Make a Wish (and other organizations) - Wish Trippers UNITE! Volume THREE! :)

[maroo]

I do agree that the task of doing a TR is a big one...not just the writing and downloading of pics to PB, but the emotional task of reliving such a magical week. Being here on the DIS prior to our trip gave us such a great insider's perspective that really showed us how to make the most of a wish trip. I know it would have been a magical vacation either way, but really...we received so much information thanks to past wish trippers and other helpful people on the DIS!

I WILL finish my TR, as I want to thank those who helped us plan, those who made our trip more special because of the Big Give, and I want to help those who are planning trips in the future.

That being said...I just posted our Magic Kingdom day in my TR! BBB, CRT and more!! Day 3 is now complete!

And we appreciate it!

I think it is also awesome to read a year later, too. You will be glad you put in the time and effort - I promise!

Not every family can do it, but we sure love reading those TR's! And they are very helpful for future planners.

 

[balloondoggle]

Maroo, thanks for suggesting Passporters. We found a copy of this year's guide at Barnes and Noble Friday evening and I love it. It uses a clearcut "checklist" approach that appeals to the engineer in me. It's particularly gratifying to be able to just skip over a large chunk of the planning and budgeting sections thanks to the work of MAW! Nothing left for us to do but make memories.

I've been reading a lot about how tough it is for some folks to finish up a trip report for various reasons. Completely understandable, as this is not the sort of thing that will make life easier, get the car washed or the kitchen cleaned up. If finishing a trip report resulted in a mowed lawn I'd be writing fictional TRs! If forum postings cleaned the basement, I'd be golden.

With that in mind, I plan on updating our TR on a daily basis. I know me, I'd procrastinate it but not until tomorrow. My blog will be updated with photos and captions pretty much in real-time and overall write-ups will be done in quieter hours after the kids are in bed and the wife is catching up with American Idol or whatever. If I don't do it that way it'll never get done and then I'm on Nana's hit list. And with my short term memory, I'm likel....what was I saying? Anyway, I hope I won't leave anyone hanging. Set a bookmark and follow along with us!

We are just 4 weeks out from departure. We have the basic logistical details from MAW, but no specifics on anything else going on. The kids are beside themselves and I'm wishing I had already taught our youngest to read a calendar. She's starting kindergarten in 2 weeks, then the trip is another 2 weeks out. She keeps asking "Is today the right Sunday for Disney?" Even the 8yo seems to have forgotten the days of the week in his excitement.

 

[casper_jj11]

I have a question for those that have already been. How long is the orientation at GKTW? What do you do there besides get your tickets? I gave them a call today, as recommended by our wish organization, to ask about orientation. We arrive at 1pm on Saturday but we're staying offsite. We have an ADR for Chef Mickey's for 5pm. If we miss it, that's fine but I really don't want to have to go back to GKTW at 745pm for orientation. Neither DH or I are comfortable driving on our own so that would mean dragging the kids with us when they should be in bed. The other option is 9am the next morning but we plan to be at MK for ropedrop at 9am. I just don't know what to do. I called and they really weren't helpful. They said they had no idea if there would be one mid day on Sat or not. If there was one, they had no idea of the time (either 3pm, 330pm or 345pm) I asked if they would know more on Friday and she said not really. I said we'd be coming right after the airport and asked about a private orientation (which our wish organization suggested) if we missed the mid day one or if there wasn't one . She said she had no idea if one would be available. I'm not sure how to plan? She said there were 34 families arriving on Saturday so there would likely be a mid day orientation but she didn't really know. She also said they could give us our tickets when we get there but if we missed orientation, we'd have to come back for one ... what happens at orientation that we need to stay for if we already have our tickets? I'm just so confused. I realize if you're staying at GKTW that this system works since you're there anyway but we're 20min plus away.... what can you all tell me that will stop me from panicking right now?

 

[brookerene]

Hi I can't help with you answer about what to do, except to say not to panick. If you can't change it, go with the flow. There are things other than park tickets that GKTW provides, such as the star,pillows, etc that they probably want to tell you about. On the other hand, I don't understand why this close, they wouldn't have times set. Still, I bet they will have three orientations with so many coming in. That would make sense. Call them the day before, and when you get to the airport if necessary....I hope your trip is awesome and even if things don't go all according to plan that you find it turns out better than you had planned. Take care and I look forward to reading your TR!

