If you put it in writing, you have to deliver right? A Dec. 2011 PTR

[shocky5]

THANK YOU for the camera insight. Plan on purchasing one here in the next month or so!

Hey - we will be spending our first day in Epcot, the 17th, of which you are there that morning (er... as your plans so state for now). Great info on the touring plans... wondering if DH would go for the touring plans to get the rides in and then spend 'leisure' time in the afternoon/evenings? Is there such a thing as leisure time...

Anyway -your trip looks like a great time! And I can't wait to hear about the tours you have planned! Would love to do that one of these trips.

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

No problem on the camera!

I'm looking forward to our trip as each day passes. This will be the first time I've done Disney kidless since college! I just hope I don't end up with shingles again...

Yup, I got shingles at the Happiest Place on Earth! See what touring with family will do to a girl!

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

No problem on the camera!

I'm looking forward to our trip as each day passes. This will be the first time I've done Disney kidless since college! I just hope I don't end up with shingles again...

Yup, I got shingles at the Happiest Place on Earth! See what touring with family will do to a girl!

 

[Grace and Mickey]

Pixie dust
Good Luck tommorw on you test

 

[shocky5]

No problem on the camera!

I'm looking forward to our trip as each day passes. This will be the first time I've done Disney kidless since college! I just hope I don't end up with shingles again...

Yup, I got shingles at the Happiest Place on Earth! See what touring with family will do to a girl!

OH WOW! I hope the shingles were in a manageable location and not too painful! Those things are crazy! My 8yo, he was 3 at the time, got shingles on his leg and it was so painful, he was army crawling through the house... felt so bad for him! But he got them from a vacation we had taken in Arlington, TX - jumped off the hotel bed, landed funny on his hip and it 'woke' the shingles up. So maybe that's what happened to you?? Were you jumping on the bed???

GOOD LUCK on your test tomorrow, btw!! "Know you can" and you will!!

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

Pixie dust
Good Luck tommorw on you test

Awww, thanks Grace!

I'm nervous, but I think I'll be okay. I've got a document to read through and study, so once my coffee kicks in I'll get crackin'.

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

OH WOW! I hope the shingles were in a manageable location and not too painful! Those things are crazy!

It was not fun. I know I was a miserable cow on that trip, and I'm sure I looked like a royal *B* to people who were around us... I was so short and snippy and it probably looked like I was dragged on vaca even though I couldn't have been more happy to be there! My mom was trying to be a mom and rub my back one night and I could have chewed her arm off it hurt so bad! The day before we left, I found the (luckily) ONLY place that I broke out. I had a golf ball-sized spot just above my belly button.

I ended up missing the first week of my senior year of high school because of it!

My 8yo, he was 3 at the time, got shingles on his leg and it was so painful, he was army crawling through the house... felt so bad for him! But he got them from a vacation we had taken in Arlington, TX - jumped off the hotel bed, landed funny on his hip and it 'woke' the shingles up. So maybe that's what happened to you?? Were you jumping on the bed???

Poor little guy! I wish I would have been doing something fun to get them!

The highlight of my shingles moment was the night we arrived. We went into EP through the I-Gateway (we stayed at the Swolphin) and mom and dad were debating where we were going to eat. Mom said something about going to the Biergarten as we crossed over the bridge. They were going back and forth and I finally called out, "if you WANT to go to Germany... LET'S GO TO GERMANY!" (See?? Told ya I was being a horrible person)

Little did I know that there were 3 CMs (from Germany) walking right behind us. Next thing I know, I hear one of the guys say, "If you want to go to Germany, I'll show you the way!"

Since then, Germany has been my favorite country in WS...

GOOD LUCK on your test tomorrow, btw!! "Know you can" and you will!!

Thanks! Tests make me nervous... I never do well on them. I barely cracked 1000 on the old version of the SAT, but I know I know more than what was reflected on that test.

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

My goodness, so much information here! I am starting to feel like quite the slacker.... I really don't have good idea of what we are going to do or where we will eat....

No need to worry yet! Park hours aren't even out yet for December, we just happen to be uber planners on our 2nd WDW trip together! We don't plan much more than our park day and food - we try to match up our TS dining in the close vicinity to the park we will be at for the day.

This trip is a little different because of our resort location. Being sandwiched in between DHS and EP we are much closer than when we were at CBR.

I booked our MVMCP too, and we are going to be there the same night as you! I'm debating if we should go to MK for the day that day or go to AK and then come to the party later, since we don't need a park ticket. It's kind of like getting a park hopper for one day!

