PreTrip Report---Family Driving me to Drink! UPDATE 11/6/05

[DisneyAunt]

I have updated my original post to reflect the madness in my nutty family

 

[scanne]

I feel for you!

But wait, if everyone ends up going, it's going to be WAY more stressful! (Hope you're not reaching for that libation!)

I planned a huge trip with 9 other family members. My parents, my husband's parents, my kids, my grandmother (in her 80's) and my aunt. I got my in-laws the electric scooters. My FIL was backing off the monorail in it and nearly tipped the darn thing back off of the ramp. NOT a pretty sight!

There will be times when you wish it WAS just you in that 2 bedroom at OKW.

But hey, if your gang backs out, count me in. I'll show up to meals on time, thank you profusely for planning such a magical vacation and heck! I'll even send you a gorgeous gift basket from WDW Florist!!!


Have a great trip! (or should I say trips!)

 

[scorpad99]

I`m gonna be there from the 18-25th! My daughters birthday is the 18th and mine is the 20th................when is your big day? Us Scorps gotta stick together. I give u alot of credit, I`d prob go alone...............sounds like alot of trouble, but I`m sure it`ll be a nice trip once you arrive!

and btw happy birthday!

 

[DisneyFreq]

A few months ago I announced that we would be taking a WDW trip this Dec. I wasn't asking for tag-a-longs, BUT my DMIL suggested that, since my DSIL would be getting out of jail soon (AUG.) that we should take her and my DNiece (who is three now).

OKAY, this is our FIRST trip (WDW, DL, US, or otherwise) where my DS is actaully going to be tall enough to ride EVERYTHING!! So my first thought is, Ugh...just when I thought I wouldn't have to deal with "switching off." But, my thrifty persona says "well, Keely is three, this is her last year to be free!" So I say, OK. DSIL is all into it. But she needs to share room/gas expenses with someone (my car holds max 5). My mother is all aboard BUT DSIL wants my DFIL to go. Okay..fine. Here is the current best deal: FL resident rate. But I'm holding out for something better.

Then my DMIL informs me that she may come too (which means no room for MY mom). She has back/weight problems and would require an ECV. Meanwhile, DSIL tells me she won't go if DFIL doesn't go and he tells me he won't go if DMIL doesn't go. So, I look into renting a condo for the week. Not disney property with free parking/tranportation...but what the hay, we get a private pool and everyone CAN COME (even my left out DMOM). Then DMIL tells me its just too early and if I must get it now and she backs out, she will still pay their share. HMMM, generous, but I WANT TO STAY ON PROPERTY. I was only making this concession if everyone was willing to commit. Why don't they understand? So the new rates come out....with a package it works out to $45 a night for POP. Did I tell them? No, why bother...they never go anywhere when they commit..and besides its "too early." So, about two weeks ago, I booked it for us (me, DH, DD, DS) and never said a word to DH's family.

THEN, two days ago, out of the blue my DMIL calls and asks for our exact dates. We haven't discussed WDW for nearly a month now. Apparently DSIL has her heart set on going. So they will come down for half our trip (three days?) and spend some time together....as a family. But when I asked where they are staying...they haven't decided yet. Which means they'll stay wherever there is a last minute opening for cheap. So...we won't stay at the same hotel...I have ADR's for FOUR people at many difficult to get into (not to mention "very pricey" but covered by MY DISNEY DINING PLAN) resturants. Tell me again how we'll spend time together?

I was SO relieved when DH told me to keep on planning b/c he didn't think they would come and that if they did...they have the option of following us around or not at all. He told me that I'd been planning this trip for months in detail and if they decide at the last minute to come, they can't expect us to change our plans at the drop of a hat. I said something about sitting on benches while "trading off" b/c my niece may not be tall enough to ride, he said "we aren't sitting on benches...they'll just have to keep up"

I truely love my DH's family but they are VERY unorganized and like to fly by the seat of their pants. Thats great for them...but if you put us together I'll have a mental break down and I think DH has realized that and (whew) decided to side with me.

wonder how it will all turn out? Thank goodness you have a solo trip planned...so you can make up for all this bday madness! Good luck and don't leave us hanging. I need to know your final count for my own sanity.

 

[Mommy Poppins]

Yup, been there, done that. When we went to Disney in 1995 on our honeymoon, I planned for us plus 22 other members of DH's family! 10 rooms at the Polynesian, all the flight arrangements and dining plans. What a nightmare!!! DisneyAunt, you're handling it very well! If you need someone to fill a space that is left empty, just give me a call!!!

To DisneyFreq

"well, Keely is three, this is her last year to be free!"

Only UNDER 3 is free, 3-9 years require a ticket. Just don't want them (or you) to be surprised if they show up for the trip.

 

[DisneyAunt]

I feel for you!

But wait, if everyone ends up going, it's going to be WAY more stressful! (Hope you're not reaching for that libation!)

I planned a huge trip with 9 other family members. My parents, my husband's parents, my kids, my grandmother (in her 80's) and my aunt. I got my in-laws the electric scooters. My FIL was backing off the monorail in it and nearly tipped the darn thing back off of the ramp. NOT a pretty sight!

There will be times when you wish it WAS just you in that 2 bedroom at OKW.

