The Great Leap into Running and DVC Ownership.

[annmarieda]

Despite the fact that I do not like that ride, that is really a very cute bag.

Thanks I too am not a huge fan of the ride, but I like the bag. With three pouches, I think it will be easy to organize my items.

 

[lilpixiebabe101]

My fall 2014 trip I am looking forward to because it will be just Steve and I. (but maybe there will be some time with another couple that hopefully will be coming down at the same time)

Even though I am super excited about both these trips... the trip I just took will always remain special to me. I think girls trips are important. You just have to find people that you are compatible with. For me that means people who I won't drive bonkers.... but for others it means people who don't drive them bonkers. I don't think either is a wrong way to go about it. The end goal is the same... to not have anyone go crazy on the trip. !

I think thats us and yes this trip was different, amazing, and perfect! No bonkers going involved!

So purchases are important for a trip, yes? Now... I can't give too much away. But lets just say that a lot of pre trip purchases are going to be in the bags/luggage department after last months trip.

When down last month I drooled over the new vera bradley bags. I was very close to purchasing one when I got word that leSportsac was having a sale on their "its a small world" collection.

So I and one of the gals that I traveled with last month got matching bags.
http://smg.photobucket.com/user/ann...08-1789-00000244FB10B8FA_zpsad920b26.jpg.html

This will be perfect for me to carry in the parks. I don't plan to carry Zoe's supplies since I got her a backpack while I was in WDW last month. So she can have her own bag to tend to. hmm... I should post a picture of that too, eh?

Oh man! That means my bag is in! But I have to wait till Christmas

 

[swwake]

So...point to all this is I have three trips I am hoping/planning for. Maybe they all work out perfect... maybe they don't. It could be that only the one I am currently booked for works out. I figure it doesn't hurt to hope and plan. I guess I am just a dreamer at heart. Not to mention... I always like to see that ticker!

Well I said I don't have anything in the works. That's just because I don't have anything booked and don't have dates yet. But I know we will go back in the next 2 years. Here are some of the things we're bouncing around:

1 - My niece wants to go back to WDW with me for 8 days. I told her I can't do 8 whole days without inviting my husband and Katie. So we will likely do half and half. Timing is up in the air - maybe October 2014, Maybe December 2014. Depends on several things, including whether she is still doing remote study with SCAD (her college) or possibly a semester abroad. I'd prefer the Oct time frame over Dec (it just got too crowded for me). If we do this, she will want to go on a budget (probably Value resort, but I doubt she'd go off-property), but I'll be tempted to pay the difference to upgrade to Deluxe.

2 - Chris and I always talk about going in early Oct so we can catch F&W, Halloween decorations (we don't need to do MNSSHP again) and Haunted Horror Nights at USO/IOA. If we do this, we would probably do 1 night at BLT, followed by the rest at BC (walk to Epcot F&W).

3 - There's always the thought of the ToT run. I have to look at Run Disney to see if there's anything else that can ever fit my calendar. I can't do PHM because it's during tax season.

4 - I have been considering taking my mom for a Mother/Daughter trip. This would be different because she'd have to go to Celebration every other day for dialysis. Those days, I could just visit parks on my own, get a massage, lay by the pool or whatever. This would have to be at least a 5-day trip or wouldn't be worth it for Mom. I'm not sure anyone would join us because they wouldn't want to put up with the transportation issues around my mom, as well as her mobility issues in the parks. I'm happy to do it because I think she deserves it after her illness and not having been to WDW since 2008.

5 - At some point I'd like to do a SoCal trip and include 2-3 days at DL/CA. We would stay at the Grand Californian. Probably just Chris and me. Many other things I'd like to do on that trip other than Disney. This may be 3-4 years into the future.

6 - Finally, a Disney Cruise. I am dying to do this, but can't reconcile the idea of going without kids. So I think we're a good 15 years out from that, with Katie being only 21 and not even thinking about marriage and kids right now. Plus the kids would need to be at least 5. But I'd take them Maybe 15 years from now DCL will be even more amazing than it is right now! But sometimes I think about doing a cruise/WDW vacation with Chris, but then I would want to do all the rotational restaurants and there would be no time for the specialty restaurants. That would leave me hungering for more (no pun intended). So the DCL thing is a real dilemma for me/us.

 

[Woth2982]

Disney trips are fun to plan if for no other reason to dream... even if those hopes and dreams fall through or change.

I am very excited about this family trip. It will be the first time I have ever traveled with Josh. It will be the first time since 2008 that Steve and Kira have traveled together.

