Memories of Little Green Men and Sardines (6/8-17, 2010) **FINAL UPDATE 2-25-2011**

[Charlefours]

Hang in there--I know you have to be frustrated, but things will come together for you! You can begin on the stuff you mentioned and even going through the attractions, shows, rides, etc. and figure out what would be a must do, if time permits or a skip entirely.

Disney announced September 2010 for beginning the renovations on Fantasyland. From what they said, they are going to try to leave ToonTown alone for as long as possible so you may luck out and it will be fine. There is so many other areas they can begin to work on that hopefully they will leave TT alone until 2011. I am worried too since we are taking DD for her first visit in September--right around when it is slated to begin.

for a Dooney bag!! I am eyeing one too but it will depend on finances and what deal comes out for our time.

Definitely want to see what creations you put together or have done for you! I know I am looking forward to diving and beginning all of those things too. I have had a few things done on the DISign board and there are many things I want to create myself.

Happy Easter!!

 

[ForTheLoveOfDCL]

Ok so I have to say I have only read the first 2 pages tonight of your trip report so far but plan on reading more tomorrow.

I just booked airfare on Spirit tonight for $31 each way...woohoo with taxes it's $98 dollars a person!! Plus we to volunteered at our local soliders and sailors nursing home and are gonna spend a day at one of the parks on free tickets,and then do one at MVMCP. We love both the MVMCP and MNSSHP. Normally we cruise but our cruise isn't till next yr since we just came off another cruise in October and I just couldn't go this yr without seeing my "Big Cheese"!! Can't wait till MVMCP tickets and schedule come out. I know MNSSHP comes out in MAy but can't remember about the Xmas one.

We are going Dec 3-7th....might be spending a couple days with my aunt and 2-3 at Disney.....don't need a whole week just a little taste to hold me over till my B2B cruise on the Dream! Ok back to read more....Good Luck in all your planning!

 

[triciari]

So I am waaaay depressed (but feeling slightly better after reading everyone's comments on my TR!) since we might not make it for Christmas or MVMCP. I've been sitting here reading other reports all evening, attempting to make myself feel better, and I think I need put back into reality! Soooo, could someone please answer this question...and I know ahead of time what response I will be getting!

What are my chances of getting at least 1 Character Meal and 1 ADR that I really want (prefer Coral Reef) IF I have to make my ressies about a month before we leave???

If there is any possibility you could bump yourself up to club level - you will have no problem getting your character meals - even CRT! We booked 5 weeks before we went over last April vacation (!!) and the club level cm's from WL called to ask if they could get us any special restaurant reservations. (By the way - with only 5 weeks and going during a busy time -I'd already gotten everything I wanted!) He suggested CRT - which I was just planning to skip - so I said sure, and it came through easy as pie!! So, try to get what you can on your own, and if you find it's too difficult, consider where you could move to a club level room if it's possible. Maybe even just for 1 night or 2 and you could score your coveted ts's then!
-Tricia

 

[SoonerGirl]

Hey there! I followed you over from your post on my PTR. We went to WDW last December (the actual week of Christmas if you can believe it!) and had an amazing time. You are going to love Disney in December! There is a link to my TR in my siggy if you want to check it out, I have links to all my updates in the first post so that you don't have to weed through all the chit chat

Let's see, what did I want to comment on???

First - oh my gosh! Your DHs job would drive me INSANE The OCD planner in me would never be able to deal with planning a trip, but not really knowing when we could go. I feel for you!

On character dining:

Garden Grill: Haven't been since 2006, but we had a good meal and FANTASTIC character interaction here. Definitely worth doing!

Chef Mickey's: We have been for both breakfast and dinner and will never go back. The food was okay for breakfast, bad for dinner and the character interaction was rushed both times. I've enjoyed every other character meal we have been to more than this one.

Tusker House: Ate here for breakfast in December, it was great! Food was good and my boys had a ball with the characters, especially Daisy.

Crystal Palace: Been for both breakfast and dinner, food and characters are good. It was awesome getting into the park before it opened to the public for our breakfast here - I highly recommend it!

Now, let's see, resort decorations. We missed going to AKL, which I'm so bummed about, and the Poly, which I've read doesn't have much anyway. The one's I would say that you definitely need to put on your list are Wilderness Lodge, Grand Floridian, Beach/Yacht Club & the Boardwalk Inn. Those were all great and shouldn't be missed

Oh, and your Dooney bag! I bought myself one in December and love it, people compliment me all the time on it!

 

[photographymom517]

Hang in there--I know you have to be frustrated, but things will come together for you! You can begin on the stuff you mentioned and even going through the attractions, shows, rides, etc. and figure out what would be a must do, if time permits or a skip entirely.

Disney announced September 2010 for beginning the renovations on Fantasyland. From what they said, they are going to try to leave ToonTown alone for as long as possible so you may luck out and it will be fine. There is so many other areas they can begin to work on that hopefully they will leave TT alone until 2011. I am worried too since we are taking DD for her first visit in September--right around when it is slated to begin.

for a Dooney bag!! I am eyeing one too but it will depend on finances and what deal comes out for our time.

Definitely want to see what creations you put together or have done for you! I know I am looking forward to diving and beginning all of those things too. I have had a few things done on the DISign board and there are many things I want to create myself.

Happy Easter!!

Hi!!! Thank you for understanding my frustrations! And for all of the great tips! I definitely have started working on other things since I do not know the exact dates of our trip now. However, I do feel better knowing I can at least get the ADR's that I really, really have my heart set on. I'd like to do a few Character Meals, but I think I'll have to settle for just one this trip. I'm leaning towards Crystal Palace because my son really loves Pooh...plus I think it would be AMAZING to see Main Street without a gazillion people running around! Especially with the Christmas decor!

I have checked various websites trying to figure out when they'll shut-down Toontown for good. I don't know what to say. I guess a good time frame is anywhere between now & January 2011. I know thats such a huge time frame, but I just don't think anyone knows for sure. Its very interesting to read people's Trip Reports & see whats still open! I'm pretty sure they closed Ariel's Grotto & Pooh's Playful Spot today (or will be closing it tomorrow). I think they said April 8th & 9th. Even though I probably won't get to see the majority of it again, I have found videos on YouTube & various pictures on DIS so I guess I can live the moments through others!

I still have TONS to look forward to! Plus, since Toontown will be probably be closed when we go on our trip, it will just give us more time to enjoy the other "lands."

I've heard they are supposed to be releasing new Dooney designs in May or June...it might just be a rumor, I'm not 100% sure, but a few people told me that. I'm waiting to see the new designs & prices...and then I will make up my mind for sure. We aren't getting a rental car now, so we'll be saving around $300 or so...thats how I am able to get my Dooney!!!

