January 2009. . . Calling all Snowbirds ~ Part V

[Disney Mommy 3]

We've done Dec a few times, and the last time, we saw a noticeable diff. in crowd level. It seems to really be picking up! The latest in the month we have ever been is like the 17th and boy was it crowded by then!!! But, with more & more people being laid off and the auto industry being so crazy, I have read where lots more people are cancelling their trips--especially around holiday time. So, maybe attendance will show that. But, I really thought the same thing this Jan, and was shocked how busy it was. I hate for anyone to have to cancel, for whatever reason--but just thought reports we had been hearing would be noticeable in the parks.

Have any of you eaten at the Yachtsman at the Yacht club? Just wondering in case I can't get Le Cellier when the time comes.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

We've done Dec a few times, and the last time, we saw a noticeable diff. in crowd level. It seems to really be picking up! The latest in the month we have ever been is like the 17th and boy was it crowded by then!!! But, with more & more people being laid off and the auto industry being so crazy, I have read where lots more people are cancelling their trips--especially around holiday time. So, maybe attendance will show that. But, I really thought the same thing this Jan, and was shocked how busy it was. I hate for anyone to have to cancel, for whatever reason--but just thought reports we had been hearing would be noticeable in the parks.

Have any of you eaten at the Yachtsman at the Yacht club? Just wondering in case I can't get Le Cellier when the time comes.

I've read some threads where they talk about attendance just being up all the time. Over the years it has definitely increased. Seems sort of odd with the economy and all.
Never eaten at Yachtsman, but I know I've read some reviews here on the boards. Mostly positive.

 

[Momto2PrncChrmgs]

Hey ladies, just wanted to let you know Keaton is fine!! Looks like he was in a bar brawl, but he says nothing hurts and he's been in a fine mood today! He fell asleep with Andy last night about 8:30, 30 minutes after the incident. Andy slept with him until about midnight when we decided it was ok to put him in his bed. I could hear him breathing thru his nose, so I figured if he was getting air in there, it couldn't be bleeding! He got a good 11 hours of sleep and is doing fine! Thanks for all the prayers and positive thoughts!!

So we were talking Disney with some old friends that we just started seeing again since our boys are on the same TBall team. Well they've decided to do Disney with us in January! Andy is absolutely thrilled...I'm excited but also aprehensive. I adore these guys, but 1-there are things that a newbie should do that we don't always want to do, and 2-I'm a little set in my ways as far as Disney goes, and you just never know how other people react to things. We've only ever traveled with Andy's sis and her family, and we get along great. No one gets their feelings hurt if we have different things we want to do, we swap kids if some want to do something and others don't...it's just a great situation. I really like these people and I don't want to ruin a friendship over a vacation. Does that make any sense or am I just being witchy?

 

[Monny2AE]

Happy Memorial Day Snowbirds! We had a busy long weekend...did a little spring cleaning, powerwashed the patio, steam cleaned the carpets but the most exciting part of my weekend was trading in my little cramped Ford Focus and driving home a MINIVAN!!!!!!! Woo Hoo- I'm so excited!!!
Of course both my kids thought we were going to Disney My in laws rented us a minivan for our trip last time and so now they associate minivans with driving to Disney. Is it wrong that while shopping for it, all I could picture was how I was going to be able to fit everything in it for a trip to Disney.

Soleil- I definitely understand your bittersweet feelings. I was so upset to move from our little townhouse 5 years ago. It was our first home together as a couple and my son's first home too. We had so many wonderful memories there. We love our home now and all turned out just fine.
Hang in there- you'll get through it
(Could you send that advice back to me when I'm a mess this September watching my baby go to Kindergarten!)

letthewookiewin- Oh I soooo needed a laugh- sorry it was at your expense. You definitely need to come up with something over the top to get him back- he definitely deserves it! And good luck with his promotion!

 

[Monny2AE]

Hey ladies, just wanted to let you know Keaton is fine!! Looks like he was in a bar brawl, but he says nothing hurts and he's been in a fine mood today! He fell asleep with Andy last night about 8:30, 30 minutes after the incident. Andy slept with him until about midnight when we decided it was ok to put him in his bed. I could hear him breathing thru his nose, so I figured if he was getting air in there, it couldn't be bleeding! He got a good 11 hours of sleep and is doing fine! Thanks for all the prayers and positive thoughts!!

So we were talking Disney with some old friends that we just started seeing again since our boys are on the same TBall team. Well they've decided to do Disney with us in January! Andy is absolutely thrilled...I'm excited but also aprehensive. I adore these guys, but 1-there are things that a newbie should do that we don't always want to do, and 2-I'm a little set in my ways as far as Disney goes, and you just never know how other people react to things. We've only ever traveled with Andy's sis and her family, and we get along great. No one gets their feelings hurt if we have different things we want to do, we swap kids if some want to do something and others don't...it's just a great situation. I really like these people and I don't want to ruin a friendship over a vacation. Does that make any sense or am I just being witchy?

