The New Lizard Lounge

[Nancyg56]

Goofy'smuse: A new home! I can imagine how excited the Goofy's are. I know that your house will go quickly in this market, but here's some for luck.

I_tink: Hi there! I'm adding whole grain crackera topped with cream chees and sun dried bruschetta to enjoy with Angel's wine.

Tammy: I checked out your DS website, thank you for sharing it with us. I try to picture the two of them on the ice, so this was a treat. You have got to be close to the end of school now, aren't you?

VAGal: Have a great trip!

Angel: I am in tears. My heart is breaking for your SIL. Watching your buddies go home has got to be a double edged sword. I know that Chris is very close to his group, and chose to extend his time of service in order to stay with them during his tour. He said that it is easier to be with the men you are familiar with and used to working with. I hope that they can join you in Disney, the family at V&A would really add to the "Celebration of Life" and now I have one more little thing to add each evening when I pray.

Chris is taking the deaths of his buddies very hard. He is tired because they are working long hours and you know the conditions that they work in. He tries to work out 1 hour a day, but this is nowhere near the time that he feels he needs, but he feels better if he gets one hour in. He really does not tell his Mom too much because she would never sleep.

My BIL is doing okay, I guess. He looks good and has never lost his appetite. He has completed his chemo and the radiation in his chest, and now he is having a part of his brain radiated as a precaution. The cancer he has is very invasive and know to attack the brain. He seems to be upbeat, but my DS never talks about it unless pressed. She was a hospice nurse for a long time, and a lot of knowledge and experience is not always a good thing.

Hey, I think the rain may be gone for a while!

 

[GoofySuse]

Look it's me....it's really me!

 

[VAgal76]

Hey, guys!

LOL - Goofy Suse - Yes, I remember you. C'mon in. Are you having trouble? What's been going on with you lately?

GoofysMuse - Wow! A new home. CONGRATS!!!!! Is it a bit of a distance of where you are now or in the same area? Yes, please give us some details? What do you love about it?

I Tink - Welcome to the lounge!

Angel - I'll be saying a prayer for your family. That's got to be especially tough watching everyone go. Have you got a ticker just for his return? I wonder if that would help? I'm just bee-bopping around the world again. I have a bad habit of doing that. AKL CL first, cruise, then CR Atrium club post cruise. I don't know how I'm going to go back to work after this. DH and I have been concocting plans on how to hide out on Castaway Cay. Do you think they'd miss us on the ship? They could just mail our stuff back home and we can become island people. Not in the sense of the movie with Tom Hanks, Castaway, but in the Key West kind.

Tammi - Thanks for the PD. I'm thinking positive - there will be spa villas left, there will be spa villas left. You will get there in time to book it, you will get there in time to book it. So waters are receding in ya'lls area. It sounds like a perfectly good reason for another disney trip. To de-water log yourselves.

Elisabeth - Have I told you how jealous I am of your 5 minute drive to work lately?

Nancy - I hope you are feeling this big ol' virtual hug that's being sent to you.

Sending up prayers to those in need. I brought in some chocolate chip muffins and java for breakfast this morning. I've been a bit rushed so I didn't get to make the Mickey waffles.

Big wave and hug to those that haven't been around lately for this and that.

I don't know how I did this, but I just noticed my count is over 1,000. It's like watching the car hit a certain mileage and dang if I didn't miss it. Oh, well! I'll have to keep a better watch so I don't miss the 2,000 post event.

 

[MinnieSummer]

ANGEL: What a wonderful addition to your "Celebration of Life" to have your SIL join you at Victoria & Alberts. I've added getting him there to my prayers of getting him home.

Goofysmuse: I am sooo jealous. I want a new house. I can't take mine for to much longer as it is way to small. If my mom comes to live with us I'm not sure what we're going to do.

I Tink: Welcome to the lounge. Hope you find the people here as wonderful as I have.

