Sorry Gaston, They are MUCH More Interesting Than You!*6/8* NEW Trip Report Link p154

[Chilly]

OK I am way way way behind, just started to catch up but still only up to the end of the party, will continue catching up in the next few days.

Brilliant costumes, what have you done with the feet now? Some really fab photos as well. Can't wait to go back to the party, hoping to do both next time I go, plan is to go end of October beginning of November in 2015 so we'll be able to hit halloween and christmas.

And yes I was trying to tell you something which you now know

 

[GoofyFan1515]

You ladies make it really difficult to stay caught up around here!!! Still, it is great to have so much to see and enjoy when I have the chance to drop by!!!

I guess you don't have small kids either! Seems the readers with kids really love this guy, so I must be missing something.

Not small kids, but older ones that do still like P&F, Perry the Platypus and Agent P. Doesn't mean I have to partake though does it??? I still can't imagine showing up at Animation Academy and that is the choice to try and draw...............

Yes - I agree - the kids seem to LOVE Phineas and Ferb. Those kids were literally cheering when we started drawing Agent P and I was like "Whhhhhhaaaatttttt?"

That probably would have been my reaction too!

The men in my family are definitely NOT interested in the drawing class. One time I tried to get Denny to go with me, but he refused. So I used the paper from two seats and drew one Pluto for me and one Pluto for him. Not sure how I ever managed to finish both of them, but I did.

Nice job finishing two of them! I barely have time to get one done when I have been in there. I am not normally the artsy type, but their hints do make it easier to come up with something decent. At least I was fairly pleased with my last effort............

My dad is definitely weak for his respiratory infection, but he is eating. His gait is just terrible. My mom really doesn't want him to go to the hospital even though I have tried to convince her that they will rehydrate him and give him antibiotics. One thing I have learned - I can't force my mom to do anything.

My dad seemed a little better this morning, so we'll see. My mom is determined to care for him at home.

Sorry about the issues with your Dad! I hope he is continuing to do better! Thoughts and prayers for Him......and for you while you try to help them through this!!!

Corsets and Dentures huh? My kind of show

Oh yes, sounds like we would get along well!!!

A girl on a swing!

A real swinger and a high flyer!!! Can't ask for much more than that..............

It may be corny, it may be old school but oh did it take me back to being a child and my very first visit to Disneyland. I am SO glad I made the time to see the bears, it makes me smile just thinking about it now.

Country Bears is a classic I guess I need to go see again since I hadn't been in a while! I remember thinking it was hilarious when I saw it as a child.

I swear every time I'm in the MK, the parade is going. No offense to anyone but I am sick to death of this parade. I only go once a year and often with longer gaps than that...it's time for an update people!

I usually like the parades at Disney, but this is one that just never did anything for me. I wouldn't mind seeing an update either.

With that it was time to say goodbye to the Magic Kingdom. It would be over a year till my next trip and the knowledge of that as I walked out, dampened the brightness of the sky just a little. But, the day was not over and it was time to squeeze in a little more last minute magic elsewhere in the world before heading to the not so magical express.

Yes, I also hate that feeling of leaving a park for the final time when every trip is over!

Here's a few updates:

First - I promised everyone I would announce Nick's college decision. After the exhaustive review of so many colleges and considering the scholarship offers, or lack there of, and tuition, Nicholas decided he will be attending University of Delaware next year.

In other news:

I think Max put on 2 or 3 lbs just since his diagnosis and since starting insulin. He has filled out nicely and his coat looks so much better. He really is acting like his old self again, only with a ravenous appetite. It's crazy.

Denny is feeling good. His BP is nice and low. He's had no chest pain and he sees the cardiologist tomorrow. I am going with him because I have the disc from his cath/stent and there are a few non-obstructive lesions I want him to comment on. I went over his disc with my surgeon and he suggested reviewing it with the cardiologist.

I spent the night at my parent's to help my mom get my dad into bed (her regular help was not available). Let's just say we didn't drop my dad on the floor, which is a good thing. I really, really think my parents need to go into assisted living but my mom has been fighting tooth and nail against it. It's a very frustrating situation.

As far as the June trip - Denny started having second thoughts about driving, so I emailed my SIL to see if her two boys would be OK with flying with us. Come to find out that my brother is having severe anxiety issues and its unlikely he will be in any shape to travel. I have suggested that my SIL call the person she is renting from and see what their options are. I don't think she is going to be able to travel without my brother because he gets very anxious when she is not near him. I thought about having Denny and I take the kids, but I know we don't want to handle four boys in the heat of the summer, especially staying off site. That's not really a vacation. And it wouldn't be right to split them up.

