~~ They're leaving the nest, sew it's time for a trip - or two - or three...~~ D~'s bag ~9/22 ~~

[DMGeurts]

OK, your Cooper story of the wet, toilety kisses made me. Aren't dogs great?
I have no idea why 4 am has become Eddie's wake up time. He's going to be 14 in August and is getting quite senile unfortunately. Schnauzers are prone to doggy dementia. He wakes up at 4 every morning wanting his breakfast so he won't go back to sleep. We've take to locking him in the kitchen with baby gates and going back to bed.

Hope you have a very productive day. Have a wonderful weekend.

Hahaha... Yah - it was a great wake up time. For some reason - I was thinking Eddie was your new puppy... I was all mixed up.

Cooper still wakes between 4-5am... sometimes I can get him to go back to bed and sometimes I can't. Or rather - sometimes I can fall back to sleep and sometimes I can't. LOL

Thanks - I had a good week last week. I hope you did too!

I loved the story of the toilet bowl kisses. I am so glad it is Friday. I am looking forward to having relatively no plans for this weekend. I want to go out to the produce farms and stock up on healthy fruits and veggies. Maybe even go to the butcher. Wild times I have planned. Have a great weekend.

Hahaha... I figured you guys would.

I hope you had a great weekend and were able to stock up on everything you needed to.

The pictures are so funny
I will try to spot clean my bag to see if it can get better.

Today I bought a new suitcase. They had a black one on display in the store so I asked if they had any other color that everyone else doesn't have so it's easier to spot it at the airport. They had a deep red color one in the back. So I bought that one. I also bought rechargeable batteries for my GPS. I told the man in the store that the last time I was in the USA the charger I had wouldn't work. He then told me that it probably don't work on the weird Voltage that they have in the USA So he advised me to buy a new charger when I get to the USA. I'm guessing that they will have that at Walmart. I'm really starting to look forward to our trip

Yay!!! Glad you got a new suitcase! And red is a good color... Mine are a bright pink/fuscia color - and it's rare that I go anywhere and I find another that color... Even though I was a little obvious when we were taking the train in Europe... LOL

Yes - they should have that at Walmart when you get here... And probably pretty cheap too?

Im with you on the worried about November!! I was looking forward to low crowds and I'm doubting that will happen. Now I'm just praying there isn't a heat wave as well. My daughter and I don't mind the heat but my husband the Canadian hates the heat and my son tends to get sick feeling when he gets slightly too hot. We went in Sept 2013 and it was mostly okay but I remember we were dripping with sweat our first day waiting for Jedi training academy. But a little rain cooled things off the rest of the week. I read somewhere they expect a mild hurricane season because of el nino but i dont know what that means temp wise. Im just gonna keep praying!

It seems like it's going to be so busy... I am very nervous about it. But it can't be any worse than August with the crowds and heat... I can take the crowds any day over the heat. thumbsup2

Oh my, dog kisses...of the yucky kind! I would have disinfected instantly as well! That photo of the trip back was adorable. Love, love, love Victoria's cranky look in the other one. Is she babysitting again this summer? Maybe I'd better go back and try to catch up. I have so many questions.

I would LOVE to go in November and spend a bit of time with the three Amigos, (plus a few other DISers I hear) but we already have our airfare and can't change it at this point cause it's not Southwest. Also, Dan and I are going on a Viking River Cruise in November for our 30 anniversary. Actually the anniversary is the 20th of this month.

Well, I'm just on a break from sewing a dress for my granddaughter, so I need to get back down there before I fall into the rabbit hole of the internet any further. Hope all is going well as you work this weekend!

P.S. I did want to say that the selfie you took at the airport while waiting for Mo was amazing. You are so beautiful and look soooo young!!! I would frame that one!!

Hi Lois!!! LOL - yah V has that cranky look mastered... funniest thing is that she wasn't cranky at all - she was in a good mood... she just does it now. LOL Yes - she is doing a lot of babysitting... and drawing.

Bummer that you can't change - but the river cruise sounds amazing! You'll have a great time! Happy 30th Anniversary TODAY!!!

I hope you were able to finish the dress?

Awww... Thank you! I am not feeling so young these last few days... but glad I look it. LOL Thanks for stopping by Lois, I've missed you!

I commend your self discipline!! I am terrible at staying on track on vacation especially!



Yikes...those are kind of a tall order!! I hope the ADR gods are smiling on you!

Hahaha.... I don't feel like I have much dicipline... Mo was awesome in Maine and sometimes I felt like she was the pro at this and not me. But - I just do the best I can and enjoy myself, and keep on - keepin' on.

