~~~ May 16, 2009 ~~~ Western Magic ~~~

[Hudson5&Lennon3]

Crystal--your avatar & sig line look great!

 

[SpeedFigure]

Everyones pets are so cute. I'll try and post a picture of my EVIL cat Genius.

Here he has eaten Santa

That poor frog. He has been through so much

This one is not of Genius but my mom yelled at me when I didn't put up a pic of the rest of the family.

Great pictures, cute Kitty!!

I was going to ask....is anyone a Parrothead?? (aka Jimmy Buffet fan). I AM!!! As you know, Key West is considered Margarettaville. WOO HOO!!

 

[tsarina13]

Work is SERIOUSLY getting in the way of my DCL vacay obsession!

To comment on some of the previous posts -

Sometimes I think I'm the only woman in the world that doesn't like cheesecake. It's like I'm a freak of nature. I went to the Melting Pot with my cousin the other day and when the chocolate fondue came out the plate of cheesecake and other assorted dipping items she about had a heart attack when she heard I didn't like cheesecake! I'm more of a brownie sundae kind of gal.

I love all the animal pictures.

Jamie, is your cat actually named Evil Genius or just Genius? I'd love to say, "and this is my cat, Evil Genius." I once had a dog we called Bear, but his full name was Chief Little Bear. Now I have a dog named Pudgie so most people think him short and fat when he's really 110lbs of pure muscle.

I need to post a picture of my dog. And my family.

Carissa lost her first tooth yesterday! What price does the Tooth Fairy put on teeth these days? I got quarters when I was a child, but I assume there has been a cost of living adjustment?

 

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

I am never going to be thin for the cruise . . . just made a huge lemon drizzle cake. Was going to take some of it to work tomorrow. . . Sadly its looking unlikey there will be any left! Its pretty impressive what us 2 can polish off - never get behind us in the buffet line!!!!!!!!!!

 

[texfinn]

I was going to ask....is anyone a Parrothead?? (aka Jimmy Buffet fan). I AM!!! As you know, Key West is considered Margarettaville. WOO HOO!!

JorDan -- Love Jimmy Buffet! Not as much as our best friends/neighbors who even have flamingos named after our kids (plastic of course). I definitely plan on getting a Margarita from Margaritaville -- even if it is a toursit trap!

Work is SERIOUSLY getting in the way of my DCL vacay obsession!

Hi Tammy! I feel you -- I would almost say it is my DIS obsession as much as my DCL obsession!

To comment on some of the previous posts -

Sometimes I think I'm the only woman in the world that doesn't like cheesecake. It's like I'm a freak of nature. I went to the Melting Pot with my cousin the other day and when the chocolate fondue came out the plate of cheesecake and other assorted dipping items she about had a heart attack when she heard I didn't like cheesecake! I'm more of a brownie sundae kind of gal.

Yummm---I am with you, love the Brownie Sundae, love the dark chocolate cake, love the lemon cream pie but not such a big fan of just cheesecake -- maybe if it light like the recipe Val posted earlier this week...hmm, can't wait to try that!

I need to post a picture of my dog. And my family.

Yes please -- Carissa is a cutie but would love to see more pics!!!

Carissa lost her first tooth yesterday! What price does the Tooth Fairy put on teeth these days? I got quarters when I was a child, but I assume there has been a cost of living adjustment?

Her FIRST? Wow, Sabrina has lost a GAZILLION! In fact, we had to get teeth pulled to make room for her big ones. Poor thing -- she definitely has Yoni's teeth (and hair and face and metabolism -- thank God for that). She will need serious braces.....

Ok, so how much -- the problem I had is the tooth fairy left my neice and nephew $5 (Yes, you heard me right -- $5) so guess what, the tooth fairy leaves $5 at our house too.

Still need to get Sabrina to email Carissa -- will work on that tomorrow. Have a party tonight (make more $$ for the cruise) so won't happen tonight.

I am never going to be thin for the cruise . . . just made a huge lemon drizzle cake. Was going to take some of it to work tomorrow. . . Sadly its looking unlikey there will be any left! Its pretty impressive what us 2 can polish off - never get behind us in the buffet line!!!!!!!!!!

Oh Sonya -- you are so pretty and so tiny already! Of course, I am not one to talk (see above response to cheesecake). The stress from Yoni getting laid off has set me in "attack" mode on the Girl Scout cookies AND we are supposed to be saving them for my MIL's visit in 2 weeks.

So -- I looked up Andy on FB and he has been pretty quiet there too. Wonder if work just has him distracted? I'll ping him on FB just to say Hi.

