MagicBands + Margaritas + Muggles + Minions = TRP. New TR link is up! 10/31

[afwdwfan]

Yeah... lot of drama.

I hope your FIL recovers. It isn't the most convenient of circumstances, but at least it is going to work out that Jeff can be there for him and you can still make your trip. Your parents are indeed awesome.

Now aside from that... it seems like a certain band director and 14 year old are causing some drama of their own. I'm sure it will work out fine and they'll get everything loaded. And at least you'll be there to verify that one.

And if Evan doesn't want to pack accordingly, I guess he'll be cold. It is a learning experience.

 

[eandesmom]

Love, love, love the band uniforms. Your son is so lucky.

I know! Ours were hideous. I did band for 2 years before moving on to cheer and flags and while I loved being in the marching band....UGH on the uniforms. Evan's school was our rival back then but even then, I though they were the coolest thing ever (though our cheerleading ones were WAY better of course..)

Band sweatshirt, bad memories. Sarah took her sweatshirt to band camp and another student tried to claimed it. They were not trying to steal it, just everyone's shirts were in a pile, yep on the floor like your earlier photo and since they all had one, someone just grabbed one which was the correct size and decided it belonged to them. When I asked Sarah where her overly expensive shirt was she said she lost it in the room. I made her start asking her roommates to check for her name. Yep, someone else had it. I do not know who lost their shirt but I am glad we marked all of Sarah's clothes with her name.

Kate

YEAH for marking names. I am glad you mentioned it as I don't think that one has his name on it.

OMG! I hope your FiL makes a full recovery and soon. So sorry that the family is having to go through this.

I've had vertigo twice, once for 2 weeks and once for a month. The first time was brutal so I can relate (2nd time was pleasant most of the time and just a bit annoying). We are grateful they figured it out but concerned about recovery so I am really glad Jeff is going to be able to check it out in person.

In a different parallel universe, you could be having to organize your DS to head to a 3 day camping trip. The packing/not-packing list sounds very similar and equally as restrictive. In this parallel universe, no hair gel is allowed as they are heading into the bush for the camp.




The band looks great! 3 Days and counting.

yeah, the critters might want to eat the hair gel! NO smelly stuff for outdoor camps, we've been through those packing lists before. Heck, finally getting Eric's correct patch on his scout shirt last night before his meeting and then ironing his band uniform for a different event this morning was almost a welcome relief after the drama of Evan's packing.

Though I don't know that it really had anything to do with packing...developments last night indicate stress on other things and it probably just spilled over.

Or he's 14

or both.

Oh I got hit with some chemical smell from Spice Road and it almost took me down.

UGH! I didn't notice anything like that but it was SO crowded there, by far the worst spot in the WS that we walked through

I hope that now it that it is open the bottle neck does not exist like Mexico.

Me too. I don't expect the crowds to be so bad for F&G that I'd notice but that Friday of F&W in Sept with Jeff, or the Sat if we head over then...we will see for sure.

Mexico is still bad. As they build out the lake side more, it could get worse...

I really need to think, how I got home. Not liquor induced but I know I wanted to walk but the boat may have been right there. I have no pictures of the way "home" so I'm going with walk....

Well...not memorable can be good...maybe that means it was quick.

Ugh on the drama - I remember those years. Ugh on all the trip related drama and I am glad that all worked out.

YES girl you do need a vacation and you are getting one!!!!!!

Well, part of it may be school stress related and I'm just the convinient outlet.

Just when I was ready to toss him out the window....

Huge argument about him going to help load the truck last night...he "couldn't" because he had too much homework.

Tough. He made a commitment, not the directors fault the truck was late, they are short people and everyone is required to help load.

His choice to do stage crew and spend time after school on that.

And then got to the homework.

I made him go load the truck. I went and helped load the truck.

On the way home I get the

"Keeping good grades is really hard!"

"I'm struggling with xxx" in school, casually tossed out.

A thoughtful, engaging conversation ensued with a fun brainstorming session.

He came home excited, in a great mood, ate and got right to work.

I even got a "thank you, that helped a lot!"

Had we not gone to load the truck, he'd have sat on the couch the entire time staring at his ipad...stuck in the same spot and in the same bad mood.

I may keep him after all.

Whew! Hooray for your folks!


All that packing drama is too much, they should have asked parents to help days ago if they needed help. Ok, they're behind because of the window but that shouldn't need tons of extra hands.

Well, all hands were supposed to be on deck after school to load. All 190 of them (the kids). Once it turned to a 7pm load which was not his fault, he knew he'd not get all the kids between various sports commitments etc so he did make a request for any extra hands available. It was actually the windshield. It was a brand new rental truck so I'm not sure if it got a new windshield or they got a new truck. And trust me, I went and helped. they needed all those hands! I have NEVER seen so much gear and I went on 2 different bigger band trips.

Too funny about the hair gel.

