for him and one guest to World Series away games, as well as a World Series ring (or if they lose, an NL Champions ring). Nice, but we’re cursed remember? We don’t get to the World Series.

On June 17, 2007, the Comcast Building became the tallest building in the city. Hoping to end our miserable streak, the local Iron Workers placed a small statue of Billy Penn atop the building, where it stands today. The Mets blew a 7 game lead with 17 to go, the worst collapse in history, and we made it to the post-season on the last day of the regular season. Our theme song suddenly became Bon Jovi's "I Love This Town." Bon Jovi is a GOD to us, so it was only fitting. Besides, you can only hear the Rocky theme song so much. We got torched by the Rockies, but I accepted it, as they demolished everything - until my AL-favorite Boston Red Sox (I semi-celebrated that year, as well as 2004, when my beloved Sox won). The Flyers, our NHL team, even went on a tear, but alas, no Stanley Cup for us. Our luck seemed to be improving, though!

The first game of the 2008 season was blown by Tom “Flash” (more like Flush) Gordon, once again reminding us that we will always find some way to lose a huge lead. Our newly acquired closer, Brad Lidge, continued to stun us with his perfect performances, ending the regular season going 41-for-41 in save opportunities (thus, I overlook the wretched 6-or-7 runs he gave up once, including a GRAND SLAM. Ahem, moving on...). On July 19, Gabriel and Christopher, my twin nephews were born. While in utero, I promised them that if we went to the World Series I would take them, since they may never see it again in their lives. I was prepared to make good on that promise. We clinched the National League East Division title once again, but now we did it in style, on the second-to-last game of the season, giving us one game to relax and have fun.

It began to rain right after we clinched and partied to "I Love This Town!"

Devon&Pat, who also attended WS Game 5, Jacqui (who I took to WS Game 5) and I rooting on the Phillies at Shea Stadium in September. We did win this game. I also went to Disney with these three, Mike, and Kris, Jacqui's boyfriend, in January of 2008.

Theresa [on the right] and I, celebrate during the top of the 9th

That clincher was amazing. It took me four days to finally rid myself and my accessories of the beer-and-champagne mixture that was poured directly onto my head by one of my favorites, right fielder Geoff Jenkins. ‘Twas lovely. My sunglasses from that day are still speckled, I just can’t bring myself to wash them. This day was the first day that the banner in left field was unfurled to read “WORLD SERIES OR BUST!!”

We headed to Broad Street to do the traditional towel-waiving, pot-and-pan-banging, car-honking, stop-traffic partying we do so well when the city wins major titles. Living a block from Broad St, I did not fall asleep until late in the evening due to all of the partying.

On Broad St

The NLDS (National League Division Series) brought us the Milwaukee Brewers, who were in the post-season for the very first time. Our Geoff Jenkins had played with them for all of his career (10 seasons) prior to coming to Philly, and now both teams were in the playoffs. We rooted for the monster CC Sabathia to beat our hated Mets, which he did. Now, however, he was in our crosshairs. To the taunting of “CC! CC! CC!” we beat him, and took the first two games in a best-of-five series at home in Philly. In left field, the banner read “WORLD SERIES OR BUST!!”

The Phillies held insanely lavish parties in the parking lot under a huge tent after every single post-season game. We partied hard each night, but now, it was off to Milwaukee.

We dropped Game 3, but won Game 4 to head to the National League Championship Series, a best-of-seven set.

Me taking some time to relax prior to Game 4 at Linvilla Orchards. I'm doing an apple toss!! I weighed just 100 pounds at this point (I'm usually about 115, no higher).

We partied in the lot across the street.

We feared MANNY and the very capable Dodgers pitching staff. The chant of “BEAT LA! BEAT LA!” bounced off the walls of Citizens Bank Park, and echoed through the giant party going on outside the park (thrown by who else but the Phils!) before each game. We shut them down and took all three games at home.

Theresa and I at the Octoberphest Street Party outside CBP at the NLCS Game 3

In left field, the banner read “WORLD SERIES OR BUST!!”

We partied in the lot across the street.

We again dropped the first game, Game 4, in LA. However, a clutch homer has earned 40-year-old mid-season acquisition Matt Stairs an undying love from us fans. Undeterred, my friends and I packed into the local huge sports bar, Chickie’s & Pete’s - where, ironically, SheaBear was that night as well! My girlfriends and I, in a private room in the back, hung on every pitch, every tick, every bat of an eyelash. We reveled in the sight of Alyssa Milano with a rally towel covering her head, deep in despair. In the bottom of the ninth, we were leading, and the reality sunk in. We were three blessed outs from a trip to the World Series, and being the BEST in the NL. One out....ohlordohlordohlordohlord..two outs...[unintelligible sounds]...men on base..oh no...the ball is popped up..over to Ruiz..he has it! HE HAS IT!! WE’RE GOING TO THE WORLD SERIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We ran to Broad St and effectively rioted. I fell into a blissful sleep at 3am, when the last of the car horns and pots-and-pans banging died down.