Am feeling pretty good -- been putting my cash from my parties aside (just the cash and just started at the beginning of the month) AND now have enough to pay the rest of our Cozumel excursion including taxi. It isn't that much but still -- one less thing to worry about! I put it in an envelope, labeled it and everything! Hopefully will get some cash tonight too!!! Yoni thinks I am silly but well -- it makes me feel good!

Here is another quesiton for you guys. I am seriously considering skipping formal night just because 1 -- hate to shop (remember, I am Pooh sized) and 2 -- not sure I want to spend the $$. I do have one black dress already but it is a bit Hoochie Mama and another brown one but that isn't so formal. So, how bad is it to skip formal night? How bad is it wear more of a casual sun dress on formal night? Ugh -- hate this whole shopping thing.....

 

[SpeedFigure]

JorDan -- Love Jimmy Buffet! Not as much as our best friends/neighbors who even have flamingos named after our kids (plastic of course). I definitely plan on getting a Margarita from Margaritaville -- even if it is a toursit trap!



Hi Tammy! I feel you -- I would almost say it is my DIS obsession as much as my DCL obsession!



Yummm---I am with you, love the Brownie Sundae, love the dark chocolate cake, love the lemon cream pie but not such a big fan of just cheesecake -- maybe if it light like the recipe Val posted earlier this week...hmm, can't wait to try that!



Yes please -- Carissa is a cutie but would love to see more pics!!!




Her FIRST? Wow, Sabrina has lost a GAZILLION! In fact, we had to get teeth pulled to make room for her big ones. Poor thing -- she definitely has Yoni's teeth (and hair and face and metabolism -- thank God for that). She will need serious braces.....

Ok, so how much -- the problem I had is the tooth fairy left my neice and nephew $5 (Yes, you heard me right -- $5) so guess what, the tooth fairy leaves $5 at our house too.

Still need to get Sabrina to email Carissa -- will work on that tomorrow. Have a party tonight (make more $$ for the cruise) so won't happen tonight.



Oh Sonya -- you are so pretty and so tiny already! Of course, I am not one to talk (see above response to cheesecake). The stress from Yoni getting laid off has set me in "attack" mode on the Girl Scout cookies AND we are supposed to be saving them for my MIL's visit in 2 weeks.

So -- I looked up Andy on FB and he has been pretty quiet there too. Wonder if work just has him distracted? I'll ping him on FB just to say Hi.

Am feeling pretty good -- been putting my cash from my parties aside (just the cash and just started at the beginning of the month) AND now have enough to pay the rest of our Cozumel excursion including taxi. It isn't that much but still -- one less thing to worry about! I put it in an envelope, labeled it and everything! Hopefully will get some cash tonight too!!! Yoni thinks I am silly but well -- it makes me feel good!

Here is another quesiton for you guys. I am seriously considering skipping formal night just because 1 -- hate to shop (remember, I am Pooh sized) and 2 -- not sure I want to spend the $$. I do have one black dress already but it is a bit Hoochie Mama and another brown one but that isn't so formal. So, how bad is it to skip formal night? How bad is it wear more of a casual sun dress on formal night? Ugh -- hate this whole shopping thing.....

Oh dear, don't be so hard on yourself!! Here is my suggestion about Formal night....start asking everyone you know if you have a dress or know of anyone that is your size. Also, Prom is usually in April. My plan is to go to all the Prom dress sales in May. I may be being a dress last minute, but there are usually great sales!!! Go to your local Dillards/JC Penny/Nordstroms or whatever and look at what they have first, then ask when they expect the sales to start. Hope that helps!

 

[lucyddr]

I was on call last night and couldn't check the boards. You all have been VERY busy posting!

Mati: I was toying with skipping one of the formal nights, but Adam really likes the menus. I'm definitely "Pooh" sized and HATE shopping...period. That being said, I am going to go to Dillards this weekend since it's supposed to be really cold and rainy anyway. Last time I was there, they had $100 sundresses for $20! I wish I had bought a couple! If I can't get a cheap dress, we'll be skipping! I refuse to spend tons of money on a dress I won't wear more than 1 or 2 times. (I'm getting cheaper as I get older, especially with our "cuts" this year... ) I probably won't go true "formal," but semi-formal at most if it helps. You'll see people wearing different things from dress slacks, Sunday dresses, to Armani tuxes...

My brain is fried from the 2.5 hours of sleep I've had since yesterday morning at 6:15am, but whoever's cat (Jaime's maybe?) is shown on the previous pages is cute!