He kills me!

Glad your mind is at ease with the race results now

It was bugging me. Silly I know but it was.

Boy was my phone having a mind of it's own day! No wonder I try not to post from my phone much.

I try not to as well, it always does something crazy.

Hey, if you folks are going to Schooner or Later, the new house is like a mile or so away from there. If you are interested and we are able to meet up, I'd be happy to show it to you. I can completely understand if you didn't want to see it, but if you did, and I wasn't somewhere else, I'd be happy to meet with you and let you see it. I can totally understand that you'd be with your parents and Eric and they probably wouldn't want to see it, but just offering. Send me a FB message if you want to.

I would LOVE to! I definitely will and I'm sure my parents would love it, as would Eric. I really hope we make it to S&L. It will really annoy Jeff but it's SO yummy!. Waiting on my mom's schedule in terms of her "meets" to see where things land.

 

[mickeystoontown]

Oh Cynthia, you drama magnet you! Just like you, drama seems to surround me at the worst of times. (you may remember my temp backed out just a day before we left for Disney last year)

I know that it had to be a bit frustrating figuring out how to reconfigure (if need be) the plans but it sounds like it is working out. Jeff is a great son for going and staying with his dad. Hope that he recovers soon.

As far as the band and packing drama, know this....our orchestra trips sometimes end up chaotic like that. None of the "responsible" adults let the parents or kids know what needs to happen when until the last minute. Hopefully E will get all of his things loaded onto the truck and he won't have to toss a lot of stuff when he arrives at the airport.

 

[eandesmom]

I really hope that your FiL can be helped and he can get back to his regular life. What a mixup with your trip and now Jeff having to go see his dad. Thank god for your parents being able to help out. And thank god for you being so organized as I would have freaked!

Well, I am not sure organized helped at all. If my parents trip was a week earlier I am not sure what we'd have done. A lot of it was luck. I hope he can get better and I hope it is a lot better by then. I have had it and it's not fun.

Love the pics of the rehearsal. The kids look awesome in their uniforms. PLEASE, take a lot of photos when they actually walk down Main Street.

I will!!

Yippie for only three days until you leave!

TWO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'd better pack

Oh, and I can SO relate to the packing done by a teenager. We used to take our 14 years to London for a week and would give them details of what to take and what to pack and we always had the - "But I can tell them it's okay to take on a plane" discussion.
(And yes, I was the one giggling when they took away their bottles, pocket knives and other sharp objects). :

Well I don't expect any of that with security though I'm sure with 190 kids...it will happen to someone! I helped load and there were a few kids that brought RIDICULOUSLY large suitcases. And others that while they may have been smaller, oh my, they were far over the 50 pound limit!

I read this statement and just I am just about to post to my PTR with almost the exact opening... drama... gotta have some sort of drama.

It's a rule! I'm sure there will be more...

AND this is me too... rarely does it involve me.

That's good...I think...except if it did involve us...we could fix it faster.

Seriously now though... I am sorry to hear this. That has to be a bit concerning.

It is, we are both relieved he's going to be able to see for himself what the situation is.

Oh, this is the type of thing that everyone hopes to avoid... some sort of conflict with a planned trip.

Exactly. And while I hope to never ever use it, knowing we do have travel insurance really does give me some peace of mind.

I am glad to hear that your parent are going to be able to help!

Me too!

Poor Jeff!

I know, UGH!

I think sometimes teen boys can be just as if not more dramatic than girls.

Evan is the most dramatic, always has been, of all 4

OMG! I am so glad you figured this out. It was bugging me... but I felt like I was just being crazy. I am so glad that you are I are closely matched in craziness.

And... I am gonna say something here that may be not so popular. Why do they have to bill it to match the "12th man"? Ugh! Not being a true Seahawks fan, I would rather them bill it the way it truly is and not fib on the distance. I noticed they did the same with the turn out... they listed 12 thousand in the representation. Oh well...

You know what, I do get it and that part doesn't bug me. It is billed as a fun run and I get the whole fan aspect. But I do think they should call out the actual real distance somewhere, like in the course description or whatever.

Did you get the yellow one? And... you are being crazy with the outfit for the race? I missed that... I haven't thought you were being crazy in the least bit. Course... maybe that is due to the equal level of crazy.

I did. I ordered it. Of course now they have a new short in the same color but that skirt is darn cute. I would have just picked it up in the store but they only had XS and XL left! I bought 2 different tanks...will likely take one of them back.

I think the shoes elevated the level of craziness. However I was VERY amused when Jeff said those are the ones I should get. And then he was concerned I didn't have enough daily stuff to match them for every day use.

So maybe I will keep both tanks.

THAT is so cool!!!

TWO now!

I'd better pack. I'm kind of bummed. Part of my strategy was to take my car in last night...so I "had" to work from home today which would mean it would be easy to knock out my packing in peace. Frankly I may still do that, at least for half of the day.