I hope so too! LOL I start this week... I've been watching them every day up until now - and it looks like I might be OK? I hope?

i am dying over here..

Hahaha... I figured you would be.

Nothing much to say - as I haven't caught up in the slightest - except - I'm alive.
And overworked.
Cooper is getting so big!

Hi Ruth!!! It's great to see you! I know - we've all been busy, it seems. Thanks for checking in and saying hi!

I think you will be fine for ADRs in January. Unless they offer FD way ahead like this Nov trip. But you'll still be fine.

Love the pic from the trip home from the lake.....so funny

I hope so... It's looking OK so far... I make ADRs this week... I've been watching them - and they seem to be OK.

Yah - That one cracked me up.

Hey Miss D! I just shot you an email; I am going to spend the rest of the week trying to get caught on this thread of yours! I saw some pics of you and the family at the lake on FB; what a wonderful time. Looked like you had some wonderful things to eat there. Bread - how I love bread - it always seems to get snuck into my diet now and then. That will need to be worked on.

I cannot wait to get caught up and read all about your Dis plans for November and January. I will be better about keeping up now!

Take care,
Carol

Hi Carol!!! I did get your email and I also got your reply to mine... Sorry I have not replied back yet... It's so hard to do a long detailed email from my phone/tablet... and it's not often I get to sit down in my office to compose one.

We did have a great time and we did have some great food. I do have a hard time with bread too - I do have it on rare occasions... but noodles - no way... I rarely - if ever - touch those.

I am excited to finally have some plans in motion... Now - to pay for it all.

Take care of yourself... and I will try to reply to your email asap.

It's a ghost town in here...

I know, I know... It's a lot of work keeping up these days.

HI! Just checking in. I have lots to catch up on. I see you had a wonderful time at the Lake.
ADR's, sound wonderful. So many Disney trips to plan and the excitement. I could only be so lucky.
We just got back from visiting my family down south. We had a wonderful time. We were able to spend time with littlest member of our family (age 2 1/2); and what a firecracker she is. We LOVED every minute of it!!!
Exciting news is we are planning a family Disney trip in 2016. It should be interesting as we will be a party of 10!!
Off to catch up on what I have missed!!
Have a wonderful day!!

Hi Lynee! Well, a benefit to me being behind is that there isn't much to catch up on. LOL

Sounds like you had a great trip!!!

Yay - when are you going in 2016? That sounds like so much fun!

Thanks for stopping by! I miss everyone so much!

I hope you have a great week!

Here's hoping you get all of your ADRs!

Love the photo of Josh sleeping in the car...too funny!

We are back from our Disney trip and overall it was fabulous. I never have time for a TR, or I am good at starting and not finishing them, so I won't bother this time.

I posted a few photos on a Polynesian Villas thread because we had the BEST ROOM EVER at the Polynesian. I did not want to leave. Seriously. Our standard view room ended up having a perfect view of the beach, the Grand Floridian and the Magic Kingdom Castle and Space Mountain. We really got lucky but I don't think I could ever stay at the Poly again because I know the room would probably never be as good. We love the convenience of it though, but we also loved our 4 nights at Bay Lake Tower in a standard view room...where we saw trees and the building and a little bit of the pool...and the shuffleboard court.

DH said we could go back in August if I wanted, but I seriously think I'll save my leave and take a break. I did bit the bullet and pay for Disney Fantasy cruise in October. I was debating, but life it just way too short and the price, while not low, is certainly the best we could ever hope for for a family of five to take a 7-night E. Caribb cruise so we are going for it. YOLO right?

Thanks!! This week is the week... Fingers crossed. I've been looking though - and it doesn't look to be too bad?

Yah - that one was too good to pass up... I had it posted on FB for a while, but I figured that was too mean - so I took it down. But - the Dis, I am sure that's less bad, right? LOL

So glad you had a great trip and a great room - it does sound marvelous! I still dream of staying there one day. Maybe when I am rich? Your BLT room sounded like a little bit of a let down - but I am sure you had a great time anyways.

Oooh a cruise... again another bucket list item for me... One day. You'll have a great time - I am sure of it!

***************************************************************************************************

Yup - every time I think I'll have the time to stay caught up, I just can't. LOL But this is the first morning I've actually been able to sit down in the office and let Cooper play in the kitchen area - so far so good... So maybe there is hope?

We have been very busy...