Quick update on the family front. I just returned from a planned one week visit to them. My DD is still in the Skilled Nursing Facility but, as seems to always be the case with him, he is making progress. The day before I got there he started moving his left arm -- with stimulation. The week before I got there he started walking with a walker and people holding him up. I was able to take him home for a day while I was there. He truly enjoyed it and while by the end of the day I had to lift him out of his chair and into the car, he did very well. My DM is also making progress -- the woman I have staying with her is truly a miracle as she has somehow got her diabetes under control and is managing to get her moving alot more. I got the pool semi-opened for them. The man that closed it last year did a horrible job and I ended up having to drain the entire thing, scrub it down, and have water trucked in. I actually scrubbed the pool from 11:00 p.m. (when it finished draining) until 8:30 a.m. (when the water was being delivered). What a total mess. There were enough acorns in the bottom of the pool to fill 4 large garbage cans. Imagine getting those out of the 9 foot section of the pool at 3:00 in the morning. What fun. But I did it. Now I'm just waiting for a new pool man to coem out and get the pump and heater working and we are good to go.

INSPIRATIONAL STORY TO FOLLOW:
But the best part of the trip was Saturday, the day we were leaving. It was about 11:00 and for some reason my ESP kicked in and said I had to go to see my Dad in physical therapy. So I dropped everything and drove to the center. Of course I was thinking that something horrible was going to happen. I walked into the PT room and my Dad was standing on the rails so I sat to watch. He whispered something to the PT who looked at him and asked him if he was sure. He said yes. And next thing I know they wheel him into the middle of the floor. He stands up on his own, and with the Therapist standing beside him he walked the entire length of the room and back. No walker, cane or anything. I cried so hard I couldn't catch my breath. It was the most amazing, beautiful thing I had ever seen. His strength and drive is beyond belief. Almost a year ago he was told he had cancer and without chemo would probably only live two months. The chemo almost killed him, then the blood infection should have killed him, the second blood infection should have killed him, the stroke combined with heart attack and hemmorhage should have killed, and yet here he is alive and fighting his way back from total paralysis to the point where he may really be able to go home. I can't help but believe the prayers of people around the world and here in the lounge are working. Thank you.

 

[Nancyg56]

Minniesummer: I was hoping to hear some news from you, and was smiling picturing you wrestle those cans from the pool. Mind over pool matter going on there, and then your story! I am crying with you now, I am so happy.
Your Mom and Dad have been thru so much, your support for their efforts the whole way. Now this miracle while you can enjoy it! I agree that prayer and faith are powerful tools, so I will continue to pray for their continued improved health.
Take a little time for you, and not in a gym. If you can scrub all night and lift filled cans out of an inground pool, you deserve a little tiramisu and maybe an iced cappucino.

 

[I_Tink]

Hi Everyone! Thanks so much for the kind welcome.

Should I read the thread all the way through or just kinda start here?

We (me, H, DD and her bff) are going to WLCL in April 2007. It is the girls senior year so we wanted to do something extra special.

And, I owe my Dh a return trip to WLCL. We went in Feb 2003 for our honeymoon, but I ruptured a disc a couple of days into the trip. He spent his trip caring for me and running back and forth to the ER. Poor guy.

The WL folks were absolutely wonderful during that whole mess.

We can't wait to go back and give it a second go!

Anyway, I look forward to getting to know everyone!

 

[MinnieSummer]

I Tink: If you have lots of time go ahead and read through all 100 and some pages. I did, and it took several days. I ended up so confused trying to figure out who everyone was and where they stayed. But, looking back, I would just go back and read through twenty or so. You'll get the personalities of everyone that way. But I can tell you as someone who came on this thread trying to plan a great Christmas Vacation for my family, and then found incredible support as my parents health spiraled out of control, that this is a wonderful group of ladies (are there any men on this thread) who offer great advice on the Resorts, and strength. Enjoy them I know I do.

 

[GoofyJoofy]

Yes its true, my lovely Muse and I are buying a new house and selling our existing one .

How is everyone doing? I have been gone a long long time, but thought I'd drop in for a spell. I only read the last page, so I'm not up on all the goings on.

Did I see a question here asking if any men were in the room? Well yes there are.


Early in the year we thought of going to WDW this summer, then when we expected the house to be ready mid-August we put those plans on hold.
Now we find out the house won't be ready until end of Sept.

So guess who's now thinking about putting a trip to the world together for sometime in August?

That's only 8 - 10 weeks away!

It's almost lunch time so here's some snacks and cold drinks for ya'll to help carry you to the end.

