January 2009. . . Calling all Snowbirds ~ Part V

[jenjolt]

Hey Snowbirds!! Just wanted to check in with all of you!!! I made it here safely and am having the best time ever!! I can't wait to share the details with you all in my trip report...just let me tell you my first few moments at Disney were everything they were supposed to be and more...major pixie dust was flying my way!!

For those of you wondering...it was COLD...65mph on Test Track when its 58 degrees means my nose about froze off LOL

Other than that you will all be happy to know that I didn't get to the parks until 1:00ish and I was able to get a Soarin fast pass for 3:15pm return time and I walked on everything else I wanted.

Today has been MAGICAL..and that is all I'm going to say...you'll have to wait for the rest!!

I didn't get to meet up with coffeehousemom...I wasn't sure if she was supposed to call me or me call her...oops!! Either way TODAY has been everything I could have imagined and more!

 

[Momto2PrncChrmgs]

Hey Snowbirds!! Just wanted to check in with all of you!!! I made it here safely and am having the best time ever!! I can't wait to share the details with you all in my trip report...just let me tell you my first few moments at Disney were everything they were supposed to be and more...major pixie dust was flying my way!!

For those of you wondering...it was COLD...65mph on Test Track when its 58 degrees means my nose about froze off LOL

Other than that you will all be happy to know that I didn't get to the parks until 1:00ish and I was able to get a Soarin fast pass for 3:15pm return time and I walked on everything else I wanted.

Today has been MAGICAL..and that is all I'm going to say...you'll have to wait for the rest!!

I didn't get to meet up with coffeehousemom...I wasn't sure if she was supposed to call me or me call her...oops!! Either way TODAY has been everything I could have imagined and more!

WHAT?!?! You are SO leaving us hanging!!! Not fair! Don't you realize we are all living vicariously thru you right now? We need more!

 

[Tropigal]

Hey Snowbirds!! Just wanted to check in with all of you!!! I made it here safely and am having the best time ever!! I can't wait to share the details with you all in my trip report...just let me tell you my first few moments at Disney were everything they were supposed to be and more...major pixie dust was flying my way!!

For those of you wondering...it was COLD...65mph on Test Track when its 58 degrees means my nose about froze off LOL

Other than that you will all be happy to know that I didn't get to the parks until 1:00ish and I was able to get a Soarin fast pass for 3:15pm return time and I walked on everything else I wanted.

Today has been MAGICAL..and that is all I'm going to say...you'll have to wait for the rest!!

I didn't get to meet up with coffeehousemom...I wasn't sure if she was supposed to call me or me call her...oops!! Either way TODAY has been everything I could have imagined and more!

Well, thanks for the tease! I have to sign off cause we are leaving in a few hours for the airport! TEASE!!!

Hope all your trips are great and I'll report back after we get back in a week!!

I have to go finish putting things in the bags and try to sleep a little!!

 

[dundeehunter]

Jen,
You are such a tease...leave all of your snowbirds in suspense like that I will wait for the report, but oh how I do LOVE live reports!

 

[snykymom]

Welcome back Snykymom! So glad to hear you had a great time! I see that you are "bouncing back" ? Was that a planned thing or did you decide while you were there? Did you enjoy CSR? The theming of that resort intrigues me although DH says He is not at all interested in trying that one! Again, welcome back!

Well, once I decided to buy the AP, I figured what the heck - I'll book and if I have to cancel, so be it. (And I did the calculations - I saved enough via the AP room rate and the 20% drink/dining discount with Tables in Wonderland to make it worth the AP even if I never use it again!)

I loved CSR. It was so restful and relaxing - it didn't "scream Disney" like POP does. It felt like a "vacation within a vacation" - a totally different atmosphere than the parks. The pool was lovely and quite relaxing. I can't imagine falling asleep by the pools at POP, but was able to do so quite happily at the main pool at CSR.

Don't know what to tell you about the theming, but I found it lovely.

 

[Joy1956]

Hi everyone! I just found this board 2 days ago and I've been loving reading all about your Disney plans! So it's time for me to post, I guess. My story- I've been to WDW twice, the last time 16 years ago, so it's practically new to me. I got married in August, 2007 and we wanted to go on a honeymoon, but events intervened, both unexpected (the death of my wonderful mom-in-law) and planned (my daughter's wedding this past July). So we've been mulling over ideas for a big trip/honeymoon for months. Then right before Christmas, I told my DH about this great deal at WDW (he's never been there) and we impulsively booked a trip! I'm REALLY excited! We're staying at the AKL January 26-Feb. 2. I've been going crazy trying to do research, making ADRs, compiling lists, etc. And now it's almost time to escape this upstate NY chill for sunny Orlando! Anyway, thanks for all your ideas and enthusiasm and I'm looking forward to everyone trip reports and pics!