I really love their uniforms. I was in band back in high school and believe me... ours were no where near as cool!

Neither was mine! Evan's school was one of our arch rivals and much as we "hated" them...their uniforms were far cooler for sure.

You had a crazy week! I think the water looks very refreshing!

It was. As was simply sitting down and being out of heels for 45 min

I forgot to ask if they felt 100% on sunday.

They weren't bad. They aren't 100%, there is something in the air bugging them but those glasses help a ton in keeping pollen and wind out which minimizes things.

Very nice upgrade!!!

Well, just having the balcony overlooking the pool is a great thing even if you never got into the pool.

the room was insanely cool.

As much as it was a bummer not to get that starting line pic... it would have been even more a bummer to not find each other in that mess. I am SO glad we did!!!

Me too! We didn't have much time either to find each other so I am grateful it worked quickly.

Congestion is always a pain at big races. The phm I did was HORRID... like way worse than the Seahawks 12k. I am so glad that by this January with all the corral changes they seem to have made it much better... at least for the first few corrals. I think the back still has quite a bit of congestion.

UGH! In looking at the numbers, based on where I think we will end up, our corral ought to be about 500 more than the "wave" we went in on Sunday, with about the same in front of us.

So I guess I expect the congestion to be similar. BLEH. I definitely think you lose a good 30 seconds that first mile as a result. Oh well.

half DDD Total
Elite 20 10 30
A 1292 768 2060
B 1304 756 2060
C 1395 815 2210
D 1724 815 2539
E 2189 722 2911
F 2333 576 2909
G 2743 617 3360

I really was fun! I just wish I could have kept up with you a bit more!

You were not 100%! And there were hills. You did great!

It is so impressive that he still managed to pass us!

More like he went flying by brat.

I think you must have more experience with hills. OMG! They about killed me.

I do think I had a slight advantage there. As Jeff and I were mentioning, the grade of those hills were pretty similar to the lower part of the mile long one we run to and from our house, the upper part is a lot worse. We only do that once a week but I do think that helped. Didn't mean they were fun but it was doable. It's what we were hoping they meant by "rolling". I will take those over a shorter steeper one! Although maybe not so many...I mean what, there were I think 5 hills and it was a out and back so that's 10...

Bleh. LOL!

It was such a nice day! And you did AWESOME!!!

You and Jeff both are phenomenal runners! ESPECIALLY since you have only been at this for less than a year!!!

Jeff is very good, always has been. For as much as he says he don't care about finishes, he sure does. And thank you, that is sweet. I would not say phenomenal by any stretch of the imagination. But given that it is just approaching a year I am not displeased with where I am at. It is a comfortable place.

Like I said...so glad you figured it out! But even knowing we were right... still is good that we were not looking to use it as a POT. Cause it is still billed as a 12k. I am not sure that the powers that be would not just see 12k and the finish time and do the calculations based on that. For that reason it still bugs me... but I am mostly over it.

Actually, I think if you emailed in your results, with a link to not only your results, but the USAFT certification and a note on your pace you'd be ok. I think you'd have to submit it as a 12.31K for sure but explain why. I just don't think anyone uses this (or most races at that distance) as a POT anyway. I'd have had to do significantly better to even consider it and frankly I don't expect to ever beat that 10K time. I still think it was a bit of a fluke!

They are not any more obnoxious than any other things that people wear running and certainly no where near some of the costumes!!!

Oh they are pretty obnoxious, but I love them. The guy at Safeway calls me the big green monster, or incredible Hulk every Saturday when I go in

Granted the lime green sweatshirt I wear with them might add to that impression.

Well, for about half the race you could always look around my pics... they may have caught the two of us.

Well, they aren't up yet so we will see. It does sound like you can view "all" so if I can figure out generally where I am, maybe.

I know I told you about Steve's experience and feelings... but I have to say I kinda agree with him on how silly they are. Did you see how many people were posting that they had to dig theirs out of the trash? $20 is pretty much a racket to have as a replacement cost!

I actually like them. I mean your foot is what hits the mat first so it makes sense to me and I like it on the shoe as then I don't have to worry about a bib falling off or coming loose. I mean it shows the thing tied to your shoe so it seems pretty clear to me but...I don't know.

The only part I don't like about them is the dead stop at the end to get it cut off. This didn't really have that as it was simply too crowded but my others did and that's a bit hard on the body.

This is my 3rd race with them, I've never seen a charge for not returning it but at the others it was really clear to have it cut off at the end. This was SO crowded and not enough folks collecting so I can see it easily happening. It took me a bit to find a spot to even get in line to get mine off.

I feel so bad about this... I really should have offered!!!

I should have thought, as should have Jeff. Don't feel bad, we didn't get any at Birch Bay either, the ones we did take were back at the resort. I'm more annoyed with him for making a bit of a stink about it...he could have said something!