Now just in case you don't already think my life is a soap opera, I have one final thing I am dealing with. Several months ago I found out that the program I work with is closing at the end of June. Yup - that's right. I need to find a new job. I have had several interviews and passed up one job in favor of one that is closer to my line of work. I am still waiting to hear about that job. I am starting to have second thoughts about passing the first job up. There are several reasons why I did, but I think I should have followed my gut and taken the sure thing. I am now at a point where I have to find something. It's honestly the first time in my adult life where I haven't had a job and I'm starting to get nervous. So I appreciate your positive thoughts as it applies to my job situation.

Wow, so much going on lately Mary Ellen! Congrats to Nick on making his decision! Sounds like it was well thought out and that should make him happy with his final choice for the long haul!

Glad to hear that Max and Denny are both doing better. Can't wait to hear an update on the cardiologist visit!

Sending more thoughts and prayers on your Dad's situation, the drama with the June trip, and hoping you hear great news soon on the job search!!! I'm hoping your nervousness about the job is unfounded and your decision about the earlier one proves to be a very wise one for you!

Nice reward if you can get it!

Probably make it slightly easier to take all those Disney trips I would love to make.

My boy Bo. How tired he must be after standing there ALL day!

He's solid and dependable, I'll have to give him that! Of course, those are also really good characteristics for a truck too.

No, Cynthia and I haven't said goodbye yet, but we did go our separate ways this morning. Cynthia went back to MK and had a very productive morning, I might add.

I, on the other hand, went for a run to Hollywood Studios and back. And I did something rather ambitious for me. No, I didn't double my run distance or set up hurdles (that would be too ambitious). I actually stopped for a PP picture DURING my run. That's right - DURING MY RUN! There was a PP photographer outside the gates of HS and he clearly wasn't busy because park opening was still an hour away.

So I stopped. And I posed.

Quit honestly this was a risk for me because this picture could have been a disaster. But, shockingly, it wasn't.

Your run pics turned out really good! I think I would have been bent double if it had been me.

Shout out to the segway tour



If you haven't done this, you should - its well worth the $ and so fun!

Okay you sold me........I need to add this to my must do list!!!

Well, first, I just realized I skipped over some cell phone pictures I had taken in the morning while running.

Check this out. I can't believe this is from my iPhone

Some really great pics, even before knowing they were done on your iphone.

You could but you'd also lose something. I mean those songs are "true" to the time period those bears represent and I don't know. Sanitize it and it kind of cheapens it.

then again....

MY WOMAN AIN'T PRETTY (BUT SHE DON'T SWEAR NONE)
Lyrics and music by Frankie Starr and Paul E. Miller

I got a woman, she's got me.
Whatever we do, we both agree.
She ain't pretty, but I ain't too.
The things we like are the things we do.

My woman ain't pretty, but she don't swear none.
She's kinda heavy, don't weigh a ton.
She's my woman, through and through.
I lover her only 'cause my heart is true.

MAMA, DON'T WHIP LITTLE BUFORD
Lyrics and music by Kenneth C. Burns and Henry D. Haynes

Mama don't whip little Buford.
Mama don't pound on his head.
Mama don't whip little Buford.
I think you should shoot him instead.

PRETTY LITTLE DEVILISH MARY
Lyrics and music by Bradley Kincaid

Hadn't been married but about two weeks,
She got as mean as the devil.
And every time I looked cross-eyed,
She'd hit me on the head with a "shevil."

and of course

ALL THE GUYS THAT TURN ME ON TURN ME DOWN
Lyrics and music by Plot and Powell

BLOOD ON THE SADDLE
Lyrics and music by Everett Cheetham


not sure you need the lyrics on those last two!

Those are some definite classics!!!

I can hear it now...........plunk.............bloooood.....on the saddle!!!

 

[KatMark]

Ladies, my deepest apologies for being behind again. As I posted in my PTR, things have been nuts since we got back and we had a full house this weekend.

I've caught up on your updates and, as always, loving the pictures and the fun you two are having together.

MEK, I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed and sending lots of for a new job soon.

 

[cheekypoppins]

can I just say holy crap! I wish i looked that good while running!

 

[Moira222]

how funny that i just wanted to start by saying "Holy Crap" and saw that cheekypoppins beat me to it.

LOL! Definitely not. Besides the fact that I've given up beer 99% of of the time (I think I've had 4 in the past year), that was not at all the kind I like. But I sure did get a kick out of the photoshoot.

I am not a beer fan either, but if it were some other adult libation....


Double prizes! I've never tried to make it in the big casserole, isn't that funny?




Just a rumor

I saw that later in the comments. I am glad it was just a rumor about the hat.