 

[maroo]

Maroo, thanks for suggesting Passporters. We found a copy of this year's guide at Barnes and Noble Friday evening and I love it. It uses a clearcut "checklist" approach that appeals to the engineer in me. It's particularly gratifying to be able to just skip over a large chunk of the planning and budgeting sections thanks to the work of MAW! Nothing left for us to do but make memories.

I've been reading a lot about how tough it is for some folks to finish up a trip report for various reasons. Completely understandable, as this is not the sort of thing that will make life easier, get the car washed or the kitchen cleaned up. If finishing a trip report resulted in a mowed lawn I'd be writing fictional TRs! If forum postings cleaned the basement, I'd be golden.

With that in mind, I plan on updating our TR on a daily basis. I know me, I'd procrastinate it but not until tomorrow. My blog will be updated with photos and captions pretty much in real-time and overall write-ups will be done in quieter hours after the kids are in bed and the wife is catching up with American Idol or whatever. If I don't do it that way it'll never get done and then I'm on Nana's hit list. And with my short term memory, I'm likel....what was I saying? Anyway, I hope I won't leave anyone hanging. Set a bookmark and follow along with us!

We are just 4 weeks out from departure. We have the basic logistical details from MAW, but no specifics on anything else going on. The kids are beside themselves and I'm wishing I had already taught our youngest to read a calendar. She's starting kindergarten in 2 weeks, then the trip is another 2 weeks out. She keeps asking "Is today the right Sunday for Disney?" Even the 8yo seems to have forgotten the days of the week in his excitement.

I am so glad you like the Passporters! Did you get the Open Mouse version or the "regular" version? They are both good!


As far as updating as you are there...
It sounds fun! Especially fun to follow...

But...I would really encourage you to go with the expectation that you may not get to it each night. This trip wore me out! On my "regular" trips, I am able to find some time each night to upload pics and maybe make some notes in a Word document to use for a later TR - but the wish trip was more hectic and there was so much to do that was much more fun!

I guess I just want to say that we really don't expect daily updates! And so far I have not seen a family that was actually able to do regular daily updates - so, I guess all that to say - don't be hard on yourself if you can't make that happen.

I have a question for those that have already been. How long is the orientation at GKTW? What do you do there besides get your tickets? I gave them a call today, as recommended by our wish organization, to ask about orientation. We arrive at 1pm on Saturday but we're staying offsite. We have an ADR for Chef Mickey's for 5pm. If we miss it, that's fine but I really don't want to have to go back to GKTW at 745pm for orientation. Neither DH or I are comfortable driving on our own so that would mean dragging the kids with us when they should be in bed. The other option is 9am the next morning but we plan to be at MK for ropedrop at 9am. I just don't know what to do. I called and they really weren't helpful. They said they had no idea if there would be one mid day on Sat or not. If there was one, they had no idea of the time (either 3pm, 330pm or 345pm) I asked if they would know more on Friday and she said not really. I said we'd be coming right after the airport and asked about a private orientation (which our wish organization suggested) if we missed the mid day one or if there wasn't one . She said she had no idea if one would be available. I'm not sure how to plan? She said there were 34 families arriving on Saturday so there would likely be a mid day orientation but she didn't really know. She also said they could give us our tickets when we get there but if we missed orientation, we'd have to come back for one ... what happens at orientation that we need to stay for if we already have our tickets? I'm just so confused. I realize if you're staying at GKTW that this system works since you're there anyway but we're 20min plus away.... what can you all tell me that will stop me from panicking right now?

This was the problem we ran into...Honestly, they were not very helpful with this one thing when we went on our trip. In fact - they were unsure up to the day before when the orientations would be and I ended up driving straight through to Orlando to make it to the 9 AM orientation.

Do you land at 1:00? If so...you will probably make it to GKTW by 2:30? That is my guess. They will probably have a 3:00 ish orientation - but it will last about an hour - so you will be pushing it (especially if the orientation starts at 3:30) to make to Chef Mickey's by 5.