My fall 2014 trip I am looking forward to because it will be just Steve and I. (but maybe there will be some time with another couple that hopefully will be coming down at the same time)

Even though I am super excited about both these trips... the trip I just took will always remain special to me. I think girls trips are important. You just have to find people that you are compatible with. For me that means people who I won't drive bonkers.... but for others it means people who don't drive them bonkers. I don't think either is a wrong way to go about it. The end goal is the same... to not have anyone go crazy on the trip.

My next trip will then be in 2015 for the phm. Having DVC now makes my budget so much nicer. Depending on availability of course as well as how I like the BWV next fall, my plan will be to stay in either BWV or BCV. Not sure who is staying with me... but I know I will be there!


So...point to all this is I have three trips I am hoping/planning for. Maybe they all work out perfect... maybe they don't. It could be that only the one I am currently booked for works out. I figure it doesn't hurt to hope and plan. I guess I am just a dreamer at heart. Not to mention... I always like to see that ticker!

I am doing the 2014 Princess and Tink (yay Pink coast to coast medal). Will most likely do Disneyland Half, and possibly back for Wine and Dine. My sister wants to get the coast to coast next year, she is away for a wedding for Tinkerbell, so DL and W&D are her only options. She didn't know how she would feel about running after the DL half in September, so she didn't wanna sign up for Princess this year. if they do the pink C2C medal again in 2015 I can almost guarantee I will be back for it, with my sister in tow.

 

[annmarieda]

Oh man! That means my bag is in! But I have to wait till Christmas

Yes and yes. Your mom and I discussed how she had to remain the evil queen... cause... well, I couldn't lie about them not arriving. You know how I am even with how withholding information is about the same as a lie... so I didn't even know how I would not say that they came in... let alone if you asked. I may have been a tad twitchy about and your mom was nice enough to say she would be evil so I wouldn't have to be.

course... now that I think about it... doesn't that make me the evil one for making her be evil and her the nice for for allowing me to remain nice?

Well I said I don't have anything in the works. That's just because I don't have anything booked and don't have dates yet. But I know we will go back in the next 2 years. Here are some of the things we're bouncing around:

See.. there are plans... just nothing that is solid.

1 - My niece wants to go back to WDW with me for 8 days. I told her I can't do 8 whole days without inviting my husband and Katie. So we will likely do half and half. Timing is up in the air - maybe October 2014, Maybe December 2014. Depends on several things, including whether she is still doing remote study with SCAD (her college) or possibly a semester abroad. I'd prefer the Oct time frame over Dec (it just got too crowded for me). If we do this, she will want to go on a budget (probably Value resort, but I doubt she'd go off-property), but I'll be tempted to pay the difference to upgrade to Deluxe.

Well, the beginning of 10/2014 is an excellent time to go. I vote you go then.

Seriously though, I can appreciate not wanting to go without your dh and dd. It was odd not having a single family member with me last month. Luckily, both my roomies quickly felt like family to me so I didn't feel lonely. Not that you would with your niece (is this the one that went with you in 12/11?)... but I know how it is odd to not have family.

And as for December.... the beginning is not very crowded. The closer to Christmas and especially that week between it and NYE, that is when the crowds are unbearable. So if you prefer Christmas decorations to the Halloween ones... that first week in December is perhaps a good one.

2 - Chris and I always talk about going in early Oct so we can catch F&W, Halloween decorations (we don't need to do MNSSHP again) and Haunted Horror Nights at USO/IOA. If we do this, we would probably do 1 night at BLT, followed by the rest at BC (walk to Epcot F&W).

Again... October!! I vote October!!! I plan to be down during the first week of October for another 3 years. (2014, 2015 and 2016) I would love to have a chance to meet up.

And BC - I think that would be an awesome choice for the exact reason you mentioned!! Walk to Food and Wine!!!

3 - There's always the thought of the ToT run. I have to look at Run Disney to see if there's anything else that can ever fit my calendar. I can't do PHM because it's during tax season.

ToT is a fun race. I am much more of an night owl so it works well for me to just stay up late. Up early in the morning is rough...very rough. So that is in the first week of October. The second week of November has the Wine and Dine half. It too is a night time and like the ToT has a good after party. January has the marathon weekend and Tinkerbell half. February has the princess (as you know) May has the Expedition Everest Challenge which is a night time 5k obstacle race. (I really would like to do this some day) It also has a great after party. August has the DL half (bluck..too hot for me). So there are some choices. It is a shame you can't do the phm. It is a great "girly" run and would make for an even better girls trip race than the ToT did. I mean... it was nice that Steve and Zoe went to support me. But I think a group of friends going...or even female family members would be a tad more fun.

