May 10, 2008 Ship of Thieves! Stealing the Magic..AGAIN!!! Panama Canal FL to CA!!! Part 4

[calmom]

I have not ever had to pay that much in the city!! What hotel, please so I can avoid ever staying there!!

The Ritz, The Mandarin are the two that come to mind. They charge tax (I think - maybe not) on parking and if my recollection serves me right thus the pop up to $60. CRAZY! Although, I do love those hotels. I love the Mandarin for the terrific view and the intimacy. We have spent several new year's there looking out the balcony to the fireworks. I love the Ritz b/c of the indoor pool. Kids love it! But alas, not on our new "got to save for Panama Canal" budget! Actually, don't think it was ever on any budget!
Lisa

 

[calmom]

Heading off to bed...have to pack this week-end for my quick Maui trip with my sister on Thursday. I can't WAIT! A little sun, a little champange, a LOT of sleep! Good-night, and good-morning!
Lisa

 

[HollyTyler]

Heading off to bed...have to pack this week-end for my quick Maui trip with my sister on Thursday. I can't WAIT! A little sun, a little champange, a LOT of sleep! Good-night, and good-morning!
Lisa

Have a great trip! Goodnight!

 

[been2marceline]

I've wondered how I will deal with her as she gets older. Not sure if I should talk about the choices in the real sense of been there done that, or better to keep it light. Sometimes the hard part is getting DH to believe that infact she will do those things (& be sneaky about them too) My plan is just to be over invovled in everything the kids do. That way I can at least be aware of what's going on (I hope!) Got any pointers send them my way....

Nan,

Same plan, I have always been very involved and plan to stay that way! What I need to get better at is having ALL the kids at our place. I'm not really good at letting go of the control of the situation!

Karen

 

[been2marceline]

There are a ton of nice places to stay all around here and you will get a lot of opinions, but my opinion is that the best place to stay is the downtown area. We had friends from Iowa who came to town for a conference (fellow DISers we met on a cruise!), and they stayed at the Manchester Hyatt. It's on the bay in downtown, not the beach, but it's close to everything--the Gaslamp Quarter and good restaurants, the Maritime museum, including the Star of India and the USS Midway aircraft carrier, which is now a museum. When we met up with them everyday, it was like I was on vacation!

Seaport Village is a quaint little shopping area along the water with great views of the bay and the Coronado Bay bridge. Petco Park (the new Padres baseball stadium) has really revamped the downtown area. It's a fun place to be! You will need a car or get some sort of transportation if you want to go to Sea World, La Jolla, etc. The zoo and the amazing Balboa Park are pretty much downtown, but you wouldn't really want to walk, since it's kind of far.

And a major big shopping mall with "premium" stores is also downtown--called Horton Plaza.

We LOVE Horton Plaza!

Okay, so downtown is my first choice, but look at Local Wally's site--he gives a good overview of the different sections. I would probably avoid the Mission Valley area, and though I love Coronado and the Hotel Del, it is a little out of the way if you want to do a lot of sightseeing.

Yes--ask Noel about the good hotels to stay in. We haven't actually stayed in too many of them.

Dying to stay at the Del, so glad that they added it to our DVC points!!

Karen

 

[been2marceline]

Off topic, but I just have to share. I've been really stressed out lately, work has been insanely busy and I do a full day's work in 6 hours (my 2 attorneys wait to take lunch until after I leave so they can take full advantage of my shorter day). 3 classes this semester. Trying to get Tyler into our school of choice, attending meetings at that school, making sure we have all our paperwork in by the deadlines, waiting to hear whether he's accepted, etc. Planning and getting everything ready for Tyler's party, etc. I've just needed some relaxation for quite some time and kept having to reschedule a massage, but today I finally was able to make my appointment after work and school. WOOHOO! I hadn't had a massage since my January cruise, so I was in desperate need of one! This time they asked me if I'd like to try something different, and I told them I don't care what kind you do, as long as my muscles are relaxed when it's done. So they did a shiatsu deep tissue massage, which I've never had. I thought the woman was out of her mind when she told me she'd be doing it with her feet! I kept wanting to giggle when I thought of what she must look like, standing on my back, holding onto the parallel bars on the ceiling! Too freaking funny! BUT it was an awesome massage and I left feeling taller!