I will definitely be posting pictures once I work on my tshirts! I also got a few more ideas today! Can't wait to start working on everything!!!

Hope you had a Happy Easter as well!

Ok so I have to say I have only read the first 2 pages tonight of your trip report so far but plan on reading more tomorrow.

I just booked airfare on Spirit tonight for $31 each way...woohoo with taxes it's $98 dollars a person!! Plus we to volunteered at our local soliders and sailors nursing home and are gonna spend a day at one of the parks on free tickets,and then do one at MVMCP. We love both the MVMCP and MNSSHP. Normally we cruise but our cruise isn't till next yr since we just came off another cruise in October and I just couldn't go this yr without seeing my "Big Cheese"!! Can't wait till MVMCP tickets and schedule come out. I know MNSSHP comes out in MAy but can't remember about the Xmas one.

We are going Dec 3-7th....might be spending a couple days with my aunt and 2-3 at Disney.....don't need a whole week just a little taste to hold me over till my B2B cruise on the Dream! Ok back to read more....Good Luck in all your planning!

Wow...$31 airfare...that would make my day...or maybe my entire year!!!

I will have to look into Spirit. I've never heard of them...do they fly out of Pittsburgh International, do you know? I will look on their website tonight. I think the cheapest I've heard of so far for PIT is Southwest, but I am worried about them spliting us up & I would completely freak out if I wasn't seated with my son! I know of a husband/wife who were on their honeymoon & a mother/daughter who got split up on their flights...both flying Southwest. So now it worries me!

I'm not sure when the MVMCP tickets come out but it should be sometime soon. I think they release the dates around the same time the MNSSHP tickets go on sale. I'm obsessed & look online everyday...so I will let you know if I see it!

That is awesome that you are able to go on cruises so often! I have never been on a cruise & have always wanted to go! A good friend of mine goes every single year with her mom & gram. I think that would be an awesome experience! We actually wanted to go last year, but we found out that our son wasn't allowed in the pools until he is potty-trained...which makes complete sense! Thats a good policy they have for sanitary reasons...but I was disappointed that we couldn't go! Oh, well...gives me an excuse to plan another vacation in about a year or so!

When we do decide to go on a cruise, I will have to ask you lots of questions!!!

If there is any possibility you could bump yourself up to club level - you will have no problem getting your character meals - even CRT! We booked 5 weeks before we went over last April vacation (!!) and the club level cm's from WL called to ask if they could get us any special restaurant reservations. (By the way - with only 5 weeks and going during a busy time -I'd already gotten everything I wanted!) He suggested CRT - which I was just planning to skip - so I said sure, and it came through easy as pie!! So, try to get what you can on your own, and if you find it's too difficult, consider where you could move to a club level room if it's possible. Maybe even just for 1 night or 2 and you could score your coveted ts's then!
-Tricia

Hi Tricia! Thanks for the ideas! I didn't realize you were able to book ADR's so easily through club level. They provide you with breakfast every morning as well, don't they? I don't know if that is an option this trip for us, but if I get a better PIN code, it might be worth it. Thank you for giving me another option!

Hey there! I followed you over from your post on my PTR. We went to WDW last December (the actual week of Christmas if you can believe it!) and had an amazing time. You are going to love Disney in December! There is a link to my TR in my siggy if you want to check it out, I have links to all my updates in the first post so that you don't have to weed through all the chit chat

Let's see, what did I want to comment on???

First - oh my gosh! Your DHs job would drive me INSANE The OCD planner in me would never be able to deal with planning a trip, but not really knowing when we could go. I feel for you!

On character dining:

Garden Grill: Haven't been since 2006, but we had a good meal and FANTASTIC character interaction here. Definitely worth doing!

Chef Mickey's: We have been for both breakfast and dinner and will never go back. The food was okay for breakfast, bad for dinner and the character interaction was rushed both times. I've enjoyed every other character meal we have been to more than this one.

Tusker House: Ate here for breakfast in December, it was great! Food was good and my boys had a ball with the characters, especially Daisy.

Crystal Palace: Been for both breakfast and dinner, food and characters are good. It was awesome getting into the park before it opened to the public for our breakfast here - I highly recommend it!

Now, let's see, resort decorations. We missed going to AKL, which I'm so bummed about, and the Poly, which I've read doesn't have much anyway. The one's I would say that you definitely need to put on your list are Wilderness Lodge, Grand Floridian, Beach/Yacht Club & the Boardwalk Inn. Those were all great and shouldn't be missed

Oh, and your Dooney bag! I bought myself one in December and love it, people compliment me all the time on it!

HI!!! Thanks for all the information! I cannot wait to go in December!!! I have never been there for Christmas. I have gone to Florida probably 15 times or more on vacation & to Disney 5 times. A few trips I have no memory of because I was too young to remember! I usually have gone each trip in either September or March. I love reading everyone's holiday TRs & watching videos on YouTube! It makes me very excited for our trip! My son looooves watching the firework & parade videos.

I did see your TR & had planned on reading it this afternoon but just got online this evening for the first time today. I will probably stay up tonight & read it! I love reading the reports from the holidays...its so neat to see all the decorations & the various shows/parades/fireworks/etc.

I am definitely planning to take the monorail to the GF, Poly, and Contemporary to see the decorations. I also wanted to plan a day to check out the Boardwalk, Beach Club & Yacht Club. I am still torn between GF and BC for our photo session! There are things about both of them that I really want to be in our photos! The GF is just so beautiful at Christmastime (from the photos I've seen) and I love the lobby of the resort & also the outside where the beach area is. The BC is also gorgeous & I love the beach-theme & colors of the resort. We are wearing light blue shirts, so I think the blue/white theme would look perfect! I have also seen many photos inside & outside during the holiday season & think its just what we're looking for! Such a tough decision! At least I have until 30 days prior to our trip to make that decision!

I am also sooo torn with Character Dining. Originally I had planned Tusker House. I've heard good things about it, we love the buffet idea, and we don't have any meals planned for AK. I have family going to Disney this summer & they are booking Tusker House, so I will have to look at their pics & get a review from them as well. A few people have also mentioned Cape May to me so now its on my list as well. I don't know what to do. I think we will do Crystal Palace for sure...my son loves Pooh and I'd love to see Main Street without tons of people! I think that would be an even better experience during the holiday season! I need to do more research & make up my mind!!! lol

My son is going through "the terrible twos" right now so I have an entire set of new worries now! I'm not sure he will even sit through a meal if he isn't in the mood to! He will have days where he has excellent behavior & the next it is terrible. We have almost 8 months to work on it though & I can see some minor improvement. I was at the point where I was considering just doing CS the entire trip...but I don't want to miss out on Character Dining! I've already been to Disney many times & have NEVER gone to a Character Meal. I feel like I'm missing out & don't want my son to miss out too!

