The ABC's of Trip Planning, Pt 1- K is for Keeping Things Kooky- Drinks V-Z; pg. 197 + New Link

[Captain_Oblivious]

I've slowly listing some stuff in EBay, and I'm pretty excited that a $200 item sold for full asking price.

Can I ask my DISFriends to please pray? My hubby was deployed to one of Oregon growing wildfires (probably for about 16 days) a couple days ago. I've been getting e-mails off and on from him, and JUST got word that a copter had crashed working the fire. I don't have details yet. This is a VERY dangerous situation ALL over the PNW right now. Houses are going up in flames and now lives (apparently) are being lost. 3 others were killed earlier today in Washington state.

So scary! Will pray for his safety, and that of the others.

 

[JJ Tinker Wish]

Thinking of you and your family with prayers and WISHES for safe return

 

[lilpixiebabe101]

Sending thoughts for you! Hugs and pixie dust.


As for MNSSHP suggestions,

1.) Either eat early or snack like you plan to. We did Liberty Tree Inn at 4pm and it was perfect to get us through the party. Nice and filling, then we were hungry and enjoyed our pumpkin waffles with ice cream at about 9pm. I honestly can't remember seeing any restaurants closed. I know a decade or so ago they used to close some of the CS locations to be Hot chocolate/Cookie stations. *Shrugs*

2.) Villians show was awesome.. And if you have a desire to meet any of those villains that rarely show, get a good seat up front. They come down to the front of the stage at the end of the show for pictures and autographs. Wicked queen, malifaceint, the voodoo man, frollo from hunchback, cruella, etc.

3.) I did not watch the castle show. My mom and Ann said it was neat, but I got a coveted meet and greet with Jack Skellington and Sally after only about a 10 minute wait at it was a nice long interaction with a video taken of Jack saying he couldn't wait for my DF to come meet him. It was awesome.

4.) we went on a Sunday night and didn't feel the crowds were bad. Lots of candy trails. Very spread out and almost a walk through line.

5.) Be in line for the Dwarves when the line starts if you want that picture. We ate then went and got in line. Yes we waited about 45 minutes, but the park was still full of non party goers. So we were like the 10th picture with the Dwarves, we were done about 20,minutes after the party had officially started! It was fantastic!

6.) if you are going to dress up, my suggestion to you and since you have semi adult children. Search Disney inspired outfits or Polymore or Pintrist. Our outfits turned out cute, they were things we could wear after Disney, and we were comfortable... Except for Ann's hair. (Pics are on my PTR if you wanna see.) They were a hit too. Everyone loved Ann's Ariel. The dwarves freaked out of my Snow White.

7.) The parade is not to miss! It is just so different and neat. So many costumes, and characters you don't normally see. The guys from haunted mansion dancing with the shovels and making sparks was probably my favorite part.

8.) HM line was almost a walk on. But if you have a moment, for sure listen to the southern bell ghost sitting outside on her bench. We was a hoot!

Over all, we loved MNSSHP! My mom felt like we wasted money all those years ago doing MVMCP, she thought the Halloween party was well worth the money spent!

 

[JJ Tinker Wish]

On a COMPLETELY different note -- when you are ready to hear it (and of course, AFTER I get there to experience it!!) I will happily share LOTS of info on the 20th anniversary of F&W upon my return (and you'll likely see some over on FB as well!). I'll be taking scads upon scads (as my Grandpa used to say) of photos and, while I'm not the foodie my DH is, I'll share with as much detail as possible. My_Pal_Pluto may even chime in as he is hoping to get back to writing and you KNOW how he LOVES to PTR!! Countdown to F&W '15 = 71 days. Our "Hower's Fish the Boardwalk" countdown is at 448 (We + the B. Fisher's + Boardwalk DVC = ^^^^^ title!!)

 

[cinderkelly]

Can I ask my DISFriends to please pray? My hubby was deployed to one of Oregon growing wildfires (probably for about 16 days) a couple days ago. I've been getting e-mails off and on from him, and JUST got word that a copter had crashed working the fire. I don't have details yet. This is a VERY dangerous situation ALL over the PNW right now. Houses are going up in flames and now lives (apparently) are being lost. 3 others were killed earlier today in Washington state.