Okay... I am jealous! I stopped at Red Robin (dd talked me into meeting her between shifts ) Let me just say.. I was in the mood for something I just didnt get.

I knew you'd end up meeting her!

That's a bummer though. Our breakfast was amazing...even if it did take forever

That is crazy! I can't believe how few people there were!

they were all already in the park!

We got routed out that way on one of the days during F&W last year.

It was great! Until the very end.

I am not comfortable with such things either... but honestly if someone politely asks me... I truly do not have a problem letting a family reunite. Now.. barging without politely asking is a different storey.

exactly.

Do you know I have never attempted either? I have always thought it would be too frightening for me. Maybe Green would be ok...

It's not frightening

That is frustrating. My ds mixed his up between one resort and the next. Silly boys!

I didn't give them their second resort set for exactly that reason!

I kinda feel like it seems like an odd thing to do. You go and spend basically the better part of a day to ride one ride?

Yeah, I don't get it

It is a great place for a large group. I imagine you didn't have to share a table with strangers? We almost didn't... but we had a couple who dinned with us. Pretty sure they wished they had not.

Nope, no sharing

You have never done it? It is an odd little ride... but I have fond memories of it. First time I rode, dh and ds tried to act like they tricked me onto a "thrill" ride. When it goes backwards and the troll yells "over the falls" DS and DH convinced me we were going backward over the falls. I was terrified! It was a lot of fun when I found out it was all a bit tease... then we all laughed. (hence the fond part of the memory )

I was just excited we could almost walk right on. And shocked.

But you got some great pictures!

We had fun in the shop! Still, you can only spend so much time there

Oh my!! Sorry about your FIL but thankfully your sweet parents are pitching in. God bless them! I hope all works out well. Glad you don't have to second guess that new bathing suit and sundress!

Exactly! though I haven't tried on the dress yet, you never know, I might hate it.

Whew! My curiosity is now satisfied with your 12.31K run. I was wondering how that worked out.

I know, I am being a bit silly about it but I like my facts to line up and they weren't!

YAY for your final days before DL!

Wishing you safe travels and I'm pretty sure you'll pack enough underpants and sunscreen for yourself! I'm sorry but I have to laugh at your story about Evan's packing and his priorities. Teens are funny critters sometimes. You really will need a vacation.

You know, I was ready to toss him out the window yesterday morning, and early evening and then we had a really amazing moment on the way home from loading the truck.

I may keep him.

Most of the time.

Yikes, sorry to hear about your FIL! And very happy that your folks were able to step up and help.
So exciting, Disneyland so soon!! I hope the luggage all got loaded and on its way (Drama indeed! Yikes!) and the right stuff is in the carry-ons.

Oh my word, I have never seen so much luggage (and instruments and uniforms and WOW!).

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOO glad I am not staying at that hotel when they are unloading!

 

[jedijill]

Holy drama cow! So sorry your FIL is ill...glad they found the cause I hope he heals quickly. Thank goodness for your folks...they totally rock! Can't wait to see all the pictures of the band marching down Main Street!

Jill in CO

 

[annmarieda]

Evan is the most dramatic, always has been, of all 4

I think there always has to be someone in the bunch. In mine it is my oldest.

You know what, I do get it and that part doesn't bug me. It is billed as a fun run and I get the whole fan aspect. But I do think they should call out the actual real distance somewhere, like in the course description or whatever.

You are probably right. For those who that matters too... it would be pretty cool to run a 12 verses a 12.31. I agree though... they just need to put it in the course description.

I did. I ordered it. Of course now they have a new short in the same color but that skirt is darn cute. I would have just picked it up in the store but they only had XS and XL left! I bought 2 different tanks...will likely take one of them back.

Yay! It is super flattering on you!

I think the shoes elevated the level of craziness. However I was VERY amused when Jeff said those are the ones I should get. And then he was concerned I didn't have enough daily stuff to match them for every day use.

So maybe I will keep both tanks.

Oh see... now there is why I probably did not notice. I have such shoe drama that your wondering about yours seemed completely normal to me.

They weren't bad. They aren't 100%, there is something in the air bugging them but those glasses help a ton in keeping pollen and wind out which minimizes things.

I think there is some definite pollen or something in the air... I am all congested and stuff.

UGH! In looking at the numbers, based on where I think we will end up, our corral ought to be about 500 more than the "wave" we went in on Sunday, with about the same in front of us.

So I guess I expect the congestion to be similar. BLEH. I definitely think you lose a good 30 seconds that first mile as a result. Oh well.

half DDD Total
Elite 20 10 30
A 1292 768 2060
B 1304 756 2060
C 1395 815 2210
D 1724 815 2539
E 2189 722 2911
F 2333 576 2909
G 2743 617 3360

That will make for a slower couple of miles. I was hoping they would have stretched it out like at the WDW halfs this year. I want to say they went to p for the donald... maybe that far for the phm too? So I don't think my corral had that many people in it. I know it didn't have 2100.


