July 17th? Anyone out there with us?

[moinab]

I've struggled with insomnia most of my life, inherited from my father. It was really bad when I was in college, but then my doctor put me on trazodone. It's an antidepressant, but in low doses it functions as a sleep aid. I'd take one before bed, fall asleep within 15 minutes, and sleep soundly for 8 hours. It made a huge difference in my life. I took it for about a year, after which I was able to sleep pretty regularly on my own. There are other medications available, too. I tried Ambien, but it didn't work well for me.

6 days until we leave for Orlando!

 

[floridaminnie]

Guilty at charged! Another teacher here. I'm a sixth grade middle school teacher. I taught Lang Arts, Geog. and REading last year, but this year I'm only going to teach Lang. Arts. Yes, we will need to meet to have a drink!

 

[Verandah Man]

Just had to share this with your group, especially after reading Philateech's post yesterday. Today was pay day for me, YEA!!! On our paystubs, there are always little sayings on them. Today's saying was, "BE KIND. EVERY PERSON YOU MEET IS FIGHTING A HARD BATTLE." My first thought was of Holly and her boys. I hope this WDW vacation and DCL WONDER cruise, brings some much needed joy to you Holly, and your boys.

My family will be thinking about you this coming week. I hope you get to meet sdoane and share some quiet time together!!!

 

[rae519]

Originally posted by Philateech
1st time poster-hi everyone! My sons-6 & 3 and I will be on the 7/17 cruise! We'll be at Poly at WDW the 4 days before. We're celebrating DS's 7th birthday on the 18th. I'm hoping my 3 (4 in Sept) YO son will make it in the club. (I want some mommy alone time in the spa!) He's potty trained, with some accidents. I'll have him in underwear, and ask them to page me if he has an accident. I'll bring swim diapers and pullups in case he needs them (I know he can't wear them in the club-I'll have LOTS of underwear with me!!LOL)-hopefully not! It's just the boys and me-1st time cruise for us all. We're also remembering DH-his birthday is July 13th (the day we arrive in WDW)-he would of been 39. He drowned in a work related accident this past September. It's been hard for us all, so I thought WDW and DCL would help us. Thanks everyone for all your info! The boys and I are counting down the days!!!!

-Holly

Dearest Holly,
My condolences to you on his tragedy in your lives. I think you have a very good attitude toward your sons and that will help you and them in the years to come.
My daughter died 9 years ago on 7/13 in a car accident, she was 7 years old.
We, survivors, have learned a lot in the minutes that passed since our loved ones left us - but always remember that he will always live in your hearts and memories.

God bless you, dear Holly - and many hugs from your friends here at the Disboards,

Rae

 

[minniecarousel]

Hey fellow cruisers! Getting close!!
...gotta get back to packing!

 

[floridaminnie]

What type of excursions is everyone planning on doing. DF and I are going snorkling in Nassau. Should be interesting since I had a hard time snorkling in the past at WDW, but that was over 10 years ago. I might just have to hold my breath. At Castaway Cay, I plan on doing the Banana ride. We already signed up for snorkling, but I'm holding off for the BR to make sure it's nice and sunny. I thought it would be better to do the BR in July versus our Dec. cruise. I've turned into a Floridaian. The water was a tad too cold for this past March at CC, so I could only imagine what it would be like in Dec. I also plan on spending time at the adult beach. We spent our time at the family beach last time (1st cruise DD came down with strep, so no beach trip). DD never has spent time at the Kid's club at CC, so she'll experience it for the first time. Need to go do laundry (YUCK!) and pack!

 

[Philateech]

I've been thinking about what to do. I think in Nassau we'll do a bit of shopping, then Atlantis. I've actually been thinking of getting a room at the Comfort Inn so we can use Atlantis. CC-probably family beach. Are there any good activities that 3YO can be included in-excursions, etc. I mean. I need to get ready to pack, just not motivated-it's been a busy week and I'm out of energy! Gotta clean my house, laundry, etc. UGH! Pay bills-double UGH! Looking forward to meting you guys. Just looked at the weather-average of 92 at WDW next week when we're there. BTW-thanks everyone that's posted about thoughts for me. I've been finding there there is always someone that has it worse. I feel for that person, as you guys feel for me. Thanks.

-Holly

 

[jendon1997]

My sister and father are doing Parasailing at Castaway Cay. They are sooo excited. Neither has parasailed before. Dad swears he is taking the video camera up with him. I said he should just relax and enjoy while up there. I heard it is quick. Weather does look nice. I was worried when I heard about the tropical storm at the beginning of the week. It has moved west. YEAH!! Holly, my sister who is cruising with us is from Philly also. Maybe you will have something to talk about. She is a nanny. Loves Philly. moinab- congrats on the upgrade!! Can't wait everyone. We leave Monday. I'm getting scared-I hate to fly!! But it is worth it. Talk to ya all soon!!

 

[maurer_family]

I wanted to let you all know that I am very jealous of all of you! I am jendon1997's sister, the youngest and was unable to go on the trip this year. (Even our parents are going) My husband and I are now planning a trip down to WDW in August. Hope you all have fun!!