Remember how I mentioned that if we go to the World Series my dad gets to go with a guest, all expense paid, to the away games? Well, that trip was definitely happening now, and a battle was being waged as to who got to go. My mother contested she should, even though she took off many weeks to help my sister when her twins were born in July, and was terrified to fly, so she wasn’t sure she could make it to Tampa. I, however, said she was a new fan (only a true fan for about 2 years), and that Fenway was my Holy Grail, and she lived through all our other championships.

She won.

I prayed that Boston lost, so she wouldn’t get to see Fenway before I did.

After a knock-down, drag-out, seven-game battle, my parents packed their bags for Tampa Bay, Florida.

Up Next: Part II: TITLE OR BUST!

Answers to burning questions such as:

Seriously?
Will Brad Lidge stay perfect?
Are we going to wet the bed?
Tampa Bay? The RAYS actually beat the RED SOX? Surely, you jest.
Will Ryan Howard HIT SOMETHING?!
Will I see a darn parade down Broad St before I die?
..and..
Are you serious? Really? We’re in the Series? Oh god, I’m going to throw up or pee myself, or both.

 

[BarbieGal457]

The World Series was here, and we were in it. The three-week-long party continued. We’d only lost two games out of nine, and it had been a surprising easy road thus far. And now we faced the RAYS! The cheapest payroll in the AL took down the BoSox, and we were up against them. If you’d have told me in April the Rays would demolish Boston and we’d both be in the World Series, I’d have slapped you and had you committed.

But here we were.

I was staying with my sister and her family two blocks from my house, as I am terrified to stay home alone. At 6 o’clock, I planted myself in front of my sister’s television with the 3-month-old twins to watch every second of it. I saw my loves, the Backstreet Boys sing the anthem. I’d heard all my parents stories of partying with the players in Tampa Bay. I was ready for some action.

My stomach was not.

I spent the first four innings with my irritable bowel on my sister’s bathroom floor in a ball. I cheered on Chase’s first-inning two-run homer from the bath tub as her cat Sunny, who hates me, watched with a menacing glare from atop the sink. No stranger to health issues, I had not been able to eat for the last month and a half of the season, lost 15 pounds, and my team went crazy on me and made it to the Series. Maybe this sick thing was good luck! It was definitely a close call, but we did it. We were leading the World Series 1-0. Game Two came and went, and we lost. Oh god, we were tied, and coming home. I bravely stayed home alone and awaited my parents’ return from the mausoleum that is Tropicana Field. At 4:30 am, I staggered to my bedroom, happy that my parents were back and my Phils were up.

My parents in Tampa Bay -- I have no idea what my mother is doing.

Upon returning home, the Phillies threw a huge party at the Constitution Center in Olde City, attended by everyone but our current players. Of course they’d throw a party only 14 hours after they’d all gotten home AND worked a full day!

At the party, this time NOT in a tent!

But alas, like I said, this winning stuff was far too easy. How about we get thrown a curve ball? Let’s say...a Nor’Easter!! Of course, it was this period of five days during which Philadelphia saw more rain than ever before. Game 3, which I attended (without the twins, sadly, they had to stay home in their cribs..I mean, why CAN'T I take two three-month-old babies to a rowdy sporting event?!) with my boss’s son as a “thank you” for him letting my mom take off so much and not minding one bit, was delayed by an hour due to torrential downpours. My boss’s son, who I’d never met before but turned out to be an awesome guy, was a year younger than me and now we were stuck in a throng of 50,000 rabid fans for FOUR HOURS while the skies opened up. Every time it slowed and the tarp was ready for removal, oh no, not yet! The game finally started, and we got off to a lead.

Like I said, we do nothing the easy way.

We let them tie it up, and miraculously won in the bottom of the 9th. I jumped into Johnny’s arms, and we proceeded to dance and scream like crazy people.

Game 4 was the first game during which I’d broken my superstitiousness. In 2007, I’d had my face painted by the artists at the park, and we’d lost every game. This year, I stayed far, far away. However, I just couldn’t resist, and had #26 (the number of my favorite, Chase Utley) painted on, as well as a P.

Adding my name to the huge jersey

We lost Game 4.

By Game 5, we were having a collective heart attack. The weather was frigid and threatening of rain. While in our seats, I met and chatted with Danny Briere of the Flyers - squee !!!!! Ahem..we again got off to an early lead, and as the rain began to roll in, so did the Rays’ runs. When the game was postponed in the middle of the sixth - a first ever in the history of the World Series, which is 104 years! - we were tied. On the rush from the seats, I was able to chat with Danny Briere for another 5 minutes - squee !!!!! Freezing, soaked, and miserable, we headed home.

Danny Briere & I

Outside the Park with the Spectrum and Wachovia Center in the background

Tuesday was a wash, and we waited with baited breath for the continuation of Game 5 on Wednesday.

Wednesday was about -47 degrees. I kid you not. My best friend Jacquelyn, another die-hard, attended both games with me when my mother did not feel up to it after she attended Game 4. My outfit consisted of: 3 pairs of fuzzy socks, 1 pair of tall Uggs, 2 pairs of thermal long johns, two pairs of sweat pants, 3 tank tops, two tee shirts, one long sleeved shirt, one hoodie, one down parka, ear muffs, one hat, one pair of gloves, one pair of mittens, and a bright red fleece scarf. Yes folks, I was the kid in “A Christmas Story,” so afraid I’d fall down the steps and just keep rolling!