4 - I have been considering taking my mom for a Mother/Daughter trip. This would be different because she'd have to go to Celebration every other day for dialysis. Those days, I could just visit parks on my own, get a massage, lay by the pool or whatever. This would have to be at least a 5-day trip or wouldn't be worth it for Mom. I'm not sure anyone would join us because they wouldn't want to put up with the transportation issues around my mom, as well as her mobility issues in the parks. I'm happy to do it because I think she deserves it after her illness and not having been to WDW since 2008.

I hope this works out for you! My mom didn't have quite that level of challenges, but it was still an interesting trip to bring her when I did. I don't regret it for a second. I am glad she was able to travel with me to florida once and enjoy WDW. And the alone time you could get I would think would help shed any transportation stress you might have.

5 - At some point I'd like to do a SoCal trip and include 2-3 days at DL/CA. We would stay at the Grand Californian. Probably just Chris and me. Many other things I'd like to do on that trip other than Disney. This may be 3-4 years into the future.

Unlike WDW, I think DLR is totally doable over the course of a few days... AND there are things to do in SoCal that could take up the remainder of your trip. I could see this being a good fit for you cause (unlike some of us silly people who only tend to go to Disney while on vacation ) you have much more adventurous vacation trips.

6 - Finally, a Disney Cruise. I am dying to do this, but can't reconcile the idea of going without kids. So I think we're a good 15 years out from that, with Katie being only 21 and not even thinking about marriage and kids right now. Plus the kids would need to be at least 5. But I'd take them Maybe 15 years from now DCL will be even more amazing than it is right now! But sometimes I think about doing a cruise/WDW vacation with Chris, but then I would want to do all the rotational restaurants and there would be no time for the specialty restaurants. That would leave me hungering for more (no pun intended). So the DCL thing is a real dilemma for me/us.

Are you planning a trip around your not yet born grandkids? Isn't that an interesting place to be? I know it is in the back of my mind at times too. Like the trip I want to take to HHI... well, I want to do that before either of the two girls (not Zoe, I am talking Kira and Kimberly ) have a baby. Then there are thoughts of things I am fine skipping at WDW right now... but think " hmm when there is a wee one again in tow, this will be fun"

As for cruises... I get your dilemma. In some ways... I think cruising is better without kids (although...since I have never taken a cruise have nothing to base that opinion on) However a disney cruise does kinda scream "bring a little one" But then... the dinning... I see your dilemma

I am doing the 2014 Princess and Tink (yay Pink coast to coast medal). Will most likely do Disneyland Half, and possibly back for Wine and Dine. My sister wants to get the coast to coast next year, she is away for a wedding for Tinkerbell, so DL and W&D are her only options. She didn't know how she would feel about running after the DL half in September, so she didn't wanna sign up for Princess this year. if they do the pink C2C medal again in 2015 I can almost guarantee I will be back for it, with my sister in tow.

As an accomplishment I really would like to do the Coast to Coast some day. I have slowly come around in my thinking regarding the medals. At first I could have cared less... now the idea of a pink coast to coast has me intrigued. I am even considering taking all my medals out of a drawer and displaying them at some point.... but they are just crammed in a drawer somewhere.

So... I am jealous of your pink coast to coast. But that is for doing the Tinkerbell and the PHM... and those are just sooo close together. I fear I would die.

I also would love to do the Wine and Dine. I suspect that it would be a better race than the ToT given that it is also night time...but a month later. I bet the cooler temps would be perfect. If only the two were not a month a part. Again, races a month apart... I could die.

Seriously though.. I do realize that the ToT could be used as a training run for the Wine and Dine.... So I could see making that work some how. The tink and princes.. .probably not. Which means no pink medal for me

 

[eandesmom]

From this side of the country, even a 7 night trip is too short. Just like you said... those travel days suck up a huge chunk. I envy those on the east coast who can fly down for just a long weekend. Kinda like we can for DLR... but... DLR isn't quite as fun

No it isn't, but then again I almost feel like that isn't fair to say as I haven't been there in forever!

I think she will. An added benefit of the royal rooms is they aren't "too far" out. I am not a fan of HUGE resorts. They tend to make me feel overwhelmed. (you read my recent TR post yes?) Maybe that is why I don't mind Pop so much because nothing seems to far from the main building.