Hi, I'm emerging out of lurkedom to comment

We were very close to both of the Colorado wildfires a couple of years ago so I know first hand how scary that is! Just wanted you to know I'm praying for your husband's safety and all the others effected by those fires.

Kelly

 

[pkondz]

Can I ask my DISFriends to please pray? My hubby was deployed to one of Oregon growing wildfires (probably for about 16 days) a couple days ago. I've been getting e-mails off and on from him, and JUST got word that a copter had crashed working the fire. I don't have details yet. This is a VERY dangerous situation ALL over the PNW right now. Houses are going up in flames and now lives (apparently) are being lost. 3 others were killed earlier today in Washington state.

Oh, man. Your family is in my thoughts.

 

[kroseycorn]

Iyiyiy. Those wildfires are not to be messed with. Thoughts with you, your husband (Mr. Steppesister), and all of those fighting the fires (even the prisoners!).

Come on, rain!

 

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

Those fires are scary! My dad lives in an area that is plagued with fires every summer. I hope that your husband returns home safely and that they are able to put out the fires before more homes are lost/people killed.

 

[englishrose47]

Can I ask my DISFriends to please pray? My hubby was deployed to one of Oregon growing wildfires (probably for about 16 days) a couple days ago. I've been getting e-mails off and on from him, and JUST got word that a copter had crashed working the fire. I don't have details yet. This is a VERY dangerous situation ALL over the PNW right now. Houses are going up in flames and now lives (apparently) are being lost. 3 others were killed earlier today in Washington state.

Oh Liesa How scarey!!! My thoughts and prayers are with him and you and the rest of the family !! Keep us posted !!!

 

[Steppesister]

Nice! One memory maker. One wishes dessert party for 8.... the list goes on.

You're just full of good ideas!

 

[Steppesister]

Yeah totally missed that blatant reference and assumed it was a commentary on the stereotypical treatment of circus animals.

I could've taken it that way too, but went with the you-spend-way-too-much-on-stuff line. It's like the folks who only buy namebrand, but don't realize that the exact same canneries, using the exact same recipes, can their beans, corn, and beets.

 

[Steppesister]

Nope. Can't do that. Schoolbread has coconut on it.

Then I suppose pina coladas, macaroons, and coconut shrimp are all on the NOPE-LIST. Sux for you.

I loved (guess I still do) Foreigner. Juke box hero? Oh yeah.

Memories from high school years..

That's why I said sorry!

I might let you take an occasional spin on my... wait never mind. I just realized there is absolutely no way of wording it at all without it sounding like something I don't mean! LOL! Beep, beep.

Probably off to the dark side she is.

Set 'er straight, Pops!

 

[Steppesister]

I know this is a very dangerous and scary situation for you and your family Liesa. Thoughts and prayers sent for Mike's safety, and for the safety of everyone bravely fighting the fires, those who have already lost homes, and everyone who is worried about the possible future outcome! Peace, calm and protection for all of you!

Thank you, Marv! We've been told the raging fires all summer long are now our "new normal". A bad combo of mis-management and bad policies, AND the changing weather make for a bad situation. We are trying to keep the household going while I try to work full-time. I bought extra pizza tonight which should last at least one more dinner.

Oh wow... I hope he stays safe and they get these fires under control quickly!

Me too! Thanks, Andy! Praying the weather cooperates!

 

[Steppesister]

More on the money front coming up on my days off.

So scary! Will pray for his safety, and that of the others.

Thank you, Mark! Although Mike is NOT on the frontlines most of the time, he does make equipment runs up there. The last 3 firefighters who were killed were overcome after a truck crash- that could happen to ANYONE on the fire- support of frontliners. Keep praying.

Thinking of you and your family with prayers and WISHES for safe return

Thank you so much, Jaime! Lots of prayers for these men and women!

Hi, I'm emerging out of lurkedom to comment

We were very close to both of the Colorado wildfires a couple of years ago so I know first hand how scary that is! Just wanted you to know I'm praying for your husband's safety and all the others effected by those fires.

Kelly

Hi Kelly! Thank you so much for commenting and offering your support. It is scary, especially so when the firefighting family loses some of its own. Makes us all realize all over again that life is fragile and even moreso when we are put in a dangerous situation.