Personally - we spent more time at GKTW than we planned and had a lot more fun there than we anticipated - and the kids did not want to leave until after it got dark to head to The Contemporary (where we stayed) - I remember being all stressed about this, because I wanted to GET THERE and see the room we had, etc, etc. We did not plan to spend much time at all at GKTW and it ended up being one of our favorite afternoons.

If I was planning it - I would try to get a 2nd Chef Mickey's ADR at a later time during the trip - I think it would ease the stress some? Maybe? I know they are hard to come by...PM me the info, if you want, and I will check online for ADR's...you can also check for different party sizes and add to it when you get there (I would not add many people, but if you have a party of 5 (for example) - put in 6 or 4 to see if you can get a ressie.

GKTW is a magical place and I would hate to see you rush through it to get to a dinner that could possibly be put another time?? Or are you planning more time at GKTW later in the week?


Orientation gives you your tickets, button, GAC, stuff to make your star and lots of information (most of what you already know if you have been around here a while) - and your "Bunny Book" - which is the guide to GKTW activities. So you will definitely want to get the info and can't go to the parks without the tickets.

I totally understand your panic - I remember that feeling well as we were planning.

 

[casper_jj11]

Thanks Brook and Mary. I'm really trying not to stress about this but its not working. I agree about likely not making it to CM. I've been trying for weeks now, ever since we learned that we were booked through GKTW, to get a later CM and I'm not having any luck. I'm trying for anything from 2 to 6 people for a few nights that we're available or can switch and nothing. If we don't make it there it isn't a big deal. We've been several times and its actually not our favourite food... but I love the picture. And with the cute minnie mouse outfits that Sydney has, I'd love to have a wish trip pic from CM... but if it doesn't happen, its not the end of the world. We're nto planning on going back to GKTW later in the week (unless Sydney really wants to) but I do plan to stay most of the afternoon when we arrive. We just need to get to a grocery store before we hit the hotel to get some breakfast things. (where's the closest to GKTW? I know there's a walmart nearby ... does walmart sell beer and wine too ) I'd like for Sydney to visit the castle, do the pillow and the star. If there's time, I'd like her to have a chance to play in the playground. Our flight lands at 1pm so I'm hoping we can get to GKTW by 2:30 (you think this is accurate Mary?) and then hang out until about 5pm or so. We'll likely end up grabbing counter service at the hotel or maybe even room service if the kids are really tired. I really don't want to exhaust the kids on their first night there especially since we have to be at the airport by 6am. Ideally, I'd love to have a private orientation. We won't need to know most of the things they'll be telling us about meals etc at GKTW and we know most stuff about the park. If its an hour, that's not too bad. But if there are lots of questions, I can see that running much much longer ... does that happen?

 

[Mom2mitokids]

I have a question for those that have already been. How long is the orientation at GKTW? What do you do there besides get your tickets? I gave them a call today, as recommended by our wish organization, to ask about orientation. We arrive at 1pm on Saturday but we're staying offsite. We have an ADR for Chef Mickey's for 5pm. If we miss it, that's fine but I really don't want to have to go back to GKTW at 745pm for orientation. Neither DH or I are comfortable driving on our own so that would mean dragging the kids with us when they should be in bed. The other option is 9am the next morning but we plan to be at MK for ropedrop at 9am. I just don't know what to do. I called and they really weren't helpful. They said they had no idea if there would be one mid day on Sat or not. If there was one, they had no idea of the time (either 3pm, 330pm or 345pm) I asked if they would know more on Friday and she said not really. I said we'd be coming right after the airport and asked about a private orientation (which our wish organization suggested) if we missed the mid day one or if there wasn't one . She said she had no idea if one would be available. I'm not sure how to plan? She said there were 34 families arriving on Saturday so there would likely be a mid day orientation but she didn't really know. She also said they could give us our tickets when we get there but if we missed orientation, we'd have to come back for one ... what happens at orientation that we need to stay for if we already have our tickets? I'm just so confused. I realize if you're staying at GKTW that this system works since you're there anyway but we're 20min plus away.... what can you all tell me that will stop me from panicking right now?

I wasn't at the orientation as only 1 parent can go, but I think it was a hour long. They talked about all the goodies that happen through out the week. They explain about the magic button and the parking passes.