I am not a fan of huge resorts either. It will be interesting to see how I feel about SSR. I was fine with OKW but not convinced about SSR. We are in the Treehouses and to me, that's worth a hike, we loved being in the cabins and I see THV as a nicer version of that.

What is up with that? United has some good options... but I don't care for them.

I don't trust them as far as I can throw them! In the sense of cancelling, changing, etc on the routes. I'd do it for return, but not outbound. They do seem to have the best options and prices right now but no thanks!

I have yet to do an obstacle course. I did the color run and that was as adventurous as I have got. I have heard that you can opt out of the obstacles... like go around. However, I relish the idea of being the silly old woman who can't climb over the wall...and opts out.... or better yet the silly old woman who can't climb over the wall and attempts and then get stuck.

Yeah... I may skip it.

1. You are NOT old!
2. You are not silly. Oh wait, maybe you are.
3. I doubt you'd get stuck. I would though. and I'm older. LOL

I have wondered that myself... but really if I get a few hours I am mostly good. Another hour or maybe even two during the flight and I don't feel to bad by the time we arrive. Steve on the other hand... he pretty much stays up the entire time...then is shot for the next couple days.

That may explain why Steve never sleeps on the plane. Mark my words... he will get some ginormous- throw as many shots into a cup that makes it nearly like battery acid- drink

It's hard, when you've already been up for 2-3 hours...well you really want/need that coffee. But I do find if I can hold off, I can doze during takeoff at least and some of the early flight and then get a coffee during the later part of it. And then one of course the minute we land, the MCO Starbucks is a ritual, coffee for the bus ride!

I probably will. It is good to get all of your feed back here though... I mean..after all... she doesn't limp or look ill. She will likely hop and skip her way down to the plane. The reasons in the past I had her preboard had to do with her tube (didn't want it to get bumped or snagged) and to get close to a bathroom so we don't have to lug her supplies through the plane. Being closer allows us to be a little more discreet...and I guess that is still a valid concern.

I think preboarding to be close to the restroom, and to ensure you are together makes total sense and who cares what anything looks like!

I am thinking we might be cutting it close too. I am sure we will get to POR early enough to grab something in the food court since it is open till 11pm. DTD though... how late are places like WGP open?

You should be able to check on the app, or the website for hours. A different app I have, has them I know. I'd check as honestly I have no idea. When we landed at 10:30 one year we were totally out of luck. Thankfully I knew that ahead of time and had placed a garden grocer order so there were things waiting for us but it was a bit of a pita.

So purchases are important for a trip, yes? Now... I can't give too much away. But lets just say that a lot of pre trip purchases are going to be in the bags/luggage department after last months trip.

When down last month I drooled over the new vera bradley bags. I was very close to purchasing one when I got word that leSportsac was having a sale on their "its a small world" collection.

So I and one of the gals that I traveled with last month got matching bags.


This will be perfect for me to carry in the parks. I don't plan to carry Zoe's supplies since I got her a backpack while I was in WDW last month. So she can have her own bag to tend to. hmm... I should post a picture of that too, eh?

And isn't that Steve's favorite ride?

Very nice and kind of neat that Zoe is old enough to carry her own supplies, I'd love to see her backpack.

 

[annmarieda]

No it isn't, but then again I almost feel like that isn't fair to say as I haven't been there in forever!

It is strange, as close as it is... I have not gone but once in the last 6 years. I think the fact that everything seems to cost more keeps me headed to the east coast. Maybe it is just my perception that things are higher.

I am not a fan of huge resorts either. It will be interesting to see how I feel about SSR. I was fine with OKW but not convinced about SSR. We are in the Treehouses and to me, that's worth a hike, we loved being in the cabins and I see THV as a nicer version of that.

I have always wanted to stay in the cabins. I even tried to get Steve to go for it for our first 4 nights in January. He just can't get past the idea that part of that resort is people in tents/trailers.

On the flip side, I am sure I could convince him of the more "upscale" THV. Points are just a tad high though for our smallish contract to handle. (yes can you tell addonitis may be hitting?)

And OKW was ok for you?

I don't trust them as far as I can throw them! In the sense of cancelling, changing, etc on the routes. I'd do it for return, but not outbound. They do seem to have the best options and prices right now but no thanks!

glad to hear it is not just me. I am not even sure I would use them on the return since the last time we did... our luggage didn't make it to seatac. They tried to say it was our fault that it didn't make it on the connection. eventually they did have a courier return our luggage to our house.... luckily we only used them on the return and it didn't happen on our way TO our vacation destination.