Thank you for all the advice...I will be going to your TR now to start reading!

 

[SoonerGirl]

Wow...$31 airfare...that would make my day...or maybe my entire year!!!

I will have to look into Spirit. I've never heard of them...do they fly out of Pittsburgh International, do you know? I will look on their website tonight. I think the cheapest I've heard of so far for PIT is Southwest, but I am worried about them spliting us up & I would completely freak out if I wasn't seated with my son! I know of a husband/wife who were on their honeymoon & a mother/daughter who got split up on their flights...both flying Southwest. So now it worries me!

A couple of things, I'm pretty sure that Spirit was the one I heard this about, they said on the news the other day that they were going to start charging up to $45 a bag for carryons!! Something to look into before you book

Also, with Southwest, you can preboard if you have a child under the age of 4, you'd be getting onto a practically empty plane so there is no way you'd be separated.

My son is going through "the terrible twos" right now so I have an entire set of new worries now! I'm not sure he will even sit through a meal if he isn't in the mood to! He will have days where he has excellent behavior & the next it is terrible.

Oh my, I remember the 'terrible twos' except with both of my kids it was 'terrible threes' - as much as I miss my little guys, I'm glad that part of their childhood is behind me!

 

[Megablocks]

I could have sworn I replied! I guess not! My internet has been acting insane.

I am not looking forward to the Fantasyland changes at ALL -- I'm terrified of clowns so the idea of any kind of circus theme freaks me out. They have no right to be in my happy place!

Sorry about all the frustrations -- I'd be going insane over the hassle of knowing or not knowing about someone getting the time off, too.

That's awesome that you are getting a Disney Dooney bag! I'm not really a bag girl -- I hate carrying them for some reason. But, DBF was asking me what I wanted for our anniversary/my birthday (the two are barely a week apart) and I mentioned wanting a new wristlet since my Vera wristlet doesn't really "clasp" anymore -- does that make sense? The clasp basically lost its snap and it tends to open on its own now. So, I'm getting the black wonder wristlet! I'm so excited to get it and start using it!

I can't wait to see what you make for your trip!

 

[photographymom517]

A couple of things, I'm pretty sure that Spirit was the one I heard this about, they said on the news the other day that they were going to start charging up to $45 a bag for carryons!! Something to look into before you book

Also, with Southwest, you can preboard if you have a child under the age of 4, you'd be getting onto a practically empty plane so there is no way you'd be separated.

Oh my, I remember the 'terrible twos' except with both of my kids it was 'terrible threes' - as much as I miss my little guys, I'm glad that part of their childhood is behind me!

Thanks for the info on Spirit! I'm still not even sure if Spirit flies out of PIT. I ended up reading your entire TR last night so I didn't bother checking out the flight info yet!!! I guess I will look into it today.

I'm sure I'm breaking about 25 "DIS rules" by doing this but I will be responding to your TR on my PTR...is that allowed?!? I don't know, but I wanted to make sure you got my feedback & since I'm sooo incredibly late reading your TR, I figured I would just post here. Hope that is ok!

I really appreciate you telling me about preboarding with children under age 4. I'm not sure why the girl I know didn't do that...her daughter was around 3 at the time, so she could have preboarded. She's always running late, so I'm sure she just didn't hear the call to preboard!

It would definitely be awesome to preboard & not have to worry about a million people pushing you or waiting while everyone shoves their carry-on bags into the overhead compartments...thats hard waiting with a baby! And on top of that, usually my DH is yelling at me to hurry up because the person behind him is yelling at him to hurry up. Preboarding sounds wonderful! Even though I don't know my travel dates, at least I can look forward to preboarding now!!! (and free luggage through Southwest!!!)

I am ready to put "the terrible two" stage behind us. I hate to say that because I don't want my little baby to grow up! I'm just not ready for it yet. I've been babysitting a newborn for a friend & now my "little guy" looks soooo big compared to the baby! Its bittersweet, it really is! I am just hoping he semi-outgrows this stage so that he will enjoy our vacation & not be stressed. I feel sooo bad when he gets frustrated. I'm at SAHM so I'm literally with him 24/7...we have a fairly organized routine which I think helps his frustrations at least a little bit. He was 10 months old on our last trip & he was such an angel. I'm hoping for the best this year!

I could have sworn I replied! I guess not! My internet has been acting insane.

I am not looking forward to the Fantasyland changes at ALL -- I'm terrified of clowns so the idea of any kind of circus theme freaks me out. They have no right to be in my happy place!

Sorry about all the frustrations -- I'd be going insane over the hassle of knowing or not knowing about someone getting the time off, too.

That's awesome that you are getting a Disney Dooney bag! I'm not really a bag girl -- I hate carrying them for some reason. But, DBF was asking me what I wanted for our anniversary/my birthday (the two are barely a week apart) and I mentioned wanting a new wristlet since my Vera wristlet doesn't really "clasp" anymore -- does that make sense? The clasp basically lost its snap and it tends to open on its own now. So, I'm getting the black wonder wristlet! I'm so excited to get it and start using it!

I can't wait to see what you make for your trip!

Circus...clowns...circus...clowns...ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?!?!?!?

I apologize for the drama...but I am in NO WAY a fan of the circus and/or clowns. Clowns completely freak me out...and I'm sure my son will be just as terrified! My mom used to have a clown at all my parties & I didn't like them at all. I have no idea why she decided to torture my brother and I like that!

I'm honestly traumatized that they are getting rid of Mickey & Minnie's Country Houses. I've tried to get over this but I can't help but be sad about it! I know people probably think I'm crazy & insane, but I loved that part of MK! It was so relaxing to take some time out of the rides/shows and spend some time out of the hot sun & just walk around their houses. I am very detail-oriented so I loved all the little additions in their houses! They will be missed by me! I know this must sound crazy, but I am hoping & praying they will keep them up until January 2011. I also had hoped to take my son to play on Pooh's playful spot, but I heard they got rid of it yesterday. I have all boys in my family, so I doubt we'll utilize the new Fantasyland very much. From what I've heard, it includes a few ride expansions & the new areas for 3 princesses. I need to look over the plans again to see what all they are including.

Oh, I found some videos on YouTube of Mickey & Minnie's houses & am trying to figure out how to save them! lol

I completely understand what you are saying with your wristlet! That happened to me once too! It was actually a purse I got on vacation one year at the beach. I was very disappointed...it just stopped clasping one day & everything fell out all over the floor in the grocery store!!! Of course it was a weekend & the check-out lines were extremely busy! The lady behind me didn't like it that she had to wait an extra 3 minutes for me to pick up the entire contents of my wristlet!