Oh and on the cheesecake, I can take it or leave it. But, I feel somewhat obligated to eat it at Cheesecake Factory. We had one in Jacksonville and in Vegas, and I miss not having it here. Fortunately, we do have a Melting Pot about 30 minutes away though I wouldn't consider their cheesecake "sliver" to be that wonderful. I really like the dessert at CF where there is chocolate cake made with layers of cheesecake in it (though it's more of a cake slice), It is AMAZING! (But I can't remember the name of it...sorry!)

I'm not into AI, but I'm trying as hard as I can to stay awake for Survivor tonight. I know I'm going to crash by tomorrow afternoon!

 

[Hudson5&Lennon3]

Yummm---I am with you, love the Brownie Sundae, love the dark chocolate cake, love the lemon cream pie but not such a big fan of just cheesecake -- maybe if it light like the recipe Val posted earlier this week...hmm, can't wait to try that!

Mmmmmm...anything sweet & sinful is my craving--especially chocolate!!

Her FIRST? Wow, Sabrina has lost a GAZILLION!

Wow!! Hudson lost his first one not even a year ago (it was loose for 7 MONTHS!), and his second one came out about 6 months ago. Then Lennon (!) lost his first tooth at the end of January and the second about 2 weeks later! Yes, they each had lost 2 teeth...until Hudson had to "one-up" Lennon a couple days later and yanked one of his out! I didn't even know it was that loose!! And then a couple days later, he yanked another one out!! So the tooth fairy has been busy at our house...4 times in ~3 weeks.

The stress from Yoni getting laid off has set me in "attack" mode on the Girl Scout cookies

I thought we were going to get away with not buying any cookies this year, but once again, Justin comes home from work last week with 7 boxes...and will bring more home tonight!! Unfortunately, what he brought home already is almost gone (it didn't seem like we were eating that many!).

So -- I looked up Andy on FB and he has been pretty quiet there too. Wonder if work just has him distracted? I'll ping him on FB just to say Hi.

Hmmmm...I hope everything is okay.

Here is another quesiton for you guys. I am seriously considering skipping formal night just because 1 -- hate to shop (remember, I am Pooh sized) and 2 -- not sure I want to spend the $$. I do have one black dress already but it is a bit Hoochie Mama and another brown one but that isn't so formal. So, how bad is it to skip formal night? How bad is it wear more of a casual sun dress on formal night? Ugh -- hate this whole shopping thing.....

Just do what you feel comfortable with. I really don't think I even looked at anyone else's clothes the entire time. From some of the pics I've seen posted, I think any sort of dress will do. Sonya's idea of after prom sales is a good one...that's how I got my black one! $30! I think I spent a little bit more on the red one (~$60?), but it wasn't a prom dress and was just a regular sale and not a clearance sale. I thought I'd have other opportunities to wear them again, and I haven't (until May!), so if it's not in your budget, don't buy something new...just wear what you've got or borrow!

Now, everyone stop all this Pooh-sized talk!! Everyone looks GREAT in their pics!!

 

[tigger2002]

That being said, I am going to go to Dillards this weekend since it's supposed to be really cold and rainy anyway.

We are planning to go down to Knoxville this weekend too. We will probably look for some cruise clothes. And then to Pigeon Forge on Saturday. We had planned to go to Cades Cove to do some hiking but will probably just ride around since it is so cold here now. It was in the 70's last weekend.

<

 

[Disgirl83]

Everyones pets are so cute. I'll try and post a picture of my EVIL cat Genius.

Your cat is cute (even if he is evil) Good to see the rest of the family too!!!

I was going to ask....is anyone a Parrothead?? (aka Jimmy Buffet fan). I AM!!! As you know, Key West is considered Margarettaville. WOO HOO!!

I'm not a HUGE Parrothead but I do like Jimmie Buffet- I've only been to the Margaritaville in Myrtle Beach in Orlando so I'm definately planning a stop in Key West (and probably get another shirt). Every summer we go to the beach I force my hubby to start listening to my Buffet cd's about an hour before we get there while I blast out singing Margaritaville and Volcano, lol!

I am never going to be thin for the cruise . . . just made a huge lemon drizzle cake. Was going to take some of it to work tomorrow. . . Sadly its looking unlikey there will be any left! Its pretty impressive what us 2 can polish off - never get behind us in the buffet line!!!!!!!!!!

I've seen your pictures and you are tiny!!! The cake sounds yummy though and my DH and I will be more than happy to help you and your DH clean up all the buffet food.