By a LANDSLIDE it is was the most I've ever shopped at WDW. But for once I felt like I really got to see what was out there. And yes, not feel rushed or get a lot of mom look at this, I want this, can I get this....

I totally get that .... There are so many shops that I've never even looked in because the merchandise looked either far too breakable or far to naggable (mommy can i, i want...) I enjoyed our trip last June for the freedom to browse in peace!


It was a great morning and we are only 1 hour into it so far! No clue on the beads but maybe Jenny will weigh in? We did hit both pools, the Mara twice and night goggles...that's about all we had time for as we were only there 2 nights and one was a VERY full park day and the next one Departure Day. I will get to the other pool and night goggles soon but maybe not before your trip?

I am subbed to Jenny's TR but woefully behind. I'll try to pop over before we leave (in two days!!!)



I might have to get that for Jeff at some point, it cracks me up.

I might have to get it for me. We are huge "big bang" fans at home, we'd all be fighting over the shirt.

I think he was a little buzzed himself which was really helping him spread the magic.

That does help a lot (and I sort of wondered about that!)

It's actually plastic and I know the writing would come right off of it if I washed it, but its fun all the same. In October I will get the rest of them.

Its good to have goals!
Have you ever eaten there. It's a really nice theme and the food is good. Try it out if you haven't already.

I have eaten at the place in NYC but not the Brown Derby. My friend gave it mixed reviews, and because its a signature, its not normally in our dining plan budget. Maybe now that we are buying TIW we can stop for at least appetizers.

I wish. That would mean I was moving to HHI.

would that be a bad thing? It would mess up your UD resident pricing though! Sorry to see that I was not so completely far off on the interviewing thing though.

Thanks! Yup - the timing for that whole incident was so unexpected, but I'm so glad everything worked out and we were able to stay a few days longer. I love the resort and the island. I highly recommend it.

Its on our list! My sister lived nearby in Beaufort for a few years while her hubby was in the Navy. Beautiful area.


You must be so excited. You are going to love it. I absolutely love the rooms there. My favorite decor hands-down. I hope you have a wonderful trip.

Hey guys - sorry I didn't get to all the comments today. We went to see Denny's mom who is in the hospital with a broken pelvis and hip and tomorrow I am going to see my parents. My dad has a bad cold and because he has Parkinson's his gait is affected more than usual. Personally, I think he may need to go to the hospital. We'll see.

So I will get to replies as soon as I can. At least pics for the next update are all uploaded.

And thanks to everyone for your concern about Denny. He is doing well. Mostly he is just freaked out a bit and I don't think he'll fully relax until he sees the cardiologist here.

Wow ME! when it rains it pours.

Checking in from my parents house with no Internet. Ugh replies tomorrow. Cynthia - how did you know their was June trip drama. And it's not just the parents. My life is turning into a freakin soap opera!

and raining some more

It may be corny, it may be old school but oh did it take me back to being a child and my very first visit to Disneyland. I am SO glad I made the time to see the bears, it makes me smile just thinking about it now.

WE haven't been back to see this since our first trip in 2007, but we did put it on the list for this year. I am okay with seeing it every 6 or 7 years

I swear every time Im in the MK, the parade is going. No offense to anyone but I am sick to death of this parade. I only go once a year and often with longer gaps than that...it's time for an update people!



http://s91.photobucket.com/user/eandesmom/media/Travel/2012 Food and Wine/10-22/PA227380.jpg.html

http://s91.photobucket.com/user/eandesmom/media/Travel/2012 Food and Wine/10-22/PA227380.jpg.html
so funny - you did take and post a few pics for being sick of it

I just love watching parades, and do a lot of people watching during the parades too. It was something free that my family could do whenever possible growing up, so that memory just sticks with me.

Then, theirs

Love how these last photos turned out. Great color choice for the day!

But first I want to thank everyone for the well wishes, pixie dust, and supportive comments regarding Denny, my parents, and of course, my Maxie cat.

again, HOLY CRAP on everything going on with you.

So glad that Nick decided on U D. Good school, and it fits the budget, too!

I know Denny's appt was yesterday (or today?) so hoping that it went well.

So rough when your parents reach that age. You're right, they would be better off in assisted living, but they won't see it that way. Not unless someone in the medical profession who is not related to them can convince them. Sigh.

I hope that your brother & SIL can sort out the June trip. It does not sound promising.

I hope you get the offer!! and I hope it has the same flexibility. When I was laid off in '09, I found a job within a few weeks, but the flexibility was zero (and I knew that with a young daughter that I really really had to have it or I would just be a bad employee. That combined with the number of smokers & smoke breaks that happened there (crazy for the size of the office) I knew it was not the job for me. Several times I kicked myself because it was decent money, but I know too that there have been quite a few things that I was able to attend and/or handle with Katie that I would not have been able to if I had kept that job. So, what I am trying to say is you have to go with your gut.