Allison has been working... She has also had a couple of photo shoots scheduled. She also has her Senior pictures scheduled... Gasp! We've been shopping for outfits for those - spending a FULL day at the MOA, then another day at another mall. I think we have some good outfits going - but a few that need to go back. Maybe this evening we'll run over there?

Victoria was busy all last week with Vacation Bible School... She volunteers with that every year and loves doing it. She has been super active in the church youth group - she is going on another field trip today. I really love this for her because it keeps her busy, and it keeps her involved with other kids in the summer. She is also doing some babysitting - but not as much as in previous summers.

Gus was home (as in - not at school) until last week Wednesday... So Allison spent lots of time with him.

Josh is home all this week and part of next week for a class he is taking for work... WHich means I have to be out of the office every morning by 7:30. Sigh. He also had his back procedure done last week Thursday - he is recovering well from that.

The dogs are doing good... Cooper still has the rare accident in the house... maybe one every 2-3 days? So, he is really close to being potty trained. Praise God! It seems like Cooper has taken over the role of Alpha Dog... MM is just too nice and won't stand up for himself. This saddens me, because it was not something I was expecting. But for the most part - they get along well and play nicely. Cooper finally graduated to his "big boy collar" complete with his rabies vaccination tag... His puppy collar was coming unclipped all of the time - we ordered his big boy collar and it arrived in the nick of time. LOL It's a bit big - but we have no far that he will continue to grow.

I am doing fine too... Staying super busy! My business is going well... Target is "meh" as usual.... I am working out and staying healthy... Oh - I've started "running"... I've missed my lake walks - so I started walking at home here. I hate walking in town because it's one big hill - so I walk out in the country... Which is a 55 mph road (no one ever does 55) with a small shoulder - it does make me uncomfortable - but it's much flatter and I can jump in a ditch if necessary. Adding to my walk - I've started adding periods of running to that. Keeping in mind, I am NOT a runner, but I've always wanted to be... With my years of smoking - I have very little lung capacity... and with my years living a sedentary lifestyle - I have very little endurance. But to my great suprise last week - my 8+ years being a non-smoker, plus my almost 2 years of lifting heavy has really impacted my endurance and I am able to run for short periods (approx 1/3 mile)... I am very excited about this - and really want to keep pushing myself further. It has been an ultimate dream of mine to be able to do a 5k some day - and I can guarantee - if I can build up to a 5k - I WILL do one in WDW - I will have earned it for sure! So, that's my BIG news. Feeling good - eating good (mostly) - sticking to our financial budget (which has been trying at times)... Life is good.

Eeep - I had a random Dismeet the other day... Pretty cool actually. But no pictures - which we all know it means it technically didn't happen. But I was dropping Alli off at work on Saturday... and someone came up to me - she recognized me from The Dis and my PTR/TRs... It was SO COOL!!! I was so shocked! I prepare myself to have a few people know me when we are in WDW - but to have someone recognize me at home - well - that was just awesome! She is not a regular poster here on The Dis (I hope she does introduce herself), but she does read and follow along... I believe her name is Kathleen? I know it started with a "K"... My memory is awful because I was just so excited to meet someone so randomly like that.

That's about all... I uploaded a few pictures from the last week... Nothing exiting - but just a few random ones. Sadly - none of V and I this week - I honestly didn't see her much... And Alli and I spent a lot of time together with her senior picture shopping... Oh and that last picture... I love how my legs are starting to look pretty muscular - that was an exceptionally good angle, because there is still (and always will be) a lot of excess skin. Sad face.

Disney update...

This week is the week for ADRs... I have our park days figured out... Our first few days there are busier than the rest - so our first park day is going to be kind of sucky with crowds predicted in the 9-10s. But since it won't be hot - we can deal with it, we'll have a good time anyways.

I will let you all know later in the week how it goes and what our park days are shaping up to be.

I hope all of you have a fantastic week!!! I miss you all so much - truly I do!!! Stay safe and Pixie Dust to all of you!

D~

 

[Chicago Mo]

YAY ADR DAY! can't wait to see what you pick!

Looking good as always! you legs look great.. I really need to start working out.

 

[Clio]

I figured that you've been busy lfinally starting to look good.ately. I'm glad that Cooper is almost house trained but sorry that MM doesn't stand up to him. It's sort of like it is at my daughter's house. The youngest of the 3 cats is the alpha cat, if there's such a thing, the other 2 just let him.
I've been busy working. My hours got changed to 2-11 because they can't find a replacement of the closers that either retired or quit. On the up side, I have all morning to do stuff. I have a short vacation starting Saturday. That will be nice.
My daughter and her husband are mostly settled into their new house. they gave up painting after 2 rooms. Maybe after the weather cools down they'll get back to it.
The yard is finally starting to look good. There is grass where the pool used to be. Although with the heat this weekend , the pool would have been nice.other k
It's good to hear that V. and Allie are having a good summer. I can't believe Alli's going to be a senior this year. Time goes by so fast.
Good luck with your ADRs.
Have a good day.
Liz

 

[Denovagirl]

Love your update!