 

[Mom2mitokids]

Hoping someone can give me sugguests. We were going to try and utilize the park strollers, but we are leaning towards renting one now. DD3 is still not potty trained so we need to carry around a diaper bag. Therefore we need stroller storage b/c I cannot carry a diaper bag all day. (With luck she will be potty trained by Oct. But w/ all her treatments we really haven't pushed it. I hoping it comes easy)

The park strollers don't look to have much storage. If we rent one our dilemma is do we rent a single or double? I'm sure my DS6 will get tired. I was thinking we could rent a single and then get the park stroller if/when DS needed it. Is this practical? We have never been to WDW and everything I read is there is a lot of walking. Also w/ a double how hard are they to get into the monorail and boat?

Then another questions would be will MAW provide the rental? I feel uncomfortable asking them to rent us a strolller. Megan doesn't medically need a stroller. The ones we have at home are an umbrella stroller w/ no storage and a heavier one that comes w/ the travel systems.

Suggestions, ideas?? Thanks.

I will not do Disney stroller again. They were so uncomfortable for Kylee. She couldn't even take a nap in them. We will be renting one or bring her SN stroller with us. FYI...Your magic button gets you either a single or double stroller at all parks. All you do is show the button and they ask no questions. We got the double figuring more room and my 8 1/2(at the time) ended sitting in it as well.

 

[cantwaittoseemickey]

Maroo, thanks for suggesting Passporters. We found a copy of this year's guide at Barnes and Noble Friday evening and I love it. It uses a clearcut "checklist" approach that appeals to the engineer in me. It's particularly gratifying to be able to just skip over a large chunk of the planning and budgeting sections thanks to the work of MAW! Nothing left for us to do but make memories.

I've been reading a lot about how tough it is for some folks to finish up a trip report for various reasons. Completely understandable, as this is not the sort of thing that will make life easier, get the car washed or the kitchen cleaned up. If finishing a trip report resulted in a mowed lawn I'd be writing fictional TRs! If forum postings cleaned the basement, I'd be golden.

With that in mind, I plan on updating our TR on a daily basis. I know me, I'd procrastinate it but not until tomorrow. My blog will be updated with photos and captions pretty much in real-time and overall write-ups will be done in quieter hours after the kids are in bed and the wife is catching up with American Idol or whatever. If I don't do it that way it'll never get done and then I'm on Nana's hit list. And with my short term memory, I'm likel....what was I saying? Anyway, I hope I won't leave anyone hanging. Set a bookmark and follow along with us!

We are just 4 weeks out from departure. We have the basic logistical details from MAW, but no specifics on anything else going on. The kids are beside themselves and I'm wishing I had already taught our youngest to read a calendar. She's starting kindergarten in 2 weeks, then the trip is another 2 weeks out. She keeps asking "Is today the right Sunday for Disney?" Even the 8yo seems to have forgotten the days of the week in his excitement.

Balloondoggle,
I just wanted to say hello from a Wishtripper from your area. We are a bit north of you but the same Chapter sent us. We hope to be down at Walk For Wishes Next year. We just went on Ty's trip a few weeks ago and it was a wonderful trip. We just went with the flow and did what we could and didnt do what we couldn't but we still had a great time. GKTW has so many wonderful things to do there as well. Wishing you all a a great trip.

 

[Mom2mitokids]

Maroo, thanks for suggesting Passporters. We found a copy of this year's guide at Barnes and Noble Friday evening and I love it. It uses a clearcut "checklist" approach that appeals to the engineer in me. It's particularly gratifying to be able to just skip over a large chunk of the planning and budgeting sections thanks to the work of MAW! Nothing left for us to do but make memories.

I've been reading a lot about how tough it is for some folks to finish up a trip report for various reasons. Completely understandable, as this is not the sort of thing that will make life easier, get the car washed or the kitchen cleaned up. If finishing a trip report resulted in a mowed lawn I'd be writing fictional TRs! If forum postings cleaned the basement, I'd be golden.