NICE!

I like DHS after dark -all the neon lights.

Pretty good for a mid run! where's the red face and sweaty forehead! you've set the standard WAY too high!

Ireland - I will return for some Kerrygold cheese!

Ireland? Why don't I remember ever seeing this?was this just for F&W?


Its weird how empty your photos are!

Check this out. I can't believe this is from my iPhone

great shots!

I'm so glad you posted your run picture! You were very stressed about it and when the PP came I remember thinking it was super cute. And it is!

Almost makes me want to run.

almost, but NOT LOL

The kids are on the Albatross Treasure Cruise. My boys did it in 2009 and had a blast. They board a pirate themed boat at the Yacht Club and then go on a search for treasure. They sneak into Epcot and search for some clues in a couple countries. After they find the treasure chest, they have lunch and all the kids leave with a bag filled with pirate loot. It is a nice couple of hours for the kids. They do similar adventures at the Grand Floridian and Caribbean Beast Resort.

this looks interesting! thanks for the info

Ahh yes, you obviously stumbled across the very secret Canadian "Darwin's Children Experiment". We toss all our children in deep water at the age of 8. The last one alive gets a medal. It's how we Canadians stay such a hardy breed, only the strong survive. They must have been doing a demo in the pavilion. Since it's not the real thing they had life vests.

LOVE this!

 

[Mndisneygirl]

- awesome picture while running MEK
- Great last MK morning Cynthia! Cute orange top pictures on Main street.
- love WS with no people in it!
- Country Bears - seen it once. I'm good.
- sorry for all the troubles with family stuff. I know it's hard with aging parents and all.
- hope the June trip works out - that can be really difficult when suffering with anxiety.
- Cynthia - also hope your big family trip gets sorted out. I know I would not want to have 5 teen boys to be responsible for!
- Congrats to Nick on choosing his college. Sounds like a good choice.
- Glad Denny and the cat are doing well (didn't really mean to lump them together that way, but you get it)

Personal questions
Cynthia - I know you do work out, but may I ask how frequently? You look just so slim and trim in that black dress on your night at DHS! I remember you rocking the bikini from your cruise TR too, and just wondered what kind of undertaking and effort is involved.
MEK - how often do you run? Do you do other exercise too?
I really need to start a little program and just hate most forms of exercise. Plus I have some physical issues that limit things. Any tips or ideas are welcome.

 

[eandesmom]

I know the feeling-but I can say for now- I am caught up.

I know the feeling too!

Everyone will be singing Blood in the Saddle while following the spoon.....

My work is done

OK I am way way way behind, just started to catch up but still only up to the end of the party, will continue catching up in the next few days.

Brilliant costumes, what have you done with the feet now? Some really fab photos as well. Can't wait to go back to the party, hoping to do both next time I go, plan is to go end of October beginning of November in 2015 so we'll be able to hit halloween and christmas.

Ummmm mine are in a closet to be used for something, someday? LOL! It was such a fun party, so glad we went

And yes I was trying to tell you something which you now know

So excited for you Claire!

You ladies make it really difficult to stay caught up around here!!! Still, it is great to have so much to see and enjoy when I have the chance to drop by!!!

Not small kids, but older ones that do still like P&F, Perry the Platypus and Agent P. Doesn't mean I have to partake though does it??? I still can't imagine showing up at Animation Academy and that is the choice to try and draw...............

That probably would have been my reaction too!

The E's would probably be happy with Agent P, I know my 12 year old nephew would be for sure.

A real swinger and a high flyer!!! Can't ask for much more than that..............

Country Bears is a classic I guess I need to go see again since I hadn't been in a while! I remember thinking it was hilarious when I saw it as a child.

It's still hilarious. In a totally un pc way but hilarious nonetheless. I'm glad they haven't changed it.

I usually like the parades at Disney, but this is one that just never did anything for me. I wouldn't mind seeing an update either.

I probably sound like more of a parade hater than I am, that one just never did anything for me and it feels like it has been the same forever...

Okay you sold me........I need to add this to my must do list!!!!

I can hear it now...........plunk.............bloooood.....on the saddle!!!

Ladies, my deepest apologies for being behind again. As I posted in my PTR, things have been nuts since we got back and we had a full house this weekend.

I've caught up on your updates and, as always, loving the pictures and the fun you two are having together.

You have been BUSY! no apologies ever needed (even if you hadn't been busy)

can I just say holy crap! I wish i looked that good while running!

me too. except I don't run so I'm good there

Love how these last photos turned out. Great color choice for the day!