Thats great that you will be getting the Dooney wristlet! I'm excited because I heard new designs might be coming out sometime soon. I never used to be a purse person, but somehow it just developed! I think it was around the time I purchased my very first Dooney! I actually carried that purse for 2 years straight...probably the longest I've ever carried the same purse! I was very proud of myself! I used to have a few Dooney's & a Coach but sold them once the economy got bad. I think my husband feels bad that I did that & also that our trip is so "up in the air" right now. Whatever the reason, I convinced him I need a Dooney!

I will try to get over to your TR this evening!!!

 

[photographymom517]

SoonerGirlResponses to your TR

As I said, I'm sure I'm breaking some type of rules by responding to your TR on my PTR...but I had a bunch of questions & figured that if I post on here, you as well as others are able to answer my questions! (I didn't even know there were any rules until last night when I was reading on DIS...oops)

I took notes since I read the entire TR last night. It only took me about 2 1/2 hours...I was very proud of myself!

First I will make my comments...then my questions will follow!

Love your dog!!! I am a dog-person & next time we get a new pet, we will be going to a shelter to pick one out! I have taken in stray cats & love helping animals in need!

Glad you mentioned Garden Grocer -- I was considering this but then we decided to get a rental car so I figured we could just take a trip to Walmart or Super Target. But now we have decided it would be less stressful to just let the buses/boats drive us around, so back to Garden Grocer!!! Sounds like you had a very good & easy experience with them! Glad to hear!

Don't feel bad about not remembering "A" or "B" side of the airport. I actually have nightmares about this the night before we fly to Orlando! I'm serious. My husband knows that I am the planner...so therefore, I am supposed to know everything...so I get stressed out if I forget something! lol

LOVE the pics from POFQ!!! I have never been there but it looks like a very pretty resort inside & out!

I love not having to wait for buses! Isn't it great?!? We got lucky last trip & in 3 days didn't wait once for a bus. The one day, I asked the driver to wait just a minute because I wanted to get a photo of my son on the bench (at the bus stop)! We never had enough time to sit down on them!

I absolutely loved ALL of your photos! I can't wait to take pics of the Christmas decor. I really loved your family photo by the poinsetta trees in Epcot!

I'm glad you mentioned Tutto Italia as well. My parents want to eat there & I heard reviews that it tastes just like frozen dinners. They were disappointed when I told them they would be spending so much $$$ for frozen tv dinners! They will be happy to hear a positive review (my dad is Italian).

Great gift boxes for the boys!!! I loved those! I am still debating over whether to order from Disney Florist or just pick up my own items at the parks & leave them in the room. My son will only be 2 1/2 at the time of our trip, so he won't notice what I pick up at the stores!

Jalapeno cheese pretzel...YUM...it was making me very hungry! I passed those up last time (probably for ice cream!) but I'm planning to get one this trip. I've heard a million people on DIS say how yummy they are!

I loved all the photos of FoTLK and Nemo! We unfortunately won't be doing either because my son will not sit through anything longer than 4 seconds! He loves Nemo however, so I got him a copy of Nemo the Musical from ebay. He loooooves watching it! It was really a great show & I'm sure its better in person! I would love to go to Lion King as well...hopefully they will keep it there long enough for me to see it! Your pictures of the show were great!

It seems like everyone's favorite Christmas tree is the one at AK. Those animal ornaments are wonderful! I can't wait to see it in person! We stayed at AKL last year & looking at your pics of the tree made me wish we were staying there again! I will definitely be planning a trip to visit AKL & Kidani to see the decor!

QUESTIONS

What do you think of Rainforest Cafe? My parents went last year at DTD and were not fans. I've heard varying reviews so I don't know what to think.

How should I plan to dress in December? I know last year there were record low temps so it might be different this year. But I noticed in almost all your photos, your boys had long sleeve shirts on and you & your husband were wearing jackets. I have read other TR's from last Christmas & noticed the same thing! Oops -- I bought spaghetti strap shirts & tshirts to put designs on for the trip...guess I better look into getting some thermals to wear under the tshirts! What do you think? I always bring a jacket & a few long sleeve tops but I was planning on mostly tshirts & maybe one ls.

Where is the Maharajah Jungle Trek? In Asia? Somehow we managed to completely miss this AND the Kilamajaro Safaris last year!!! I know, we are crazy! We made the mistake of wondering around for hours, then going on Rafiki's Planet Watch. By the time we made it back to the safari, the FastPass time was 4-5pm and we were leaving the park before that so we didn't get the Fast Passes. (Wait time was over 90 minutes so we weren't waiting!)

Rope drop...if I only go to one, which one should it be???

I noticed you had a ton of PhotoPass pics...about how many did you get total? Do you wait in line for the photogs or do you just happen to be in the right place at the right time? Last trip, we only got 36 (in 3 days) and I didn't go looking for them at all. I don't want to drive my husband crazy looking for the Photopass Photographers all day! lol I just wasn't sure if I would have to track them down or if I'd see a ton of them around the holidays.

What time do you get the bus for Crystal Palace if you have 8am ressies? What time do the buses start running? I know I have it written in my notes somewhere, but now that I have 2 tablets and a binder, its getting confusing trying to find little details! I need to take a day & organize my notes! (reading on DIS is just more fun!!!)

I don't know if its ok to ask this or not, but how much do you suggest tipping Mousekeeping? I was thinking $5-10...anyone have an opinion?

I have never been to Hollywood Studios...not since it was MGM anyway...and the last time I was there, it rained so we spent most of the day indoors or shopping! And although I was 16 at the time, I have no memory of it at all. I know there's a long wait at Toy Story Mania...anything else? What do you suggest seeing/not seeing? Are there long lines for The Great Movie Ride and One Man's Dream? What about characters to see/long lines?

Sorry that was so much! I took notes last night so I wouldn't forget anything but I still feel like I am!

Your trip report was great!!! I really enjoyed reading it & now I am really, really looking forward to Christmas at Disney! I completely give you credit for going when you did! I would never be brave enough to go on Christmas Day although I think it would be an amazing experience!!!

 

[SoonerGirl]

SoonerGirlResponses to your TR

As I said, I'm sure I'm breaking some type of rules by responding to your TR on my PTR...but I had a bunch of questions & figured that if I post on here, you as well as others are able to answer my questions! (I didn't even know there were any rules until last night when I was reading on DIS...oops)

I took notes since I read the entire TR last night. It only took me about 2 1/2 hours...I was very proud of myself!

That's alot of reading in one night! Don't worry about posting your comments here, I'm pretty sure that my TR is closed now anyway so you couldn't post them there!

First I will make my comments...then my questions will follow!