The stress from Yoni getting laid off has set me in "attack" mode on the Girl Scout cookies AND we are supposed to be saving them for my MIL's visit in 2 weeks.

Oh how I love those girl scout cookies. I have a box of thin mints I'm trying to "hide" in my pantry.

I'm trying to make out a packing list and think what outfits I have to wear each night? I need to look up the luggage requirements to see how much I can bring. I'm tempted to re-wear a dress or two just to save come luggage room. (Plus I need to go shopping because I think I only have a few dresses that still fit)

 

[Disgirl83]

Thanks to JorDan I’ve completely became a quiz taking fanatic so I had a little extra time on my hands today and thought I would make up a DCL Quiz. Some of the questions we’ve answered on our posts and some questions I’ve seen on other forums so here we go (it’s pretty long):

(1) How many times have you been on a DCL cruise? When was the last time?
Once – June (I think) 2001 4-night Bahamas

(2) What’s your favorite itinerary?
Only done the Bahamas-Nassau, Freeport, and Castaway Cay

(3) What’s your favorite port of call (not including Castaway Cay)? Excursion?
Of those I’ve been on Nassau and the Atlantis aquarium excursion

(4) Best thing to do or see on Castaway Cay?
Loved the snorkeling

(5) Where is your favorite place on the ship?
Maybe the lobby, can’t really remember?

(6) What’s your favorite way to relax onboard?
Either a spa treatment or a comfy pool lounger

(7) What’s the best photo opportunity?
It looks likes Shutters takes more photos than they did back in 2001 and I’m looking forward to all the backgrounds.

(8) What are your favorite things to do on your days at sea?
I’ve never had a day at sea before.

(9) What’s the best bargain on the boat?
I’m hoping some of you will tell me!

(10) What’s your favorite family activity?
We liked playing ping pong.

(11) What’s your favorite pool?
Quite Cove is nice, but I also like being in the center of the action so I might have to say Goofy’s.

(12) What’s your kid’s favorite activity?
No experience here; however, if I could I think the pj party would be awesome.

(13) Do you have a favorite show/entertainment onboard?
The only show I remember well is Hercules the Musical, but we loved all the deck parties.

(14) What’s your favorite spa treatment?
I’ve only done the Ionithermie. I liked it but it was part mud bath part sci-fi movie. However it did “remove” a few inches, well until I ate my next big meal.

(15) What’s your favorite adult activity?
I was 18 and with my parents so about all we did was listen to the dueling pianos or watch some of the game shows, etc. in Wavebands.

(16) What’s your favorite adult beverage?
Again I was 18, but I did have the virgin version of the ½ strawberry daiquiri and ½ pina colada which was to die for, I’m hoping they still have it so I can have the real version.

(17) Where is the best place to eat lunch on embarkation?
We did the buffet and enjoyed sitting out on the deck.

(18) Where is the best place to eat breakfast?
We always did the buffet since it was quick, but I want to try some new options this time.

(19) What’s your favorite restaurant in the rotation?
Animators Palette- a meal and a show

(20) What is the one must have meal/snack or sweet treat/dessert you must have onboard?
Since the last time was 8 years ago I can’t remember that well. I would guess it was probably something cheesy on the snack side or chocolate on the dessert side.

I definitely think I’m going to re-take this quiz when the cruise is over just to see how it compares!

 

[Hudson5&Lennon3]

I'm trying to make out a packing list and think what outfits I have to wear each night? I need to look up the luggage requirements to see how much I can bring. I'm tempted to re-wear a dress or two just to save come luggage room. (Plus I need to go shopping because I think I only have a few dresses that still fit)

I learned this from a fellow cruise mate last time. A few weeks ahead of time, we organized what we'll each be wearing for dinner each night (I'm a bit of a "coordinator"--not exactly matching but just coordinating...OCD, I know ). I got them all layed out together and took pictures and then packed the pictures with the day labeled on the back. Then there was no wasting time trying to figure out what everyone was supposed to wear on what night. Now that I think about it, I don't think I wore khaki capris like I said before--maybe once but not positive, though...I'll have to go back and find those pics!--but I'm thinking instead I wore black slacks a couple times and some khaki pants a couple times.


I have my DVR set up for Friday night on Travel channel (channel 277 on DirecTV) for the DCL show at 5 PM CST (it's on again Tues at 9 AM also), and I also have it set up again on Sunday night at 6 PM CST on DIY channel (ch 230 on DirecTV) for Project Xtreme, which is showing the Magic in drydock in Sept. This show repeats again at 10 PM on Sunday and then on Saturday, March 21st, at 7 PM and 11 PM. I'm excited to see what the changes were!