1. You are NOT old!
2. You are not silly. Oh wait, maybe you are.
3. I doubt you'd get stuck. I would though. and I'm older. LOL

I may be silly... it is true. And...getting stuck. I have short little legs. (something my mother loves to remind me of when it comes to running ...as in "I just never thought with your little legs you would be able to run" ) Course...not having the long legs... I don't know if that helps with not getting stuck going over a wall either.

It's hard, when you've already been up for 2-3 hours...well you really want/need that coffee. But I do find if I can hold off, I can doze during takeoff at least and some of the early flight and then get a coffee during the later part of it. And then one of course the minute we land, the MCO Starbucks is a ritual, coffee for the bus ride!

I think I may take your advice...and get Steve to as well. No coffee from Seattle to Milwaukee... maybe we can sleep and get coffee once we land. That might be a better plan.

I think preboarding to be close to the restroom, and to ensure you are together makes total sense and who cares what anything looks like!

I worry far too much what people think. It is a trait I really really REALLY need to shed. I mean... even yesterday, I was on my way back from my 6 mile run. I ran past someone (someone holding a sign for a local business) at just under my one mile mark. The loop took me around and hitting back to him around 5 miles. I had a moment of " Oh my gosh he is going to think it took me over 30 minutes to get to the end of this trail (about a mile). I quickly got over it... but WHY do I care what some guy holding a sign thinks? This trait is sure to give me an ulcer (if it hasn't already) I should learn to be able to brush things off better than I do. Ironically, I am also an over sharer...an open book. So in not caring what others know... I then put myself in a position of worrying what they think. Yes I am in fact silly. But what is it... admitting you have a problem is the first step?

You should be able to check on the app, or the website for hours. A different app I have, has them I know. I'd check as honestly I have no idea. When we landed at 10:30 one year we were totally out of luck. Thankfully I knew that ahead of time and had placed a garden grocer order so there were things waiting for us but it was a bit of a pita.

I will check on DTD restaurants before we go. I know that Riverside mill will be open for sure. I can't imagine that landing at 7:30 pm would get us to POR later than 11pm.

And isn't that Steve's favorite ride?

It is! He is so weird... IASM is his must do in WDW... he set up the mickey cartoons to record and HAS to watch the new ones as the come out cause "they are only 5 minutes long" yet... he isn't a disney fanatic like me

Very nice and kind of neat that Zoe is old enough to carry her own supplies, I'd love to see her backpack.

This will be the first attempt at her carrying it. Funny cause it doesn't seem like we have taken many trips without her using a stroller. Time goes by too fast.....

 

[annmarieda]

Zoe will have a couple options for bags to carry in the park.


This is the main one I got her. On Zach's trip to DLR, he brought her back the wallet that matches this. So she can carry her wallet inside the front pouch and her medical supplies in the main part of the back pack.



This one, she ended up with since I had to purchase it for myself on the last day of my most recent trip. While it has no compartments and does not zip, I could see her maybe finding it useful. Or maybe I will snag it for my personal bag on the plane. That could work too and would give me more room to stuff things in for the trip. If history repeats... I am likely to need that extra space.

 

[KatMark]

Cute bags for Zoe, Ann. I really like those.

 

[annmarieda]

Cute bags for Zoe, Ann. I really like those.

Thanks

 

[lilpixiebabe101]

Your cracking me up with your over sharing and caring what people think. I feel like we were texting for the majority of you writing this! Lmao!

And I'm so glad you got that booksack over the sequined one. While it was adorable, it would have probably gotten messed up fast. This one can be wiped up if something spills!

 

[dizneeat]

Great bags for both of you, Ann!

I have never seen the "Small World" bag before, so cute, where did you find it?

 

[annmarieda]

Your cracking me up with your over sharing and caring what people think. I feel like we were texting for the majority of you writing this! Lmao!

I know I can be silly... and yes, you are well aware of my thoughts on my over sharing.

And I'm so glad you got that booksack over the sequined one. While it was adorable, it would have probably gotten messed up fast. This one can be wiped up if something spills!

Yes... and it matches her wallet. It works better I think.

Great bags for both of you, Ann!

I have never seen the "Small World" bag before, so cute, where did you find it?

Thanks, Karin. The LeSportsac was on sale through Zulilly.com. It may not be my favorite ride, but I sure think it is cute. Not totally in love with the doll on it though... so that might come off. Then again... maybe it will stay.