Woohoo on the running!! That is very exciting!! Keep it up!

How funny that someone recognized you at home!! Your famous!

Squeeeeee on ADRs!! Sending you lots and lots of pixie dust!!

 

[Terkina]

How great that both Alli and V has things to do during the summer.
I'm glad to hear that Josh is recovering well after his back procedure.
It's great to hear that you are doing well also.

Last week I had some computer issues. First the screen to my big computer wasn't working. This didn't come as a total shock because it has been bad for some time, but not so bad that I felt I had to replace it. But last week it got so bad I couldn't use it anymore. So I went over to using my laptop and then windows update didn't want to download the latest updates there. So I tried to fix it for 3 days and after 3 days of frustration it now looks like I've managed to fix it
Today I tried to start my main computer again with the screen that wasn't working as it should. And today the screen is working just fine. So now I'm back at my big computer.

It's only 3 weeks left until I leave for the US. I have a feeling I have forgotten something that I have to get done before I leave. So today I started to make a list of everything (big and small) that has to be done before I leave. I already have a packing list for everything I want to pack with me and this list I'm now supplementing.

 

[DMGeurts]

YAY ADR DAY! can't wait to see what you pick!

Looking good as always! you legs look great.. I really need to start working out.

Thanks my friend! If you have the time - you should... Because we all know you have oodles and oodles of excess time on your hands.

I figured that you've been busy lfinally starting to look good.ately. I'm glad that Cooper is almost house trained but sorry that MM doesn't stand up to him. It's sort of like it is at my daughter's house. The youngest of the 3 cats is the alpha cat, if there's such a thing, the other 2 just let him.
I've been busy working. My hours got changed to 2-11 because they can't find a replacement of the closers that either retired or quit. On the up side, I have all morning to do stuff. I have a short vacation starting Saturday. That will be nice.
My daughter and her husband are mostly settled into their new house. they gave up painting after 2 rooms. Maybe after the weather cools down they'll get back to it.
The yard is finally starting to look good. There is grass where the pool used to be. Although with the heat this weekend , the pool would have been nice.other k
It's good to hear that V. and Allie are having a good summer. I can't believe Alli's going to be a senior this year. Time goes by so fast.
Good luck with your ADRs.
Have a good day.
Liz

Hi Liz!

Thank you!

Yuck on the hours at work, but for vacation - that's nice!

Glad to hear your dd is settled... LOL - I usually give up on large projects too... Sometimes it's nice to take a break then go back to it with fresh eyes.

I know - I cannot believe it either... I am starting to go into panic mode.

You too! Thanks for stopping by!

Love your update!

Woohoo on the running!! That is very exciting!! Keep it up!

How funny that someone recognized you at home!! Your famous!

Squeeeeee on ADRs!! Sending you lots and lots of pixie dust!!

Thanks Terri! I love your new siggy! Cute!

Thanks! For some reason - my knee is feeling a little odd this morning, so no running for me today. It's OK though - I'll probably go tomorrow - today is heavy lifting day.

I know!!! I couldn't believe it. Alli teased me all day...

Eeeep... This trip just got real... You know what that means - I must kick it in to high gear - I am such a procrastinator!

How great that both Alli and V has things to do during the summer.
I'm glad to hear that Josh is recovering well after his back procedure.
It's great to hear that you are doing well also.

Last week I had some computer issues. First the screen to my big computer wasn't working. This didn't come as a total shock because it has been bad for some time, but not so bad that I felt I had to replace it. But last week it got so bad I couldn't use it anymore. So I went over to using my laptop and then windows update didn't want to download the latest updates there. So I tried to fix it for 3 days and after 3 days of frustration it now looks like I've managed to fix it
Today I tried to start my main computer again with the screen that wasn't working as it should. And today the screen is working just fine. So now I'm back at my big computer.

It's only 3 weeks left until I leave for the US. I have a feeling I have forgotten something that I have to get done before I leave. So today I started to make a list of everything (big and small) that has to be done before I leave. I already have a packing list for everything I want to pack with me and this list I'm now supplementing.

Bummer about the computer issues... But I am glad you were able to get it fixed and not have to worry about it on your trip.