Historically, where MNSSHP is concerned, the parks are supposedly vacant during the day. I'm really wondering if the same holds true for MVMCP dates?? I know a lot of people that A) don't have hoppers and B) not going to the party will avoid MK that day, otherwise it would be a waste of a park ticket.

Now, you know that you can get into MK at 4pm right? Even though the party doesn't officially start until 7pm? [don't believe the internet rumors otherwise...]

Are you planning to character hunt that night?

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

I got to thinking this morning, I talk an awful big game when it comes to planning, so I decided to share some of my favorite links that help me plan our trips to the World. I’m sure most of you have and use these links at will, but I’m still listing them anyway!

For park touring: ​

The DIS OFFICIAL Fantasyland Expansion (MK construction) Thread

and

Touring plans

and

Stitch Kingdom maps

We cannot forget park entertainment guru, Steve Soares.



The food:

All Ears dining page

and

For those with dietary restrictions



Just for fun:

WDW Photography

and

Timeline of WDW​

​

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

A bit of non-trip-related information...

I wanted to give you all a head's up on how yesterday went.

Well, the test went REALLY good yesterday.

The paper test was okay. I didn't like the general feel of a lot of the questions - especially after working with my friend E on her grad papers for business management. The firm I tested for and her scholarly textbooks don't agree upon the definition of a leader... But I did my best.

The "physical" test was aces. I whooped 'em... even the boys. They had a board of 9 spindles with a specific set up that we had to disassemble and reassemble based on a fictitious customer order. Each spindle was considered 1 order, and the goal was to complete 36 orders in 1 hour. I completed 63... I was half way through #64 when they called time.

There were two guys next to me and they both asked, "how'd you get so fast?" after we were allowed to talk again. All I could say was that I just did it. I found my rhythm and went for it. My brain went on autopilot, I guess you could say.

On each spindle we had to place a washer, a disc (it looked like a 5lb flat plate weight but it was light), another washer, a "spacer", a washer, a t-hose or 4 pc. central joint (depending on where it was on the board), another washer, then a wing nut.

The primary variables were the discs - they were labeled A, B, C, or D, and the "spacers" which were either a 1" or 2" silver or a 1" or 2" copper. I think I forgot 1 washer one time, but was able to find it and correct it.

One of the test proctors was sitting near me, watching my every move. I'm pretty sure he looked at what page I was on and was following along to check my accuracy.

I heard that they have already hired a few people, completely skipping the interview and just calling to offer them a job.

I've got my fingers crossed.

 

[Grace and Mickey]

Since we are all playing the waiting game, here is what E has come up with for our schedule so far. I’ve incorporated the day of our trip, what we are planning to do, and what Touring Plans says for the days we are there. We do have Hoppers for the trip (and you’ll quickly see why!).

Sunday December 11 – my arrival day!
Park: Epcot
Food: lunch at San Angel
Crowd Prediction: 1 out of 10
Best Park: MK, EP
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Monday December 12 –
Park: Epcot (evening)
Food: dinner at Teppan Edo
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: EP
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Backstage Magic Tour day!

Tuesday December 13 –
Park: Animal Kingdom
Food: Garden Grill for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 3 out of 10
Best Park: HS, AK
Worst Park: EP
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Wednesday December 14 –
Park: MK ½ day (lunch), tour Monorail hotels Christmas décor, DTD
shopping
Food: O’hana for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: MK
Worst Park: HS
Notes: MVMCP Day for us!!!!

Thursday December 15 –
Park: Hollywood Studios
Food: Sci-Fi Dining for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 2 out of 10
Best Park: HS, AK
Worst Park: EP
Notes: I cannot wait to see the Osborne lights!

Friday December 16 –
Park: Magic Kingdom
Food: Crystal Palace breakfast, The Wave for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: MK
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Saturday December 17 – Departure day
Park: Epcot (morning)
Food: Lunch at Sunshine Seasons
Crowd Prediction: 7 out of 10
Best Park: EP
Worst Park: MK
Notes: Behind the Seeds tour

Keep in mind, some of this can and will change, depending on any change in TP rotfl2 crowd prediction modifications. Luckily, I can set our trip dates and they'll email me with any changes!

I'm also hoping that MK will be vacant on the MVMCP mornings, just like they are for MNSSHP. Maybe we'll get lucky and be able to stay on POTC until they kick us off! [remember Grizzly River Run, E???]