Love your dog!!! I am a dog-person & next time we get a new pet, we will be going to a shelter to pick one out! I have taken in stray cats & love helping animals in need!

Glad you mentioned Garden Grocer -- I was considering this but then we decided to get a rental car so I figured we could just take a trip to Walmart or Super Target. But now we have decided it would be less stressful to just let the buses/boats drive us around, so back to Garden Grocer!!! Sounds like you had a very good & easy experience with them! Glad to hear!

They were VERY easy to work with and everything was delivered as ordered!

Don't feel bad about not remembering "A" or "B" side of the airport. I actually have nightmares about this the night before we fly to Orlando! I'm serious. My husband knows that I am the planner...so therefore, I am supposed to know everything...so I get stressed out if I forget something! lol

LOVE the pics from POFQ!!! I have never been there but it looks like a very pretty resort inside & out!

I love not having to wait for buses! Isn't it great?!? We got lucky last trip & in 3 days didn't wait once for a bus. The one day, I asked the driver to wait just a minute because I wanted to get a photo of my son on the bench (at the bus stop)! We never had enough time to sit down on them!

I absolutely loved ALL of your photos! I can't wait to take pics of the Christmas decor. I really loved your family photo by the poinsetta trees in Epcot!

I'm glad you mentioned Tutto Italia as well. My parents want to eat there & I heard reviews that it tastes just like frozen dinners. They were disappointed when I told them they would be spending so much $$$ for frozen tv dinners! They will be happy to hear a positive review (my dad is Italian).

Gosh, if their food tastes like frozen dinners to some, then I want to know what kind of TV dinners they are buying! That was the 2nd time I have eaten at Tutto and both times everyone in my party liked their food. I'm going back in May too

Great gift boxes for the boys!!! I loved those! I am still debating over whether to order from Disney Florist or just pick up my own items at the parks & leave them in the room. My son will only be 2 1/2 at the time of our trip, so he won't notice what I pick up at the stores!

I actually used Memories by Betsy for the gift boxes. She will customize the box to included just about anything you want, and she's cheaper than the Disney Florist......

Jalapeno cheese pretzel...YUM...it was making me very hungry! I passed those up last time (probably for ice cream!) but I'm planning to get one this trip. I've heard a million people on DIS say how yummy they are!

I loved all the photos of FoTLK and Nemo! We unfortunately won't be doing either because my son will not sit through anything longer than 4 seconds! He loves Nemo however, so I got him a copy of Nemo the Musical from ebay. He loooooves watching it! It was really a great show & I'm sure its better in person! I would love to go to Lion King as well...hopefully they will keep it there long enough for me to see it! Your pictures of the show were great!

It seems like everyone's favorite Christmas tree is the one at AK. Those animal ornaments are wonderful! I can't wait to see it in person! We stayed at AKL last year & looking at your pics of the tree made me wish we were staying there again! I will definitely be planning a trip to visit AKL & Kidani to see the decor!

QUESTIONS

What do you think of Rainforest Cafe? My parents went last year at DTD and were not fans. I've heard varying reviews so I don't know what to think.

Honestly, the food is really not very good, you are going for atmosphere. If it weren't for the boys I wouldn't go there at all. Thankfully they have about outgrown it, so I may not ever have to go back!

How should I plan to dress in December? I know last year there were record low temps so it might be different this year. But I noticed in almost all your photos, your boys had long sleeve shirts on and you & your husband were wearing jackets. I have read other TR's from last Christmas & noticed the same thing! Oops -- I bought spaghetti strap shirts & tshirts to put designs on for the trip...guess I better look into getting some thermals to wear under the tshirts! What do you think? I always bring a jacket & a few long sleeve tops but I was planning on mostly tshirts & maybe one ls.

Packing for December is not easy, our outfits ranged from shorts and t-shirts to long underware and gloves! We only had two days that were nice enough for me to feel like I didn't need a jacket of some sort. Most days were highs in the upper 50's low 60's. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day we had 70's, those were the two days we were able to use the pool. Lows were pretty cool, probably in the low 40's. You'll probably want more winter type wear than summer.

Where is the Maharajah Jungle Trek? In Asia? Somehow we managed to completely miss this AND the Kilamajaro Safaris last year!!! I know, we are crazy! We made the mistake of wondering around for hours, then going on Rafiki's Planet Watch. By the time we made it back to the safari, the FastPass time was 4-5pm and we were leaving the park before that so we didn't get the Fast Passes. (Wait time was over 90 minutes so we weren't waiting!)

Yep, it's in Asia, there is also another trail in Africa, both are worth doing.

Rope drop...if I only go to one, which one should it be???

Oh gosh, that's a tough one! I think if I were only going to make one I'd try and do Magic Kingdom, their opening show is just so cute!

I noticed you had a ton of PhotoPass pics...about how many did you get total? Do you wait in line for the photogs or do you just happen to be in the right place at the right time? Last trip, we only got 36 (in 3 days) and I didn't go looking for them at all. I don't want to drive my husband crazy looking for the Photopass Photographers all day! lol I just wasn't sure if I would have to track them down or if I'd see a ton of them around the holidays.

Once I edited my photos and added borders to most of them I ended up with 185 pictures on the CD. I do feel like it's overpriced now, and the quality of the photos is not as good as it used to be, imo. The only time we had to wait in a line for a PP pic was at the Osborne Lights, the rest of the time the photographer was either just standing there, or we had to wait on one family to finish. They are everywhere, you shouldn't have any trouble finding them. Remember too, that they will also take a picture for you with your camera.

What time do you get the bus for Crystal Palace if you have 8am ressies? What time do the buses start running? I know I have it written in my notes somewhere, but now that I have 2 tablets and a binder, its getting confusing trying to find little details! I need to take a day & organize my notes! (reading on DIS is just more fun!!!)

If I remember right the buses started running around 7am. I don't remember exactly what time we got to the bus stop, but it was probably pretty close to 7, we got to the park WAY early and had tons of time to kill before we were allowed to enter the park. Of course, we didn't have to wait for the bus either, there was one at the stop when we arrived, if we did have to wait we wouldn't have had so much extra time.

I don't know if its ok to ask this or not, but how much do you suggest tipping Mousekeeping? I was thinking $5-10...anyone have an opinion?

We leave $1 per person in the room per day, so for us $4 a day. If you plan to tip, I'd do it daily because your mousekeeper could change during the week. But, also understand that tipping mousekeeping is totally optional, don't feel like you HAVE to do it.

I have never been to Hollywood Studios...not since it was MGM anyway...and the last time I was there, it rained so we spent most of the day indoors or shopping! And although I was 16 at the time, I have no memory of it at all. I know there's a long wait at Toy Story Mania...anything else? What do you suggest seeing/not seeing? Are there long lines for The Great Movie Ride and One Man's Dream? What about characters to see/long lines?