EEEEeeeeep!!!! I cannot believe you leave in just 3 weeks! You will be able to check in here occasionally right? I have you in my calendar for the Dismeet - I cannot wait to finally meet you! I am so excited!!!!

****************************************************************************************************

Two days in a row... You guys must be fainting right??? LOL I know - I am shocked too!

I had a great day yesterday...

I worked all day in my sewing room - sun up to sun down, with only a short break in the middle to make/eat dinner. It was a super productive day for me.

I have a HUGE and IMPORTANT Disney update to do today....

I was able to talk to Josh last night... And I was able to get his blessing for our November Dismeet trip! So, that trip is a GO! I just have to be able to fund it on my own - which I already knew. So... Lots of work for me. This is such a relief to me - it was causing a lot of stress in my life, because I was so worried he would say no.

As a side note to the above trip... I am staying with Suzi and Bradey - as you all know. A few weeks ago - I gave Suzi permission to SURPRISE me with our resort... I know where we WERE staying, but she had ideas of switching, and as of now - I have no idea where we are staying, and I'd like to keep it that way. When she sends me our ME tags, I promise not to look and give them to Josh for safe keeping - he will attach them to my luggage and I promise - NO PEEKING!

Second big Disney news... I was able to secure our first BIG ADR for Allison's trip... This meal will come as no surprise to you all - I am sure. Since we are staying at SoG, and won't have the dining plan, Allison picked her top 3 meals and I picked 1... So, we are only having 4 sit down meals for this trip - which is a huge change of pace for us, but I am kind of excited about it... I think it will allow us to be a little more "free-spirited" with our trip. So, the first ADR is an early breakfast reservation at Tusker House! Rise n' shine - must be at AK by 7:45am. LOL It's bound to be a great day!

I am very excited about how Allison's trip is shaping up to be... We are there for 8 nights, but we only have 4 day tickets... So, we have our arrival and departure day with no parks and 2 days off in the middle, plus our U/S day (if I can pull that one off financially). But our park days will be go, go, go days, so we can get as much done as we possibly can.

Currently - I am stalking airfare for the January trip... But not much luck yet. I am hoping for my normal direct Sun Country flight at a good price... I will take South West - but they don't have any direct flights from MSP to MCO - so we'd have to stop/change planes. I don't mind that so much for the trip home, but when you just wanna get there...

OK all - enough rambling for this morning...

I hope you all have a great day! Prayers and good thoughts go out to all of you!

D~

 

[kittylady1972]

I have a HUGE and IMPORTANT Disney update to do today....

I was able to talk to Josh last night... And I was able to get his blessing for our November Dismeet trip! So, that trip is a GO! I just have to be able to fund it on my own - which I already knew. So... Lots of work for me. This is such a relief to me - it was causing a lot of stress in my life, because I was so worried he would say no.

As a side note to the above trip... I am staying with Suzi and Bradey - as you all know. A few weeks ago - I gave Suzi permission to SURPRISE me with our resort... I know where we WERE staying, but she had ideas of switching, and as of now - I have no idea where we are staying, and I'd like to keep it that way. When she sends me our ME tags, I promise not to look and give them to Josh for safe keeping - he will attach them to my luggage and I promise - NO PEEKING!

Second big Disney news... I was able to secure our first BIG ADR for Allison's trip... This meal will come as no surprise to you all - I am sure. Since we are staying at SoG, and won't have the dining plan, Allison picked her top 3 meals and I picked 1... So, we are only having 4 sit down meals for this trip - which is a huge change of pace for us, but I am kind of excited about it... I think it will allow us to be a little more "free-spirited" with our trip. So, the first ADR is an early breakfast reservation at Tusker House! Rise n' shine - must be at AK by 7:45am. LOL It's bound to be a great day!

I am very excited about how Allison's trip is shaping up to be... We are there for 8 nights, but we only have 4 day tickets... So, we have our arrival and departure day with no parks and 2 days off in the middle, plus our U/S day (if I can pull that one off financially). But our park days will be go, go, go days, so we can get as much done as we possibly can.

Currently - I am stalking airfare for the January trip... But not much luck yet. I am hoping for my normal direct Sun Country flight at a good price... I will take South West - but they don't have any direct flights from MSP to MCO - so we'd have to stop/change planes. I don't mind that so much for the trip home, but when you just wanna get there...

OK all - enough rambling for this morning...

I hope you all have a great day! Prayers and good thoughts go out to all of you!