Being that we are staying at BWI, we are so close to EP, which also is where we plan to spend a lot of time. E and Mom are early risers (and I *ahem* will *cough* be *faint* too…) so we will take advantage of the notoriously empty parks just after rope drop.

Being on the TP rotfl2 site, I’ve been inspired by one of the other members. Last week (Easter Week), he and his family completed the Ultimate Park Touring Plan for DHS and EP. He tallied up something ridiculous like only waiting a TOTAL of 107 for EVERYTHING they did at EP on a 10 out of 10 day!!! They got so much done at Rope Drop! Therefore (raises right hand), I solemnly swear that I will arise for Rope Drop. AND be happy about it!!! If not, all E will have to do is slap a Mickey Bar or OGMS or LGGS in my hand and I’ll be good.

Now if only AirTran or Southwest would release their fares for December!!!!

Thanks for this, it will be a big help to me.
We have a little bit of idea of what we want to , but was waiting for Park hours to come about June 1st I think.

We have really want to do Mickey's very Merry Christmas Party. and where thinking of doning it On Sunday Dec11th thought it would be a GREAT way to start our trip. Do you think the crowds will be bigger on a Sunday then a week day

The other daywe have decided is Dec 13 (tuesday) will be a Magic Kingdom day as it Landen birthday.

Does this touring plans site cost money? Please tell me more.
Thanks Grace

 

[Grace and Mickey]

I got to thinking this morning, I talk an awful big game when it comes to planning, so I decided to share some of my favorite links that help me plan our trips to the World. I’m sure most of you have and use these links at will, but I’m still listing them anyway!


For park touring:

The DIS OFFICIAL Fantasyland Expansion (MK construction) Thread​

and ​

Touring plans​

and ​

Stitch Kingdom maps​

We cannot forget park entertainment guru, Steve Soares.​

The food:​

All Ears dining page​

and ​

For those with dietary restrictions​

Just for fun: ​

WDW Photography​

and ​

Timeline of WDW​

Hi again
Thanks for this info, guess I should have read further.
im seen the thread here on the expanison. i know about Allers
will have to check out ​

Touring Plans
Stitch Kingdom maps
steve Soars
wdw timeline
Wdw photography​

T thanks wath is so nice about The Dis people shareing tips and ideas.
Thanks again
Grace​

 

[momabaarjo]

Thanks for all the great links...I had not found some of those and can't wait to dive into them.

Crossing my fingers for you on the job situation...

 

[veggiemama]

A bit of non-trip-related information...

I wanted to give you all a head's up on how yesterday went.

Well, the test went REALLY good yesterday.

The paper test was okay. I didn't like the general feel of a lot of the questions - especially after working with my friend E on her grad papers for business management. The firm I tested for and her scholarly textbooks don't agree upon the definition of a leader... But I did my best.

The "physical" test was aces. I whooped 'em... even the boys. They had a board of 9 spindles with a specific set up that we had to disassemble and reassemble based on a fictitious customer order. Each spindle was considered 1 order, and the goal was to complete 36 orders in 1 hour. I completed 63... I was half way through #64 when they called time.

There were two guys next to me and they both asked, "how'd you get so fast?" after we were allowed to talk again. All I could say was that I just did it. I found my rhythm and went for it. My brain went on autopilot, I guess you could say.
You go Girl! Show those boys


On each spindle we had to place a washer, a disc (it looked like a 5lb flat plate weight but it was light), another washer, a "spacer", a washer, a t-hose or 4 pc. central joint (depending on where it was on the board), another washer, then a wing nut.

The primary variables were the discs - they were labeled A, B, C, or D, and the "spacers" which were either a 1" or 2" silver or a 1" or 2" copper. I think I forgot 1 washer one time, but was able to find it and correct it.

One of the test proctors was sitting near me, watching my every move. I'm pretty sure he looked at what page I was on and was following along to check my accuracy.

Ok, seriously, I don't know how you did it but good for you! I would have been totally confused!
My exam is next Saturday and I'm pretty anxious. I have been working on breathing techniques and relaxation because I have suffered really horrible test anxiety in the past and freeze up so badly that I can't complete the exam.


I heard that they have already hired a few people, completely skipping the interview and just calling to offer them a job.

I've got my fingers crossed.

Hope you get good news soon!

 

[annmarieda]

Too funny!!!

Since we are all playing the waiting game, here is what E has come up with for our schedule so far. I’ve incorporated the day of our trip, what we are planning to do, and what Touring Plans says for the days we are there. We do have Hoppers for the trip (and you’ll quickly see why!).