I forget how the dopey and goofey add into that.. but it really wasn't bad those first corrals. I wonder why they don't add more corrals to the DLH?

More like he went flying by brat.

He really did!

I do think I had a slight advantage there. As Jeff and I were mentioning, the grade of those hills were pretty similar to the lower part of the mile long one we run to and from our house, the upper part is a lot worse. We only do that once a week but I do think that helped. Didn't mean they were fun but it was doable. It's what we were hoping they meant by "rolling". I will take those over a shorter steeper one! Although maybe not so many...I mean what, there were I think 5 hills and it was a out and back so that's 10...

They definitely were doable...especially since they were rolling. I just am not use to such elevations changes. Where I run it is just F L A T.

Jeff is very good, always has been. For as much as he says he don't care about finishes, he sure does. And thank you, that is sweet. I would not say phenomenal by any stretch of the imagination. But given that it is just approaching a year I am not displeased with where I am at. It is a comfortable place.

Phenomenal is not a stretch! I am sure there are a lot of people out there who would hope to be you when they grow up.

Actually, I think if you emailed in your results, with a link to not only your results, but the USAFT certification and a note on your pace you'd be ok. I think you'd have to submit it as a 12.31K for sure but explain why.

That is true... it is easy enough to verify.

I just don't think anyone uses this (or most races at that distance) as a POT anyway. I'd have had to do significantly better to even consider it and frankly I don't expect to ever beat that 10K time. I still think it was a bit of a fluke!

Never say never. I know that for me... if the course is right and the race falls on a day that is "just right" in my cycle I would think for me a sub 9 minute mile pace is not out of reach. I know I have had some 6 mile runs at home that I have managed it... so I am sure it is possible someday to hit a race at just the right time.

Oh they are pretty obnoxious, but I love them. The guy at Safeway calls me the big green monster, or incredible Hulk every Saturday when I go in

Granted the lime green sweatshirt I wear with them might add to that impression.

I actually like them. I mean your foot is what hits the mat first so it makes sense to me and I like it on the shoe as then I don't have to worry about a bib falling off or coming loose. I mean it shows the thing tied to your shoe so it seems pretty clear to me but...I don't know.

Yeah... I think the directions are easy enough to follow and I think that is why Steve was so frustrated. He didn't follow the directions. I just like to not have to hassle with it. When it is on the bib...less to hassle with. I guess it probably comes down to what you are use to...

This is my 3rd race with them, I've never seen a charge for not returning it but at the others it was really clear to have it cut off at the end. This was SO crowded and not enough folks collecting so I can see it easily happening. It took me a bit to find a spot to even get in line to get mine off.

The other race I did with one had a charge too. I didn't use the ties on either one...so it was easy enough for me to just take it off myself. I am glad I did because you are right... the lines to have assistance were weird. Hard to tell where they started or where they were.

I did hear alarms go off at the end of the chute when people tried to leave with them still attached. They must not have had enough people stationed at the exits for so many people to get home with theirs.

I should have thought, as should have Jeff. Don't feel bad, we didn't get any at Birch Bay either, the ones we did take were back at the resort. I'm more annoyed with him for making a bit of a stink about it...he could have said something!

Well, maybe not knowing Michelle or I he just didn't feel like he could ask? I know that would be Steve. He wouldn't feel comfortable interjecting like that.

I knew you'd end up meeting her!

I did too. It really wasn't that big of a deal. I basically either took 169 home or 167. 167 put me driving past her work EXACTLY when she was getting off of her first shift. I needed something to eat so it was kinda nice and fun to see others wearing their shirts. I just wish I had chose more wisely on what to eat. (chips, salsa and guacamole are not the best post race food )

That's a bummer though. Our breakfast was amazing...even if it did take forever

It looked awesome!

they were all already in the park!

With those wait time... I guess so!!!

 

[eandesmom]

Hope your FIL is ok, yeah for Mummy and Daddy help.

Me too!!

Indeed I do, not the best photo of her so here's a couple of other better ones.

Oh my goodness, that pool picture is adorable!!!!!!!!!! Love them!!! Thank you for sharing

Yeah... lot of drama.

Something would be wrong if there wasn't.

I hope your FIL recovers. It isn't the most convenient of circumstances, but at least it is going to work out that Jeff can be there for him and you can still make your trip. Your parents are indeed awesome.

They rock! It does help that the boys are older and really just need a driver, and someone overnight.

Now aside from that... it seems like a certain band director and 14 year old are causing some drama of their own. I'm sure it will work out fine and they'll get everything loaded. And at least you'll be there to verify that one.

Well, the 14 year old was suffering from some school work stress, and took it out on me. We had a bit of a breakthrough on it last night. I'm sure he will be back to his argumentative self soon but we had a nice night after the truck loading.