So glad Keaton is doing well...what a relief! Life is never boring when you have kids that's for sure!

I know how you feel about your travel buddies. We've gone the last 2 times with my parents and sister. While I love going together, I always feel guilty if we aren't together or want to do different things. I'm looking forward to this next trip because it will be just us. Perhaps just lay down some ground rules ahead of time so that feelings won't be hurt if you don't always want to do everything together.

 

[Momto2PrncChrmgs]

Happy Memorial Day Snowbirds! We had a busy long weekend...did a little spring cleaning, powerwashed the patio, steam cleaned the carpets but the most exciting part of my weekend was trading in my little cramped Ford Focus and driving home a MINIVAN!!!!!!! Woo Hoo- I'm so excited!!!
Of course both my kids thought we were going to Disney My in laws rented us a minivan for our trip last time and so now they associate minivans with driving to Disney. Is it wrong that while shopping for it, all I could picture was how I was going to be able to fit everything in it for a trip to Disney.

Soleil- I definitely understand your bittersweet feelings. I was so upset to move from our little townhouse 5 years ago. It was our first home together as a couple and my son's first home too. We had so many wonderful memories there. We love our home now and all turned out just fine.
Hang in there- you'll get through it
(Could you send that advice back to me when I'm a mess this September watching my baby go to Kindergarten!)

letthewookiewin- Oh I soooo needed a laugh- sorry it was at your expense. You definitely need to come up with something over the top to get him back- he definitely deserves it! And good luck with his promotion!

I'm with ya sister! Right before we went to Disney in Jan. we traded in my car and got a Chevy Equinox...much more room. I wanted a Mazda5 minivan but Andy was too tall for it-his legs would've been squished! I'm not real fond of my car but it is very roomy and comfy. Otherwise I'd trade it for a Civic or something small like that. Of course, now we're talking about driving again in Jan with our friens...can't trade it now!

 

[Monny2AE]

We got a Ford Freestar- used but new to me DH is a technician for Ford so we always have to stick with the Ford family Saves us when repairs come around though. I actually laid in bed last night picturing all we have to take and how it would fit- where would I put the little cooler with snacks and drinks for the drive, etc. Our trip is MONTHS away...I think something is wrong with me!

 

[Mndisneygirl]

COngrats on the new van Kim!
I'm glad Keaton is okay.
Paige is much better today and it looks like she will make the field trip to the zoo tomorrow. I knew she was feeling better when she started fighting with her sisiter!
DH has been shopping for a new minivan too. We have a Chevy (which I don't like) and the lease is up. I can't wait to get rid of it. We have a station wagon and an old truck, so we can get by with those two for a while. He has his heart set on the Honda Odyssey. Have you seen how pricey those are???? Yikes!! I'm trying to tell him we don't need the fanciest model, or even a brand new one. Used Hondas are not cheap by the way - they hold their value, which is great if you have one, not so great if you're buying.
He's a car nut - got some disorder I think - he has a hard time keeping vehicles for long (which is why we have leased in the past). I haven't even test driven this one yet, but apparently that's a formality. I'm now wondering where I can cut back on expenses to afford what will likely be our biggest car payment ever. Oh, why can't he like less expensive things once in a while??? Too bad he's like me that way - certain things we don't do cheap. Clothes from Target and Old Navy, sure, but things like appliances and furniture and cars - go for quality and buy the expensive stuff. It's a tough dilemma to have - wanting the best and having a husband who wants to buy them, and not having quite enough money to afford it all. Plus I have to pay for DISNEY!!! What's a girl to do??

 

[Momto2PrncChrmgs]

COngrats on the new van Kim!
I'm glad Keaton is okay.
Paige is much better today and it looks like she will make the field trip to the zoo tomorrow. I knew she was feeling better when she started fighting with her sisiter!
DH has been shopping for a new minivan too. We have a Chevy (which I don't like) and the lease is up. I can't wait to get rid of it. We have a station wagon and an old truck, so we can get by with those two for a while. He has his heart set on the Honda Odyssey. Have you seen how pricey those are???? Yikes!! I'm trying to tell him we don't need the fanciest model, or even a brand new one. Used Hondas are not cheap by the way - they hold their value, which is great if you have one, not so great if you're buying.
He's a car nut - got some disorder I think - he has a hard time keeping vehicles for long (which is why we have leased in the past). I haven't even test driven this one yet, but apparently that's a formality. I'm now wondering where I can cut back on expenses to afford what will likely be our biggest car payment ever. Oh, why can't he like less expensive things once in a while??? Too bad he's like me that way - certain things we don't do cheap. Clothes from Target and Old Navy, sure, but things like appliances and furniture and cars - go for quality and buy the expensive stuff. It's a tough dilemma to have - wanting the best and having a husband who wants to buy them, and not having quite enough money to afford it all. Plus I have to pay for DISNEY!!! What's a girl to do??