Long lines at DHS are usually reserved for Toy Story, Rock 'n Rollercoaster and Tower of Terror. When it isn't peak season you aren't likely to have long lines for The Great Movie Ride or One Man's Dream. Sometimes the character lines inside the Animation Building can be long, but I've been other times when they are very minimal. Does your son watch Playhouse Disney? They have a very cute show for the little ones, they can get up and move around and dance, aren't confined to a seat, I bet that would be fun for your DS!

Sorry that was so much! I took notes last night so I wouldn't forget anything but I still feel like I am!

Your trip report was great!!! I really enjoyed reading it & now I am really, really looking forward to Christmas at Disney! I completely give you credit for going when you did! I would never be brave enough to go on Christmas Day although I think it would be an amazing experience!!!

Thanks so much for reading and for all the comments! My answers are in red above!

 

[ForTheLoveOfDCL]

First let me say when you get your chance to Cruise go for it and with DIsney! We love it. We are so excited to go again! I would go every year if I could make it work but something always comes up that needs paid for...LOL

Secondly--as for Spirit, don't write them off! I live in Sandusky and travel to Detroit to fly Spirit! We either have to drive to Cleveland(an hour& no Spirit air)) or Detroit(1 1/2 hrs). No biggie! Also you CAN still take carry-ons for free but they have to fit the dimensions of under the seat. Also a personal item, laptop,purse, diaper bag, etc. I belong to their $9 fare club so my carry on is $20 but why would I do that when I can have a large checked piece for $15. This new pay for carry on I am sure will eventually go to other airlines due to people over abusing the carry on. People are to cheap to pay for checked and come on with everything. I am only going for 5 days in December due to work so we may take on a backpack which can fit under the seat and not check luggage but if it's remotely hard to fit it, I will check a large piece. I am dooing a test run....lol Packing what I would take and if the dimensions are small enough for the under the seat then I will do it for each one of us. I don't need to take much....jean shorts and 5 shirts and capris and a sweatshirt, well undies and bathingsuit but that's small.

Ok what is the photo shoot session? How much do you pay for the session? I tried finding info but unsure I am looking at the right things. Thanks for any info!

 

[photographymom517]

First let me say when you get your chance to Cruise go for it and with DIsney! We love it. We are so excited to go again! I would go every year if I could make it work but something always comes up that needs paid for...LOL

Secondly--as for Spirit, don't write them off! I live in Sandusky and travel to Detroit to fly Spirit! We either have to drive to Cleveland(an hour& no Spirit air)) or Detroit(1 1/2 hrs). No biggie! Also you CAN still take carry-ons for free but they have to fit the dimensions of under the seat. Also a personal item, laptop,purse, diaper bag, etc. I belong to their $9 fare club so my carry on is $20 but why would I do that when I can have a large checked piece for $15. This new pay for carry on I am sure will eventually go to other airlines due to people over abusing the carry on. People are to cheap to pay for checked and come on with everything. I am only going for 5 days in December due to work so we may take on a backpack which can fit under the seat and not check luggage but if it's remotely hard to fit it, I will check a large piece. I am dooing a test run....lol Packing what I would take and if the dimensions are small enough for the under the seat then I will do it for each one of us. I don't need to take much....jean shorts and 5 shirts and capris and a sweatshirt, well undies and bathingsuit but that's small.

Ok what is the photo shoot session? How much do you pay for the session? I tried finding info but unsure I am looking at the right things. Thanks for any info!

I finally had enough time to look up the airline info. Thank you for telling me about Spirit, but they do not fly out of our airport. I think I will stick to finding the lowest fares between Southwest, AA, United, Delta, and Airtran. We'll see what happens. I guess I have to wait until June when the new fares are released for the end of the year.

Ok...about the Photopass Photo Session!!! There are threads on DIS dealing with this. I will try to find them for you & will put the links on my PTR for you. Another place you can find information is on Stitch Kingdom at the following link: http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disneysphotopass/#sessions

Basically you can either choose one of three "photo packages" for $49.95 or get the photo package AND a CD with all your pics on it for $99.95. (I heard they raised the price to $145 ) Regardless of whether or not they changed the price or not, I personally feel this is a good deal. I guess it just depends on what you're looking for. I am getting the CD and the 7 5x7 package. I use 5x7's the most to give to family & in my own home, so I thought this package was best for us. Once you get the CD, you can take it to your local Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, etc and get the pictures copied. (You aren't able to edit/enhance the photos on the CD...BUT they give you a Photopass Card or ID so that you can add them to your Photopass account & edit them from there...basically this is good if you are buying the regular park Photopass CD as well)

You choose from one of these resorts: Grand Floridian, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club, Polynesian, or Wilderness Lodge. There is a number on the website that you call 30 days prior to your trip to schedule your session. (You pay when you arrive for your photo session.) I have heard that the best times are usually either around sunset or midafternoon around 4pm or so. I guess this is because of the glare & the sun in your eyes.

IMO I think this is a good deal because I use either JC Penney, Sears, or the place inside the mall for our family portraits. I always feel rushed, I never like the pictures, and I always spend waaaay too much money even when I have a good coupon! Even when I do like the pictures, I don't get the CD because in addition to the $100 I just spent on portraits, I now have to pay an additional $125 for the stupid CD. I only did this for my son's newborn portraits because they all turned out wonderful & they were his FIRST pictures! I couldn't resist!

Anyway, because of everything I stated in the previous paragraph, I think that for $149 family portraits AT DISNEY are wonderful and completely worth it!!! I've heard reports of getting anywhere between 30-80 pictures. Some people have even gotten more. I've heard it depends on how well your group cooperates, if you arrive on time, which photographer you get, etc. The photosession lasts 30 minutes (10 to discuss the session, 20 to shoot pics). Again, comparing Disney to a regular studio -- regular studio you get around 15 pictures, at Disney you are getting a lot more for your money. Yes, they might not all turn out, but you have a better chance of getting ones you like because they are taking more.

I don't want to ramble too much, so if I didn't explain something correctly or if you have more questions, please contact me. As I said, that Stitch Kingdom website has all the information on it. Thats where I got my original info & then researched more from there (mostly on DIS). And as I said, I will try to find that Photo Session thread for you. It has a lot of good example pics on it & I have contacted many of the DIS members to get more info! I encourage you to do the same! And when in doubt, call Disney & ask questions. Their CMs are very informative! I hope my info has helped you!

 

[photographymom517]

I just found one of the DIS threads. I believe it has some example photos...and you'll see that I have commented many times on the last few pages! lol

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1703832

Hope it helps you!