 

[Mndisneygirl]

Welcome back Snykymom!! Glad to hear you had a great trip! We're hoping to bounce back too in late fall - although we'd like to take advantage of the military deals. Hope MIL is on board since she's the one with the benefits!

Jen - glad you made it safely and are having fun. I'll take 58 degrees. It hasn't been above zero here in three days! Stop teasing us and start talking lady! We want details!! I have to wait 11 days for my magic.

Going to bed early. I read an article that people who get more sleep stay healthier. Since DD5 has a cold/cough, we're all hitting the sack earlier than normal!
See you all tomorrow!!!

 

[figmentfan0724]

hey everyone, i just got home from fla! it was amazing!@ More details to come later....

 

[crzyred]

So this is me right now....


I'm tired. I don't want to be here. I want to be in Disney. I HATE WISCONSIN!

*In case you couldn't tell my time at the Happiest Place on Earth has come to an end. It's far to cold here to say things like "oh it's always nice to be home" or "it will be nice to sleep in my own bed". Plus, WI isn't home. Really it isn't.

At some point tomorrow I'll give a little trip report. I don't think I'll go through and do a full one, I might, depends on what my work schedule for the next week looks like.

For those of you going within the next few weeks, really pay attention to the weather. Apparently some of these cold streaks can stretch south. There were frost warnings the past 2 nights, which make for some cooler mornings. Nothing that wearing some layers can't handle, but just a heads up.

Ok I'm off to bed now. Good night everyone. Stay warm.

 

[debbieandroo]

Great pictures!! I love your Snowbird tag. It's so cute!

So I went to the crocs store here today and I was able to exchange DD's Minnie Janes. He carried that style and was able to help me (had to get pink instead of black, but I'm sure she won't mind). As for mine, he doesn't carry Baja's so I got Athen's. The Baja's were a 7 and a little small so I moved up to an 8. Of course I didn't try them on there and now they look too big. I guess there's quite a difference between the 2 styles. Now I don't know what to do!! I now have 2 pairs of crocs flip flops. I have to make up my mind. I have to either send back the baja's or return the athens. The crocs store is about 20-25 miles away and there's no fast way to get there. Decisions, decisions......So frustrating!

Ha - I did the same thing -- ordered two pairs of shoes from zappos.com [free shipping/returns] - one pair fit wonderfully but the other...I tried and tried to rationalize that they were comfortable because they were so cute...but, tonight, I decided to send them back. I also wondered if I should get another pair so I clicked and looked, looked and clicked - but decided to save my money.....

Funny things, shoes are....lots of responsibility - they have to be cute and comfortable...and Bella's put a lot of pressure on us - if it hadn't been for her, I would have worn tennis shoes with capris [I know, the horror!] the whole time....now I've branched out - my little Keen Mary Janes with capris sneaking in my tennis shoes just in case of blisters but don't tell Bella!

 

[Lil'Mermaid75]

Welcome back snykymom & crzyred! Glad to hear you both had a great time. snykymom - thanks for the trip report. Can't wait to hear about your's crzyred!

Hey Snowbirds!! Just wanted to check in with all of you!!! I made it here safely and am having the best time ever!! I can't wait to share the details with you all in my trip report...just let me tell you my first few moments at Disney were everything they were supposed to be and more...major pixie dust was flying my way!!

For those of you wondering...it was COLD...65mph on Test Track when its 58 degrees means my nose about froze off LOL

Other than that you will all be happy to know that I didn't get to the parks until 1:00ish and I was able to get a Soarin fast pass for 3:15pm return time and I walked on everything else I wanted.

Today has been MAGICAL..and that is all I'm going to say...you'll have to wait for the rest!!

I didn't get to meet up with coffeehousemom...I wasn't sure if she was supposed to call me or me call her...oops!! Either way TODAY has been everything I could have imagined and more!

Jen - you are such a tease!! Glad to hear your first day was everything you wanted and more!!! Can't wait to hear the rest.

For all those getting ready to leave - safe travels!!!

 

[Dancegrl624]

Dancegrl I thought it was you that mentioned a site for penny machines? I looked back about 10 pages and couldn't find it Do you know what it is?? Thanks

The website is parkpennies.com

 

[Dancegrl624]

To those of you who just returned....Welcome back! We missed you! I hope that you had wonderful trips!