With that in mind, I plan on updating our TR on a daily basis. I know me, I'd procrastinate it but not until tomorrow. My blog will be updated with photos and captions pretty much in real-time and overall write-ups will be done in quieter hours after the kids are in bed and the wife is catching up with American Idol or whatever. If I don't do it that way it'll never get done and then I'm on Nana's hit list. And with my short term memory, I'm likel....what was I saying? Anyway, I hope I won't leave anyone hanging. Set a bookmark and follow along with us!

We are just 4 weeks out from departure. We have the basic logistical details from MAW, but no specifics on anything else going on. The kids are beside themselves and I'm wishing I had already taught our youngest to read a calendar. She's starting kindergarten in 2 weeks, then the trip is another 2 weeks out. She keeps asking "Is today the right Sunday for Disney?" Even the 8yo seems to have forgotten the days of the week in his excitement.

Wow!! 4 more weeks. I can't wait to read your Tr . I will be keeping up on your blog.

 

[yinyanggirls]

Kelly...I totally understand having a child with Mito. Kylee didn't do well on her trip. She completely shut down on eating, she was crabby and crying most of the time and didn't want to walk(which ment a hassle for her to get out of stroller to go on rides). i didn't even take a lot of pics because she was unhappy. The ones I posted are the only real good ones and I had to beg to get a smile. It took a good month for her to bounce back to her normal self(normal for her). I'm actually very nervous about her going again. She is worse off now than in 08 with her Mito. Korissa really wants to go back for her wish, and I really can't say no to her wish. The jet lag is what got her down the last time...what is it going to do with her this time. Kelly many

Before I even type this out I want to say that I KNOW this is just not an idea that some families are willing to consider and I totally respect and understand that....but, just throwing this out there....

what about splitting up for different parts of the day, or days of the week? We didn't plan to but ended up dividing out family every morning because Phoebe needed more sleep. Tessa had a blast exploring the village during that time. We also split up a couple of times at the parks. Phoebe took a 2 hour nap in the Wish Lounge at MK (and I was milliseconds away from sleeping too, until other families started coming in and chatting which was fun). Tim and Tessa rode several rides, several times during that period of time and while Phoebe would have enjoyed the rides, she NEEDED the nap. Knowing that kids (whether they are the wish kid or not) have different needs, it just makes sense to me to be willing to do different things with different kids, assuming you have enough parents, grandparents, nurses or older siblings to facilitate the split.

We tried to get her SSI benefits, but it seems that our Government doesn't view her as being handicap "enough". Wish they would come and spend a day with her and see the struggles she has.

I just wanted to say that I feel for you guys. I have a friend here in AZ who is in a similar situation. She qualifies for DDD but none of the services or aids. What?!? It's a silver lining to have Phoebe's condition be "severe" so that we have never had a hard time proving that she needed help or qualified for services. I hope the school can help you out.

 

[maroo]

Thanks Brook and Mary. I'm really trying not to stress about this but its not working. I agree about likely not making it to CM. I've been trying for weeks now, ever since we learned that we were booked through GKTW, to get a later CM and I'm not having any luck. I'm trying for anything from 2 to 6 people for a few nights that we're available or can switch and nothing. If we don't make it there it isn't a big deal. We've been several times and its actually not our favourite food... but I love the picture. And with the cute minnie mouse outfits that Sydney has, I'd love to have a wish trip pic from CM... but if it doesn't happen, its not the end of the world. We're nto planning on going back to GKTW later in the week (unless Sydney really wants to) but I do plan to stay most of the afternoon when we arrive. We just need to get to a grocery store before we hit the hotel to get some breakfast things. (where's the closest to GKTW? I know there's a walmart nearby ... does walmart sell beer and wine too ) I'd like for Sydney to visit the castle, do the pillow and the star. If there's time, I'd like her to have a chance to play in the playground. Our flight lands at 1pm so I'm hoping we can get to GKTW by 2:30 (you think this is accurate Mary?) and then hang out until about 5pm or so. We'll likely end up grabbing counter service at the hotel or maybe even room service if the kids are really tired. I really don't want to exhaust the kids on their first night there especially since we have to be at the airport by 6am. Ideally, I'd love to have a private orientation. We won't need to know most of the things they'll be telling us about meals etc at GKTW and we know most stuff about the park. If its an hour, that's not too bad. But if there are lots of questions, I can see that running much much longer ... does that happen?