Our tushes never touched the royal blue plastic seats. We stood for three and a half innings, amazing by the clutch hits, and the fact that we were indeed on our way to a World Series title. In left field, the sign for the past three games had read “WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP OR BUST!!” . The “championship” had been added on a different white sheet in red, as opposed to the rest of the black lettering. With a lead going into the top of the ninth, in came the still-perfect Brad Lidge.

One out......ohmigodohmigodohmigod (by this point, we’ve stopped breathing and are shaking uncontrollably).

Two out....(unintelligible noises, if we can even remember to use our vocal chords).

Batter #3...strike...strike..random balls/fouls...here’s the pitch...oh god..oh GOD HE SWUNG! HE SWUNG! HE STRUCK OUT! WE WIN! WE WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I taped the final out on my camera (if I can figure out how to upload videos, I’ll post it). When I saw Brad fall to his knees, I lost it. Jacqui and I jumped on each other, crying, shaking, screaming, even wetting ourselves a little (yes, we admit to it). We jumped onto the chairs still screaming our heads off. We jumped off the chairs, and jumped on to everyone in sight. We took pictures with people we didn’t know from a hole in the wall. We cried harder. We laughed. We peed a bit more. We belted out Queen’s “We Are The Champions” from atop our seats. We were tackled to the concrete in hugs, rolling around in a mess of beer, soda, and peanut shells. Down came the banner in left field. It was replaced by two very fitting banners: “Mitch, You’re Off The Hook!” and “Party Like It’s 1980!!”

WE DID IT.

As the crowd finally filtered out, Jacqui and I left our 9th row seats to make it to the first row. We sat through all of the ESPN interviews, and were once again doused by Geoff and his champagne. This picture, however, was caught by not only me, but the world, and has since appeared on Yahoo’s website, in Sports Illustrated, and on various local websites.

We're the two girls up front, look for the pink scarf!

The same picture but my point of view. If you really look in the first picture you can see me holding my camera!

We did it.

After an hour or so, Jacqui and I headed out of CBP and down Broad St. It was a full blow riot, and we decided to go to a friend’s house 10 blocks away instead. We spent the rest of the night eating, drinking, and watching the continuous coverage on television. I made it to my bed at 5am that morning.

The Phillies partied in the lot across the street.

They knocked down a stoplight on Broad St!!

Up Next: Part III: The Finale - Partying Like It’s 1980!!

 

[BarbieGal457]

That Thursday I spent in bed, completely drained. I ventured out for some lunch, and the city was beaming with pride. I fist pumped, “woo!”-ed, and hugged people I’d never seen before in my life. It was good to be a Phillies fan.

That night my family and I were invited to the final party in the lot across the street - the WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS party.

The night was full of food, dancing, and employees who had spent the night sleeping on their desks and office floors. I kid you not. That is how hard we party here within the Phillies family. At the previous parties, the players had been invited but had not attended. Tonight was different. I dined on pizza and ribs alongside Ryan Howard and his family, and held the trophy with Brad Lidge just a few feet away. I raised a bottle of Bud (shhh, I know I’m just 20, but I never drink due to my health, and after 20 years of heartache, I deserve it , darnit!) next to J.A. Happ, a pitcher, sharing a smile and some words to our success. I fell into bed that night, my bones burning, awaiting the mad crush of Friday’s parade.

Brad Lidge, who tried to wait behind me in line to see the trophy. Needless to say, I forced him in front of me.

Geoff Jenkins & I

Pat Burell & I

Showing the trophy just how much I love it!

It was Halloween, and Mike and I fought our way through an estimated 2 million people and walked the two blocks to CBP for the parade. We were lucky enough to be supplied with tickets through the Phillies, and sat in the suites, where all the food was free! We spent hours there goofing off, eating, and reveling in our joy. The players finally entered and spoke, with our hero Chase Utley causing a censor’s nightmare along the way. As the sun set, the 2008 pennant was raised to Queen’s “We Are The Champions”. Red, white, and silver tickertape showered over us.

The smell and taste of champage will always remind me of this magical season, as will how it stings when it gets in your eyes.

We were the 2008 World Champions.

I went to the Melrose, and had myself a Danish.

I have almost 600 pictures of this entire month. If you'd like to see them, the whole album can be viewed here: http://photobucket.com/WEWIN

 

[BarbieGal457]

Well, I'm sitting here in hot pink leopard longjohns with a box of Kleenex (wishing they were Puffs!) and my Disney notebook watching the Steve Wilkos Show.

I have a major cold.

I left work early yesterday, and only made it to one of my three classes today. I took off work as well (my law firm is only like, 8 people big and I get to come and go as I please). I've tried to do accounting homework numerous times, but it's just not happening. So I've cuddled up with the DIS, my Disney notebook, and Magical Express documents and cell phone. They messed up a few of our things for ME so I have to call and make changes, I'm just waiting for the cough to die down.

My documents came last Friday!! Today is also ONE MONTH til we leave! I take some joy in my sad state today knowing that in exactly one month I'll be tooling around MK! I've been constantly rewatching the YouTube that backinoz linked me to, and have timed the drop on Splash to just about two seconds. I think I can do it, and I only have one day to prove it! I feel like I can't say I'm a Disney afficiando even after all my trips since I still haven't done such a classic (that's younger than me, and I'm only 20! eeeesh..). I do, however, have to plan my outfit and accessories accordingly, in anticipation I will be soaked. I think we're going to try to do this last, so we won't be ruined for pictures all night, as well as be uncomfortable!