 

[photographymom517]

My ticker just disappeared yet again...I'm thinking about just using one of the ones from DIS. I hope the ticker website didn't get another virus!

 

[photographymom517]

Thanks so much for reading and for all the comments! My answers are in red above!

Thank you for responding!!! I apologize...that was a lot of information/questions I posted!!!

Thank you for telling me about Memories by Betsy. I have a few friends down in Orlando that I was planning to contact to ask if they knew anyone other than Disney Florist who delivers baskets. I have seen cute ones in various TR's and knew they weren't from DF because they weren't on their website. I would much rather pick & choose items to get rather than choosing a pre-arranged basket. I am very excited to have this new tip!!! Thank you!!!

You have absolutely NO idea how HAPPY I am to hear about Tutto Italia!!! I want to jump for joy! My parents were looking forward to going there & were so incredibly disappointed from what I told them. I haven't talked to them about it yet, but they will be relieved to hear of a repeat customer going back yet again!!! Thank you for your review! I will have to go back to your TR to see what you ordered & suggest it to my parents!

I originally was choosing between Rainforest Cafe and T-Rex but since the beginning of my planning, I have deleted both from my trip agenda! I promised my nephew a dinosaur so I will be going into "Build A Dino" but thats it! It might be hard once we get there because my son has a new love for dinosaurs...and my husband has a soft spot for anything my son wants to do! (They have the Dinosaurs from the new movie in the Happy Meals at McDonald's in our area right now & he is obsessed with them & he's not even 2 yet!!!) I personally want to eat at Fulton's or Planet Hollywood. I ate at Planet Hollywood in NYC and loved it! I think I enjoyed the experience more than the food though. I guess we will just wait and decide on our DTD days. I know we are eating at EoS for lunch one day because I HAVE to have the Hawaiian BBQ sandwich!

Thank you for the info on the weather. My friend who lives in FL told me to call her a week before our trip & she would give me a weather report! Of course, my husband and I have Orlando, FL saved as "Home" on our AOL Homepage so we see the weather everyday anyway

I guess I will be adding "Hoodie" to my list of things to custom-make for my son and I. I had a feeling I would be needing those! I did find a very cute black cardigan to wear over my tank tops when we go to meals. I guess I will be wearing it more often than just at meals! Its very easy for my son because I always buy him thermals to wear under his tshirts...this constantly changing PA weather drives me crazy! For instance, two days ago, it was 80 degrees & we almost turned the AC on...today there was HAIL and SNOW outside and it was 37 degrees. I am usually prepared for the unpredictable weather...but its a lot easier when you are home & have access to ALL of your clothes! lol So I appreciate you giving me the temp. info for December in FL! Will be very helpful when planning attire!

Thank you for all the info...it was very helpful! I also got a TON of info from your TR. I have 4 more pages of info on my tablet of things I wrote down under "Must See" at the parks after reading your report! Thank you again!

 

[ForTheLoveOfDCL]

Photographymom-------I am so with ya on the weather. I think we are only like 3 hrs apart...LOL U live in Pitt right? Well I have to say we have been down many times in Dec and it seems as for swimming its a hit or miss but when we come from the North and it's 60 , shoot capri's and t-shirt...LOL Ya know we have thicker skin up here compared to the floridians who in 60 would be wearing their parka....

I figure , well I mean I am only packing for 5 days, so I will take a couple denim capri's and a pair of denim shorts with 5 shirts, a windbreaker(thicker one) so that it acts as raincoat and for warmth. I am just taking flip flops and they will wear their crocs on the airplane. My girls live in flip flps once the snow is gone and it's above freezing so you don't get frost bite.... Since I don't need much I can pack in a "real" carry on that fits under the seat and not have to check anything as to avoid waiting for luggage and just hope on the Magical Express and start my Magical vacation!

So I got an email from Passporter and it showed dates for MNSSHP....has anyone seen MVMCP dates?? I am dieing to know if I can go on my bday. Photographymom....approx when are u going?

 

[photographymom517]

Photographymom-------I am so with ya on the weather. I think we are only like 3 hrs apart...LOL U live in Pitt right? Well I have to say we have been down many times in Dec and it seems as for swimming its a hit or miss but when we come from the North and it's 60 , shoot capri's and t-shirt...LOL Ya know we have thicker skin up here compared to the floridians who in 60 would be wearing their parka....

I figure , well I mean I am only packing for 5 days, so I will take a couple denim capri's and a pair of denim shorts with 5 shirts, a windbreaker(thicker one) so that it acts as raincoat and for warmth. I am just taking flip flops and they will wear their crocs on the airplane. My girls live in flip flps once the snow is gone and it's above freezing so you don't get frost bite.... Since I don't need much I can pack in a "real" carry on that fits under the seat and not have to check anything as to avoid waiting for luggage and just hope on the Magical Express and start my Magical vacation!

So I got an email from Passporter and it showed dates for MNSSHP....has anyone seen MVMCP dates?? I am dieing to know if I can go on my bday. Photographymom....approx when are u going?

I'm about an hour Northwest of Pittsburgh...so depending on where you are, we could be a little closer or a little farther than 3 hours away! lol

Yes, this weather is driving me insane! I, too, am a flipflop girl! I constantly wear them...I hate those days when I have to actually wear socks & regular shoes! I usually wear flipflops waaay into October & start wearing them again the second the snow melts. Its weird too because I hate my feet, but I love wearing flipflops, mostly just for comfort!

Its funny that we think alike with shoes! I will only be packing flipflops & crocs for us as well. My husband brings regular sneakers, but not me! He thinks I'm crazy & doesn't understand how I can wear flipflops through the parks all day long, but so far I've never had a problem with my feet hurting. I am eyeing a pair of flipflops at Bath & Body Works but I don't know if I can pay over $50 for a pair of flipflops! I also found a pair of Sketchers Flipflops (well they are wedge flipflops) at Sears, but again, they are pricey...so I will probably just go with what I have now unless someone decides to buy them for my birthday! lol

I have been looking for a pair of crocs for my son. Its hard to find them in his size for boys. Do you know where I could get a pair online or at a store? For a toddler boy? I have seen some very cute girl ones, but we have all boys in our family so I've never purchased a pair other than for myself! I almost bought my son a pair at Disney last year, but I'm so glad I didn't...they were $29.99 for an infant pair of like size 3!!!