If you really just want the picture...I would do this:

Keep your reservation and try to make it (but go with the flow if you end up wanting to stay at GKTW or have an issue, etc.) When you do have time and the kids are all dressed up - go to Chef Mickey's and ask for the manager - I would be willing to bet that they will honor your request to simply have a picture made (with your camera, I suppose?). If you tell them you are a Make a Wish family and that you had to miss your reservation because of the schedule at GKTW...I really think they would let you. What harm does it do to them? Especially if you go during a not-so-busy time of day.

I do think 2:30 is reasonable. You will land - get off the plane - bathroom break - take the monorail - find your greeter (which will be easy) - take pics with the greeter and talk a bit - then they will help you find your luggage and rental car and then it takes about 30 min to get to GKTW. So...I think 2:30 is about right.

I think it actually took Lauren's family about 2.5 hours from the time the plane landed, but they had to get off last and had to get situated in her wheelchair, change clothes, etc, etc, etc. It always takes them (us) forever to do anything.

I totally agree with not taxing the kids on the first night. They will be hyper, though.

Hopefully you can get a private orientation and someone that is fast. You might just ask if you can just get the tickets and paperwork because you have to go...and since you are staying offsite, hopefully someone would have mercy on you.

Before I even type this out I want to say that I KNOW this is just not an idea that some families are willing to consider and I totally respect and understand that....but, just throwing this out there....

what about splitting up for different parts of the day, or days of the week? We didn't plan to but ended up dividing out family every morning because Phoebe needed more sleep. Tessa had a blast exploring the village during that time. We also split up a couple of times at the parks. Phoebe took a 2 hour nap in the Wish Lounge at MK (and I was milliseconds away from sleeping too, until other families started coming in and chatting which was fun). Tim and Tessa rode several rides, several times during that period of time and while Phoebe would have enjoyed the rides, she NEEDED the nap. Knowing that kids (whether they are the wish kid or not) have different needs, it just makes sense to me to be willing to do different things with different kids, assuming you have enough parents, grandparents, nurses or older siblings to facilitate the split.

We had to split up, too. They did meals together, but spent a lot of time separated. Lauren simply can't do the same kind of rides as William. She was also scheduled for BBB and a special meal with her Mom, so they were split quite a bit. Which was fine - it gave them a chance to make William feel special, too. He has to deal with all of this as well. But I think they planned some of the splitting up.

 

[casper_jj11]

Hopefully you can get a private orientation and someone that is fast. You might just ask if you can just get the tickets and paperwork because you have to go...and since you are staying offsite, hopefully someone would have mercy on you.QUOTE]

Thanks Mary for all the info and help with this. I was talking to DH last night and he seriously thinks I'm nuts for stressing so much about something that isn't in my control. But, umm, that's what I do best. And that's why I do the planning and not him. They actually said on the phone that I could get the tickets but would have to return for the orientation if we miss it... I"m not sure I know what that actually means... I guess what I"m wondering is if we go, miss orientation, get our tickets, do the castle of miracles, and pillow and star and then head to our resort... what do we need to go back to the orientation for? Is there paperwork we need to fill out? I wouldn't think we could get tickets without doing the paperwork first ...

 

[maroo]

Hopefully you can get a private orientation and someone that is fast. You might just ask if you can just get the tickets and paperwork because you have to go...and since you are staying offsite, hopefully someone would have mercy on you.QUOTE]

Thanks Mary for all the info and help with this. I was talking to DH last night and he seriously thinks I'm nuts for stressing so much about something that isn't in my control. But, umm, that's what I do best. And that's why I do the planning and not him. They actually said on the phone that I could get the tickets but would have to return for the orientation if we miss it... I"m not sure I know what that actually means... I guess what I"m wondering is if we go, miss orientation, get our tickets, do the castle of miracles, and pillow and star and then head to our resort... what do we need to go back to the orientation for? Is there paperwork we need to fill out? I wouldn't think we could get tickets without doing the paperwork first ...

I think the big question in my mind would be do you get your button and GAC with the tickets? Because if you don't get that...well...that is going to be a problem.

As far as everything else - you will get "codes" for the VIP lounges and the bunny book, which gives you more information and numbers to call in case of emergency or if you need information (which we certainly never would have imagined we would need and definitely needed it - in the middle of the night).