Not the directors fault at all, the whole windshield had to be replaced and 5 school staff can't load uniforms, suitcases and instruments for 190 people. The sheer volume was mind boggling!

And if Evan doesn't want to pack accordingly, I guess he'll be cold. It is a learning experience.

He argued for a second, and then agreed that it made sense.

Whether he recalls that at 5am on Saturday is another story. LOL!

Oh Cynthia, you drama magnet you! Just like you, drama seems to surround me at the worst of times. (you may remember my temp backed out just a day before we left for Disney last year)

That is WAY worse! This at least is almost a month out and I had time to figure out options

I know that it had to be a bit frustrating figuring out how to reconfigure (if need be) the plans but it sounds like it is working out. Jeff is a great son for going and staying with his dad. Hope that he recovers soon.

Me too, it's a horrible thing to deal with

As far as the band and packing drama, know this....our orchestra trips sometimes end up chaotic like that. None of the "responsible" adults let the parents or kids know what needs to happen when until the last minute. Hopefully E will get all of his things loaded onto the truck and he won't have to toss a lot of stuff when he arrives at the airport.

I know his suitcase made it, I saw it go in and he says he saw his uniform make it into a garment bag box and I saw those loaded on the truck so...we will see! I have never seen so much STUFF as what went in that truck. Apparently I just forgot any of my own band trips.

Holy drama cow! So sorry your FIL is ill...glad they found the cause I hope he heals quickly. Thank goodness for your folks...they totally rock! Can't wait to see all the pictures of the band marching down Main Street!

Jill in CO

My parents DO rock!

I hope he can start healing too, it's been rough on him for sure.

 

[eandesmom]

Oh see... now there is why I probably did not notice. I have such shoe drama that your wondering about yours seemed completely normal to me.

I couldn't believe yours had worn down already

I think there is some definite pollen or something in the air... I am all congested and stuff.

Definitely, I've noticed it in my eyes for sure, actually got out my eyewash today!

That will make for a slower couple of miles. I was hoping they would have stretched it out like at the WDW halfs this year. I want to say they went to p for the donald... maybe that far for the phm too? So I don't think my corral had that many people in it. I know it didn't have 2100.


I forget how the dopey and goofey add into that.. but it really wasn't bad those first corrals. I wonder why they don't add more corrals to the DLH?

Well, bear in mind that this is last years breakdown. It may or may not change. The reason I think it may not is that Tink looked virtually identical.

Princess broke out like this

and the WDW Half combined like this

I like this one which shows the old system versus the "new" one at WDW

But none show actual time required so it's not as helpful as I'd like. Wine and Dine did so one would think maybe that's a model to refer to

But at DL Tink, which was arugably under the new rules was like this

and last years DL half (not including DDDD which my number above do) was like this

so who knows, they seem awfully similar, 2014 Tink and the 2013 Half. I would like to see it broken down more like they did for the WDW half for sure.

But say it is like W&D, we're likely to be in D which would mean 1500 out before us (or so) and then 1000 in our corral. So that would be a tad less congested than last sunday, but not by much. If it's more like Princess, they'll be 2000 in front of us, but still around 1K in our corrall. It will be interesting to see if 2:00 is a cut off and if so, which group I get placed in. Though my POT supports a sub 2, it's only a 10K and it's my first half so I expect I'll get bumped to the top of the 2:00+. Then again, 2:00 may not be the cut off.



whatever it is, it will be fine.

He really did!

You can see the hills in his pace though, it was his slowest finish out of the 3 we've done (pace wise) together.

Never say never. I know that for me... if the course is right and the race falls on a day that is "just right" in my cycle I would think for me a sub 9 minute mile pace is not out of reach. I know I have had some 6 mile runs at home that I have managed it... so I am sure it is possible someday to hit a race at just the right time.

Very true. Had that first mile not been so congested I do think I'd have been sub 9. 9:02 is close...but no cigar. And then of course there were those hills. And the water stop. LOL! But boy did I feel better after I rinsed out that coffee mouth. BLEH. I do think had I been counting on it as POT I'd have done better, I just didn't feel the need to push it, really enjoyed the pace I was at, the sun, the crowd, all of it. I also didn't want to hurt the knee but I know I had more in me I could have given. And am perfectly happy that I did not. LOL!

I did hear alarms go off at the end of the chute when people tried to leave with them still attached. They must not have had enough people stationed at the exits for so many people to get home with theirs.

Agreed, I heard the alarms as well.

Well, maybe not knowing Michelle or I he just didn't feel like he could ask? I know that would be Steve. He wouldn't feel comfortable interjecting like that.

Maybe, but he'd feel comfortable asking me to ask you guys. Or should!

I did too. It really wasn't that big of a deal. I basically either took 169 home or 167. 167 put me driving past her work EXACTLY when she was getting off of her first shift. I needed something to eat so it was kinda nice and fun to see others wearing their shirts. I just wish I had chose more wisely on what to eat. (chips, salsa and guacamole are not the best post race food )

Not the worst though either!