Just had to share my euphoria at being so relaxed!

Holly,

So glad that you did something for yourself!!

My massage from Sunday morning seems "light years away" Every joint in my body aches from working on getting the shop ready for our Opening weekend.

We had a great Opening Friday and look forward to continued success this weekend!

Karen

 

[granmaz]

Good morning everyone.

Karen, glad your opening day was a success - hope for another good day today too.

Still people travelling to DL today and tomorrow - enjoy.

Thanks for all the San Diego info - going to browse hotels later today again, though we can't book of course yet. I am probably going to change my mind more than once anyway! Really looking forward to this end to our trip now.

I also heard the saying yesterday May grey, June gloom!!!

 

[granmaz]

Ok, so I have now read Wally's website on San Diego and what a help it is thanks!!!

But, and a big but, he really doesn't recommend Late May/June for a vacation to San Diego because of the weather!!!!!! Will we be wasting all that money(and the hotels will be extra expensive because of Memorial Day) on a gloomy trip? We could always take a trip to SanDiego in September one year and really enjoy it then.

Where else would you recommend? Should we head to Phoenix, Las Vegas, or go back to our original plan of SF? LV will be bad for Memorial Day also.

 

[HollyTyler]

Holly,

So glad that you did something for yourself!!

My massage from Sunday morning seems "light years away" Every joint in my body aches from working on getting the shop ready for our Opening weekend.

We had a great Opening Friday and look forward to continued success this weekend!

Karen

Sounds like you need to make time for another massage, Karen! Glad to hear Friday was a success and wishing you the same all weekend.

 

[Tahoe]

Ok, so I have now read Wally's website on San Diego and what a help it is thanks!!!

But, and a big but, he really doesn't recommend Late May/June for a vacation to San Diego because of the weather!!!!!! Will we be wasting all that money(and the hotels will be extra expensive because of Memorial Day) on a gloomy trip? We could always take a trip to SanDiego in September one year and really enjoy it then.

Where else would you recommend? Should we head to Phoenix, Las Vegas, or go back to our original plan of SF? LV will be bad for Memorial Day also.

Yeah, you're (Wally's) right, of course, as I look out the window at the gray. It does usually clear up to a warm afternoon, but it can make for a chilly coastal area for most of the day. I love this weather because it stays cool and I love cool. But I think you're going to find this foggy weather up the coast, as well, even SF, which is notorious for fog.

Here's a SF webcam--make sure you read the paragraphs under the picture and look at the "fog free" pictures--gorgeous! http://webmarin.com/

Here's one for San Diego, but it has annoying audio, a radio station or something, so turn down your volume. http://www.sundiegolive.com/

September is very nice, though it tends to still be rather hot, sometimes humid because of the hurricanes in Mexico. Maybe you're better off waiting until September!

The desert will be hot--but how hot in May you'll have to find out from our resident Arizonians. I'm guessing Sedona would be great.

So, yes, if you want sunny San Diego weather from sunrise to sunset and warm, pleasant evenings, then wait until September!

 

[calmom]

Ok, so I have now read Wally's website on San Diego and what a help it is thanks!!!

But, and a big but, he really doesn't recommend Late May/June for a vacation to San Diego because of the weather!!!!!! Will we be wasting all that money(and the hotels will be extra expensive because of Memorial Day) on a gloomy trip? We could always take a trip to SanDiego in September one year and really enjoy it then.

Where else would you recommend? Should we head to Phoenix, Las Vegas, or go back to our original plan of SF? LV will be bad for Memorial Day also.

I have been in San Diego in May and have good luck with weather. But I will let the locals talk about that.

Althougth it would be great fun to come up to SF or to Phoenix, I keep thinking that is a lot of traveling after 15 of complete relaxation. It might hit your harder than cold weather! I think San Diego would be close and chances are you would get some sunshine. Although I do also recall you saying you don't mind the traveling. In which case, Vegas Baby! Sunshine and fun! Sure it will be busy but it is ALWAYS busy. Once you have your hotel, make some dinner and show reservations (I don't think any of us have problems "planning ahead") you are set! Really though, you can't lose on any of those desitations. I should put as a disclaimer: I think some people truly "hate" Vegas so that is really a matter of personal choice. Lisa

 

[granmaz]

Yeah, you're (Wally's) right, of course, as I look out the window at the gray. It does usually clear up to a warm afternoon, but it can make for a chilly coastal area for most of the day. I love this weather because it stays cool and I love cool. But I think you're going to find this foggy weather up the coast, as well, even SF, which is notorious for fog.

