** Official ** March 2011!!!

[livibug]

March 25 - April 1 - POP

 

[Peepster]

We'll be there with the "rental" family from March 18 to March 27th. Split stay at VWL/BLT! Oh, hurry, March, please hurry!...

Trip 36 for us...bringing great nephew back after 26 years with his even greater wife and 3 small people, 11, 5 and (almost) 2. Hope they can keep up with us.

Aunt Peep & Aunt Mary

 

[pArKsFaN]

Will be at ASMo Feb 27-Mar 3 with my best friend - looking forward to fun and (hopefully) sun!

 

[janiejake]

Hi all,
Getting excited for our 3/16-3/26 POR stay. This is our 7th & longest trip yet, first time at POR, & unfortunately my first time using a scooter thanks to foot surgery last week & chronic plantar fasciatis in my other foot. Any pointers or tips about ECVs appreciated!
Any advice welcomed & hope we all have magic-filled March trips!

Had to use an ECV during our March 09 trip. It was my first time on one, and although I was darn expert by the end of our trip, I do wish I'd followed another poster's advice, and gone to Walmart, Sam's, Target, grocery store, (anywhere that has courtesy ECVs) and PRACTICED. (But, I thought I could get by without one, but my bones told me differently after a few hours of pounding the concrete walks at EPCOT...) If you go during down times at the store, you can practice manuevering fancy angles, in case you get into a tight spot. You also have to watch out for the fools that all of a sudden step out into your path. We only rented in the parks, so I did not have to contend with getting one onto a bus. IF you are renting 24/7, you'll want to be sure and practice for the bus. If you think you'll need a cane for additional support/stability(and to keep people away from your feet) when you are off the ECV, consider one of the folding ones that can just fold up in your ECV basket.(I dressed my cane up with foo foo bright ribbons. I could have noticed it in a heartbeat if someone tried to help themself to it, lol.) Best of luck, and enjoy the ECVs! If you have a night time brace for the foot with pf, don't forget to pack it!

 

[Sweetpea2011]

Can anyone help with packing tips?? We'll be there March 21-29. We're trying to fly only carry on, so packing light and smart is what we're planning. Any suggestions re: must haves for weather, activities, etc? We do have laundry at our hotel, though I'd like to keep it to one load midway through the week for us. I'm thinking we wear jeans, hoodies on the plane there, and then pack 1-2 pairs of capris, 2-3 t-shirts, 1 tank top, 1 long-sleeve shirt, comfortable shoes, nightwear and bathing suits. Everything coordinating.

Any suggestions? Are we crazy?? Just don't want to pay an extra $60 per suitcase. There are 4 of us, DH and I and our twin daughters, 10 years old. We'll each have our own carry-on bag.

Help!!?

 

[mommy2mrb]

Can anyone help with packing tips?? We'll be there March 21-29. We're trying to fly only carry on, so packing light and smart is what we're planning. Any suggestions re: must haves for weather, activities, etc? We do have laundry at our hotel, though I'd like to keep it to one load midway through the week for us. I'm thinking we wear jeans, hoodies on the plane there, and then pack 1-2 pairs of capris, 2-3 t-shirts, 1 tank top, 1 long-sleeve shirt, comfortable shoes, nightwear and bathing suits. Everything coordinating.

Any suggestions? Are we crazy?? Just don't want to pay an extra $60 per suitcase. There are 4 of us, DH and I and our twin daughters, 10 years old. We'll each have our own carry-on bag.

Help!!?

you could always mail down a box with bulky items, extra shoes, etc to the resort! would be a lot less $$$ than luggage $$$ with the airlines!

 

[Sweetpea2011]

you could always mail down a box with bulky items, extra shoes, etc to the resort! would be a lot less $$$ than luggage $$$ with the airlines!

We're just north of you, in the Okanagan Valley in BC, so the cost of mailing a package down would probably be more than the luggage fees! We're driving down to Spokane and flying from there. Do you think we could get away with minimal clothes, all coordinating?? I am not fussy about what I wear, just want to be weather-appropriate and comfortable. We would wear our warmest clothes on the trip there, so could have a couple of layers, a warm hoodie/jacket and jeans included in the mix.

Thanks for your suggestions...appreciate it.

 

[disneygal922]

Can anyone help with packing tips?? We'll be there March 21-29. We're trying to fly only carry on, so packing light and smart is what we're planning. Any suggestions re: must haves for weather, activities, etc? We do have laundry at our hotel, though I'd like to keep it to one load midway through the week for us. I'm thinking we wear jeans, hoodies on the plane there, and then pack 1-2 pairs of capris, 2-3 t-shirts, 1 tank top, 1 long-sleeve shirt, comfortable shoes, nightwear and bathing suits. Everything coordinating.

Any suggestions? Are we crazy?? Just don't want to pay an extra $60 per suitcase. There are 4 of us, DH and I and our twin daughters, 10 years old. We'll each have our own carry-on bag.