Dumb luck, it really wasn't planned at all.

- Great last MK morning Cynthia! Cute orange top pictures on Main street.
- love WS with no people in it!
- Country Bears - seen it once. I'm good.
- Cynthia - also hope your big family trip gets sorted out. I know I would not want to have 5 teen boys to be responsible for!

Thanks, it will sort out however it is meant to be and I'm ok with that. My boys may not be but I do have faith that it's got a decent chance of mostly working out, at least for the folks the boys care about the most. My mom did finally start a move on room booking and while not booked, that's encouraging. Guess me whining about it online made it's way through somehow. LOL!

Personal questions
Cynthia - I know you do work out, but may I ask how frequently? You look just so slim and trim in that black dress on your night at DHS! I remember you rocking the bikini from your cruise TR too, and just wondered what kind of undertaking and effort is involved.

Oh thank you Sheree, that is so sweet. I'm not going to lie or blow smoke, I've been lucky that generally speaking, genetics has been in my favor. I did put on quite a bit of weight with both boys (as in I was at 200 lbs both times and on my frame that is really really a lot) and after Eric kept more on than I should have. After their dad split I got my act together and lost it but also had a cholesterol scare and did some major diet changes. There is heart disease history in my family and as a solo parent, I took it seriously, perhaps too much so. I was probably in the best shape of my life then. After Jeff and I got together, married, kids got a bit older...it got harder and harder to keep up my workout schedule and then some injuries complicated things. Over time a bit of that weight came back. And, while I'd been working out during all of it (though more like 2x a week most of the time), I'd gotten complacent with it and really wasn't as on top of my diet as I should have been. So, a little over a year ago I decided to get my act in gear and ramp things up just a little on the workouts (not so much the time spent but the type/intensity) and hold myself accountable on my diet until I was where I wanted to be. Plus the real truth is I'd bought a couple of new dresses for the summer trip and when the arrived UGH did not fit how they should.

The goal was to wear that bikini on the trip and feel good about it. Or any bikini to be honest. I'm probably too old to be wearing one but I really don't care. LOL. Between my fitness pal, really using it religiously from march until August, and sticking to a pretty set workout schedule, I dropped what I wanted to (about 20 pounds) and have kept it off. Basically myfitness pal is an app you can use to track what you eat and your workouts, enter in your goals and it will tell you how many calories you should be eating to get there. It really really does work. I don't really use my fitness pal regularly any more, unless I feel I am slipping, it really did help me to better understand what I was eating and how, and the impact. Workout wise I currently workout 3-4 times a week for about an hour at a time. Mostly cardio, almost solely on the elliptical. There are other things I'd like to do, even prefer to do and health issues/injuries prohibit it. I do some light weights but have to be really careful. While I was actively trying to lose I was also doing PT 2x a week so that added to the workout schedule so it was more like 5-6 times. I may go back to PT but decided to take a year off, I was really burnt out on trying to fix my issues and all the co pays, to still have them. I would like to be a lot more trim than I am and it frustrates me. not in terms of weight or size but...firmness lol. But with my injuries I can't do certain things and thus...can't firm certain things up. TMI I am sure. The key really is to push yourself just a little more than you think you can as the body does adapt and it can be really easy to fall into a routine and be "exercising" but not seeing any results at all, I certainly did that for years. I do admit, the black dress was a bit of a reward for keeping it off, I wanted to be sure that I could maintain before ordering things in new (old) sizes lol.

I really need to start a little program and just hate most forms of exercise. Plus I have some physical issues that limit things. Any tips or ideas are welcome.

The trick is to try and find something you actually enjoy, at least to start. Anything is better than nothing. For me for a long time it was pilates, then it was zumba but it's been other things at other points in my life. Anything done too long gets boring, at least to me. Mixing it up really does help. If you can look at it as a fun activity versus a chore, even if you are only tricking yourself, it can really help. Once you get into it, you'll start to crave the endophins and that will motivate you, it's an amazing stress relief but that doesn't happen right away at all. Even now, I may not "want" to go but I know I "need" to and I'll feel so much better after I do it.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

Thank you for sharing all the fitness information! I appreciate your willingness to be so open and honest. It really does help to hear other people's stories. I'm motivated for the spring (what little of it we have) and summer due to our cruise in August. Not that I plan on wearing a bikini in Alaska, but there will be pictures, and I want to look good! For me, I've just not had any energy and I know exercise will help that. Now that the temp might stay above 45, I can get back to my outside walking at lunchtimes.