 

[floridaminnie]

Don't worry. I'll have a drink (or two ) for you!

 

[moinab]

We're not planning any excursions. With an infant and a toddler, we decided it best to remain as flexible as possible. DH has been to Nassau many times. I've never been, but am indifferent. I dislike touristy places. DH wants to walk around a bit, straw market, Queen's staircase, etc. I thought maybe a carraige ride.

Since this is my first time on a cruise, I want to get as much ship time as I can. DS has never been to a movie. Toy Story 2 and The Tigger Movie are his favorite videos, so I would love for him to see Nemo and Piglet. So much to do, so little time!

We're going to try for a half day on the family beach on CC. DD doesn't do well in the heat, so I may have to take her back on the ship early. CC does look absolutely beautiful, but we live on the beach, so it's not essential for us to spend the day there.

I have a silly question for repeat cruisers. I've read so much about the food on board, but haven't seen anything mentioning popcorn. I'm a bit of an addict and am wondering if there will be any available. I think, with the variety of food available, I'll be able to get by without it.

4 and 1/2 days until we leave for Orlando! Unfortunately, I have to get the house clean before we go (DF is coming to visit 2 days after we get back!) Right now, though, I'm going to play dress up with my kids, to see them in their dinner outfits!

 

[floridaminnie]

Popcorn out of the bag is available right outside the Walt Theater. It's ok.

Also, if you leave CC early, you'll have the Mickey pool and Goofy pool to yourself. We did that last cruise and it was great. The slide wasn't open, but last time Brianna wasn't old enough to go on it.

 

[moinab]

Thanks for the info! It's good to know I'll be able to get my fix, if needed. Also, thanks for the tip about the pools on CC day. I'm sure I'll get in a few hours on CC, but DD won't last too long. The heat makes her vomit

Speaking of heat, it was hotter than Hades here in NE FL today! I made one trip to Wal-Mart and then locked myself inside the rest of the day. I'll always be a New Englander, at heart.

sdoane and minniecarousel, I hope you have a great time at WDW!

Hope to see everyone next Thursday!

 

[Philateech]

sdoane and minniecarousel-Where are you staying at WDW and when are you arriving? I'm at the Poly from Sunday 'til the cruise. I called to confirm the air today, and they said that there are 11 who are booked through dcl on my flight. We're 3, so wonder who the other 8 are? Finally got myself motivated to do something, and went out and got some nice shirts for my boys for dinners ( All they wear around here are t-shirts!), as well as called the Poly to confirm and request balloons. We're letting them go by the lagoon Sunday evening, with notes and pictures attached, in memory of my late DH's birthday (which is Sunday). Can I wear capris to dinner? I'm looking forward to some relaxation at the spa, as well as start some journaling (i've just been too tired to do that and know it would help with the grief journey), and catching up on a couple of books. I have a navigator's verandah so plan on sitting out there at night with a glass of wine as the boys (hopefully) sleep. Anyone have an idea on what movies besides Nemo and Pirates will be on board? Also, my 6 YO is celebrating his 7th birthday on Friday-if we all meet up before then maybe you guys can share birthday cake! Just realized-not worth getting a room at the Comfort Inn in Nassau-have to be at dinner Friday night so he can celebrate on the ship! Duh! (I'm rambling-sorry).

-Holly

 

[moinab]

Hi: I just sailed on the 6/29 Wonder. The movies shown were: Finding Nemo, Piglet's Big Movie, Holes, Catch Me If You Can, Jungle Book 2, Lizzie McGuire, Chicago, The Recruit, Bringing Down the House.

Philateech, have a great time at WDW!

 

[floridaminnie]

WE are leving today for two nights at WDW and then Sunday we head off to Vero Beach till our cruise. Capris are fine for dinner. The 3 day and 4 day cruises are a lot less casual than the 7 day cruise. Let's meet up sometime Thursday then if you want. Just call my room.

Suzanne

 

[minniecarousel]

Hey Holly - we've got 2 Navigators Verandah's too! (thought about getting the boys an inside stateroom & ourselves a regular verandah - across the hall from each other, but settled on this compromise!) We'll be at the Beach Club starting on Sunday. Since we're flying in on Saturday, we'll stay that night at the Dolphin. (flying in from the left coast is a loooong day!)
If we even get off the ship at Nassau, it will just be to do some shopping. Our sons are booked for parasailing at CC.

 

[Philateech]

Everyone ready? I definitely overpacked-it's hard going to both the cruise and WDW-have to take pants and a bit dressier clothes, as well as snacks for WDW, tshirts and shorts, etc. So-2 suitcases for each of us! We're not taking much on the plane, though. I'm exhausted-between laundry, packing, and cleaning the house, as well as rearranging my room (WHAT was I thinking??!!). Cab's coming for us at 7:45 am. I'm excited!!! See ya guys soon!!!!

-Holly

 

[Verandah Man]

Wishing everyone a Safe and WONDERful Cruise!!!

 

[Verandah Man]

Here is a photo of the Wonder in port on your sail away day July 17, 2003.