But hey, if your gang backs out, count me in. I'll show up to meals on time, thank you profusely for planning such a magical vacation and heck! I'll even send you a gorgeous gift basket from WDW Florist!!!


Have a great trip! (or should I say trips!)

I did think about the stress with everyone there, but you should see the stress I am under with my family at home. I love my Dad but sometimes he is impossible. I'm not sure how this will all work out but I know one thing I'm going and I'm having FUN .

LOL....Thanks for the gift basket offer!!! This is why I love the DIS board Everyone here understands my pain!!

 

[DisneyAunt]

I`m gonna be there from the 18-25th! My daughters birthday is the 18th and mine is the 20th................when is your big day? Us Scorps gotta stick together. I give u alot of credit, I`d prob go alone...............sounds like alot of trouble, but I`m sure it`ll be a nice trip once you arrive!

and btw happy birthday!

You bet the Scorps have to stick together and we are both from NJ. I'm on the 17th.....my best friend is on the 18th!!

Happy Birthday to you too!!

 

[DisneyAunt]

wonder how it will all turn out? Thank goodness you have a solo trip planned...so you can make up for all this bday madness! Good luck and don't leave us hanging. I need to know your final count for my own sanity.

I will let everyone know. As a matter of fact I have some drama today that I will fill everyone in on in a couple of days. I'm waiting to see what happens.

 

[DisneyAunt]

Here is my Update 11/6/05

I couldn't post it on my original post...I guess there wasn't enough room.

Anyway...I haven't updated in a while only because I have been busy. My father the one who says he was going to die is sick. I just found out he has cancer and it is advanced. It sounds so strange for me to say it let alone write. Here is the kicker he asked me if he can still go to Disney. I said of course. So our trip is planned. I just had to change a few things like make sure we take breaks in the afternoon, definately get an ECV and make sure that he is physically fit to fly and travel.

Now this trip has become more meaningful this may be the last trip he makes and my last birthday we spend together, very sad.

Stay tuned for my trip report.

 

[BlueBayou]

DisneyAunt - I am sorry to hear about your father. It does sound like he has a very positive outlook, still wanting to travel.

I hope your family experiences much pixie dust and magic this trip

Sher

 

[Wish I lived in Fl]

I am sorry about your father's illness. Hope you have warm weather and some laughs together. Take plenty of pictures. Maybe one of your father with Mickey?

 

[dejavu]

So sorry to hear about your Dad. Just some encourgaing words... my Dad (84) was diagnosed with colon cancer last January and had surgery but no chemo. It had spread to his lymph sysytem. He told us everyday he only had weeks to live and now 10 months later he is still here telling us he will only be here a few more weeks . I know it's not funny but sometimes you just have to laugh, I know my time with him is limited, after all he is 84, so it makes the time we do have more special. Families can drive you nuts but you gotta love 'em right? Have a great trip with your family.

 

[Tinks]

I don't know how I missed your original post and your 1st update....you are so funny, and you are handling all this so well! I was laughing and pulling my hair out right along with ya!

I am so very sorry to read your latest update. I hope your family has some great memories after this trip with your dad. .....and I hope that you realize all that planning is now soooooo worth it. Bless you.


Don't forget your trip report when you return and just enjoy your birthday with your family in Disney.

 

[MazdaUK]

So sorry to hear about your DF's illness. My DF died of pancreatic cancer - it took a year (and was very traumatic) but the original prognosis was a couple of months, so at least he was able to see my DS (now 12) and eldest DNep. Treasure the time (and at the aggravation). You will probably find helps

TO EARLY...are you people nuts

Its NEVER too early to start (oh maybe 10 years IS a bit early)

 

[goodferry]

Oh my gosh, what a tale. Truth is stranger than fiction, isn't it? I am so sorry to hear about your dad, keep us posted on the details and have a great trip. I hope everyone takes this opportunity to spend time with your dd while they have it, and they appreciate all you have gone through to accomodate them.

 

[kerry34]

I am very sorry to hear about your father. My thoughts will be with you and your family. I wish the best to you all for a wonderful memory filled trip and hope your dad truly enjoys it.

 

[iluvdizknee]

My heart goes out to you. Last year, my family planned a much awaited WDW trip 1st week of December. My dad died of cancer 11/22. We were so undecided whether to still go or not. My mom said my father would have wanted us to go, have a good time. We went, had a good time, but very emotional trip for my whole family.
GO...Let him enjoy himself! Life is so short. Enjoy every minute!!

 

[dandee00]

Your post brought tears to my eyes. I lost both parents a few years back...three months apart. DH lost his mother 6 months later. Times have been rough. But, I have memories...good memories of my parents and mother in law. How I wish they could be with us now...to go to Disney.
Go ahead with your plans, paste a smile on your face, count to ten, whatever you have to do to get through the rough times.
I hope your father will be well enough to make the trip and to enjoy the trip. This trip will live on in your heart forever.

 

[curiouser]

I hope everything goes well for you and your family and this is a most magical trip!

I read the OP and wanted to strangle your family, but then reading the update my heart really goes out to you! Lots of good thoughts and pixie dust that once you're there it all goes beautifully. I know planning can take its toll, but its all worth it once you're there.

Good luck!!

 

[roque]

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