 

[MEK]

Sorry I didn't do replies today. Just being lazy I guess but also bummed cause the June trip is off. Denny and I could still go on our own, but this was free lodging. I'm already borrowed into 2014 on my DVC points so that's out Not sure what we are going to do. Part of me just thinks I should save my vacation until I leave my job but Denny can't travel in July. Maybe well do something closer to home. With job uncertainty it's got to be cheap. *sigh*. I don't think I can make it to October w no va-Kay And now I'm afraid that my October trip is too long for any new job I'm starting. *double sigh*. Oh we'll, I feel like my good life is about to end. I could take vacation whenever I wanted and it was a use it or lose it deal so I was good at using it. Maybe a little too good. I guess I need to cancel my ADRs boo

 

[KatMark]

Sorry I didn't do replies today. Just being lazy I guess but also bummed cause the June trip is off. Denny and I could still go on our own, but this was free lodging. I'm already borrowed into 2014 on my DVC points so that's out Not sure what we are going to do. Part of me just thinks I should save my vacation until I leave my job but Denny can't travel in July. Maybe well do something closer to home. With job uncertainty it's got to be cheap. *sigh*. I don't think I can make it to October w no va-Kay And now I'm afraid that my October trip is too long for any new job I'm starting. *double sigh*. Oh we'll, I feel like my good life is about to end. I could take vacation whenever I wanted and it was a use it or lose it deal so I was good at using it. Maybe a little too good. I guess I need to cancel my ADRs boo

MaryEllen, I am so sorry to hear this. Selfishly because I was so looking forward to meeting you. But mostly I am sorry for you and Denny and the uncertainty with a job. I'll keep good thoughts going for you.

 

[Poolrat]

Sorry I didn't do replies today. Just being lazy I guess but also bummed cause the June trip is off. Denny and I could still go on our own, but this was free lodging. I'm already borrowed into 2014 on my DVC points so that's out Not sure what we are going to do. Part of me just thinks I should save my vacation until I leave my job but Denny can't travel in July. Maybe well do something closer to home. With job uncertainty it's got to be cheap. *sigh*. I don't think I can make it to October w no va-Kay And now I'm afraid that my October trip is too long for any new job I'm starting. *double sigh*. Oh we'll, I feel like my good life is about to end. I could take vacation whenever I wanted and it was a use it or lose it deal so I was good at using it. Maybe a little too good. I guess I need to cancel my ADRs boo

AWwww MAry Ellen I am sorry the trip is off.
I know you were looking forward to having a trip with some Disney "likers" this time.

I hope you do get some time off and find something you will like to do.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

Dang girl, that stinks!

Maybe you could go to Tennessee around the 4th of July and go to the big DISmeet?

It's so hard to have all those things going at once, and then have stuff up in the air about the future. Hang in there!! Something will work out - just keep the faith and have patience (something I'm not good at!)

 

[eandesmom]

Sorry I didn't do replies today. Just being lazy I guess but also bummed cause the June trip is off. Denny and I could still go on our own, but this was free lodging. I'm already borrowed into 2014 on my DVC points so that's out Not sure what we are going to do. Part of me just thinks I should save my vacation until I leave my job but Denny can't travel in July. Maybe well do something closer to home. With job uncertainty it's got to be cheap. *sigh*. I don't think I can make it to October w no va-Kay And now I'm afraid that my October trip is too long for any new job I'm starting. *double sigh*. Oh we'll, I feel like my good life is about to end. I could take vacation whenever I wanted and it was a use it or lose it deal so I was good at using it. Maybe a little too good. I guess I need to cancel my ADRs boo

It is NOT over, it will just change. I know it's hard. I'd never been out of a job in my life and survived 2 layoffs in 4 years. You will get through this, it will be good, perhaps even amazing or better at some point.

Faith
Trust
and
Pixie Dust

I know you have all three

 

[eandesmom]

Thank you for sharing all the fitness information! I appreciate your willingness to be so open and honest. It really does help to hear other people's stories. I'm motivated for the spring (what little of it we have) and summer due to our cruise in August. Not that I plan on wearing a bikini in Alaska, but there will be pictures, and I want to look good! For me, I've just not had any energy and I know exercise will help that. Now that the temp might stay above 45, I can get back to my outside walking at lunchtimes.

You will look good regardless, I think you are stunning btw . Focus on how you feel and the rest will come through. It's a vicious cycle, the energy thing. Lack of feeds lack of and vice versa.

I was just telling Jeff that I am in the "acceptance" phase of my limitations. Which basically translates into suck it up, get over it and adapt (for me). Doesn't really make it suck any less but I'm at peace with it I guess. LOL.