ETA: Sorry I had the times wrong before! 6 & 10 is correct!

 

[jhart901]

Your cat is cute (even if he is evil) Good to see the rest of the family too!!!:

Thank you but I can't tell him that he is a bit snooty already.

Mmmmmm...anything sweet & sinful is my craving--especially chocolate!!

Okay I don't know why I am telling you guys this. I hope you won't ban me from the board, but I don't like chocolate. It smells bad to me. I know. Although I will eat it sometimes. If I need a boast and there is nothing else. Oh and I think it gives me headaches Go figure.

OMG! Already?!?! Ours won't start until after the cruise! Probably because right now it's 10 DEGREES!!!!!!


Cute cat!!

Great pic of the family!!

Yes we had our inital meetings this week and practice starts this weekend. In this area of the world it is 70 degrees one day and the next (like today) it is a freeze warning. So you never really know.

Work is SERIOUSLY getting in the way of my DCL vacay obsession!


Jamie, is your cat actually named Evil Genius or just Genius? I'd love to say, "and this is my cat, Evil Genius." I once had a dog we called Bear, but his full name was Chief Little Bear. Now I have a dog named Pudgie so most people think him short and fat when he's really 110lbs of pure muscle.

I need to post a picture of my dog. And my family.

Carissa lost her first tooth yesterday! What price does the Tooth Fairy put on teeth these days? I got quarters when I was a child, but I assume there has been a cost of living adjustment?

His name is just Genius (although now I had thought of Evil Genius; too funny) but he can be really mean. I think he may be bipolar.

Yes more family and pet pictures. I love pictures.

Jalen has lost most of his teeth already but I think we did dollars.

 

[SpeedFigure]

Formal Night advice.
If any of you know this but Old Navy has GREAT deals. www.oldnavy.com

They have Long beach dresses that are for a good price. In my opinion if you get one in black and then dress it up with some of your own jewelry- that would work for formal night. You can't go wrong with black!!

 

[Bellamickey]

JorDan -- Love Jimmy Buffet! Not as much as our best friends/neighbors who even have flamingos named after our kids (plastic of course). I definitely plan on getting a Margarita from Margaritaville -- even if it is a toursit trap!


Here is another quesiton for you guys. I am seriously considering skipping formal night just because 1 -- hate to shop (remember, I am Pooh sized) and 2 -- not sure I want to spend the $$. I do have one black dress already but it is a bit Hoochie Mama and another brown one but that isn't so formal. So, how bad is it to skip formal night? How bad is it wear more of a casual sun dress on formal night? Ugh -- hate this whole shopping thing.....

Shawn and I love Jimmy Buffet!!! We always go to Margarittaville whenever in Vegas! I grew up with him because my parents liked him so much. We will definatly hit it up in kW, I think thats where Shawn wants to have lunch. Unless we decide to try Sloppy Joes!!

Girly, don't stress to much on formal night. Wear whatever is most comfortable to you, and if you like your hoochie mama dress, go for it!! Mickey doesn't care what we wear as long as we go and have a good time!!!!!
You will look great in anything! I'm wearing a semi casual black dress. Nothing really "fancy".

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ok Lynsey, Here ya go



(1) How many times have you been on a DCL cruise? 3 TIMES, THE LAST BEING THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN!


(2) What’s your favorite itinerary?
SO FAR THE EASTERN. WE LOVED ST. MAARTAN.

(3) What’s your favorite port of call (not including Castaway Cay)?
ST. MAARTAN. WE DID A CATAMARAN CHAMPAIGNE SNORKELING EXCURSION. IT WAS AWESOME!

(4) Best thing to do or see on Castaway Cay?
RELAXING AT SERENETY BAY AND EATING THOSE CUTE LOAVES OF BANANA BREAD AT COOKIES BBQ.

(5) Where is your favorite place on the ship?
THE LOUNGERS ON DECK 4, AND THE FEELING WE GET IN THE LOBBY ON EMBARKATION DAY

(6) What’s your favorite way to relax onboard?
A COMFY POOL LOUNGER OR IN THE HOT TUB!

(7) What’s the best photo opportunity?
HMMM....NOT SURE. THEY DIDN'T HAVE AS MANY CHOICES IN 03'

(8) What are your favorite things to do on your days at sea?