I definitely would go to orientation. I may just ask for the "Manager on Duty" and explain your situation and see if there is any way they can do a quick private orientation. You can tell them that you already have a lot of information on GKTW and have done a lot of research, etc. (I don't know if they have heard of the DISboards? I know the DISboards have raised a lot of money for GKTW - so they may be aware by now? So you might want to explain that you have learned a lot from past wish families about the awesome things offered by GKTW...etc etc) And make sure they know you are staying offsite, too - as that may help your case - to not have to drive all the way back in the morning instead of getting to the parks.

I am really interested to see how this turns out.

 

[casper_jj11]

I think the big question in my mind would be do you get your button and GAC with the tickets? Because if you don't get that...well...that is going to be a problem.

As far as everything else - you will get "codes" for the VIP lounges and the bunny book, which gives you more information and numbers to call in case of emergency or if you need information (which we certainly never would have imagined we would need and definitely needed it - in the middle of the night).

I definitely would go to orientation. I may just ask for the "Manager on Duty" and explain your situation and see if there is any way they can do a quick private orientation. You can tell them that you already have a lot of information on GKTW and have done a lot of research, etc. (I don't know if they have heard of the DISboards? I know the DISboards have raised a lot of money for GKTW - so they may be aware by now? So you might want to explain that you have learned a lot from past wish families about the awesome things offered by GKTW...etc etc) And make sure they know you are staying offsite, too - as that may help your case - to not have to drive all the way back in the morning instead of getting to the parks.

I am really interested to see how this turns out.

OMG! I never thought about the GAC or buttons! I just assumed it was part and parcel with the tickets! Ok, orientation is a must. We also really want to visit the wish lounges. I"m not so concerned about the contact numbers because our own wish organization has provided them (for everyone! it seems including GKTW numbers, our granter's number, head office coordinator number, her boss... just crazy! ) But the bunny book would be a wonderful souvenir for Sydney as well. Ok, so we need to work this out. So I really can ask to speak with a manager if we miss this... ok. I just don't want to seem pushy. Just watch, we'll get there 1/2 hr before orientation . So, the plan now is to head directly there after getting the rental. We'll hopefully get regular orientation or private one. Do the castle of miracles, star and pillow, visit the playground, head out hopefully by 5pm (is that realistic if we arrive by 230 and are in orientation from 3 to 4pm ... I want to be at all the above so it will have to take place when orientation isn't happening ) . We'll then head to a grocery store (maybe Walmart?) and then to the resort.

Oh, about the grocery store, two questions: is there a grocery store near GKTW? does Walmart sell groceries there? Does walmart sell beer and wine? (just want to have a little bit so DH and I can have a drink some evenings on the balcony while the kiddos are sleeping)

 

[J'sMum]

Oh, about the grocery store, two questions: is there a grocery store near GKTW? does Walmart sell groceries there? Does walmart sell beer and wine? (just want to have a little bit so DH and I can have a drink some evenings on the balcony while the kiddos are sleeping)

I called the walmart near GKTW and yes they sell groceries and they also have beer and wine LOL I felt funny asking that but I was also curious to the grocery part so we both have our answer it is a super walmart so anything we really should need will be there

 

[maroo]

OMG! I never thought about the GAC or buttons! I just assumed it was part and parcel with the tickets! Ok, orientation is a must. We also really want to visit the wish lounges. I"m not so concerned about the contact numbers because our own wish organization has provided them (for everyone! it seems including GKTW numbers, our granter's number, head office coordinator number, her boss... just crazy! ) But the bunny book would be a wonderful souvenir for Sydney as well. Ok, so we need to work this out. So I really can ask to speak with a manager if we miss this... ok. I just don't want to seem pushy. Just watch, we'll get there 1/2 hr before orientation . So, the plan now is to head directly there after getting the rental. We'll hopefully get regular orientation or private one. Do the castle of miracles, star and pillow, visit the playground, head out hopefully by 5pm (is that realistic if we arrive by 230 and are in orientation from 3 to 4pm ... I want to be at all the above so it will have to take place when orientation isn't happening ) . We'll then head to a grocery store (maybe Walmart?) and then to the resort.