And I do highly reccommend a daily walk on the Promenade Deck

 

[jedijill]

It is NOT over, it will just change. I know it's hard. I'd never been out of a job in my life and survived 2 layoffs in 4 years. You will get through this, it will be good, perhaps even amazing or better at some point.

Faith
Trust
and
Pixie Dust

I know you have all three

MaryEllen, I am so sorry to hear this. Selfishly because I was so looking forward to meeting you. But mostly I am sorry for you and Denny and the uncertainty with a job. I'll keep good thoughts going for you.

AWwww MAry Ellen I am sorry the trip is off.
I know you were looking forward to having a trip with some Disney "likers" this time.

I hope you do get some time off and find something you will like to do.

Dang girl, that stinks!

Maybe you could go to Tennessee around the 4th of July and go to the big DISmeet?

It's so hard to have all those things going at once, and then have stuff up in the air about the future. Hang in there!! Something will work out - just keep the faith and have patience (something I'm not good at!)

I echo what everyone else has said. Hang in there.

Jill in CO

 

[disneykiwi]

AWWW!! Mary Ellen, that is such a shame bout the trip

Good luck on the job front

I am a firm believer things happen for a reason but must admit there are times I do wonder what the reason is.

Cynthia - thanks for the Country Bears pics and the words to the songs - I love the bears - havent seen them for years though as they aren't at DL anymore and my family weren't keen when we went to WDW

I love Big Al and have 2 of them sitting on my bed at home along with Sully - I know weird eh There's something about big, chubby, hairy beasts

 

[emmysmommy]

I have so much catching up to do...

Cynthia: I love your trip wish list - especially the waffle sandwich. I can finally say that I tried one for the first time last summer. Oh so good!

Country Bear Jamboree - what great memories your photo tour brought back! For DL when they converted the attraction to the Winnie the Pooh ride they kept the heads for Melvin, Buff, and Max on the back of the wall of the last room before the ride concludes. It so cool how they preserve something of the original attraction when they re-engineer.

So you are saying that you don't Twist and Shout during the Celebrate It parade! I just like the song at the end (Time of your Life) since it was the parade song from our Grand Marshal gig. Sentimental for sure!

You look lovely in your orange top! So befitting the pumpkin themed photo at MK!

MK: My goodness so much in life is going on!
First, I truly wish you the best with your job search. You have such awesome credentials and job history so it's just another fork in the road. You will do well! Sorry that you had to make the decision to cancel June's trip. (Kathy, I feel for you! I would have looked forward to seeing Mary Ellen too!)

Glad to hear that Denny is doing well. He's fortunate to have you looking out for him. Sorry that you carry the burden of considering options for your parents and assisted living.

Whew! College decision done! Sounds like the choice makes perfect sense!

As for your TR updates....
Awwww …. Yes, YC now takes on a whole new perspective when we see that view of the hotel.

You look FABULOUS for your run and love the outfit! Love the blue color! Sheesh! When I run I don't look nearly that good!

At DHS, I'm totally fine with Bo getting love from another woman... Ok, someone needs to keep him company when I'm not around!

I think I remembered everything I wanted to say...

Thank you ladies for more great updates!

 

[teekathepony]

Sorry I didn't do replies today. Just being lazy I guess but also bummed cause the June trip is off. Denny and I could still go on our own, but this was free lodging. I'm already borrowed into 2014 on my DVC points so that's out Not sure what we are going to do. Part of me just thinks I should save my vacation until I leave my job but Denny can't travel in July. Maybe well do something closer to home. With job uncertainty it's got to be cheap. *sigh*. I don't think I can make it to October w no va-Kay And now I'm afraid that my October trip is too long for any new job I'm starting. *double sigh*. Oh we'll, I feel like my good life is about to end. I could take vacation whenever I wanted and it was a use it or lose it deal so I was good at using it. Maybe a little too good. I guess I need to cancel my ADRs boo

Oh Mary Ellen, I am so sorry to hear this. I have often found that when things start to go a little bad, they continue getting bad for a while until suddenly one good thing happens and turns everything around, then things all get good again. I hope the turn for the good happens for you very soon. I know it will come through for you and everything will work out ok. Fingers crossed for the best for you.

 

[MEK]

I'm not worried about their crowd. If the crowds have been small enough so we can hit all the rides we want then we hit some shows. Don't like the standing around waiting for the show. Our sons were never into any of the shows, took too long for them.

Yeah - sometimes you can get right into a show and other times....wait.....and....wait......and.........

Lots to try to remember, but here it goes....

First MEK-I know you're so relieved that your son has made his college decision. I completely hear you about not wanting to spend more money to get the same degree. My oldest is finishing her first year at Alabama, but has decided she wants to come home for college, and I can't really argue. This past year cost about $20,000, compared to about $6000 when she gets home and goes to the university here in town.