Jen-Thanks for checking in! I can't wait to read your trip report!

 

[Northern Disney Girl]

GOOD MORNING SNOWBIRDIES!

HOPE EVERYBODY IS STAYING WARM TODAY! Had to walk the girlies to school today and MAN! is it cold out there! -27C with the wind it's -36C! It's supposed to warm up to a balmy high of ONLY -17C!

Only 47hrs until I am out of here! (We are driving to Minneapolis on Sunday and flying to MCO very early Monday morning)

Hey Snowbirds!! Just wanted to check in with all of you!!! I made it here safely and am having the best time ever!! I can't wait to share the details with you all in my trip report...just let me tell you my first few moments at Disney were everything they were supposed to be and more...major pixie dust was flying my way!!

For those of you wondering...it was COLD...65mph on Test Track when its 58 degrees means my nose about froze off LOL

Other than that you will all be happy to know that I didn't get to the parks until 1:00ish and I was able to get a Soarin fast pass for 3:15pm return time and I walked on everything else I wanted.

Today has been MAGICAL..and that is all I'm going to say...you'll have to wait for the rest!!

I didn't get to meet up with coffeehousemom...I wasn't sure if she was supposed to call me or me call her...oops!! Either way TODAY has been everything I could have imagined and more!

Oh my dear Jen! You are such a teaser! So glad to know that all is well and you are having a super time, thus far! See you Monday night!

Hi everyone! I just found this board 2 days ago and I've been loving reading all about your Disney plans! So it's time for me to post, I guess. My story- I've been to WDW twice, the last time 16 years ago, so it's practically new to me. I got married in August, 2007 and we wanted to go on a honeymoon, but events intervened, both unexpected (the death of my wonderful mom-in-law) and planned (my daughter's wedding this past July). So we've been mulling over ideas for a big trip/honeymoon for months. Then right before Christmas, I told my DH about this great deal at WDW (he's never been there) and we impulsively booked a trip! I'm REALLY excited! We're staying at the AKL January 26-Feb. 2. I've been going crazy trying to do research, making ADRs, compiling lists, etc. And now it's almost time to escape this upstate NY chill for sunny Orlando! Anyway, thanks for all your ideas and enthusiasm and I'm looking forward to everyone trip reports and pics!

WELCOME! Thanks for stopping by! Don't be afraid to jump in and chat with us! We are a very fun group!

hey everyone, i just got home from fla! it was amazing!@ More details to come later....

Welcome Home! Anxiously awaiting those details!

So this is me right now....


I'm tired. I don't want to be here. I want to be in Disney. I HATE WISCONSIN!

*In case you couldn't tell my time at the Happiest Place on Earth has come to an end. It's far to cold here to say things like "oh it's always nice to be home" or "it will be nice to sleep in my own bed". Plus, WI isn't home. Really it isn't.

At some point tomorrow I'll give a little trip report. I don't think I'll go through and do a full one, I might, depends on what my work schedule for the next week looks like.

For those of you going within the next few weeks, really pay attention to the weather. Apparently some of these cold streaks can stretch south. There were frost warnings the past 2 nights, which make for some cooler mornings. Nothing that wearing some layers can't handle, but just a heads up.

Ok I'm off to bed now. Good night everyone. Stay warm.

Welcome home anyway Red! We missed you! Glad you had a great time! Can't wait to hear all about it!

Well I have about 6hrs to myself today to get some pacing done so I guess I'd better get at it! Gosh I wish the weather people would stop changing the forecast! Packing is getting to be tricky! I guess just a little of everything is in order! Wish me luck! Later Birdies!

 

[Pluto_fan]

Good morning Snowbirds!

Welcome back, snykymom, crzyred, and figmentfan!
Snykymom, thanks for the report! It sounds like you had a great time! CSR sounds very nice and relaxing. That's one of the things we love about SOG--it's just so peaceful.
Crzyred, sorry it stinks to be back to the freezing cold. Maybe it will help to tell us all about your trip!

Jen, thanks for checking in! Glad you made it safely. We can't wait to hear all the details!