D~

LOVE the idea of you being surprised at your resort in November! Several years ago we did that, surprised my in-laws with where we were staying and it was pretty cool. It was Wilderness Lodge, which they hadn't stayed in in years. So fun!

Tusker House is on my list of restaurants to try one day. Sounds great. Love the idea of having fewer sitdown meals. We did that for our recent trip and I really enjoyed having that freedom to just eat when and where we wanted, including back in our room.

So I know Allison will only have the 4-day tickets, but are you still toying with the idea of an AP for yourself because you have so many trips planned within the year?

Best of luck with airfare too! We looked into some pricing for our cruise in October, but I just can't see spending that kind of money (over $1000) for airfare when I know we'll be spending extra money on the cruise. I think we'll need to just suck it up and drive both ways, even if it's an all-day drive the first day. After all, we can sleep on the ship!

Looking forward to seeing how your next ADRs go!

 

[Chicago Mo]

I was able to talk to Josh last night... And I was able to get his blessing for our November Dismeet trip!

YAAAAAAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

because I was so worried he would say no.

Like he could say no to us all getting together? I do wish we can do our familys together!

he will attach them to my luggage and I promise - NO PEEKING!

I don't know how you can do that... I would look.

Rise n' shine - must be at AK by 7:45am. LOL It's bound to be a great day!

YAY!!!! Congrats! is this also a Gus day???

 

[Sweetly]

I think I'm all caught up! Glad this has been moving at slow pace to keep up. YAY!!! for Josh's blessing on the November trip.
So glad you got your ADR for Tusker House. We went there in May for our trip and LOVED it!
Funny you mentioned about doing a 5k run. My daughter signed up one for and I was told last night that she wanted me to do it with her. Guess I better start working on that. I usually walk 2 miles a day, but running not so much. Should be interesting.
V sure has been busy, but good for her. Senior year for Alli, time is just flying.
We are planning on going back to WDW in the fall of 2016. I wasn't going to , but we were surprised with the news that the family will be growing. That being said, I figured best to go and help with the little ones.
Well enjoy your day, back to work I go.

 

[Terkina]

I'm glad to hear you had a great day in your sewing room yesterday.
How great that you got YES from Josh to go on your November Disney trip if you can fund it yourself
YAY for getting the ADR at Tusker House for Breakfast.

I will do my best to check in on the DIS while I'm away. But it won't be daily. I know from last time that we get to our motel around 7. Tired and some planning to do before the next day. I will try my best to log on the DIS as often as possible.

 

[Denovagirl]

Wooohooo for Disney in Nov!! That will be so fun!!! And a surprise resort! Squeeee!



And dancing bananas for your TH ADR! Yassssssss! Good job!

 

[JoeyEmmaMomma]

We are planning to try Tusker House for the first time in December. I can't wait!!
A surprise resort sounds adorably fun.

 

[DMGeurts]

LOVE the idea of you being surprised at your resort in November! Several years ago we did that, surprised my in-laws with where we were staying and it was pretty cool. It was Wilderness Lodge, which they hadn't stayed in in years. So fun!

Tusker House is on my list of restaurants to try one day. Sounds great. Love the idea of having fewer sitdown meals. We did that for our recent trip and I really enjoyed having that freedom to just eat when and where we wanted, including back in our room.

So I know Allison will only have the 4-day tickets, but are you still toying with the idea of an AP for yourself because you have so many trips planned within the year?

Best of luck with airfare too! We looked into some pricing for our cruise in October, but I just can't see spending that kind of money (over $1000) for airfare when I know we'll be spending extra money on the cruise. I think we'll need to just suck it up and drive both ways, even if it's an all-day drive the first day. After all, we can sleep on the ship!

Looking forward to seeing how your next ADRs go!

I am super excited to be surprised... I feel like a child. All I know is that I am going to Disney... and I get to see my favorite girls... The rest is a surprise and I love it!

Tusker House - before the park opens breakfast is always a must do for us... There is just something about walking through AK before it "wakes up" that is magical. Not only that, but if you time it right - you walk out of the door from TH and right on to the Safari - before there's a line - it works out very nicely.

Yes, I am definitely still toying with getting an AP... I am 98% sure that is what I am going to do... It just makes sense. The plan is to buy a 10 day pass before I go, so we can do FPs - then when I get down there, I will upgrade to the AP. I have not decided on the TiW card yet though - I did hear that it's being discontinued, so I am not sure when that is happening? Or if it will even be available for purchase when I get there?