Here's a SF webcam--make sure you read the paragraphs under the picture and look at the "fog free" pictures--gorgeous! http://webmarin.com/

Here's one for San Diego, but it has annoying audio, a radio station or something, so turn down your volume. http://www.sundiegolive.com/

September is very nice, though it tends to still be rather hot, sometimes humid because of the hurricanes in Mexico. Maybe you're better off waiting until September!

The desert will be hot--but how hot in May you'll have to find out from our resident Arizonians. I'm guessing Sedona would be great.

So, yes, if you want sunny San Diego weather from sunrise to sunset and warm, pleasant evenings, then wait until September!

It's grey in San diego and SF at the moment!!!! I don't mind grey if it clears up, and cool is certainly better for walking round attractions. Warm evenings would e nice though. Luck of the draw at the time no doubt.

We have been to Phoenix and Tucson in June before and wow was it hot!!! It was such a dry heat though and so different for us. It is a long journey though.

I have been in San Diego in May and have good luck with weather. But I will let the locals talk about that.

Althougth it would be great fun to come up to SF or to Phoenix, I keep thinking that is a lot of traveling after 15 of complete relaxation. It might hit your harder than cold weather! I think San Diego would be close and chances are you would get some sunshine. Although I do also recall you saying you don't mind the traveling. In which case, Vegas Baby! Sunshine and fun! Sure it will be busy but it is ALWAYS busy. Once you have your hotel, make some dinner and show reservations (I don't think any of us have problems "planning ahead") you are set! Really though, you can't lose on any of those desitations. I should put as a disclaimer: I think some people truly "hate" Vegas so that is really a matter of personal choice. Lisa

We didn't hate Vegas though we expected to. We only had 2 nights there in a motel, but did enjoy it and always wanted to go back.

Decisions, decisions, decisions!!! Food job it is a fair time away!

Thanks all for your help. One day we will have to make the choice.

 

[Tahoe]

I have been in San Diego in May and have good luck with weather. But I will let the locals talk about that.

Althougth it would be great fun to come up to SF or to Phoenix, I keep thinking that is a lot of traveling after 15 of complete relaxation. It might hit your harder than cold weather! I think San Diego would be close and chances are you would get some sunshine. Although I do also recall you saying you don't mind the traveling. In which case, Vegas Baby! Sunshine and fun! Sure it will be busy but it is ALWAYS busy. Once you have your hotel, make some dinner and show reservations (I don't think any of us have problems "planning ahead") you are set! Really though, you can't lose on any of those desitations. I should put as a disclaimer: I think some people truly "hate" Vegas so that is really a matter of personal choice. Lisa

I agree with all, Lisa! The weather is quite unpredictable, in fact, a couple of weeks ago we had 80 degree weather.

Driving to Las Vegas on Memorial Day weekend might be the ONLY drawback of Vegas. Can you fly there, and then fly out of there to Orlando, or wherever you're going? I would take Southwest out of Orange County (SNA). It's a short flight and inexpensive. I've been stuck many times on that god-awful freeway to Las Vegas....

 

[granmaz]

I agree with all, Lisa! The weather is quite unpredictable, in fact, a couple of weeks ago we had 80 degree weather.

Driving to Las Vegas on Memorial Day weekend might be the ONLY drawback of Vegas. Can you fly there, and then fly out of there to Orlando, or wherever you're going? I would take Southwest out of Orange County (SNA). It's a short flight and inexpensive. I've been stuck many times on that god-awful freeway to Las Vegas....

I'm warming to San Diego again Karin! Blame age and my indecisive personality!!

 

[Tahoe]

I'm warming to San Diego again Karin! Blame age and my indecisive personality!!

You're funny! Luckily you have some time to be indecisive!