A big HELLO to all my old friends and a warm Welcome to the newbies.

 

[GoofySuse]

VaGal...Hey there! Yup, I'm baaaaaack! It's been a long, long year....I've had very major spinal surgery (which for some reason left me totally uninterested in any computer activity) however I finally seem to be bouncing (no, that's not the truth...no bouncing in my life )back.
Unfortunately, due to the surgery the nuerosurgeon says,that there will be no traveling in our lives for the next 18-24 months so I will have to live vicariously through y'all! Therefore make the reports good!!!!!*L*

Both of our sons graduated college last month. One is graduate school and the other law school.....but they're on their own by golly!!! I cannot believe that we are officially empty nesters! What will we do without college bills? Perhaps that's what I need to spend money on! Nah, not likely!

 

[VAgal76]

I feel I have no time to even breath. Last minute stuff and sorely disappointed I forgot our pin and lanyards. We never trade so I'll be just adding on to them but somehow I like to wear it now and then. Packing was quite an adventure and nothing what I'm used to on my regular disney trips. Just how many outfits and pair of shoes do we need? Oh, well - 5 suitcases later I'm finally ready to roll. Thank god for carts in the airport.

Minniesummer - Despite the hardwork the pool took out of you it was a true blessing to hear how you were able to see your Dad take those steps. Wow!

Angel - I see your ticker!!!!!!

GoofySuse - Ouch! I'm glad to see you back in here and that you are recovering nicely. My DD had 3 back surgeries. I know how it can put you down in more ways than one. You can live vicariously through us, but I think you ought to book a trip and work on it for the set "release" date. Nothing like soaking up some WDW sun after an ordeal like that.

GoofyJoofy - Wazzzzzzz uuuuppp?! Again, congrats on the house. Oh, I hope you can totally squeeze that August trip in. It sounds like you guys are just up to your eyeballs and you'll be ready for some real R&R.

I Tink - WL just put in a new lounge. It looks spiffy. Ok, ok - I have to go back and give them another try soon.

Ya'll make sure to behave. *In best Mom voice* No wild parties while I'm gone......NOT! Setting out the keg for you. I instructed the cook to whip up some brats for you guys for dinner tonight which goes perfect with a beer.

 

[Disbug]

Hello everyone and Welcome to I Tink! Thank you for the "Welcome Homes"! I didn't mean to do a drive by post and not come back! lol!

Bonnie! You go girl... have a great time! I will just miss you in Key West! We're going down for a week to Marathon and spending a few days in Key West and points in between! I can't wait to go spend the days on a boat or a jet ski. I am looking for SPF 115 sunscreen.. may have to make it myself! I normally tan, but that sun is wicked strong on the water.. Let us know ALL the details, 'K? If we don't see you, we'll send the boat over to Castaway Cay for you...

Angel! How awesome that you are going to dine at the V&A CHEF's TABLE! That is fabulous! I know you must be overjoyed... Hope you take some great pictures that you can share with us.

I still have not caught up with everyone, either, I-Tink! Reading the entire thread is a good idea if you can squeeze it in. I'm going to try to read it before it's made into a movie!

We are now bonafide new DVC members! So excited! At least I am... my DH kept asking me why I thought this would be a good deal! lol! "Because honey... now we can go to Disney World for points instead of money!" (That's just a little white fib, right?)

 

[I_Tink]

VAGal, I had read that it was renovated. Very exciting! My DH and I plan on spending more time in the Lodge than normal, to keep me and my aching back out of trouble. ;p

Behave? Who me? *bats eyes angelically*

 

[Angel16]

Hi It is Friday afternoon, so must have shades and get in my weekend mood. Just wanted to run in and say WOW you all have so many wonderful things you are sharing. I will check back in the next couple of days and catch up with everyone.

Prayers, pixie dust and hugs to all.

Angel

PS. Bonnie is on vacation. I hope she is having the time of her life!

 

[MinnieSummer]

I don't remember much of what went on here last Christmas but I have a question. Did any of you stay at the contemporary? And if so was it well decorated or were the decorations as boring as they had been in 2000 through 2004? The reason I am asking is that we are thinking of doing CR Concierge, MK view for Christmas this year but I won't do it if the decorations are going to be lousy again. I had read somewhere that part of the renovations were going to include the ability to install a giant tree on the 4th floor in the middle of the shopping area. I so hope this is true but can't find the thread where I read it or anyone who stayed/visited there.