I wish we could drive, but I just think it would be too much? At least for these next few trips - I find it so convenient to just hop on a plane and be there. But in your situation - I would drive... You are right, you can always sleep on the ship (but are you really going to??? LOL I'd be too excited to sleep).

I didn't have to do any ADRs this morning - today is a "day off" for us.... Tomorrow morning is a biggie though.

YAAAAAAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO



Like he could say no to us all getting together? I do wish we can do our familys together!



I don't know how you can do that... I would look.



YAY!!!! Congrats! is this also a Gus day???

I know - Josh adores you two (he doesn't adore many people) - I don't think he could ever say no to the two of you.

Not sure yet? Like I said - I plan to wait for him to get back to school for a couple of months to see if he could even take this time off from school... It would be his first 3 days back after winter break - and I would assume those are important days not to miss?

I think I'm all caught up! Glad this has been moving at slow pace to keep up. YAY!!! for Josh's blessing on the November trip.
So glad you got your ADR for Tusker House. We went there in May for our trip and LOVED it!
Funny you mentioned about doing a 5k run. My daughter signed up one for and I was told last night that she wanted me to do it with her. Guess I better start working on that. I usually walk 2 miles a day, but running not so much. Should be interesting.
V sure has been busy, but good for her. Senior year for Alli, time is just flying.
We are planning on going back to WDW in the fall of 2016. I wasn't going to , but we were surprised with the news that the family will be growing. That being said, I figured best to go and help with the little ones.
Well enjoy your day, back to work I go.

Hi Lynee!! Yes - his blessing was definitely exciting - I honestly didn't know how I was going to get it?

Love TH - it is definitely a favorite!

Hahahaha... Best of luck with that! I am sure you will do wonderful! I really want to do one some day - just to say I did it.

I know - these girls are growing so fast... It's hard to believe... Makes me so sad.

Yay!!! Congratulations!!!!! Fall 2016... I'll be there in October... Hint, hint. I think it's the best decision for you to go, as well.

Thanks! You too!!! Thanks for stopping by!

I'm glad to hear you had a great day in your sewing room yesterday.
How great that you got YES from Josh to go on your November Disney trip if you can fund it yourself
YAY for getting the ADR at Tusker House for Breakfast.

I will do my best to check in on the DIS while I'm away. But it won't be daily. I know from last time that we get to our motel around 7. Tired and some planning to do before the next day. I will try my best to log on the DIS as often as possible.

Thanks Lillian! I am very excited! Each step I get more and more excited... And with Mo writing the TR for Maine - I miss those girls more and more every day. We are going to be so spoiled now, seeing eachother twice in one year.

I hope you can - even if it's only once every few days... I'd like to sort-of track your trip.

Wooohooo for Disney in Nov!! That will be so fun!!! And a surprise resort! Squeeee!

And dancing bananas for your TH ADR! Yassssssss! Good job!

I know - I feel like such a child! You have NO idea how excited I am about this. And I am HUGE on surprises... Ever since I was a little girl and my parents would let me open all of my Christmas/Birthday gifts early - then the day would come and I'd have nothing. Now I am HUGE about no peeking/investigating/early opening - my family would vouch for that. So, I cannot wait to see where we are going to stay!

I was really worried about not getting TH... Since I don't have the 180+10, I thought - for sure - we'd have to settle for a later one, but I was excited to get one of the first. You know - gotta meet my guy right away in the morning.

We are planning to try Tusker House for the first time in December. I can't wait!!
A surprise resort sounds adorably fun.

You will love it! It's a great meal! This will be our - um - 5th or 6th time doing it? Love it, absolutely love it!

I know - I feel like such a child! I cannot wait!!! Suzi is such a good friend to do this for me.

*****************************************************************************************

First off - Mo is still writing the Maine TR... it's pretty hilarious - so if you have a minute and want to go read about us, I encourage you to do so.

I worked at Target yesterday... It wasn't awful. I have a crazy shift next week though - which I hope isn't my "new shift"... Sigh.

After work - I had to wait around for Allison's shift to finish, so Gus joined me in Starbucks and chatted with me while we waited for her. That was cool - it's pretty unusual that he comes down during the week. While we were sitting there, his mom called - so she stopped by Target and I got to meet his mom. She was very nice, and it was nice to finally be able to meet some of his family - we know him so well, and he spends a LOT of time at our house, so it was nice to put faces with names. Allison has met them all, but I have't met any of them - obviously. LOL So that was pretty cool.

Um... We came home - and i made a gourmet meal of corn dogs and french fries... Yuck... But sometimes the family insists on these things. I had a paleo chicken salad and a few fries instead.