I am very relieved he made his decision. Yeah!

Wow - that's a big difference in your daughter's tuition. When you subtract that room and board its amazing how the number drops. I hope she is very happy with her choice.

Hope your job search works out!

Thanks!

Cynthia--Haven't watched Country Bears in years! Thanks for sharing all your pictures!

They were fun, but I actually found the words to the songs much more interesting......in a bizarre sort of way.

I misread, you've got your NP. Sub abuse is huge. Our docs are very conservative with medications and rarely do I see them prescribe more than Flexeril for pain. Our addicts don't love us. Enjoy your conference.

My education history is confusing because I got the master's degree in nursing at a time there weren't a lot of NP programs around. Then I went back for my post masters certificate. If I did psych it would be another post master's certificate.

What other areas are you interested in?

I really love cardiac surgery, but this whole thing with having our program close has made me start to reevaluate and thing about other opportunities. Each day I think I want to try something new, so I know right now I can't make a good decision. There's a part of me that wouldn't make doing primary care, but another part of me that just loves being in the hospital. Then I saw this posting for an asthma and allergy NP and started thinking.....hmmmmm.......See - I am just not right!

Exactly. I don't enjoy the corporate umbrella at all but I like not having to market myself and sustain viability. The clients come to us when IP but I've got to play by their rules and the documentation requirements and corporate garbage are overwhelming. I like to be as client centered as possible which will eventually lead me into private practice.

I understand that. My original master's nursing jobs were more paperwork, education, policy and procedure writing than patient care. That's why I became an NP - so I could actually practice medicine and I just love the role. It's great.

That's fantastic! Good for you.

Absolutely. My daughter sees a Neurologist and Endocrinologist and we often see the PA. I like having options.

When my kids were little I took them to a pediatric NP. I loved her. I thought she was fantastic and so much better than the pediatricians. That's really what sparked my interest in the role and gave me the kick I needed to get started.

Thats terrific. I'm sure its a wonderful feeling to know your child is doing well and liking what they do. You must be a proud mama.

I am very, very pleased because several years ago he was in a completely different place.

Wow, how fabulous! And thank you for the tip. I've been telling Gabby that her scores matter but she's 16 and invincible and although I have my Masters I know nothing about obtaining a college and post graduate education. I'm going to have her read your post.

There is definitely a specific way to study for the SATs. My son swears its all learning how to take that specific test. After his second time taking it he told me the math is "integrated math" - what ever that means. He said that because he was moved ahead one math grade in 8th grade and moved ahead again in 9th grade he went to more advanced math like geometry, pre calc and then two years of AP calc. He swears he skipped right over a lot of the math that is tested in the SATs. I was shocked to hear this because he readily admits that if he had just spent extra time studying specifically for the math in the SAT test his math score could have been improved to a very high level. But because his daily math classes were so far above that he actually had to teach himself how to answer those questions during the exam and it slowed him down.

He's very smart for not wanting to drown in student loans. I had to get loans once I exhauster my pell grant status. I'm hoping our kids will think the way your son is and we're educating them on their options.

My oldest son doesn't really care too much about tuition costs, although he is becoming more aware. But my younger son is very fiscally responsible. I was like that too so he must get it honestly.

Time flies.

Sure does.

The words SAT and ACT scare me. Gabby just took the pre ACT test called the PLAN test. Thankfully it was free because she didn't ace it. She'll need a few prep courses and a lot of studying time.

Like I said - you have to study specifically for the test. In a way its a game that has to be played because it really does count where the $ is involved.

Not caught up yet - sheesh only 2 full days and 5 pages behind.

Our banter is getting a little crazy, isn't it?

Glad Max is doing better.
Proud of Nick picking a school- great job.

Thanks! Too very positive things.

Have not gotten to the cardiologist update yet if you posted it so I hope that all went well and Denny can start to move past the incident.

He actually got good news from the cardiologist who looked at his study and called me at home to say everything looked good! So yeah! I can tell he is a lot more relaxed now.

Sorry about the June trip and I hope something gets resolved soon and is not left hanging.

Well, as you know its kaput, so I am working on Plan B. What ever that ends up being.......

Sorry about your parents - I know I will have to deal with that probably sooner thatn later and they are not close. Hard all around.

It is very challenging. thank you!

Oh Goodness, add in a job hunt and YIKES

So. Not. Fun.

Too tired now to finsih so hopefully tomorrow.

I know the feeling.

 

[KathyRN137]

I'm here! (Better late than never!)

Thank Goodness you have post links; I'm diving in right now!!


Kathy