WE LOVED SLEEPING IN AND THEN EATING BREAKFAST AT TOPSIDERS. ALSO DID ALOT OF THE ADULT ACTIVITES, SUCH AS POOL GAMES, THE BACKSTAGE TOURS ECT. ALSO RELAXING BY THE POOL!

(9) What’s the best bargain on the boat?
THE REFILLABLE MUG

(10) What’s your favorite family activity?
SHAWN AND I HAVE ALWAYS PLAYED EACHOTHER AT PING PONG. WE LOOK FOWARD TO CHASING THAT LITTLE WHITE BALL!!!

(11) What’s your favorite pool?
QUIET COVE

(12) What’s your kid’s favorite activity?
NO EXPERIENCE HERE..

(13) Do you have a favorite show/entertainment onboard?
SO FAR ITS DISNEY DREAMS. BRINGS TEARS TO MY EYES EVERY TIME!!!

(14) What’s your favorite spa treatment?
NEVER DONE A SPA TREATMENT

(15) What’s your favorite adult activity?
THE ACTIVITIES AT THE CLUBS IN THE EVENINGS, SUCH AS MATCH YOUR MATE!

(16) What’s your favorite adult beverage?
HMMM.. I LOVE BAHAMA MAMA'S AND ANYTHING SLUSHY VODKA AND DR.PEPPER IF I'M REALLY FEELING FRISKY!

(17) Where is the best place to eat lunch on embarkation?
WE LOVE TO EAT TOPSIDERS OUTSIDE

(18) Where is the best place to eat breakfast?
WE HAVE ALWAYS EATEN TOPSIDERS, BUT ARE GOING TO TRY ONE OF THE RESTAURANTS THIS TIME.

(19) What’s your favorite restaurant in the rotation?
ANIMATORS PALATE AND ALSO LUMIERE'S. WE ARE BIG BEAUTY AND THE BEAST FANS

(20) What is the one must have meal/snack or sweet treat/dessert you must have onboard?
FOR A SNACK, SHAWN LOVES THE CHICKEN SANDWICHES AND ME THE CHICKEN TENDERS. FOR DESSERT, ANYTHING CHOCOLATE!!! AND I LOVE THE BAKED ALASKA

 

[texfinn]

Formal Night advice.
If any of you know this but Old Navy has GREAT deals. www.oldnavy.com

They have Long beach dresses that are for a good price. In my opinion if you get one in black and then dress it up with some of your own jewelry- that would work for formal night. You can't go wrong with black!!

Ok -- I'll admit -- they are cute!

I was on call last night and couldn't check the boards. You all have been VERY busy posting!

Mati: I was toying with skipping one of the formal nights, but Adam really likes the menus. I'm definitely "Pooh" sized and HATE shopping...period. That being said, I am going to go to Dillards this weekend since it's supposed to be really cold and rainy anyway. Last time I was there, they had $100 sundresses for $20! I wish I had bought a couple! If I can't get a cheap dress, we'll be skipping! I refuse to spend tons of money on a dress I won't wear more than 1 or 2 times. (I'm getting cheaper as I get older, especially with our "cuts" this year... ) I probably won't go true "formal," but semi-formal at most if it helps. You'll see people wearing different things from dress slacks, Sunday dresses, to Armani tuxes...

My brain is fried from the 2.5 hours of sleep I've had since yesterday morning at 6:15am, but whoever's cat (Jaime's maybe?) is shown on the previous pages is cute!

Oh and on the cheesecake, I can take it or leave it. But, I feel somewhat obligated to eat it at Cheesecake Factory. We had one in Jacksonville and in Vegas, and I miss not having it here. Fortunately, we do have a Melting Pot about 30 minutes away though I wouldn't consider their cheesecake "sliver" to be that wonderful. I really like the dessert at CF where there is chocolate cake made with layers of cheesecake in it (though it's more of a cake slice), It is AMAZING! (But I can't remember the name of it...sorry!)

I'm not into AI, but I'm trying as hard as I can to stay awake for Survivor tonight. I know I'm going to crash by tomorrow afternoon!

Loucinda -- I hope you get some rest tonight. I DVR'd Survivor -- will have to catch up this weekend!

Mmmmmm...anything sweet & sinful is my craving--especially chocolate!!

Just do what you feel comfortable with. I really don't think I even looked at anyone else's clothes the entire time. From some of the pics I've seen posted, I think any sort of dress will do. Sonya's idea of after prom sales is a good one...that's how I got my black one! $30! I think I spent a little bit more on the red one (~$60?), but it wasn't a prom dress and was just a regular sale and not a clearance sale. I thought I'd have other opportunities to wear them again, and I haven't (until May!), so if it's not in your budget, don't buy something new...just wear what you've got or borrow!