Help!!?

Well as the previous poster suggested, shipping a box down is a great way to save money. We did this last year, shipped my wedding dress and stuff for our reception to the Contemporary/BLT. It worked very smoothly.

My other suggestion is to use a 20" rolling suitcase and a duffel bag that will fit under the seat on the airplane. I did it this way on my solo trip in December to avoid having to check my suitcase. Just make sure the duffel is small enough to fit under the seat!

 

[mommy2mrb]

We're just north of you, in the Okanagan Valley in BC, so the cost of mailing a package down would probably be more than the luggage fees! We're driving down to Spokane and flying from there. Do you think we could get away with minimal clothes, all coordinating?? I am not fussy about what I wear, just want to be weather-appropriate and comfortable. We would wear our warmest clothes on the trip there, so could have a couple of layers, a warm hoodie/jacket and jeans included in the mix.

Thanks for your suggestions...appreciate it.

your welcome!
another thing you could do is to put all your pj's, sock, underwear in gallon size ziplocs, roll them up tight and swish all the air out, it really does save some space...roll all your other clothing up so it doesn't get wrinkled...you right to wear your heaviest clothing and layer to take on the plane, plus you each get to take one carry one and one personal bag, so that could be a back pack or small tote bag which you could get smaller items in too!
good luck, getting it all packed up!

 

[Sweetpea2011]

Great idea about using the ziplok bags and squishing the air out. I had planned to take some extras anyway, just in case we need them at the parks. We will each have a rolling carry on, and then the camera bag, DHs laptop/bag, my messenger bag/purse, and a small bag for the girls to carry their DS's etc.

Does anyone know if there is still a restriction on the size of your personal item? I believe there was for awhile, but not sure if that has changed or not. I remember when we went to Hawaii last year at spring break, my purse had to be within a certain dimension.

 

[mommy2mrb]

I think as long as it fits under the seat, its okay...but each airline might be different...we flew Alaskan at xmas and I had a reusable tote/grocery bag with gifts in it and they didn't say anything about the size

 

[Minnie Mommy Mouse]

Thank you so much for all the great suggestions! I had not thought of practicing or a cane! I'll definitely do both. I'm having trouble mentally accepting using an ECV b/c of the prejudice (especially at the bus lines), but I have tried the last 2 trips w/o One and come back with meat puffs where my feet should be & barely able to walk for weeks after. I have to get over worrying about what other people think & do what is best for my health long term. I just miss being able to walk without pain! It seems like I got the right surgeon (an orthopedic specializing in feet) this time, maybe by 2012 I'll have my feet back & not need all the assistance I'll need this trip

We are having Walker Mobility drop off an ECV at our resort & I'll have to use it ASAP on & off resort. <Sigh>. I just need to search the disability board for ECV etiquette & tips. Thanks Again!

 

[Minnie Mommy Mouse]

Can anyone help with packing tips?? We'll be there March 21-29. We're trying to fly only carry on, so packing light and smart is what we're planning. Any suggestions re: must haves for weather, activities, etc? We do have laundry at our hotel, though I'd like to keep it to one load midway through the week for us. I'm thinking we wear jeans, hoodies on the plane there, and then pack 1-2 pairs of capris, 2-3 t-shirts, 1 tank top, 1 long-sleeve shirt, comfortable shoes, nightwear and bathing suits. Everything coordinating.

Any suggestions? Are we crazy?? Just don't want to pay an extra $60 per suitcase. There are 4 of us, DH and I and our twin daughters, 10 years old. We'll each have our own carry-on bag.

Help!!?

Totally doable & completely understandable! We pack as light as possible too. Best tip I have is buy some PUREX 3 in 1 sheets. It has detergent, fabric softener & dryer sheet all in one. They travel well, detergent on site is astronomical, and even though they do not clean as well as our normal
detergent (Seventh Generation), they do get the job done. I am chemically sensitive/lots of allergies, my boys are red heads w/sensitive skin & they do not seem to irritate our skin which is a minor miracle & huge plus in PUREX's favor.

Also keep mind souvineers. We like to buy at least one T-shirt a piece, so you can take that into consideration when packing if you all like to shop too! There is 40th Anniversary apparel out

Best of luck & HTH!

 

[Sweetpea2011]

I had heard about the Purex 3-in-1 sheets! They are on my list!

 

[RichLather]

Our trip is planned for March 21-25, party of four staying at the Port Orleans.

I'm curious to see what is planned for WDW's 40th birthday, especially since it is shared with mine!