Then last night, I went out for another walk/run... However, I feel like I am now doing more running than walking, so maybe I should be calling it a run/walk? Regardless - I am super proud of myself... This is such a huge accomplishment for me, and I just cannot express how hard it was for me to come this far and to push myself like I have... My only issue, is the morning after (this morning) my knees are sore - I have bad knees, I always have... So, I wonder if there is anything I can do to help with that? I am going to have to ask the advise of my runner friends - or Google. But seriously - if I can get up to doing a 5k - I am going to do one in Disney... That is my ULTIMATE goal, and it would mean the world to me! Question about that... Do you need a park hopper ticket to do that event? LIke to they process you through the turnstyles - or is it just the race entry that you need? I have NO idea?

OK - that's about all for me today...

I will be working all day in my sewing room... I have just a teensy-tiny bit of last week's order to finish up this morning, then I will be working on this week's order. Tonight, I will be doing some work on the side. Depending on how my knees feel, I may try to go out and hit the pavement again tonight?

Tomorrow is another BIG ADR day for me... So any and all Pixie Dust is appreciated.

I hope you all have a fantastic day! Prayers and good thoughts go out to all of you!

D~

 

[Chicago Mo]

Giddy!!!!

 

[Ariel484]

Then last night, I went out for another walk/run... However, I feel like I am now doing more running than walking, so maybe I should be calling it a run/walk? Regardless - I am super proud of myself... This is such a huge accomplishment for me, and I just cannot express how hard it was for me to come this far and to push myself like I have... My only issue, is the morning after (this morning) my knees are sore - I have bad knees, I always have... So, I wonder if there is anything I can do to help with that? I am going to have to ask the advise of my runner friends - or Google. But seriously - if I can get up to doing a 5k - I am going to do one in Disney... That is my ULTIMATE goal, and it would mean the world to me! Question about that... Do you need a park hopper ticket to do that event? LIke to they process you through the turnstyles - or is it just the race entry that you need? I have NO idea?

Coming out of lurkdom...I have been reading your reports for years, but I'm one of *those* that reads and doesn't comment. I do run, though, and I run Disney races a fair amount...and I love to talk about them.

For your knees - what kind of shoes are you wearing when you run? How old are they? The first thing I would tell anyone starting to run (beyond "get medical clearance") is to get fitted for running shoes at a running store. Seriously, having the proper shoes will make a huge difference. I'd also recommend maybe icing your knees after you run if they continue to bother you...that may help. The fact that you lift will GREATLY benefit your running - it should help to keep you from getting injured. A lot of runners do not do any kind of strength training...not good.

About Disney 5Ks - first, a warning: they are completely, totally addicting. Second, NO, you do not need a park ticket to participate. Your race registration will get you a spot in the race, a participant shirt, a finisher medallion, snacks at the finish line, on-course support (medical stations, volunteers, water stops, etc.)...things like that. It doesn't include park tickets or anything. I'm not sure which race you are looking at (or if you'd actually thought about that yet) but either way, they all start in lovely Disney parking lots. So no going through turnstyles, exactly.

Congrats on becoming a runner!

 

[JoeyEmmaMomma]

I did the couch to 5K between kid 2 and kid 3. I found running on soft ground was easier when I was starting out; so I would jog at the park. I should start that again....

 

[ljcrochet]

Running can be so much fun. I was a want to be runner 5 years ago. I did a combo run walk. I think I used to run for 3 minutes then walk for a minute. I ran a 10K right about the time I stopped running regularly. Now I run with DH, we do a combo running walking. We do 45 seconds running 30 seconds walking. I love working out with him, but i did better runs alone. We don't run on a regular enough basis to really improve.

 

[Terkina]

How great that you got to meet Gus's mom.
Running aren't good for the knees. So if your knees hurt you shouldn't be running I'm afraid.
Crossing my fingers that you get the ADR's you want tomorrow.

 

[Denovagirl]

Do you have proper running shoes? This will be huge for your knees. Also I hear compression socks and knee braces can work wonders. You may invest the time or money into making some large gel packs to ice your knees down after your runs, they're probably just not used to it, and will be sore for some time until you build up to it. Keep it up!!

 

[Iamthequeen]

I second getting fitted for running shoes. Don't just go buy your favorite brand. Charlie and I went to the local running shoe store and we were fitted properly. Once you get fitted, you can purchase your shoes on-line if you want, since you will know exactly what you need. Good socks are also important. My favorites are Balegas, but what ever good athletic socks that work for you will be good. I learned about good socks from my dd's who run.