 

[eandesmom]

It is strange, as close as it is... I have not gone but once in the last 6 years. I think the fact that everything seems to cost more keeps me headed to the east coast. Maybe it is just my perception that things are higher.

Similar here, both parks in 2001, DCA only in 2010. Pathetic! I'm really looking forward to going in April

I have always wanted to stay in the cabins. I even tried to get Steve to go for it for our first 4 nights in January. He just can't get past the idea that part of that resort is people in tents/trailers.

Which really aren't near the cabins at all...what does he think, he will get cooties from the actual campers?

They are a ton of fun, we loved them! And as much as I love DVC you don't get the huge deck in the woods you do at the cabins. Except maybe in a treehouse!

On the flip side, I am sure I could convince him of the more "upscale" THV. Points are just a tad high though for our smallish contract to handle. (yes can you tell addonitis may be hitting?)

And OKW was ok for you?

LOVED OKW. I'd really wanted to buy there originally but wanted the extended contract and could never find one

glad to hear it is not just me. I am not even sure I would use them on the return since the last time we did... our luggage didn't make it to seatac. They tried to say it was our fault that it didn't make it on the connection. eventually they did have a courier return our luggage to our house.... luckily we only used them on the return and it didn't happen on our way TO our vacation destination.

I really avoid them at all costs anymore, which is sad. I used to fly them exclusively when I lived in Chicago. It's like a totally different airline now.

I may be silly... it is true. And...getting stuck. I have short little legs. (something my mother loves to remind me of when it comes to running ...as in "I just never thought with your little legs you would be able to run" ) Course...not having the long legs... I don't know if that helps with not getting stuck going over a wall either.

I have long legs, but wimpy upper body...pick your problem. It would be entertaining to watch.

I think I may take your advice...and get Steve to as well. No coffee from Seattle to Milwaukee... maybe we can sleep and get coffee once we land. That might be a better plan.

I always figure they will offer it at the first beverage pass anyway so if I really can't sleep, I can do it then but it gives me a better shot at a doze.

I worry far too much what people think. It is a trait I really really REALLY need to shed. I mean... even yesterday, I was on my way back from my 6 mile run. I ran past someone (someone holding a sign for a local business) at just under my one mile mark. The loop took me around and hitting back to him around 5 miles. I had a moment of " Oh my gosh he is going to think it took me over 30 minutes to get to the end of this trail (about a mile). I quickly got over it... but WHY do I care what some guy holding a sign thinks? This trait is sure to give me an ulcer (if it hasn't already) I should learn to be able to brush things off better than I do. Ironically, I am also an over sharer...an open book. So in not caring what others know... I then put myself in a position of worrying what they think. Yes I am in fact silly. But what is it... admitting you have a problem is the first step?

That is hysterical!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder that sometimes but really you never know where anyone started, turned around, etc.

I will check on DTD restaurants before we go. I know that Riverside mill will be open for sure. I can't imagine that landing at 7:30 pm would get us to POR later than 11pm.

11? I should hope not. Could be 9:30 at the latest I'd think so the challenge really is if DTD stuff closes at 11 you'd have issues. Open till 11 and you are ok.

It is! He is so weird... IASM is his must do in WDW... he set up the mickey cartoons to record and HAS to watch the new ones as the come out cause "they are only 5 minutes long" yet... he isn't a disney fanatic like me

This will be the first attempt at her carrying it. Funny cause it doesn't seem like we have taken many trips without her using a stroller. Time goes by too fast.....

Men.

Time does...Taylor turned 21 this week. Frightening!

Zoe's bags are adorable!

 

[tinacaplan]

Hi, Ann! Stopping in to say hello! I've missed it around here! Trying to track down all my friends. I'll go back and do some reading now!

 

[Woth2982]

As an accomplishment I really would like to do the Coast to Coast some day. I have slowly come around in my thinking regarding the medals. At first I could have cared less... now the idea of a pink coast to coast has me intrigued. I am even considering taking all my medals out of a drawer and displaying them at some point.... but they are just crammed in a drawer somewhere.

So... I am jealous of your pink coast to coast. But that is for doing the Tinkerbell and the PHM... and those are just sooo close together. I fear I would die.

I also would love to do the Wine and Dine. I suspect that it would be a better race than the ToT given that it is also night time...but a month later. I bet the cooler temps would be perfect. If only the two were not a month a part. Again, races a month apart... I could die.