 

[KellyNTink]

Thank you so much for all the great suggestions! I had not thought of practicing or a cane! I'll definitely do both. I'm having trouble mentally accepting using an ECV b/c of the prejudice (especially at the bus lines), but I have tried the last 2 trips w/o One and come back with meat puffs where my feet should be & barely able to walk for weeks after. I have to get over worrying about what other people think & do what is best for my health long term. I just miss being able to walk without pain! It seems like I got the right surgeon (an orthopedic specializing in feet) this time, maybe by 2012 I'll have my feet back & not need all the assistance I'll need this trip

We are having Walker Mobility drop off an ECV at our resort & I'll have to use it ASAP on & off resort. <Sigh>. I just need to search the disability board for ECV etiquette & tips. Thanks Again!

I don't currently have any mobility issues, but I think that janiejake had a great suggestion to practice at some stores like Target and Walmart! I wouldn't have thought of that. And PHHHBBBBTTTT to people that judge. You just worry about YOU and don't worry about their issues

I'll be praying for your feet. After fracturing my lower right leg last year I certainly learned to not take pain free walking/running for granted! ((((hugs)))))

 

[KellyNTink]

Ahhhh... 30 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm excited, but I need to get my toosh in gear! I have to get my kids some new spring clothes/shoes (probably go with Crocs again - these work great on my kids feet for long walking...even brand new and great that it doesn't matter if they get wet) and me some new clothes, too since I've lost weight (WOOOT) and need to get the random stuff together.

I know someone already asked this - but any more ideas of loot/random type of stuff to pack? Trying to not spend so much $$$ onsite on things that are so much cheaper at home.

So far - ponchos, glow necklaces/sticks, their autograph books and Mickey/Minnie Pens, rolls of quarters for arcade, got my Disney Backpack, Will pack their Mouse Ears, My daughter's DP costumes, Daughter's Minnie Mouse earrings, My son's pin lanyard, Hand Sanitizer, Hand Wipes, what else....randome items that are nice to have at hotel and parks??? My husband begged me when I booked this trip not to spend so much $$$$$$$$$ on souveneirs this time. My mom is awesome and is sending me envelopes to give each kid with souveneir $$$ from her. So, after I surprise them I will give them their envelopes and tell them that is their $$$ from Nana and they'll need to decide over the week how to spend it on souveneirs. We have park hoppers so I am hoping that they will really hear me (HA HA HA) when I encourage them to wait to see all there is to see and that we can always go back at the end of the week for things (again HA...like most kids mine are INSTANT GRATIFICATION types...heck, I am too....that is what drove my husband nuts last time. I let them get a good amount of loot EVERY day. ) Anyway, hopefully with Nana's generous budget they will figure out how to plan for what they REALLY must have.

The clothes thing is tripping me up. I've never been to FL in March. Looks like nights can be cool and day is typically high 70's to mid 80's. So...summer clothes but bring layers? And bring rain gear in case? Fingers crossed it won't rain as much as it did when we went in June 09 (though we rode through the rain while the masses exited the parks )

OK, I know I'm seriously rambling...I am just so excited it's 30 days away and I've managed to keep my mouth shut and not spill the beans to kiddos!!!!

 

[GOOFYsince71]

Ahhhh... 30 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OK, I know I'm seriously rambling...I am just so excited it's 30 days away and I've managed to keep my mouth shut and not spill the beans to kiddos!!!!

Ramble ON!!!! It's a Milestone to be at 30 days and very exciting!!
**Purse sized Advil***Sugar Free Orange Tums***and a small flashlight
to keep in the nightstand......
Have fun....we will be there at the same time!!!

A MAJOR P.S. ..****I found this website....on another link.....Try it ,,You'll Like It!!
For Anyone traveling,or just wants purse or diaper sized item.....Everything from
health and beauty to food and snacks....AND you DON'T have to buy dozens.....!!!
Buy one if you want...!!! Go to minimus.biz ( for all your travel size needs) And they will ship for free if you spend $20.......Easy!!!!

 

[ttree]

I've been trying to find updates on this site but have not seen anything yet, just want to make sure everyone has heard about changes to park hours and shows for march, updates on travel agent site and touring plans, Haven't checked disney site yet. Extra hours and extra msep and F!

 

[RalphinSC]

Looks like a lot of hours in early March have been extended.

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I was looking at my TP projections tonight and noticed a lot of my crowd numbers have jumped up quite a bit over the past few days. It looks like the Spring break rush is going to start hitting a little earlier than the second weekend in March, at least Disney thinks it is.

MK is pushed back two hours on the 5th to a 10pm close and on the 6th, they are doing their regular close at midnight with an EMH to 3am! And double Electrical Parade nights on the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 10th!

DHS also has double Fantasmics on the 6th and 8th with closing times pushed back half an hour to 9pm each night.

AK has their closing times pushed back to 8pm starting the 6th, may get to ride EE in the dark after all!

Spring break season is officially scheduled to begin on the 12th, but it looks like they are getting an early start. And there appears to be some HEAVY days predicted by mid-March! Pretty sure those hours had already been extended, but I've just been paying attention to my week.