My hubby has the same car sickness. If we keep something two years we're doing good! He's had his car for about 15 months and he is itching for a Jeep Wrangler since it's nice outside! He's had several in the past but got rid of our last one almost 7 years ago before Drew was born (his choice-he didn't feel safe putting an infant in a shaky old Jeep). But we put so many miles on our cars, leasing is not an option for us. And we're always upside down on them! I hate it!!

 

[Dancegrl624]

DD6 got a fever on Saturday and cough/cold, so we've been keeping her on the couch watching Disney movies

Madison is going through the same thing right now! She's been coughing since about Friday. She stayed over my parents house on Saturday night (we had a wedding to go to) and my mom said she had a low fever. When I picked her up yesterday, she definately looked tired. So what did we do? We went to Fantasy Island (a small amusement park). Memorial Day weekend is always a dance showcase and my studio always dances on Sunday. She didn't complain at all...we just went through lots of tissues. She seemed a bit better today, so that was good. She was running around my parents backyard all day, riding her scooter, kicking her soccer ball....she was still coughing, but good. We'll see how tomorrow goes I guess!

I just have to share some excitement with all of you.....I leave in 30 days!!!!

 

[Disney Mommy 3]

Hey ladies, just wanted to let you know Keaton is fine!! Looks like he was in a bar brawl, but he says nothing hurts and he's been in a fine mood today!

I really like these people and I don't want to ruin a friendship over a vacation. Does that make any sense or am I just being witchy?

I don't think you are being witchy at all. It's a big deal! I am so stingy with my family I wouldn't want to do a vacation (Disney anyway) with someone else. Maybe a few days, but I like time with just us. Maybe you could set up some days where ya'll start out about and meet for Dinner or something. I know sometimes big things like this is when friends get there feelings hurt over little things and everybody is tired and then it turns into a big thing. Just make some plans and decide what you will or will not do together and if they are good with that, it should be fine!!!

We got a Ford Freestar- used but new to me DH is a technician for Ford so we always have to stick with the Ford family Saves us when repairs come around though. I actually laid in bed last night picturing all we have to take and how it would fit- where would I put the little cooler with snacks and drinks for the drive, etc. Our trip is MONTHS away...I think something is wrong with me!

Girl, I do that with everything! Even shoes or jackets! "Oh, this would be great for the parks." Or, look I could sure you that for our trip!! It is just Good Planning

 

[Disney Mommy 3]

Car talk... I have a suburban, which I do love. My oldest son is now quite taller than me (3inches!!) and he needs leg room! Ha!! I will have had it fo 3 years in July. It's an awesome vehicle and when we go to the airport the backend is completely full with suitcases!!! don't know how we would fit them in a car!!! But,,, I do love those Honda Odyssey's!!! Mike thinks I am crazy---he has a minivan 'thing'. But I would take one in a minute. But, I would miss my sub too!! I know around here they are making some great deals on them because business is so slow,,,maybe I could trade for an 09? Probably not. Mike has had his truck for about 4 years or so....he drives a lot and so we have killer miles---so much we just sale to someone, can't trade in. He also has to pull goose neck and lowboy trailers, so we have a big diesel. Mine is paid for, his almost is--so I think I shouldnt mention trade-in for a while!! He'll need something before I do just from wear and tear!

Meghan-i am so happy for you!!! Ya'll are going to have so much fun!! I forgot where you said ya'll are staying. Remind me 1 more time!!! hope madison gets better---I had that same stuff, but had to get an anitbiotic...it just kept hangin' on. I am finally over it PTL!!!

So, I am still hunting luggage.... haven't actually got to go to the mall and look at any--too busy. But, I gotta do it--it's actually something I loathe doing. If I could bring my clothes and see how it worked....that would be awesome!!! I have been looking on line, but you just can't get a good feel from the screen. Well, hope you all have a blessed day!

 

[Dancegrl624]

We're staying at Pop!!!! Never been there before, but Madison is SO excited about it just by looking at the pictures.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

update: Sadly, Paige was up early again with a runny nose and a fever, so I had to keep her home today. She was MAD at me! Like it's my fault! So she missed out on the zoo trip. She's better now of course, but I may still have to keep her home tomorrow, since technically she hasn't been rid of her fever for long enough. So my mom came over and I ran to the office to grab some work to do at home. I'd be okay to stay home tomorrow if need be. Ironically, Paige is scheduled for her 6 yr check up tomorrow. Maybe we will see if anything else can be done for her.