Seriously though.. I do realize that the ToT could be used as a training run for the Wine and Dine.... So I could see making that work some how. The tink and princes.. .probably not. Which means no pink medal for me

Yeah I am a little nervous with Tink and Princess so close. I am thinking I will "go hard" at Tink as I know the course and "enjoy" princess. If that makes any sense. Of course this is all depended on New England winters. You could totally use TOT as your "long run" training run! I just did 10.2 yesterday and it is 13 days away! I got my DL half medal framed. It came out pretty neat! I am really looking forward to W&D. Tip if you decide, try and buy the airfare the week SW releases prices. I got mine the day of and prices have gone up up up since. I think it is because it falls on the holiday weekend.

 

[annmarieda]

Similar here, both parks in 2001, DCA only in 2010. Pathetic! I'm really looking forward to going in April

I am looking forward to you going too. I assume it will mean a TR.

Which really aren't near the cabins at all...what does he think, he will get cooties from the actual campers?

I am not sure what his deal. I know that we are FAR from elite. In fact, I would say we are closer to tent dwellers than what ever is on the opposite end. Maybe he just thinks it will be too "camp like" Like there won't be running water and such? I don't know. Men have their own idea of things.

They are a ton of fun, we loved them! And as much as I love DVC you don't get the huge deck in the woods you do at the cabins. Except maybe in a treehouse!

See, I saw that deck and thought that it would be perfect!!! AND we could have easily had all of us in that cabin (well, I guess easily is maybe not the right word...but we would all fit)

LOVED OKW. I'd really wanted to buy there originally but wanted the extended contract and could never find one

I am hoping that we fall in love... I fall in love with each of the resorts, so I am sure it will happen.

I have long legs, but wimpy upper body...pick your problem. It would be entertaining to watch.

Well, I think your long legs might have given you and advantage today.

SOO impressed am I!!!!

That is hysterical!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder that sometimes but really you never know where anyone started, turned around, etc.

Oh yes... the entire thing I put myself through is quite crazy funny. I need to work on it. I really am working on it... really I am.

Time does...Taylor turned 21 this week. Frightening!

I noticed that on facebook. Isn't it crazy when they hit that age? I know it was weird for me when Kira did. Soon Zach will.

Zoe's bags are adorable!

thanks

Hi, Ann! Stopping in to say hello! I've missed it around here! Trying to track down all my friends. I'll go back and do some reading now!

I am so glad you are here!!!

Yeah I am a little nervous with Tink and Princess so close. I am thinking I will "go hard" at Tink as I know the course and "enjoy" princess. If that makes any sense. Of course this is all depended on New England winters. You could totally use TOT as your "long run" training run! I just did 10.2 yesterday and it is 13 days away! I got my DL half medal framed. It came out pretty neat! I am really looking forward to W&D. Tip if you decide, try and buy the airfare the week SW releases prices. I got mine the day of and prices have gone up up up since. I think it is because it falls on the holiday weekend.

I ran yesterday too... and about the same exact distance! I am sure I could do back to back. I do think the ToT could count as a training run... but then there is the cost of two trips a month a part. Not sure... maybe if I just stayed a couple days for one... using my AP and points... I guess the food cost would be low enough and then there would be just the cost of airfare. Thanks for the tip on when to book.

 

[eandesmom]

I am looking forward to you going too. I assume it will mean a TR.

Yes. It may be a delayed one though as I'll definitely not be done with the NYE one at the pace I update...and I've long since learned I can't manage 2 at once. Mary Ellen will have to be in charge of the girls trip one as a result.

I am not sure what his deal. I know that we are FAR from elite. In fact, I would say we are closer to tent dwellers than what ever is on the opposite end. Maybe he just thinks it will be too "camp like" Like there won't be running water and such? I don't know. Men have their own idea of things.

I can vouch for the water and a HUGE bathroom. However, there is only one bathroom and one sink so that part is a bit of a drag. Small vanity area in the bedroom helps. Our biggest issue with it was the double beds, we need queens. I am SO excited for THV!

See, I saw that deck and thought that it would be perfect!!! AND we could have easily had all of us in that cabin (well, I guess easily is maybe not the right word...but we would all fit)

That deck was a godsend. K&T were in the throes of teen sleepinginitis... the E's and I could have breakfast and coffee on the deck, they could run around and the teens could sleep.

I am hoping that we fall in love... I fall in love with each of the resorts, so I am sure it will happen.

I bet you will!

Well, I think your long legs might have given you and advantage today.

SOO impressed am I!!!!

I can't get my arms around it to be honest, it's totally bizarre.