Sunday December 11 – my arrival day!
Park: Epcot
Food: lunch at San Angel
Crowd Prediction: 1 out of 10
Best Park: MK, EP
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Monday December 12 –
Park: Epcot (evening)
Food: dinner at Teppan Edo
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: EP
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Backstage Magic Tour day!

Tuesday December 13 –
Park: Animal Kingdom
Food: Garden Grill for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 3 out of 10
Best Park: HS, AK
Worst Park: EP
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Wednesday December 14 –
Park: MK ½ day (lunch), tour Monorail hotels Christmas décor, DTD
shopping
Food: O’hana for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: MK
Worst Park: HS
Notes: MVMCP Day for us!!!!

Thursday December 15 –
Park: Hollywood Studios
Food: Sci-Fi Dining for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 2 out of 10
Best Park: HS, AK
Worst Park: EP
Notes: I cannot wait to see the Osborne lights!

Friday December 16 –
Park: Magic Kingdom
Food: Crystal Palace breakfast, The Wave for dinner
Crowd Prediction: 6 out of 10
Best Park: MK
Worst Park: HS
Notes: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Saturday December 17 – Departure day
Park: Epcot (morning)
Food: Lunch at Sunshine Seasons
Crowd Prediction: 7 out of 10
Best Park: EP
Worst Park: MK
Notes: Behind the Seeds tour

Keep in mind, some of this can and will change, depending on any change in TP rotfl2 crowd prediction modifications. Luckily, I can set our trip dates and they'll email me with any changes!

I'm also hoping that MK will be vacant on the MVMCP mornings, just like they are for MNSSHP. Maybe we'll get lucky and be able to stay on POTC until they kick us off! [remember Grizzly River Run, E???]

Being that we are staying at BWI, we are so close to EP, which also is where we plan to spend a lot of time. E and Mom are early risers (and I *ahem* will *cough* be *faint* too…) so we will take advantage of the notoriously empty parks just after rope drop.

Being on the TP rotfl2 site, I’ve been inspired by one of the other members. Last week (Easter Week), he and his family completed the Ultimate Park Touring Plan for DHS and EP. He tallied up something ridiculous like only waiting a TOTAL of 107 for EVERYTHING they did at EP on a 10 out of 10 day!!! They got so much done at Rope Drop! Therefore (raises right hand), I solemnly swear that I will arise for Rope Drop. AND be happy about it!!! If not, all E will have to do is slap a Mickey Bar or OGMS or LGGS in my hand and I’ll be good.

Now if only AirTran or Southwest would release their fares for December!!!!

I love how you listed your plans!!!

A bit of non-trip-related information...

I wanted to give you all a head's up on how yesterday went.

Well, the test went REALLY good yesterday.

The paper test was okay. I didn't like the general feel of a lot of the questions - especially after working with my friend E on her grad papers for business management. The firm I tested for and her scholarly textbooks don't agree upon the definition of a leader... But I did my best.

The "physical" test was aces. I whooped 'em... even the boys. They had a board of 9 spindles with a specific set up that we had to disassemble and reassemble based on a fictitious customer order. Each spindle was considered 1 order, and the goal was to complete 36 orders in 1 hour. I completed 63... I was half way through #64 when they called time.

There were two guys next to me and they both asked, "how'd you get so fast?" after we were allowed to talk again. All I could say was that I just did it. I found my rhythm and went for it. My brain went on autopilot, I guess you could say.

On each spindle we had to place a washer, a disc (it looked like a 5lb flat plate weight but it was light), another washer, a "spacer", a washer, a t-hose or 4 pc. central joint (depending on where it was on the board), another washer, then a wing nut.

The primary variables were the discs - they were labeled A, B, C, or D, and the "spacers" which were either a 1" or 2" silver or a 1" or 2" copper. I think I forgot 1 washer one time, but was able to find it and correct it.

One of the test proctors was sitting near me, watching my every move. I'm pretty sure he looked at what page I was on and was following along to check my accuracy.

I heard that they have already hired a few people, completely skipping the interview and just calling to offer them a job.

I've got my fingers crossed.

Fingers crossed!!

 

[shocky5]

Fingers crossed for the job!!

Love that you whooped on the boys, too!

Thank you for the links you listed! Did not know about some of those and can't wait to explore!! Particularly the picture links. I have never felt like my pics were 'great' when we got home and I need my memories in between!

 

[Grace and Mickey]

Happy Mother's day
I wish you lots of hugs from your little ones

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

Thanks for this, it will be a big help to me.
We have a little bit of idea of what we want to , but was waiting for Park hours to come about June 1st I think.