 

[Momto2PrncChrmgs]

Isn't that frustrating when the kids are fine for a while then their fever bounces back up!! Our kids do that. On a similar note, I got a call from daycare saying that Keaton's nose was bleeding again. When Andy called to check it out, they were pretty sure it was the old black gunk that was in his nose! Gross, I know, but better old gunk than new gunk!

 

[Disney Mommy 3]

Poor Paige and Poor Keaton!!! I hope they are better soon!!!

 

[danceintherain]

We've been searching for a car recently, and I spent quite a bit of time convincing my DH that there's no reason to get a gas guzzler unless it can haul a lot of people, and since we don't need a vehicle that can haul a lot of people right now, there's no reason to get a gas guzzler.
I've finally got him convince, but it's been hard to find something that we both like anyways. We test drove a new Honda Fit and both loved it, but it's a little out of our price range and I can't seem to justify car payments that high. I've never had a car... let alone a car payment.
I wish I could get by without a car, but I'm at the point where I can't anymore. Though if we can get one with excellent gas mileage, then we might be able to justify more trips to Disney!

 

[Monny2AE]

Hugs to all the baby Snowbirds feeling sick Hope they are all feeling better soon. At least school is almost out and germs should be spread a little less.

Meghan- congrats on being less than 30 days!!!!! You're going to have such a magical birthday!!!!

And my trip obsession is officially underway ladies... I made my packing list and my shopping list. Not only that but I already knocked off a couple items on my shopping list.
I bought mesh laundry bags for the trip at target over the weekend. We usually stay at CBR and use the bench drawer to hold all our dirty clothes but this time we are staying ASMovies and they don't have a bench drawer so I bought us some laundry bags. My grocery store had Capri Sun waters on sale so I actually checked the date on the box in the store- yup good through middle of 2010 and I tucked 2 boxes away. Let the madness begin!

 

[drakes]

Hugs to all the baby Snowbirds feeling sick Hope they are all feeling better soon. At least school is almost out and germs should be spread a little less.

Meghan- congrats on being less than 30 days!!!!! You're going to have such a magical birthday!!!!

And my trip obsession is officially underway ladies... I made my packing list and my shopping list. Not only that but I already knocked off a couple items on my shopping list.
I bought mesh laundry bags for the trip at target over the weekend. We usually stay at CBR and use the bench drawer to hold all our dirty clothes but this time we are staying ASMovies and they don't have a bench drawer so I bought us some laundry bags. My grocery store had Capri Sun waters on sale so I actually checked the date on the box in the store- yup good through middle of 2010 and I tucked 2 boxes away. Let the madness begin!

​

YAY for Disney Madness!!!​

I am loving it! You are not alone- we too look at things year round in terms of disney! I am still searching for the best park bag! We went to the Disney Store last night while DD was at Guides! I was able to pick up 2 t- shirts for $7.99 each! Not that I dont have enough shirts. I hummed and Hahhed about it, because after seeing our pictures from the last trip, we were so disneyed out with our shirts- lol - I said next trip I would be less disnefiedOh well something about mickey mouse and tinkerbell on a t shirt and I can't resist maybe it was the $7.99 price tag. I also was able to get dd some summer pjs- she needed them, and I even questioned does she want to sleep in ariel and tink pjs .
I also started sorting out our totes. I confessed last night to the family that I am surpirsed I am not 100% into planning mode. This time last year I had itineraries and days planned.
Yesterday I did completed my "Have Not" list- all the things we have not done- only attractions ( not restaurants etc.)
I really want to do a trip report, but I am photo challeneged at the moment and I think the photos are the best part. I tried to upload pictures to photobucket and post, and it didn't work? I'll keep trying!

I am so excited! I think it's time to start our 2010 snowbird thread? ​

 

[Dancegrl624]

I am so excited! I think it's time to start our 2010 snowbird thread? ​

Can it be a 2010 Snowbirds (and friends) thread? Or maybe Snowbirds....Past and Present?? No matter what you call it, I'll still be there!

Speaking of Disney shirts....Maddie and I were dressed in Disney shirts most of the week back in January. Well, she wore a Disney tee everyday. I wore a non-Disney shirt on our AK day. Anyways....for this upcoming trip, there will be no Disney shirts. Before I get booed, I have an explanation. Almost all of our Disney shirts were t-shirts. That doesn't work for me in June in Orlando. It's just WAY too hot for sleeves. So, we'll be wearing tank tops and halter tops all week. Speaking of clothing, maybe I'll update my PTR with my clothing choices!!