 

[birkner]

The Ritz, The Mandarin are the two that come to mind. They charge tax (I think - maybe not) on parking and if my recollection serves me right thus the pop up to $60. CRAZY! Although, I do love those hotels. I love the Mandarin for the terrific view and the intimacy. We have spent several new year's there looking out the balcony to the fireworks. I love the Ritz b/c of the indoor pool. Kids love it! But alas, not on our new "got to save for Panama Canal" budget! Actually, don't think it was ever on any budget!
Lisa

Haven't spent New Years Eve in the city in years, can't you tell? As for me, I loved the Ritz high tea but haven't done that in years as GK's moved father away.

We didn't spend much time in the city at hotels being so close in Woodside, except for conferences. I am a firm believer if the company can pay instead of me, much better deal!! The youngest DD especially loved the Ritz in Laguna Nigel. Have you ever stayed there?

I agree with you the Ritz is definitely not a "budget" hotel!! Especially with all the cruising we plan to do in the next few years.

 

[birkner]

Heading off to bed...have to pack this week-end for my quick Maui trip with my sister on Thursday. I can't WAIT! A little sun, a little champange, a LOT of sleep! Good-night, and good-morning!
Lisa

Have a fabulous trip!! Nothing more fun than some sun and sisterly time. I can speak from experience as I had 4 (now 3) sisters. All 3 will be coming next weekend to celebrate Sam's graduation in San Diego.

 

[HollyTyler]

My relaxation is wearing off. Stress level is building. The party supplies I ordered on May 12 for tomorrow's party have not arrived! The order didn't ship right away because the Army jeep pinata was out of stock, so they were waiting until they could talk with me to see if I wanted a substitute or just ship without. We played phone tag for a while, and I finally was able to speak to somebody and tell them to go ahead and ship everything else and I'd buy a pinata elsewhere. NO big deal, they told me on Wednesday the order would ship that day and would be here on Thursday. TWO days ago! I hope they plan on refunding the $32 I paid for 1-day FedEx shipping. And if the order doesn't arrive today, I'll be driving all over town trying to find all the camo stuff Tyler's so excited about having. So here I sit, waiting for the FedEx truck. Keep your fingers crossed! I'll give them until noon or 1:00 and then will start shopping for replacement supplies and goodies on my way to pick up the cake.

 

[granmaz]

My relaxation is wearing off. Stress level is building. The party supplies I ordered on May 12 for tomorrow's party have not arrived! The order didn't ship right away because the Army jeep pinata was out of stock, so they were waiting until they could talk with me to see if I wanted a substitute or just ship without. We played phone tag for a while, and I finally was able to speak to somebody and tell them to go ahead and ship everything else and I'd buy a pinata elsewhere. NO big deal, they told me on Wednesday the order would ship that day and would be here on Thursday. TWO days ago! I hope they plan on refunding the $32 I paid for 1-day FedEx shipping. And if the order doesn't arrive today, I'll be driving all over town trying to find all the camo stuff Tyler's so excited about having. So here I sit, waiting for the FedEx truck. Keep your fingers crossed! I'll give them until noon or 1:00 and then will start shopping for replacement supplies and goodies on my way to pick up the cake.

Oh dear Holly!!! Can't believe all that! Let's hope everything arrives today so you don't have to go off hunting for things this afternoon.

 

[birkner]

Nan,

Same plan, I have always been very involved and plan to stay that way! What I need to get better at is having ALL the kids at our place. I'm not really good at letting go of the control of the situation!

Karen

OK, on my soapbox!!

Having raised two girls to adulthood at different times, I think the key is to trust your kids. We always made the girls feel we trusted them while keeping as close a watch on them as possible. We knew their friends, their friends families and everyone in the group knew answers were a quick phone call away. We stayed involved in all of their school and sports activities. We made our house a place the kids wanted to come and stay.

One of the things we did not do is try to control the girls. We had strict rules and guidelines for behavior. Both girls knew if they misbehaved what the consequences were but that they could always call us no matter how bad a situation occurred. I guess what I mean is that I knew that all kids make mistakes in judgment but I always wanted the girls to come to me no matter how scared they were of the mistake they had made. We had some of their friends come to us for help in talking to their parents.

The parents that were always making the kids feel controlled were the first kids to get in trouble. I can not tell you how many times DH and I were the referee between some of DD's friends and their parents.

We live in a very scary world. All we can do is equip our children with the best tools to deal with life and pray for the best outcome.

Off the soapbox!! Can't wait for the DIS meet tomorrow!!