Oh, about the grocery store, two questions: is there a grocery store near GKTW? does Walmart sell groceries there? Does walmart sell beer and wine? (just want to have a little bit so DH and I can have a drink some evenings on the balcony while the kiddos are sleeping)

The numbers we actually needed were the medical contacts they put in there - the medical contacts in Orlando. They had phone numbers for the hospitals and physicians that they recommend to help wish families. I was shocked we needed it, but glad they were there. Lauren got really, really sick and we ended up in the ER in the middle of the night.

They even have a few physicians that can help kids during the day that don't charge the families.

I think I would send someone else to the orientation and do the playground during the orientation (and carousel and ice cream and boats and train and putt putt and ..... ) well, you get the picture. Then do the star after the person gets back from orientation. It will be nightfall before you know it, I bet.

There is a Walmart right up the street - but I think it is a "regular" Walmart? Not Superstore?

GKTW is located right off of a busy street that has lots of businesses and restaurants and such - and I am sure there is a store between GKTW and Disney Property that you could stop and get food and beverages.

 

[wishin' on a star]

They were having a grand re-opening of the Walmart when we were there in May. They had just finished renovations. We don't live in a big Walmart area, so I'm not sure what the difference between a regular and super Walmart is, but it seemed pretty big to me...and they had groceries...produce, frozen, dairy, etc...and they absolutely did have beer and wine, because we bought some! Don't forget if you buy a bottle of wine or beer that isn't twist off, that you will need an opener!

FWIW, I'm willing ot bet that you will be right on track to get an afternoon orientation when you arrive at GKTW. I agree with Mary...one of you should go to orientation, while the other one does some exploring around the village...saving the star and pillows for last. I sent my DH to orientation, because I felt like I knew so much from being here on the DIS...I wanted him to get the information first hand that I was pretty sure I already knew.

 

[balloondoggle]

Balloondoggle,
I just wanted to say hello from a Wishtripper from your area. We are a bit north of you but the same Chapter sent us. We hope to be down at Walk For Wishes Next year. We just went on Ty's trip a few weeks ago and it was a wonderful trip. We just went with the flow and did what we could and didnt do what we couldn't but we still had a great time. GKTW has so many wonderful things to do there as well. Wishing you all a a great trip.

Howdy! Walk for Wishes was a blast, and I got to see parts of downtown I had only seen from a car window previously. Lots of fun on the Square afterwards, too.

Glad you enjoyed your trip. I'm thinking we may schedule the park visits around the GKTW event schedule because of the whole "once in a lifetime" thing. We may or may not ever be able to make it back to WDW and if we do I don't know what priority we would make a return visit to GKTW. Slow day at work today so I'll be checking out some TRs this afternoon.

How soon before your trip did you get more detailed info? We've had regular contact with MAW, but no real details beyond the travel arrangements and on-site needs. I haven't asked too many questions about it yet. I have no idea if they are setting up any character meetings or meals or any of the other "special" events some folks here are mentioning.

 

[casper_jj11]

Yeah! Wonderful! Ok, so groceries and wine is covered.

We'll definitely stay for the medical information. Having a doctor's name will definitely put my mind at ease. With three little ones, we may very well need it. We all got a terrible stomach flu last trip. Thankfully, it didn't last long but anything can happen and with the boys blood clotting issues, dehydration is a concern. DS7 got stomach flu one time and was hospitalized for iv fluids for fear of blood clots.

In theory, sending DH to orientation is a great idea. But I really don't think he'll want to go. He would if I asked but I think he'd more than likely say you go, and we'll meet up. I'm the one that does this stuff. I plan and arrange everything family related. He works way too hard and kind of shows up for the fun stuff. I plan the trip, get the fastpasses, deal with hotel staff for missing things, take the pictures etc. ... that and the fact that I'm a bit of a control freak (if you haven't been able to tell that yet ) He actually washed clothes this weekend and I damned near passed out... but had to refrain from complaining about the temp of the water he used. ... ok, so maybe this is a me issue and not a him issue Anyway, we'll work it out. I may have a look at the things to do and just send him on his way... maybe the kids can do lunch... where can they eat lunch at GKTW at around 3pm? Can I grab a sandwich and eat during the orientation?