I'm really hoping to be able to swim when we go. Thankfully the pools are heated! I just purchased a new swimsuit to go with a pair of men's trunks I bought at the end of the summer. It finally came on Monday, and is already in my backpack waiting to be packed! All I need to figure out is how to pare down what makeup I'm taking. I wear almost nothing, but pack like a makeup artist! I also have decided on taking just one checked bag and my purse, no extra carry-on. It's just more to lug around and will allow me to pack more than what I really need.

I can't wait to pack, it'll mean the craziness of the next two weeks is over!
Tomorrow I have three internship interviews, first with the Philadelphia Soul, then Comcast-Spectacor for marketing, and then finally the Philadelphia Flyers Charities. All with what is really resembling the flu. Next Monday, I have an enormous group presentation, and then from the 15th-18th I have five finals, which include accounting and physics. Fun times are ahead my friends.

Over the weekend we had quite a bit of trip drama. Gianna&Frank broke up over some petty reasons, and both wanted out of the trip. I gave them until this past Monday to let me know whether or not they were definitely in or out. If they were, I was going to change the reservations so that Mike&I would have our own room. I feel like after all the work I did, if anyone was getting their own room, it was going to be me. They are in, however, which makes me happy. I think we're going to have a fantastic time as a Grand Gathering, even though we havent't chosen to do any of the special things offered to us (too hard to corral everyone, and a bit too expensive right now).

Speaking of expenses, I finally got all of Mike's Christmas gifts. I'm sooo sooo excited to give them to him, I think he'll really enjoy them all. He can't take them on the trip with us, but I think he'll enjoy them nonetheless.

That's all for today, I think. Sorry this was such a short and boring update, but I am awfully drained with this dumb cold!! I'm sure they'll be much more excitement to come, now that we're so close!! Oooh, and notice how I learned to make links, back in the first post! Thanks to the darling MarieHellwig for all the help!

 

[BarbieGal457]

We're finally, finally, finally!! only one week out! In a week from today, we'll have checked in and hopefully be on our way to MK! Storm at Disney's Grand Gatherings woke me up this morning to confirm that we need two rooms, so she can call Pop and make sure we're blocked together. This made me think of all the suggestions to fax over room requests..do GGs get first priority at being together? The day we booked I had it noted that we'd like connecting rooms, but never faxed anything, etc.

Just yesterday Lou and Mike became paid off, and our room is fully done!! Gianna and Frank are getting me their money this week and we're officially all done.

Last week, everyone suddenly decided they wanted the dining plan. After two days of fighting and being yelled at for planning the whole trip - even though they asked me to, and I asked them for input on everythingggg - they decided to stick with what we decided in the first place, no DDP. They tried to tell me it was since they eat a lot, but Mike and I don't. It was also going to cost a lotttt more for me and Mike and neither of us really have the money to just throw around. Also, I know my friends didn't understand the whole idea of the room shares credits, so if you decide to use 5 snack credits at once, either you don't use anymore for the rest of the day or pay for the people's snacks whose credits you used. All in all, I am extremely happy they decided against it.

We finally purchased our tickets last week as well. The other room of course didn't listen to me and got not enough days/no park hoppers, so I'll figure it out when we get there since they truly have no common sense. As much as I love them all, they're very hard to talk to sometimes, and the people at Disney might have an easier time of doing it.

Lou's Magical Express stuff never came, but they said since he's in the system all is well. We're going to give him our extra luggage tags. He's flying standby, so he'll most likely be with me and Mike, but if not will be with Lauren & Co. We all land at the same time so we're going to meet up at MCO and then head on over to ME together.

I've been semi-packed for about two weeks now, but am still suitcase-less!! My sister got rid of the really big one that I used last year, so this year she's digging out another piece from the set, which was put away when the twins came. Hopefully I'll be able to fit everything in without taking more than one suitcase, and I'm really trying to avoid taking a carry-on. I'm taking all my expensive jewelry, purses, and sunglasses with me on the plane though, since if the TSA checks your luggage they're not responsible if things are stolen, and I've known a few people who've had their Louis Vuittons stolen. If my babies got stolen I don't know what I'd do, since I worked so very hard for them and don't really have $2,000+ to replace everything right away. Not to mention it would TOTALLY ruin my vacation!!

The weather looks off and on nice. AccuWeather is saying rain and 60s, but the people I've talked to on the GG hotline say 80s and sunny. I'm going to pack layers, etc to be prepared. My girlfriends wanted to take high heels and dress outfits, but when they saw the look I did just out of reaction, they realized it's not really the best idea. I'm bringing outfits I can dress up, but no crazy heels, etc!!

Since I only have one week left, I've been trying to pump Mike up about flying every day. I am hoping and praying he does well. I have the faith..I think . I told him that day will be a day of conquering fears - he the plane, me Splash Mountain!! I'm charging up the iPod for both of us to listen to, and taking along things to keep his mind off of stuff. I've been running around like a crazy person trying to make sure I haven't forgotten anything I'll need. Today I'm going to try to run to Target and pick up the last few things I'll need. I really am hoping to pack this weekend, since I have work Monday-Wednesday, and then it's New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, which is huge here. After that, it's the day before we leave, and I'm sure it'll be hectic enough!!