Oh yes... the entire thing I put myself through is quite crazy funny. I need to work on it. I really am working on it... really I am.

I did that today. We went to the pace group we thought we should be in and I freaked out that like no one else was there. At least comparatively to those behind. It was like...do they know something I don't?

I noticed that on facebook. Isn't it crazy when they hit that age? I know it was weird for me when Kira did. Soon Zach will.

VERY wierd! But cool to see him doing so well, and being really on top of things, grounded and happy. It was a great little visit.

I ran yesterday too... and about the same exact distance! I am sure I could do back to back. I do think the ToT could count as a training run... but then there is the cost of two trips a month a part. Not sure... maybe if I just stayed a couple days for one... using my AP and points... I guess the food cost would be low enough and then there would be just the cost of airfare. Thanks for the tip on when to book.

My theory is that the DL half and the W&D make the perfect combo and break in distance. I LOVE the concept of the girly ones. Do not love the timing of them at all, not to mention January is the brokest month of the year, with Feb not far behind. Travel funds are not usually plentiful for me right after Christmas!

Not that I've figured out how to pull that off mind you (DL half/W&D). Nor that I am convinced I can survive a half.

But...if for some reason Jeff and I don't do the cruise next Sept (I'm putting it at 50/50) AND I actually do the DL half and live...well I WILL have a PAP...gosh it would make sense, wouldn't it.

 

[veggiemama]

My fall 2014 trip I am looking forward to because it will be just Steve and I. (but maybe there will be some time with another couple that hopefully will be coming down at the same time)

I'll be there in October of 2014. Going with my mom to celebrate her 70th birthday - maybe we will be able to meet up?

Zoe will have a couple options for bags to carry in the park.

Love the bag - so cute! Wish I had kids young enough to still buy these kind of things for.

 

[annmarieda]

Yes. It may be a delayed one though as I'll definitely not be done with the NYE one at the pace I update...and I've long since learned I can't manage 2 at once. Mary Ellen will have to be in charge of the girls trip one as a result.

I hear ya... it is had to keep up with the ones I am reading and then to have a PTR and a TR going. Add anything else and I simply can't.

I will patiently wait for your DLR TR...

I can vouch for the water and a HUGE bathroom. However, there is only one bathroom and one sink so that part is a bit of a drag. Small vanity area in the bedroom helps. Our biggest issue with it was the double beds, we need queens. I am SO excited for THV!

I bet you are excited for the THV!!! If I ever have enough points laying about, I would love to stay there too!!!

That deck was a godsend. K&T were in the throes of teen sleepinginitis... the E's and I could have breakfast and coffee on the deck, they could run around and the teens could sleep.

See...that sounds just perfect. I really am happy that we will stay in the royal room for 4 nights... but I still wish that all of us would be in the cabins for those nights. Maybe someday...

I can't get my arms around it to be honest, it's totally bizarre.

I don't think it is is bizarre. You are fit and quite committed. Now if you ran once a month....didn't cross train....then I might find it a bit odd.

So Turkey Trot is coming up... it isn't his best race that he puts on, but it is still USATF certified. (even though it is just a 5k) I need to sign up Steve and I. I think Zoe might do the kids race. Kira is even considering running the 5k. Personally, I while I hope to PR this race (that is my goal this year is redoing races and getting a better time) I am really only in it for the bacon.

My theory is that the DL half and the W&D make the perfect combo and break in distance. I LOVE the concept of the girly ones. Do not love the timing of them at all, not to mention January is the brokest month of the year, with Feb not far behind. Travel funds are not usually plentiful for me right after Christmas!

I agree. I just wish that I could handle the heat better. I don't do myself any favors by training early in the morning during the summer.

And I hear you on travel funds. I would LOVE to do both the phm and the tink... get that pretty pink coast to coast medal. But even if it wouldn't physically kill me I think financially it would.

Not that I've figured out how to pull that off mind you (DL half/W&D). Nor that I am convinced I can survive a half.

I am sure you will survive!! You are an awesome runner!!!!

But...if for some reason Jeff and I don't do the cruise next Sept (I'm putting it at 50/50) AND I actually do the DL half and live...well I WILL have a PAP...gosh it would make sense, wouldn't it.

It would make perfect sense.

Love the bag - so cute! Wish I had kids young enough to still buy these kind of things for.

She is very quickly outgrowing a lot of this type of thing.

And...as for being there in 10/14.. YES! I would love to meet up. It is a ways out, but we will have to keep in touch to pm when the time gets closer.