Hours are right around the corner!!!! Just a few more weeks!

We have really want to do Mickey's very Merry Christmas Party. and where thinking of doning it On Sunday Dec11th thought it would be a GREAT way to start our trip. Do you think the crowds will be bigger on a Sunday then a week day

The weekend parties do see higher crowds than the weekday ones. Weekends draw Florida residents as well as regular tourists, but being that the trip is still during most school's time, it may not be as bad. The only other potential drawback is doing the party right at the beginning. My mine concern is keeping the kids up and going far into the night, especially on a travel day. I would be afraid they would tucker out!

The other daywe have decided is Dec 13 (tuesday) will be a Magic Kingdom day as it Landen birthday.

There is a party the night of the 13th... Is there any way you could try to sneak it in there? Supposedly, the days of parties, MK super quiet. Not many people who don't have hoppers or go to the party will go to that park that day. You guys should get a TON of stuff done that day!

Does this touring plans site cost money? Please tell me more.

Touring Plans is $10.95 for a 1 year subscription. I got ours for around $8 because I found a discount code in one of the All Ears weekly newsletters. They pop up pretty regularly.

I've been really pleased with it so far. I read the Unofficial Guide before our September 2010 trip (that book took me a while to get through, it is very densely packed with information... and I've been to WDW over 10 times...). They do have a mobile app for the smart phones that you can download and use for free if you have a subscription to the website. It has a lot of stuff on it. I think today that I'll break down the per park levels as they stand now. The predicted crowd levels I listed above are the predictions for all of WDW, not necessarily for the park we are planning to visit that day.

​

Touring Plans
Stitch Kingdom maps
steve Soars
wdw timeline
Wdw photography​

The Touring Plans site has a ton of info for park touring. I'm pretty active in the chat community over there. We've even formed a couple spin-off FB groups b/c the mods over there are very strict that only chats about Disney and the parks are allowed. One of the FB groups is mostly like the Community Board here, and EVERYTHING goes. The other is actually partly my brainchild... we formed a weight-loss support group of Liners (the TP app is called Lines), and I have to say, the folks that are a part of the weight loss group have been doing an amazing job at supporting each other and making sure each of us stays on track! I'm so proud!!!

The maps on Stitch Kingdom were created and are maintained by one of our fellow DISsers, Robo. I have found them to be a very valuable resource!

Steve Soares has pretty much an online Times Guide to the Magic. The site can be a little weird to navigate, but he really does have great info!

The WDW timeline is just a fun read on how the parks got to where they are. Same with the photo site. It's just fun to view how others see the World!

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

Thanks for all the great links...I had not found some of those and can't wait to dive into them.

Crossing my fingers for you on the job situation...

Thanks!

As for the links... the just for fun ones are a great way to feel a bit of the magic when we are so far away!

A bit of non-trip-related information...

There were two guys next to me and they both asked, "how'd you get so fast?" after we were allowed to talk again. All I could say was that I just did it. I found my rhythm and went for it. My brain went on autopilot, I guess you could say.

You go Girl! Show those boys

It’s one of my hobbies… I’ve never been okay with falling into the “girl” category… I always work hard to be at the top, providing it’s within reason.

One of the test proctors was sitting near me, watching my every move. I'm pretty sure he looked at what page I was on and was following along to check my accuracy.

Ok, seriously, I don't know how you did it but good for you! I would have been totally confused!


My exam is next Saturday and I'm pretty anxious. I have been working on breathing techniques and relaxation because I have suffered really horrible test anxiety in the past and freeze up so badly that I can't complete the exam.

It really wasn’t bad once I found my rhythm. They emphasized making sure not to forget the first washer on the spindle, so once I cleared the spindle (disassembled it) I would put the first washer on before I would grab the specific pieces. Otherwise, I would have forgotten it. Everything except the discs was right by my side, so I would grab with my right hand and place them on the spindle with my left. It was too cumbersome to use my dominant

hand all the time.​

​

​

Relax and breathe before your test! You have to do it one step at a time. You cannot look at it all at once otherwise you’ll get yourself into a pickle. One step, one question at a time. Oh… and it helps to use the test to take the test. Occasionally, you may find the answer to a previous question in another question or another possible answer. ​

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

I love how you listed your plans!!!

Thanks!

We don't put a lot of thought into what time we're doing what and how. We usually get things set up good enough that we can float along on the breeze. As long as we get our park days and food lined up, we'll prioritize what FPs we want to get and then just go!