 

[Nancyg56]

Minniesummer: I am going from memory here, but we had meals several times at the Contempory last year, and the decorations were still up. I remember thinking that they were a letdown from the last visit. That was 20 years ago, but I still have them blazed in my mind. I do not remember a tree on the 4th floor, and I did drag my family around to see if I had meiised them, but I don't remember them as stunning. In fact, I don't remember seeing many anywhere inside the hotel. There was a display with Pinochio, I think.

 

[TammiMcMan]

Hey everyone, we've gone from weeks of on again, off again biblical floods and now it's 99 degress outside. I feel like a broken record, but this weather is crazy.

Angel, my DS has been out of school for 2 1/2 weeks now, youngest DD finishes up on Wednesday and my school goes until Friday. They actually wanted to bring us back in on the following Monday to make up for a flood day, but luckily they changed their minds. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that your V & A plans come through. I can't think of anything better.

VAGal, hope you are enjoying the cruise. Pop in and say "Hi" from the Cove Cafe if you get a chance. I'm wishing for blue skies and calm waters for you.

Minniesummer, what a wonderful thread. All I kept thinking when I was reading it, was one step at a time, one day at a time. Sorry, I can't help you out with the CR at Christmas. I'm thinking that with renovations still going on, that they may not consider new decorations until next year. Just a guess on my part though.

Goofy's, hmmmm I seem to remember that you guys are pretty good at planning very spontaneous Disney trips. Hope the sale of the house goes quickly and smoothly for you all.

Nancy, continued good thoughts for your nephew and BIL.

Disbug, congrats on the new DVC.

Hi, to old and new friends. With temps here in the upper 90's, I'm going to suggest frozen Pina Colada's. Actually anything with a lot of ice in it sounds good right about now.

 

[Disbug]

Hi, Tammi! Thanks for the DVC Congrats... we are so looking forward to using our points. We have been renters before, but the first time we hear "WELCOME HOME" will be special, I know! Thanks for the pina coladas... we needed them today. It was Soooo hot before the rain.

MinnieSummer! Wow, your DF is such an inspiration! He must have an incredible will to live. So glad you followed your heart and got to see such a blessing with your own eyes!

Bonnie! If you're reading this... hope your cruise is beyond belief! I am planning one for the year I retire. (OK, I'll probably say I'm going to retire early just to go on the Disney Cruise line... but that's just between us, 'k?)

Has anyone else heard that "WWTBAM-PI!" is being discontinued this August? I am sooo bummed; it was one of my favorite attractions at MGM. It is being replaced with a Toy Story attraction supposedly. Can anyone else confirm this?

Hope everyone is enjoying the start of their summer! Waving Hello to Debbie, Angel, Elisabeth, Donna and all the Lizards I am meeting.

 

[GoofyJoofy]

Hey Tammi - Thanks for the well wishes, and I agree with you about the weather. Since the end of May I have been camping 3 times, and each time was in the pouring rain. Can you say MUD?
DISBUG - What is WWTBAM-PI, if I might ask?

Oldest DD is finished with school, younger 2 have to wait until Friday. Then we all kick into summer mode full time!

What's everyone's plans for summer? We are going to need some rest and relaxation.

Hope everyone is doing well.

 

[#1hockeymom]

sending cooler air out east for everyone who needs it!

Prayers and PD going out for quite a few of you, also!

now, for the good stuff... ITS SUMMER! Well, My first official day of summer vacation was yesterday. Today is number two! I also had a week over what my son had for his schedule. I'm just glad our Easter breaks still match up!

WWTBAM is who wants to be a millionaire. ME ME! I digress. I am not sure what the PI stands for, though!

 

[ead79]

Room wave to everyone!

I too have heard that Who Wants to Be a Millionaire--Play It! (that's the PI part) is being discontinued. I've read on www.************* that they are planning to replace it with a ride tentatively called "Midway Mania" that is sort of like a Buzz Lightyear on steroids. It sounds interesting to me--I think that Disney-MGM Studios can definitely use some more rides that appeal to non-thrill riders & families.