That is awesome that you only need enough items to pack in your carry-on bag. I wish I wasn't such a nut about packing our suitcases!!! I know I pack too much, but I figure that I'd rather have it & not need it than to not have it & need it. Last trip, I think I took 2 outfits per day for myself & my son. It was a little different though because he was still on baby food & just starting to eat table foods...so he was very messy at meal-times! I did end up using almost all of our clothes, but I still could have packed about 3-4 less outfits for each of us. This trip will be much different because I have an idea of what he will need & we won't need as much baby gear! I loooove my carry-on bag because it fits nicely underneath my plane seat. I usually take alot of my son's clothes in my carry-on, some books for him, and then my camera, camcorder, cell, ID cards, trip paperwork, etc. Unfortunately for me, it doesn't hold much more than that! I would love to just walk on the plane & not have to worry about checking bags!

You are right...I think that the weather in FL feels a lot different to people up North! We can withstand much colder temps than people from the South...although I am extremely jealous of their temps & would trade them in a second! Wish I lived down there...maybe just a dream for now, but hopefully a reality in the future! Most likely, I will probably take a few thermal shirts in case its cold for my son to wear underneath. If he gets colder than that, I'll convince my husband to buy him a Disney jacket! lol No, seriously I will pack him a jacket as well. We will probably all take 2 hoodies each, although I'm not thrilled that they will take up so much room in our suitcases! I'm really, really hoping to get a decent flight through Southwest so my bags can fly free...last trip was just too much! We spent probably $125-150 just for luggage! Since my son didn't buy a seat (he was a lap child) his luggage counted as my SECOND bag! I wasn't happy about that, but we needed the extra stuff so I had no other choice.

I apologize, that was a lot of rambling about luggage!!! lol I think thats the part I really stress the most over. I go through about 5-10 "packing lists" before each trip just trying to decide what we need, what we don't need, what we need to buy, etc. It drives me crazy...but its my own fault because I'm so picky/organized/etc.

I have not seen dates for MVMCP...but if you check the park hours on the days the MK closes at 7pm, those will be the dates of the party (most likely). I think the "official" park hours for December come out June 1st. Honestly, right now, I am just going off the park hours from last year to plan our trip for this year. They seem to be fairly consistent year to year. Hopefully the hours will be the same or else I will have to re-plan everything! lol As far as our dates for our trip, right now we are planning to go November29th through December 8th...however I am now looking into December 8th through the 17th because if my husband is working at the time, we will arrive home on a Friday so he will still have 2 days before going back to work on Monday. I also think its cheaper to fly out midweek. I don't know what I was thinking with leaving on a Monday! Unfortunately for me, we won't know my husband's work schedule until either June or October...maybe not until a couple weeks before our trip. So I might have to change everything at the last minute. I was completely freaking out about it on my PTR...I think on around page 4??? If you read that, you will understand my frustrations! lol

Happy Trip Planning!!! I will try to post more updates soon so please keep following along! Have a good weekend!

 

[photographymom517]

Well, this isn't exactly a trip update...BUT I just got an email from the Disney Store & it showed a new set of Vinylmations!!! I don't even have one from each of the other sets yet, but I am excited because these are inspired by the Theme Parks...and there is a Goofy one!!! I love Goofy & Eeyore so anything with either character is exciting to me!!!

Here is the link in case you haven't seen them yet:
http://www.disneystore.com/vinylmat...EMC-eml&att=20100410_DSI_Parks&RRID=14128513#

I actually love a few different ones from this series, so I'm excited they are out. I must have been a little behind also because I just noticed the Muppet Vinylmations as well! I have to get Miss Piggy!

I will be babysitting most of the day, but hopefully later tonight I will be able to post something at least semi-exciting about our trip!

 

[ForTheLoveOfDCL]

I will say that I found getting air on a tuesday is good cause sales come out then. I am not packing sweatshirts, we are wearing them onboard the plane. I figure that it will be cold here and chilly for the girls on the airplane so we will just wear them on and save luggage space...LOL

As for the croc thing, did u try the croc outlet online? I found deals there. We have a croc store in our mall and I just got the girls the ones with no holes and no lining. I got them for $8.....If I go to the mall I will see if they have any clearance ones left unless u definately want the ones with the holes in them? Just left me know and I can check there.

Well off to do laundry, fun fun!

Oh & BTW I am just as anal about planning as u....we sound alike with our lists, and organizing...This is how bad I am..we are cruising Oct 2011 on the Dream for 7 nts and I have 2 totes of things in my closet for the cruise. I buy a whole new wardrobe for the kids and us...I shop ALOT of clearance. Got my formal for $10 last yr. I am a BIG clearance shopper....ok now to the cleaning..LOL TTFN

 

[photographymom517]

I will say that I found getting air on a tuesday is good cause sales come out then. I am not packing sweatshirts, we are wearing them onboard the plane. I figure that it will be cold here and chilly for the girls on the airplane so we will just wear them on and save luggage space...LOL

As for the croc thing, did u try the croc outlet online? I found deals there. We have a croc store in our mall and I just got the girls the ones with no holes and no lining. I got them for $8.....If I go to the mall I will see if they have any clearance ones left unless u definately want the ones with the holes in them? Just left me know and I can check there.

Well off to do laundry, fun fun!

Oh & BTW I am just as anal about planning as u....we sound alike with our lists, and organizing...This is how bad I am..we are cruising Oct 2011 on the Dream for 7 nts and I have 2 totes of things in my closet for the cruise. I buy a whole new wardrobe for the kids and us...I shop ALOT of clearance. Got my formal for $10 last yr. I am a BIG clearance shopper....ok now to the cleaning..LOL TTFN

Good idea wearing the sweatshirts on the plane! Last trip I was freeeezing!!! lol I wore a hoodie on my son last trip because I was worried about him being cold but didn't bring one for myself. If we would wear them on the plane, that would solve both problems...we wouldn't be cold & we wouldn't waste space in the suitcases!

Thanks for telling me about the crocs outlet. I went to their website & also found a few other sites that sell shoes. I found some deals so I will keep that in mind! I want to check at the flea market first. I just remembered thats where I purchased a pair for myself. They aren't "real" crocs, but they look identical & only cost $5. lol I am big on deals also! I just hate to spend too much on them when my sons feet grow like weeds! lol Oh, and I'd probably definitely want the ones with the holes in them just because my sons feet sweat alot in the humid weather. But thank you very much for offering to look at the mall for me! That was nice of you. Unfortunately we don't have much around where I live...we have to drive about 30 minutes to get to the closest mall & it is pretty much deserted! Everything there has gone out of business in the last 4 or 5 years...its actually pretty sad. The biggest mall (that actually has nice stores!) is over an hour away! Yes, I live in the middle of nowhere!

That is funny that you have 2 totes already for your cruise in 2011...we definitely think alike!!! I have bins in my closet & I started filling one up with the stuff I've bought for our trip! lol I also have a small tote bag that I got at Old Navy for $2 thats full of my "trip planning" materials!!!