So, to my lovely readers, does anyone have any other ideas on how I can help Mike feel much more comfortable on the plane? His main fear is not being in control, as well as heights. I have the window seat so he won't be right up against it. My mother is terrified of flying but she had Dr. prescribed Xanax to help her fly. I also have Xanax for my extreme anxiety, and said if he really really really absolutely needs it he can have one (it's the lowest dosage available). I'm not sure what else to do but reassure him, stay calm, and keep him occupied.

 

[BarbieGal457]

IT'S FINALLY HEREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
​

I cannot be more excited! Everything is packed, tagged, TSA-locked, and at the front door. The weather has been checked, re-checked, and checked once more (and added as a favorite place on my iPhone!). The cameras and iPods are charged, the headphones are in the purse, the boarding passes in hand.

IT IS TIME TO PARTY!!

It's actually time to shower so I can pack my blow dryer, but I'm delaying that so I can post before I power down.

I always get the pre-trip jitters and want to back out, but I know when I see the icecicle lights tomorrow night, I'll be so happy I didn't. Mike is getting very nervous I think, with the flight being so close. We're getting up at 4am, and scooting out of here by 4:30, which I'm sure will fly by like so many early morning hours do. My outfit is all planned so I don't really need to think, and absolutely everything but the necessary (glasses, cell phone, charger) is tucked away so I only have to toss a few items into my bag in the am.

Alright, alright, I'm way too excited here! I'm going to go jot down my ADR confirmation numbers, power down, hit the shower, and sleep (read: lay in bed and stare mindlessly at objects until 4am, because I'M TOO EXCITED TO SLEEP !!!!!!!!!!).

I'll see you loves in 8 days!!

 

[LoveGoofy91]

I just read the whole pre trippie, I hope you guys had a fun trip!

 

[BarbieGal457]

Welp, we did it. How we've got all our limbs and minds still, I do not know! But, I will start from the beginning! I have lots and lots of pictures to include, but I'm not home right now so I'll update this later to include them.

Friday, January 2, 2009 - The Day Before Departure

After a much less raucous New Year's than I had anticipated, we spent most of Friday running around like crazy people! On New Year's most of us at our small gathering were either departing the next day (Kris, Jacqui & Giana) or in two days (our GG), so everyone was much more excited for that than to start a New Year. The day started off with my sister and the boys coming over to get out for a bit, since she was going stir crazy being at home alone and needed my mom's help. The boys are very, very good little babies, and don't fuss much at all. Gabriel, the smaller of the two (my little peach/peanut!) had a mystery rash on his face, and had to go to the pediatrician at 3:30, so Mike and I were in charge of keeping the boys entertained until then. My mother was running around washing some last minute items for me and trying to make dinner for the six of us when Mike decided we had to run out and buy him shorts and a bathing suit. Sure, I said, as I had lots of small errands to do myself, but there was just one nagging question. Where in Philly will we find shorts and trunks when it's 10 degrees outside?! Old Navy, he suggested, and off we went. I had stopped by a local boutique to pick up a custom made top, only to find out they STILL, after two months, had not made it! It was a simple tube top, requiring about six stitches and 10 minutes of work, for $50! And although it'd been promised to me several times, it was still not done. They promised they could have it done by 7pm, and that I could come pick it up then if I wanted.

Frustrated, we were off to Anastasi's, the seafood restaurant where Lauren, Jessy, Gianna & Frank all work. I dropped off Lou's Magical Express tag to Lauren (which was my extra one), and Lauren told me since he had two bags he was going to use her other extra one. We chatted for a few minutes, and then I had to rush off once again, this time to Target. Here Mike and I stocked up on some small travel essentials like mouth wash and floss picks. We had agreed that Lauren would take the big bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash and I would take toothpaste, the blow dryer, and the flat iron for us girls, so we didn't end up with four of each! I also stocked up on lots of gum - 5 packs to be exact! - since I only crave it when I know it's nowhere to be found. I bought so many just in case, since we were 8 people, but the next day I found out the rest of the girls had heeded my advice, and they each had 3-4 packs themselves. Security must have thought we were crazy ! I also bought two frames, just for the heck of it, since their Valentine's Day selection was completely adorable.

We managed to find shorts and trunks for Mike at Old Navy, thankfully. While in line we got a call from Kris telling us that they're in line for Expedition Everest, and saw security walking over and undoing the line. They let a man cut in, and it was none other than Plaxico Burress & co! Kris was very excited (even though we're all Eagles fans) but didn't say anything. They just stood around taking pictures of some weird looking bug on a glass pane! After we checked out, we ran to a drugstore to pick up some last minute things when we ran into my sister. Gabriel was diagnosed with eczema, and needed a few ointments and such. Mike went home, and we finished packing until 7pm, when I went back and finally, FINALLY picked up my overpriced tube top. It only took two months!! We hung around his house for a bit until about 9:30 when I decided I needed to go home. I could tell he was getting very nervous, but he was doing pretty well. After showering, I fell into bed at 2am and slept very fitfully for 2 hours until 4:10 when it was finally TIME TO GOOOO!!