Now, everyone stop all this Pooh-sized talk!! Everyone looks GREAT in their pics!!

Thanks Val -- but you have to figure, would I really post a pic that made me look fat???

Oh how I love those girl scout cookies. I have a box of thin mints I'm trying to "hide" in my pantry.

I'm trying to make out a packing list and think what outfits I have to wear each night? I need to look up the luggage requirements to see how much I can bring. I'm tempted to re-wear a dress or two just to save come luggage room. (Plus I need to go shopping because I think I only have a few dresses that still fit)

Hi Lynsey! I love thin mints -- right now the box that is open is "Lemonades" which is good because Thin Mints only last 1 night between me and Yoni. These ones have lasted 3!

I guess I need to start thinking about packing.....hmmmm....more DCL stuff to think about!

Thanks to JorDan I’ve completely became a quiz taking fanatic so I had a little extra time on my hands today and thought I would make up a DCL Quiz. Some of the questions we’ve answered on our posts and some questions I’ve seen on other forums so here we go (it’s pretty long):

(1) How many times have you been on a DCL cruise? When was the last time?
ZERO

Ok, think that ends my quiz! Can't wait to see the responses!

I learned this from a fellow cruise mate last time. A few weeks ahead of time, we organized what we'll each be wearing for dinner each night (I'm a bit of a "coordinator"--not exactly matching but just coordinating...OCD, I know ). I got them all layed out together and took pictures and then packed the pictures with the day labeled on the back. Then there was no wasting time trying to figure out what everyone was supposed to wear on what night. Now that I think about it, I don't think I wore khaki capris like I said before--maybe once but not positive, though...I'll have to go back and find those pics!--but I'm thinking instead I wore black slacks a couple times and some khaki pants a couple times.

Val --- all I can say is ..... WOW Ummm, I am not an "organized" type. I was thinking I would do good to use the large ziploc baggie approach for the kids...

I have my DVR set up for tomorrow night on Travel channel for the DCL show and then again on Sunday night at 9 PM CST on DIY channel (ch 230 on DirecTV) for Project Xtreme, which is showing the Magic in drydock in Sept. I'm excited to see what the changes were!

Hmmmm, have the DIY set but not sure about the Travel channel...need to look into it!

Okay I don't know why I am telling you guys this. I hope you won't ban me from the board, but I don't like chocolate. It smells bad to me. I know. Although I will eat it sometimes. If I need a boast and there is nothing else. Oh and I think it gives me headaches Go figure.

OH NO -- and Jamie, I bought you a GIANT Chocolate Mickey Mouse head for your FE! Guess I need to return it No seriously though, you don't like chocolate, yup, that is pretty scary. I only like dark chocolate -- hopefully not quite so scary!

Girly, don't stress to much on formal night. Wear whatever is most comfortable to you, and if you like your hoochie mama dress, go for it!! Mickey doesn't care what we wear as long as we go and have a good time!!!!!
You will look great in anything! I'm wearing a semi casual black dress. Nothing really "fancy".

Awwww.....Belinda, you are sooo sweet! I may just buy me a pair of SPANX and wear that Hoochi Mama dress (ladies, be warned)

 

[texfinn]

(3) What’s your favorite port of call (not including Castaway Cay)?
ST. MAARTAN. WE DID A CATAMARAN CHAMPAIGNE SNORKELING EXCURSION. IT WAS AWESOME!

Ohhhh....Belinda Belinda Belinda.....you said the magic word "Champagne!". That settles it, need to go on the Eastern next!

 

[Tink113sMom]

Hi Jane...

Please add me to the list so I don't have to bug Amanda for it... Thanks!

I definitely want a peek at Belinda on Thursday. The dress is gorgeous! We will have to figure out where we can lurk unobtrusively...

Cinda... I LOVE your Pie-rate design... Very appropriate, that other one was horrible.

I probably should have split this up into separate messages so I could get past that 10 mark and able to PM, oh well. I think the whole family is really getting excited. The boys, Bobby and Adam have memorized the floor plans and can answer any question their Aunt Amanda can think up to ask... It has been interesting to say the least to read all the "pass and repass"! Oh! And Sonya... Your food journal is wonderful! Now I know exactly where we need to go to get the best food and where we need to avoid! Thank you!

'later girls,
Carole

 

[Bellamickey]

Awwww.....Belinda, you are sooo sweet! I may just buy me a pair of SPANX and wear that Hoochi Mama dress (ladies, be warned)

Go for it! Just strap on some heels and perfect! a gauranteed good night! and then we could hit kareoke! How about we sing, dont'cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me!!!! After all, this is vacation right!