I hope you'll comment often and join in the (mostly, but not all) fun and games here.

Oh, man. Your family is in my thoughts.

Thanks ponzi for taking time out of your packing and last mintue stuffs to comment. I doubt you'll even see this before you head out as it's 11:30 PM your time right now, so have a wonderful trip once again. "See" you when you get back!

Iyiyiy. Those wildfires are not to be messed with. Thoughts with you, your husband (Mr. Steppesister), and all of those fighting the fires (even the prisoners!).

Come on, rain!

Yes, KroseyFriend! The ODF contracts many prisoners and they are often the best workers digging lines and making camps run. Thanks for remembering them as well. I'm just trying to keep my head above water here- working full time, plus having him gone is a little extra tough. Although, it does end up being extra cash- hopefully even enough for the Keys part of our vacation next year!

Those fires are scary! My dad lives in an area that is plagued with fires every summer. I hope that your husband returns home safely and that they are able to put out the fires before more homes are lost/people killed.

Hey Lessa! They are very scary and it sounds like you are no stranger to them. And you're right, it's one thing to lose valuable trees, but another thing altogether to lose homes and lives.

Oh Liesa How scarey!!! My thoughts and prayers are with him and you and the rest of the family !! Keep us posted !!!

Thanks for your prayers, Rosie! I will do so. I heard tonight that the winds have shifted and he posted a photo of a very smoky scene. I will try to post it here...

 

[MAGICFOR2]

Hi Liesa, I have been praying since I saw on FB that Mike was deployed. Such a scary situation. I'm thankful for all of the firefighters who are willing to serve to protect property and lives, and the trees.

 

[Steppesister]

Hi Liesa, I have been praying since I saw on FB that Mike was deployed. Such a scary situation. I'm thankful for all of the firefighters who are willing to serve to protect property and lives, and the trees.

Hey Tammie. They deployed the Guard a couple of days ago as well, so both air and ground support arrived to my hubby's fire which is good. But I"m anxious to hear if the copter that crashed was Guard or private. Anyway, it is SOOOOO bad for the first time EVER they are actually calling up volunteers. Truly unbelievable.

 

[Steppesister]

Sending thoughts for you! Hugs and pixie dust.

Thank you SO Much!!

1.) Either eat early or snack like you plan to. We did Liberty Tree Inn at 4pm and it was perfect to get us through the party. Nice and filling, then we were hungry and enjoyed our pumpkin waffles with ice cream at about 9pm. I honestly can't remember seeing any restaurants closed. I know a decade or so ago they used to close some of the CS locations to be Hot chocolate/Cookie stations. *Shrugs*

So, are all the snacks and stuff I keep hearing about free?? I have a saying in life that I actually use a lot: Free is good, Free with chocolate is better! I think I have Casey's planned for that night, but maybe we should also just plan to keep eating (free) sugar until the Diabetic Association calls us up to be spokesmen.

2.) Villians show was awesome.. And if you have a desire to meet any of those villains that rarely show, get a good seat up front. They come down to the front of the stage at the end of the show for pictures and autographs. Wicked queen, malifaceint, the voodoo man, frollo from hunchback, cruella, etc.

That sounds like awesome crazy fun! But if we are doing lines at other places, how realistic is to show up early for that too?

3.) I did not watch the castle show. My mom and Ann said it was neat, but I got a coveted meet and greet with Jack Skellington and Sally after only about a 10 minute wait at it was a nice long interaction with a video taken of Jack saying he couldn't wait for my DF to come meet him. It was awesome.

I can see it's going to be harder than I thought to make all the choices. I know I can't see and do it all, but want to. LOL!

4.) we went on a Sunday night and didn't feel the crowds were bad. Lots of candy trails. Very spread out and almost a walk through line.

That's GREAT news! We don't eat a ton of candy, but the trails sound fun to just amble through.

5.) Be in line for the Dwarves when the line starts if you want that picture. We ate then went and got in line. Yes we waited about 45 minutes, but the park was still full of non party goers. So we were like the 10th picture with the Dwarves, we were done about 20,minutes after the party had officially started! It was fantastic!