Saturday, January 3 - IT'S TIME!!!!

I rolled out of bed, into my pre-selected outfit, and a light dusting of makeup in under 5 minutes, which is definitely a personal best. I was just so excited that I barely slept at all the night before, but it was in no way affecting me now. We picked Mike up at 4:45am, which felt like only minutes from when I woke up. Those morning minutes fly by, don't they? He was extremely nervous but again doing very well on the ride to the airport with my dad. The rest of the gang had arrived at the airport by 4am, and Lou was now strolling our empty terminal waiting for us. We checked in curbside, breezed past security, and met up with him. After securing our seats in the gate, Mike and I headed for some Dunkin' Donuts bagels and juice. We waited in line with a lovely older woman who was on her way to Hawai'i via San Francisco (I believe, possibly Los Angeles) with some girlfriends. I hope I'm still like that when I get older! We took our bagels and donuts and headed back to the gate to wait it out. We took a few pictures which I'll post when I get home in a bit. Mike and I boarded in zone 5, leaving Lou hanging in the balance. He was flying stand-by since his mother works for the airlines, and it was all in the air if he'd actually make our flight. After being seated about 15 minutes, we see Lou strolling on board and give him two congratulatory fist pumps. Lauren & co. were on board as well, and we were getting ready for take-off.

Mike & I in the terminal

On the runway!!

Up until this point Mike had really been doing a great job at keeping his nerves in check. I offered him my hand to hold, and he had his sister's iPod ready for when he could use it in flight. He sat very stiffly as I talked him through what was happening, the bumps and noises and such. When he saw that no one else was worried, or heck, awake! he calmed down and relaxed a bit. The flight was supposed to get in at 9:08, but we landed about 8:45 or so. Throughout the whole flight my feet were very cold and numb which became pretty unbearable. This had never happened before, and didn't on the ride home either. We were very happy to land - Mike to be on solid ground, me to feel my poor tootsies!!

We checked in with Lauren who's flight had also landed ahead of schedule. We were very close to the Disney Magical Express welcome center, so we hustled down there, meeting our first Philadelphian of the trip. He was from our neighborhood, and we had a lovely chat while waiting for the rest of the group to meet us. We finally met, got scanned in, and headed off to the red carpet. They still couldn't believe Magical Express was free, and that they'd magically (sorry, I had to! ) deliver the bags to our room.

The bus ride to Pop Century seemed like just a few minutes, and we checked in very smoothly and quickly. We were given a number to call and check in on our rooms as well as our little welcome packet. We immediately headed off in the direction of Everything Pop! in order to grab some breakfast - lunch, really, since even though it was just past 10am, we'd been up since 2-4am! We ate quickly, and then set about deciding what to do. No one except for Mike and I brought a change of clothes in our carry-on, so they wanted to wait until the room and bags were delivered.

Nope. Not for me. Should have packed smarter, y'all!

We got bell services to hold our carry-ons to be delivered with our other luggage, and off to Epcot we went. Jessy's family friends were visiting, and the rest wanted to go have some drinks, so Mike and I split from the group to do some exploring. It was about 12:15, and we decided to meet back up at 3 to return to Pop to get settled in. We wandered around World Showcase, stopping in Canada to shop around and take their little country quiz. I also launched into several renditions of O Canada, much to the chagrin of all within earshot, and every Canadian I'm sure! I mean, who doesn't want to hear someone butcher their beloved anthem?! After stopping in a phone booth for the requisite "Prince William/Harry is calling me!" photo-op, we looked for the little Beatles shop we'd found last trip. To our dismay it's no longer there except for a lone Beatles hoodie, replaced mostly by English football merch. We then went on to the Toy Soldier in hopes to find gifts for the boys, but there was nothing for very young ones, at least nothing I thought they'd enjoy. We asked if they had a quiz, which they didn't, but a lovely girl named Laura from Dumfries, Scotland made one up for us. I won by answering a question along the lines of "Who is Charlie's sister?" which is Lola! I have picked something up! She gave me a Magical Moments certificate, but then gave Mike a chance to win it back on "Where was Peter Pan written?" She pointed to her nametag, but we all agreed I was still the undefeated Scottish Toys champ. We wandered a bit more, picking up some ice cream along th way. In Mexico we ran into Donald Duck all dressed in a sombrero and such in a small alleyway-type path and got a few very sweet pictures.

Yes, I took a picture of the Bay Lake Tower ad. Yes, I immediately thought of the DIS and that I needed to report back with sightings! Yes, I was looked at funny. No, I did not care.

The very first ride on Disney Transportation!

"Why yes Mike, the Beverly is delicious, here, try some!"

The aftermath.

"Yes Prince Harry, I [u/]will[/u] marry you!

I lost my second tooth here in an ice cream bar!