 

[CarolynK]

You were over on the correct side at least right? How was it once you got through the IG?

We were in Italy, but it probably took us as long to push through the sea of people as it did for you to walk all the way backstage Once at the IG, it was better - we could breathe again.


Wow, you definitely have some pre-trip drama! At least you've got it under control - you're fortunate to have your parents' help

 

[MEK]

Second the bathing suit or sun dress? I was going to have to find a whole new roommate! Well, there IS always Denny! I'm not sure how he would feel about breakfast in the castle.

I'm sorry to hear about your FIL, but glad that your parents are helping out. Phew. Dodged that bullet.

I still love those band uniforms. More pictures please!

 

[eandesmom]

We were in Italy, but it probably took us as long to push through the sea of people as it did for you to walk all the way backstage Once at the IG, it was better - we could breathe again.

Good point, we could breathe, we just walked an extra mile! Italy always seems like it should be closer to the IG than it is

Wow, you definitely have some pre-trip drama! At least you've got it under control - you're fortunate to have your parents' help

Yes I am, incredibly blessed!

Second the bathing suit or sun dress? I was going to have to find a whole new roommate! Well, there IS always Denny! I'm not sure how he would feel about breakfast in the castle.

probably about how Jeff (or the E's or your boys) would feel about dining in the castle.

I would not have cancelled. I might have had to shorten it or something but I would not have cancelled entirely. I do have other resources but my parents are by far the easiest. That said, they are busy in their retirement so it's key to get on their schedule asap!

I'm sorry to hear about your FIL, but glad that your parents are helping out. Phew. Dodged that bullet.

It sounds a bit worse than it was. Not that I wasn't worried BUT the minute the request came through for the weekend....I confirmed my parents Germany dates and knew we were more than likely ok. I'd really hoped it would be the weekend, you know, the one before our trip? That wouldn't have been an issue at all, Jeff and i literally could have met at the airport, he coming back as I left. But as we feared it really was during the week. Then it was just a matter of confirming my folks didn't have conflicts. I knew it was likely it would be fine for the overnight (my main concern) but both boys do have stuff going on those 2 nights with track and stage crew and scouts and the earlier I could figure out what they might need to miss, the better.

Luckily my folks love kids being busy and hate to have them miss things so will generally make sure they get to their stuff if at all possible.

I still love those band uniforms. More pictures please!

There will be lots!

Except...I have camera drama! I am planning to take the good one, you know the one I still don't really know how to use?

Like a moron I decided to see if my memory card had been cleaned out after NYE. It had, mostly. But there were some random ones still on there so then I had to check and makde sure they were on the backup drive and well, while at it, fully clean it off.

Somehow as I was putting the card the little write protect part broke! And it broke off in write protect mode. which means I can't save pics to it and need a new card (or someone that can fix it). I'm taking it into the office as they deal with them all the time and might be able to get it in the right mode. UGH!

We just found out the parade time moved which I guess is ok. It does mean if we want an afternoon pool break and get settled in the 1b and fully move in, we can. Now the parade isn't until 6:25. which does make me wish our brunch was a bit later but we want to see the orchestra too and their time didn't move (despite the music director saying it had) so who really knows. We are at the whim of Disney! On the positive side, it should be a bit cooler at 6:25 than 4:30 or whatever it was so that's good in those uniforms.

 

[eandesmom]

Evan is officially under 24 hours now!

Well...less than 24 hours until he has to be at the airport



He would be on the first flight out

And they would have the kids arriving at the airport 1:45 before their flight.

Tomorrow morning is going to suck for me!

I am 95% packed, Eric about the same (though I've not checked his bags yet).

The bulk of Evan's stuff?

Is in here



You can't tell that well by scale but just imagine...

190 roller bags/duffles (a few of which I swear kids were packing like they were moving out of state, HUGE suitcases)

100+ band instruments including sousaphones, drum kits, etc

50+ Orchestra instrusments including huge cello's and bases

Flags

Bagpipes

Oh and the 190 uniforms all stored inside garment boxes...there must have been 20 of those huge boxes. You can kind of see a row in the back of the truck. They'd do a row of those, fill with luggage and instruments, a row of those...and on and on to get stuff secure. Violin and Viola cases had to be placed a certain way. And it doesn't include flutes, clarinets, oboes and piccolo's. Those kids were told to carry theirs on.

I have never seen so much STUFF in my life!

I am SOOOO glad I will not be at that hotel when they are unloading.



In other prep news I am in decent shape...except I broke my memory card for my camera and may have to get a new one if the office can't fix it (it's stuck in write protect). Grr!

But toes are painted, brows done (except she burned me...should be ok by tomorrow but owie! )

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Hi! I haven't been doing much DISing of late but needed a fix this morning and I had a blast catching up on your trip and all of your fun plans for future trips!