We're all going to look fabulous!

Ohhhh....Belinda Belinda Belinda.....you said the magic word "Champagne!". That settles it, need to go on the Eastern next!

I'd go with ya! We loved those 3 sea days!! And champagne! that just makes it perfect!!!!

 

[2_Eagle_Mom]

Hi Jane! So what did you think? Was it the right 2? I think I was ok with the outcome... The twist is interesting. I wonder if they will ever use it this season.[\QUOTE] I agreed with Jorge but wish that Megan had gone instead of Jasmine. I think they will hold on to their "save" until much later in the show (unless Danny, Adam or Lil) before they use it. Especially since once they use it they can't save anyone afterwards.

I do have one question for all you WDW fans -- how much should I budget for the 4 of us to eat on non-cruise days? I was thinking $100 -- is that way too little?[\QUOTE]Depending on how much your family eats. I normally budget (per person) $10 for Breakfast, $15 for Counter Service Lunch, and $20 for Counter Service Dinner. If you plan on going to sit down restaurants, check out some menus of places you might be interested and see how much the entrees run. Since you have kids their costs will be less if they order off the kids menu.

Work is SERIOUSLY getting in the way of my DCL vacay obsession!

To comment on some of the previous posts -

Sometimes I think I'm the only woman in the world that doesn't like cheesecake. It's like I'm a freak of nature. I went to the Melting Pot with my cousin the other day and when the chocolate fondue came out the plate of cheesecake and other assorted dipping items she about had a heart attack when she heard I didn't like cheesecake! I'm more of a brownie sundae kind of gal.

Tammy - I DO love a good cheesecake, but if I were with you and a plate came out and you didn't want any - heck I'd be thrilled - just more for me!!!

Yummm---I am with you, love the Brownie Sundae, love the dark chocolate cake, love the lemon cream pie but not such a big fan of just cheesecake -- maybe if it light like the recipe Val posted earlier this week...hmm, can't wait to try that! [\QUOTE] See this is my problem. There are very few desserts that I DON'T like. Well unless it has nuts on or in it. I'm not allergic to them, just don't like the taste or texture. So the only sure fire way to keep me away from a dessert is to load it with nuts.

Am feeling pretty good -- been putting my cash from my parties aside (just the cash and just started at the beginning of the month) AND now have enough to pay the rest of our Cozumel excursion including taxi. It isn't that much but still -- one less thing to worry about! I put it in an envelope, labeled it and everything! Hopefully will get some cash tonight too!!! Yoni thinks I am silly but well -- it makes me feel good! .[\QUOTE] I think that's a fantastic idea. For me I'd need to write on my packing list (take excursion envelope) and then I'll check about 10 times to make sure that I have it. My biggest fear is leaving airline tickets at home so that has trickled down to me having a LONG packing list with everything (and I do mean EVERYTHING) that I have to bring with us on a list. Very weird for a person that used to travel all the time for work and can pack for a business trip within 30 minutes. But have me get ready for a vacation and I get all OCD about exactly what we need to take and not forget anything.

Here is another quesiton for you guys. I am seriously considering skipping formal night just because 1 -- hate to shop (remember, I am Pooh sized) and 2 -- not sure I want to spend the $$. I do have one black dress already but it is a bit Hoochie Mama and another brown one but that isn't so formal. So, how bad is it to skip formal night? How bad is it wear more of a casual sun dress on formal night? Ugh -- hate this whole shopping thing.....

Mati - I thought about skipping it as well. Then I realized that Jim and I never get dressed up for anything and I'd love to have a great picture of us. I went to Macy's and checked out their mis-matched rack. I was able to find a pair of black pants, they look like a long dress but they are actually pants - remember I'm the girl that doesn't wear dresses (well except for the dress I bought that I'm going to surprise Jim with on our anniversary). I also was able to find a top from another outfit that matches perfectly. All total the outfit cost $30!!! What is Hoochie Mama about the dress you already have? Can you get a shawl or sweater to cover up? I think
JorDan is right, start asking around and see if anyone you know has anything you can wear. I'd also check out Marshall's/Burlington/TJ Maxx, etc. I found my dress at Burlington for $29.99.

Jamie - as for your dislike of chocolate - just pass it on to me and I'll take care of it for you....

Right now I'm watching Alton Brown make a Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie and it is about to make me drool all over the keyboard...

I'm off to watch Survivor (recorded it so I can speed through the commercials).