By this time it was about 1:30, so I suggested we go do the single rider line for Test Track. I was itching to get going, this slow pace was not working! The ride broke down, causing many people to leave so we advanced rather quickly. We were in line with a very nice couple from California who were visiting for the first time. They asked me for must-see's here, and were just generally nice guys, especially to be in line with for 40-50 minutes. Mike rode with one of them, while myself and the other guy were split from everyone (which, YES, we knew would happen!). They'd never done Test Track before so it was awesome to see their faces on the photo at the end of the ride. We bid them a good vacation and set off to the information desk which was our meeting spot. We legged it out to the Pop bus stop - why are they soo far everywhere? I figured it was because it was the newest resort..sheesh! - and fell into the seats.

He loves ride breakdowns, can't you tell?!

We got our room assignments - 50s section, rooms 1447&1448 and were off. Our room, 1447, connected to room 1446. At first I wished they would have connected, but by the end of the trip I was happy for what little more privacy it gave us being 4 instead of 8 with the door constantly open. After unpacking we showered and napped for 45 minutes until 6, when we decided to ready for the Magic Kingdom and dinner at Tony's Town Square. So far, we were perfectly on schedule.

It would be the last time that'd happen the entire trip.

Next Up: We're late! We're late! We're late for an important date!

 

[BarbieGal457]

I just read the whole pre trippie, I hope you guys had a fun trip!

Hey! I hope you're enjoying it thus far! We did have an amazing trip. It's so sad knowing that last week at this time I was in Epcot This whole trip really got me thinking that I'd love to do my senior internship there, and how amazing it would be! I mustn't get too far ahead of myself though, I've just started my junior internship.

 

[BarbieGal457]

We got a later start than what I wanted. We originally planned to leave Pop at 6:30pm for a 7:40pm reservation at Tony's Town Square. By the time we all got together and to the bus stop, it was 7:00. I'm sure I was turning pink in frustration. The line for MK was about 5 busloads long. Staring in dispair, I had a flash of genius - Epcot's bus has 1 person in line, and has a monorail. I made the rest of the gang dash from the entrance to Pop to the Epcot bus. We did the board and switch to the TTC, then to MK, and rolled into MK about 7:55pm. This is when another fact hit me - SpectroMagic (my all-time hands-down favorite!) was starting in under five minutes. I knew the entrance was too eerily busy-yet-calm!! We dashed for the (insanely hidden) Tony's Town Square and gave our names, then waited in the small area near the patio. I walked to the patio for a breath of fresh air and to take in the sights, when suddenly the lights were killed and that song began, the song that never fails to make me cry. Gianna and Lauren joined me, amazed. When Mickey came around, Gianna literally screamed "OHMYGOD, OHMYGOD, THERE HE IS, THERE HE IS NAT IT'S MICKEY!!" It made me so happy, just to see her so happy.

Soon we were being called to our table, and dove right into the food. The bread and olive oil was devoured. I ordered the mozzarella and tomato salad and it was delicious! I'm usually very weary to order Italian out since I'm very used to how it's made in my very, very Italian neighborhood. Mike and I decided to split dinner since I was getting full. He's a very picky eater, and since it was the Lady&The Tramp restaurant, we went with the spaghetti and meatballs.

I tried to get him to nose over a meatball, but my attempts were unsuccessful. This was insanely hard to pose, and we had lots of people looking at us til they understood what we were doing!

After we finished eating and paid, we asked our server Blake (wearing Mark's nametag; he forgot his - I knew they did this but no one else did!) took our group's picture, and we were off into the night.

We caught the final two bursts of Wishes, and that's when another thought hit me. It was time for the Stroller Derby down Main St!! This was the first time I'd ever seen the icecicle lights, but alas, I could not linger. I was busy guiding 7 others with basically no idea of park layout through a mass of people, strollers, EVCs, PhotoPass photogs, and wheelchairs. We safely made it to Adventureland, and hit Jungle Cruise with rapid speed. I've discovered I love this ride much more at night. Our skipper was hilarious, and she was much more free I feel (nothing dirty or anything) since we were all adults.

Mike, Frank, Gianna & I waiting to board the JC.

After the JC we ran to POTC and basically walked straight into the boat. Lauren, I'd learned, is absolutely terrified of rides. Fantastic. And here we are, in DISNEY WORLD. Oh well, we'd get her through. About 2 seconds before, I remembered the drop, and tried to warn her as fast as I could, but we were already down the hill, and she was shaking! After surviving POTC, we ventured off to Splash.

I have never done it. I am beyond words terrified. I tried working up my courage through YouTubes, posts here, everything! Somewhere in the tunnels of Chick-a-Pin Hill, my insane dizziness set in. No doctor can figure out what it is, but my Elle magazine ran a story on it, and I'm taking it with me when I get re-checked. Anyways, it was right where the air suddenly blasts you from above, and you can look down and see the logs, right near the portrait of B'rer Bear..oh wait, why is B'rer Bear moving? Isn't it a...a..oh gosh I'm going to pass out. I began to lean against the wall, and then slowly, slowly slip down. I didn't full loose conciousness, but was very wobbly for the next few minutes. By the end of the 40-but-really-20 minute wait, I was up and over the chicken exit, waiting for my friends on the other side.