Hi everyone! I just found this board 2 days ago and I've been loving reading all about your Disney plans! So it's time for me to post, I guess. My story- I've been to WDW twice, the last time 16 years ago, so it's practically new to me. I got married in August, 2007 and we wanted to go on a honeymoon, but events intervened, both unexpected (the death of my wonderful mom-in-law) and planned (my daughter's wedding this past July). So we've been mulling over ideas for a big trip/honeymoon for months. Then right before Christmas, I told my DH about this great deal at WDW (he's never been there) and we impulsively booked a trip! I'm REALLY excited! We're staying at the AKL January 26-Feb. 2. I've been going crazy trying to do research, making ADRs, compiling lists, etc. And now it's almost time to escape this upstate NY chill for sunny Orlando! Anyway, thanks for all your ideas and enthusiasm and I'm looking forward to everyone trip reports and pics!

We're glad you joined us! You'll be arriving at WDW just as we get home. Have a magical belated honeymoon!

 

[Dancegrl624]

I got this update from Stitch Kingdom this morning.

Complete Closures

Pecos Bill Cafe Magic Kingdom 01/11/09 - 02/13/09
Mickey's PhilharMagic Magic Kingdom 01/18/09 - 02/06/09
The Hall of Presidents Magic Kingdom 11/01/08 - 07/01/09
Ellen's Energy Adventure Epcot 01/05/09 - 03/22/09
Sounds Dangerous
Operates Seasonally - exact re-opening date unknown, closure may extend further Hollywood Studios 01/04/09 - 12/31/09
Studio Backlot Tour Hollywood Studios 01/04/09 - 02/28/09
The American Film Institute Showcase Hollywood Studios 01/04/09 - 02/28/09
TriceraTop Spin Animal Kingdom 01/20/09 - 02/06/09
Typhoon Lagoon Typhoon Lagoon 10/26/08 - 03/21/09
Chef Mickey's
Chef Mickey's will remain open while seat areas are changed, photo location is moved and companion restrooms added Contemporary Resort 06/02/08 - 02/27/09


Partial Closures

Dream Along With Mickey Magic Kingdom 01/06/09 - 01/24/09
Voyage of the Little Mermaid Hollywood Studios 01/27/09 - 01/29/09
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Hollywood Studios 01/31/09 - 02/01/09


Since I've never been to AK I have no idea what Tricera Top Spin is. Will we be missing out on anything?

 

[Northern Disney Girl]

MEGHAN!

check out this link - just think of Dumbo as a triceratops!

http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/guides/animalkingdom/ak-dino-TriceraTop.htm

Darn! My kids were really excited about this one!

 

[Pluto_fan]

Since I've never been to AK I have no idea what Tricera Top Spin is. Will we be missing out on anything?

Thanks for the update, Meghan. I hadn't heard about Triceratop Spin closing. It's a Dumbo-type ride--you sit in a friendly-looking dinosaur and go in a circle and up and down. Also like Aladdin's Carpets in MK. Your DD might enjoy it, unless she is the adventurous type who would think it was for "little kids".

 

[Dancegrl624]

MEGHAN!

check out this link - just think of Dumbo as a triceratops!

http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/guides/animalkingdom/ak-dino-TriceraTop.htm

Darn! My kids were really excited about this one!

Thanks for the link Kim!

Thanks for the update, Meghan. I hadn't heard about Triceratop Spin closing. It's a Dumbo-type ride--you sit in a friendly-looking dinosaur and go in a circle and up and down. Also like Aladdin's Carpets in MK. Your DD might enjoy it, unless she is the adventurous type who would think it was for "little kids".

Happy to help out. My DD hasn't been on Dumbo (gasp!) but she's done the magic carpets. I'm sure she would have enjoyed riding in a dinosaur, but I'm not going to lose sleep over it. She's not going to be missing out on anything.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

thanks for the info Meghan! I had thought my kids would like it as they really like Dumbo and Aladdin. Plus there aren't that many rides that they would go on at AK. Oh well, that means we can make the shows!

Hope everyone is staying warm this a.m. We had school cancelled AGAIN!
-22 this morning. My kids have Monday off for MLk and Tuesday for teacher workshop. I said, we should have gone this week! I don't know what we're gong to do with them home for 6 days in a row. Lots of packing and trying on clothes, reading, Disney movies!! I have put off going grocery shopping for two days - now I really need to go. But I have to take them along! Plus I have to find someone to watch them for an hour while I go to the dentist. It would have been so much easier if they were in school!!!

Crzyrd - I can sympathize with that coming home to cold blues! Last year it was below zero the whole time we were on vacation and we came home - still below zero!! Other than the great memories and our tans, we almost felt like we never left! It was so hard to go back to work! Hang in there!!!