WAY too much to comment on but I am impressed, as always, at your planning and ability to fit so much more into a day than I even dream of!! Score on the BW room location/view! The crowds haven't looked too bad until NYE- that detour around was crazy!

Enjoy California this weekend! I marched in WDW with my high school marching band and still remember the trip. He's going to have a blast! And so will you!!

And then your F&G trip right behind that!! Woo Hoo!! I will be just missing you, it looks like.

Congrats on registering for the half!! I'm going to try the WDW 10K again... maybe this time I will actually train.

HAVE FUN on all of your adventures!!!

 

[jedijill]

That is a lot of gear! Ouch for the early morning tomorrow!

Hope they can get your memory card fixed and the brow heals!

Jill in CO

 

[dizneeat]

Holy Moly - that IS a lot of stuff!

Auch on the burnt brow, hope it gets better soon and I really hope they can fix your memory card, even though I would get a back up anyway, but that is just me.

 

[eandesmom]

Hi! I haven't been doing much DISing of late but needed a fix this morning and I had a blast catching up on your trip and all of your fun plans for future trips!

Christine!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi!

WAY too much to comment on but I am impressed, as always, at your planning and ability to fit so much more into a day than I even dream of!! Score on the BW room location/view! The crowds haven't looked too bad until NYE- that detour around was crazy!

The detour was ugly at the end but pretty handy earlier.

Enjoy California this weekend! I marched in WDW with my high school marching band and still remember the trip. He's going to have a blast! And so will you!!

We are all VERY excited. Too bad I have to work today and of course, major things are breaking. Never fails.

And then your F&G trip right behind that!! Woo Hoo!! I will be just missing you, it looks like.

I am SOOO sad that I will miss you, it's been too long.

Congrats on registering for the half!! I'm going to try the WDW 10K again... maybe this time I will actually train.

LOL! Once you get into a set routine it's not so bad but oh, once I get off track it can be hard to get back into it. I think the WDW timing is tough, I mean it's early Jan...right during cold weather and after all the holiday yumminess and craziness. My training was not good at all during htat time of year. I've determined that really, the WDW Half and Princess are probably not good fits for me for those reasons. W&D, Tower of Terror, Tink (now that it's moved) and Avengers though...those all have potential for future events.

Still, 13.1 miles is a bit overwhelming at the moment. Good thing I have some time before then!

HAVE FUN on all of your adventures!!!

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!

That is a lot of gear! Ouch for the early morning tomorrow!

UGH! I may go back to bed but it's likely I'll be too awake to do so. The plan is Evan to airport, back to house, hit the gym, shower and then back to the airport (with a stop to pick up my parents). There is time for a short back to bed in there though if I want. Maybe an hour, hour and a half.

Hope they can get your memory card fixed and the brow heals!


Jill in CO

They just gave me a brand new one. YAY! Brow bums me out but it is better today and hopefully will be almost all the way better tomorrow. Kind of my own fault for letting it go so long. I can look like Andy Rooney if not careful and I'm cheap. So that means she has her work cut out for her! In 5 years I've only had 2 burns but I will mention it to her for sure.

 

[eandesmom]

Holy Moly - that IS a lot of stuff!

Auch on the burnt brow, hope it gets better soon and I really hope they can fix your memory card, even though I would get a back up anyway, but that is just me.

I can't believe it all even fit. When I got there the big instruments were in and the concept that all of it would make it in was a bit mind boggling. That picture is not showing it completely full and done yet though it was towards the end.

 

[Flossbolna]

First of all: have a wonderful trip and keep Disneyland in good shape for me, I will be right behind you - actually one month from today will be our first official park day!!!

Sorry about your burn - not sure how you get burned by getting your brows done? Wax to hot?

I am really happy that I leave on a Monday for my big trip, that gives me a whole weekend to get ready and pack, including hair dresser and brow appointment! Hands and feet even will have to wait until Florida.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

Wow. Just Wow. Glad the drama has settled down and things are set up for both your trips.
I hope you all have an awesome time in DL!! Say hi to Radiator Springs Racers for me!

My DH was reading your TR last night - I told him about your NYE experiences so he went and read it. We are still trying to decide what day to do what. We're going to have to squeeze in CP at the beginning of our trip too - I'm afraid it will end right after we get there. Was the 28th the last night last year?


Happy Easter too!

 

[franandaj]

Yay for almost leaving! I definitely know a thing or two about loading and unloading trucks. Thank goodness we only have to deal with the percussion end of it, no tubes and especially no violins and Cellos! I'm with on it's good you're not having to be there to unload, hopefully they have it under control for unloading after the trip.

Just think tomorrow evening you'll be sipping a tropical beverage and enjoying some south seas yummy appetizers! Have a great trip and I hope tomorrow is less hectic than you are expecting!