They rode, with Lauren breaking up with Lou on the ascent to the final drop (she was soo scared!), and met me at the exit. We hustled over to BTMRR - the perfect ride for after such a dizzy spell! - and I began to run through the empty queue. Began is the operative word. I ran straight into a rock formation wall after the world began to spin violently in every direction. My vision in the already-dark queue became increasingly fuzzy, and I grappled for a spot to hold onto. My friends had now caught up to me and encircled me, keeping me as upright as they could. I slowly regained stability and continued on to ride the last train of the night. After getting off, we decided since the rides were closed and it was SUPPOSEDLY the last night for the castle lights, to take some pictures.

From my iPhone - the camera quality still amazes me!

Mike&I

Jessy,Gianna, Lauren & me.

The guys messing around - Lou is in the white shirt flexing!

We returned to Pop for a little night swimming and chatting, and were quickly off to bed after our exhausting but insanely exciting day.

Next Up: Donovan McNabb crashes the party.

 

[BarbieGal457]

Whew, I'm finally getting back to this! I've had quite a hectic few weeks, and now that I'm sidelined with a cold, I finally have some time to write. I don't have my pictures uploaded to this computer, so I'll add them in later on tonight.

~~~~​

Day 1 kicked off the trip in a great way. We'd all been getting along great, and everyone was in the Disney spirit. We had 9:30am breakfast reservations at 'Ohana, but everyone had wanted to sleep in and recover from the long day before. I was upset since I really was looking forward to going to 'Ohana, but the rest was definitely nice as well. The Eagles were playing the Minnesota Vikings later that day around 4pm I believe, and our group and Kris&Jacqui's family decided to meet up at the ESPN Club for dinner and the game. It's cute there, but it's made me sick every time I've eaten any of the food.

Gianna, Frank, Jessy&Ryan only bought a 6 day ticket, and decided this was the day they weren't going to go to the parks. Laur, Lou, Mike&I did not want to waste our day that we paid for, so we decided to go to the Magic Kingdom for a little. When we got there we did a couple of rides in Tomorrowland and picked up Space Mountain FPs for when we returned after the game. We also did Country Bear Jamboree at Lauren's request. I hadn't seen it in forever and forgot how cute (although somewhat cheesey!) it is! We definitely had a great time. I loved seeing all of the other Philly fans in our Eagles/Phillies gear!!

E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!!

The family behind her caught onto what I was doing (she went before Lou) and cracked up as I motioned to them "Shh!" They were great fun!

Yes! I now have tricked half the group into drinking the Beverly!

We then hopped the monorail over to Epcot, then walked over to the Boardwalk from there. The wait for ESPN was pretty long, about an hour or so, but we got in right before the game started. Around the third quarter I was getting super antsy. I wanted to go back to the parks, not sit at a table for six hours watching a football game! The place was full of us Eagles fans, with a few brave Vikings fans mixed in. We of course did our Eagles chant and song at every possible chance. It was a really fun time, but I wanted to goooooo!!

I threw on my Westbrook jersey that I'd carried in my purse! Our party of THIRTEEN. Insanity.

Around the end of the third quarter, Mike and I went back to Pop to get changed for the rest of the night. I was in shorts, and it was getting cool. We headed back to MK, and while waiting for Lauren, Lou, Jacqui, Kris, and Kris's sister Giana, I stopped in Le Chapeau and got a new set of Mouse Ears, a tradition for me. This was the very place I got my first pair, the little kid's pink hat with ears atop it. This time I chose a classic black hat, and got my name embroidered on the back, just like on my very first pair.

Rockin' my new ears!!

Everyone else arrived by the time my new ears were done, and we decided to head over to Space Mountain. The line was insanely long, and we all bypassed it with the wonders of FP! In no time we were off into Space, screaming our heads off. I'm always surprised that it still terrifies me, no matter how many times I've done it. Lauren was sitting behind me, and I kept saying "Oh my gosh, I'm so scared!" This of course didn't help her fear of rides, and we screamed the whole way down. At the end, when I asked if she was ok, she laughed and said she was going to ask me the same thing!

More friends from home were in the park that night (and were also staying at Pop). Mike T.&I are both crazy about Disney, and it was the first time we'd ever been there at the same time. He has an AP and is a Florida Resident for half the year, so he's always down there. We decided to ride BTMRR - again! - as our ride. Jacqui, Gianna, Laur&Lou went in the train ahead of us, and our group of six waited for the next one. Mike T.&I screamed and laughed the whole way around the track. It's definitely one of my favorite Disney memories!

Mike T.&Co. decided to go on HM while the rest of us just wandered around. We were pretty tired by now, so we strolled down Main St. and over to the busses. When we got back to Pop we again went for a late night dip. Lauren and I went back to the room to shower and get ready for the next day before falling asleep by 1:30am.

Some photos we took before we headed in for the night...

Looking at Main St. from walking thru the Castle!

Fantasyland through the Castle!

Next Up: Thrills&Spills at DHS!

 

[lindseywb]

hey, i just found your TR - i'm in south philly too...loved your recap of the phillies' win & i'm so jealous you were at the final game!

 

[BarbieGal457]

hey, i just found your TR - i'm in south philly too...loved your recap of the phillies' win & i'm so jealous you were at the final game!

Heyy! I love finding people from SP here! What a small world (no pun intended!). Game 5 was probably the second most amazing night of my life, after the birth of my nephews last July. I can't even try to explain how wonderful it really was. Now, it's time for the Flyers to win the Cup!!