I actually DO' want that one. Of all the characters that would be my top pick.

6.) if you are going to dress up, my suggestion to you and since you have semi adult children. Search Disney inspired outfits or Polymore or Pintrist. Our outfits turned out cute, they were things we could wear after Disney, and we were comfortable... Except for Ann's hair. (Pics are on my PTR if you wanna see.) They were a hit too. Everyone loved Ann's Ariel. The dwarves freaked out of my Snow White.

I will do that! I think I may wear my Mickey scrub top, a stethoscope, and stuff. Afterall, it IS my Nursing School Graduation Celebration.

7.) The parade is not to miss! It is just so different and neat. So many costumes, and characters you don't normally see. The guys from haunted mansion dancing with the shovels and making sparks was probably my favorite part.

I have a feeling that (aside from the Headless Horseman) will also be my favorite part!

8.) HM line was almost a walk on. But if you have a moment, for sure listen to the southern bell ghost sitting outside on her bench. We was a hoot!

Oh she is DEFINITELY on the must-see list.

Over all, we loved MNSSHP! My mom felt like we wasted money all those years ago doing MVMCP, she thought the Halloween party was well worth the money spent!

She sounds like a good critic. And I'll take her word for it!

 

[Steppesister]

On a COMPLETELY different note -- when you are ready to hear it (and of course, AFTER I get there to experience it!!) I will happily share LOTS of info on the 20th anniversary of F&W upon my return (and you'll likely see some over on FB as well!). I'll be taking scads upon scads (as my Grandpa used to say) of photos and, while I'm not the foodie my DH is, I'll share with as much detail as possible. My_Pal_Pluto may even chime in as he is hoping to get back to writing and you KNOW how he LOVES to PTR!! Countdown to F&W '15 = 71 days. Our "Hower's Fish the Boardwalk" countdown is at 448 (We + the B. Fisher's + Boardwalk DVC = ^^^^^ title!!)

And for that I can't wait!! I only ask that you shoot me a PM on here or on FB that you've started with a link! I am horrible about scrolling through the lists to find threads started by people I know. That goes for anyone else on here too. If you start one, PLEASE let me know!

YES! Lots of pictures are a must! As are details! We GOTS to know.

 

[pkondz]

Then I suppose pina coladas, macaroons, and coconut shrimp are all on the NOPE-LIST. Sux for you.

Coconut cream pie, Nanaimo bars, many cakes and squares...

nope.

I might let you take an occasional spin on my... wait never mind. I just realized there is absolutely no way of wording it at all without it sounding like something I don't mean! LOL! Beep, beep.

Set 'er straight, Pops!

I can't! The kid's way, WAY too stubborn!
She is going to make a wicked lawyer some day... if she has the will and desire to do it.

Thanks ponzi for taking time out of your packing and last mintue stuffs to comment. I doubt you'll even see this before you head out as it's 11:30 PM your time right now, so have a wonderful trip once again. "See" you when you get back!

Still up. Doing laundry. And thanks for the well wishes!

 

[lilpixiebabe101]

So, are all the snacks and stuff I keep hearing about free?? I have a saying in life that I actually use a lot: Free is good, Free with chocolate is better! I think I have Casey's planned for that night, but maybe we should also just plan to keep eating (free) sugar until the Diabetic Association calls us up to be spokesmen.

No sadly no free snacks at the Halloween party unless you count the candy. They do free cookies and hot chocolate at the Christmas parties and that may be why they close some of the CS locations. I really don't remember seeing any of the places closed. Pinocchios haus was but they were handing out green apple Werthers candy... Mmmm

That sounds like awesome crazy fun! But if we are doing lines at other places, how realistic is to show up early for that too?

Honestly getting to the Dwarves so early and commiting to be almost first and wait before the party actually started I think made our night smooth. We watched almost the whole Villian show. My mom and ann watched the castle show. I didn't on purpose to get Jacks autograph. But had I wanted to wait in his line I could have done both. We left the party early because our feet were hurting in out ballet flat type shoes. We didn't want that on day one of Disney.

I will do that! I think I may wear my Mickey scrub top, a stethoscope, and stuff. Afterall, it IS my Nursing School Graduation Celebration.

That sounds like an adorable idea!