steveanddonna said:
DF, can't wait to read about your cruise. Cruising has never appealed to us much, but the more we hear about Disney cruises, the more we're rethinking that. One of my favorite CMs regaled us with such an enthusiastic account of her Christmas cruise, we were practically ready to book then and there.
We used to harbor similar sentiments! Especially AFTER we tried Disney's "original" cruise line on Premier's THE BIG RED BOAT! It was so lacking in any trace of MAGIC, I felt compelled to contact corporate with a mandatory "to do" list as soon as I returned. This is when I received "soft news" regarding their OWN CRUISE LINE in the works! I was wild with anticipation and excitement, and began planning our first cruise right then and there. This was about 5 years before the MAGIC was launched, but the news of her arrival was released publicly long before this date.
I knew the service & accommodations would be stellar, as whenever DISNEY takes on a project, they are sure to dot the "i's" and cross the "t's" (ALL of them!). As I presumed, our initial cruise was heavenly.
We have tried just about every itinerary the
DCL offers, with exception to the special cruises and Holiday events. We are pleased to be taking the Los Angeles adventure, and I'll contact you with all the details upon returning.
As much as I LOVE the DCL...I have to try Cunard and the Q2 (did you take a peek at the suites offered, on this luxury liner?). I revel in the thought of the transatlantic crossing, on a liner reminiscent of the jewels of the past.
As much as you enjoy Concierge treatment...give one of the suites a try, even for a quick 3-4 day hop on your initial outing. I KNOW you and Steve would LOVE cruising!! We should all plan a LL cruise, with old friends from the DIS. What a fabulous time we would all have together. Maybe, an ADULT'S ONLY 3-DAY cruise? It would be a HOOT with all us LL gals taking over the SHIP!!
Tammi~When another friend recently cruised in a cat 3, (short hop) she too refrained from asking for "anything" special from concierge! The staff repeatedly stopped and asked her if there was "ANYTHING" she wished to reserve/do (other than a spa treatment and 2 ressies @ Palo's? She would always answer "no" (much to their chagrin).
Once back, I lightly admonished her for NOT enjoying the services more...and explaining the DESIRES of the concierge staffers to DO SUCH THINGS for the guests in the suites!! The head concierge even explained to me when honeymooners are onboard, many want to be left completely alone. That's to be expected---but isn't any FUN for the Concierge staff. They take tremendous PLEASURE in the planning and preparation of each guest's "unique" request(s). The more challenging, the more exciting! It's where they derive the greatest sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Therefore, they LOVED my requests, and always greatly exceed my expectations with lavish presentations and dramatic results.
As for cruising, it will be difficult to depart from the standards of DCL. I have received information from a few other lines, which have invariably "piqued" my interest. None as much as the Q2. Therefore, other than the DCL., she is the next ship we will be boarding.
Thank you for the wishes for my DD. We visited an exclusive private college campus yesterday, for admitted student's day. Mount St. Mary's college is an incredible school, atop a breathtaking mountain in Brentwood (overlooking Santa Monica and Los Angeles). Yesterday was so clear and sunny, we could see Catalina.
DD received an offer into their elite Honors program. We learned yesterday only 50 students received this distinguished offer.
As much as she enjoyed the day, and all the insight, England clearly remains her top choice. The events of the day resulted in yet another step in this direction. Over dinner at Claim Jumper's, we discussed the relevant facts/issues surrounding all the schools involved in her decision. She loves Notre Dame, but not the location (Indiana). She truly ponders Berkeley, but some factors have her concerned (safety being a major one). USF and USC are great opps, but still...located SO CLOSE to home here in So. Cal (besides the fact USC is one of my Alma Maters...LOL= kiss of death!).
There are a few others, one in Mass, she has been contemplating. I am pleased she is giving them all thoughtful consideration, the noble thing to do when an acceptance is received. In the end, she will accept where she is meant to attend.
I'm fine with Europe, DH too. It just means we'll have to fly there more often in those VA suites! (darn).
TTFN...DF99
I say--enjoy the trip, and don't dwell on the bad things that might pop up (being Disney, I'm sure there won't be too many of them! 
!
Angel16... Hugs, prayers and PD to you and your family... You are absolutely right that attitude is SO important! That grandson and those puppies are among the best kinds of medicine... will keep you all in my thoughts...
