Thread killers unite!

[dreamin in pa]

evening everyone. All alone again. Hope everyone is recovering from a fun weekend.

M&N-did you get to go to Hershey Park? How was it? I love Hershey. It's no Disney but it's the best alternative around here.

Just got home from a viewing a little while ago. It was for my step-grandfather but I wasn't really close to him. The saddest part was that it was just another opportunity for my family to continue their childish arguments. My dad has 7 brothers and sisters and I can't remember a time that at least 2 of them weren't mad at each other and not speaking. It's very sad that they can't just stop for a little while even on a occation such as this. They are so petty it's really sickening. They even make SIL look like the most wonderful person in the world. I don't bother with them much anymore but seeing them all act like this again just made me so mad. Ok...sorry....just had to get some of that out.

Well, off to see if anything interesting is happening on the boards.

 

[dreamin in pa]

MagiKitty-I saw the posting for free dining this morning. Was it for the dates you needed?

 

[MagiKitty]

Another gloomy morning everyone! I do hope to have regular landline service today, I can't take too many calls on my cell coz that will take all my minutes!

Dreamin...I saw the announcements too! But I didn't get an email from Visa, but I did submit some price quote requests from two travel agencies just now. The dates are a little earlier than hoped, but I should be able to swing it because its still so far away. I think I may have the TS requests ready.

I'm kinda bummed, I called AAA yesterday for a quote, just to prepare myself for the huge expense, and I got a really snarky lady. She quoted me for 7 days at Pop, with 7 day tickets no hopper---$2100! I asked her to double check, because the WDW site had quoted me a little over $1400, 700 cheaper! I'm going to call again later and sort this out. She must have made a mistake somewhere....

So I had to have the talk with BF about the trip. 2100 is just too much for us to spend on a week (not that we would). It just seems like a huge chunk of money! And we'd had to add airfare on top of that. It would be the first time we stayed onsite, and the first time we didn't rent a car, so it would be a completely different trip than last year. We talked about our budget, and we have a limit. If we can't make it under that this time, we'll stay offsite sometime after Thanksgiving as cheaply as possible. Its just the tickets--that's the biggest expense.

I just don't understand why I didn't get the email. On the other thread, people are waiting over an hour to get their ressies, and I don't have the luxury of that time this morning, it'll just have to wait until this evening.

But I'm hopeful! I would so like to do the free dining, but if it doesn't happen, the World isn't going anywhere and we can do it another time! (I'll try to let go to attending the Food and Wine festival, which I was really really excited about).

Ok, fully vented. Feel better now, and whatever happens, I'll take it. The day is fresh and there's so much to do! Good day everyone and looking forward to chatting today.

 

[dreamin in pa]

MagiKitty-I don't think you need to have the email from Visa to get the free dining. From what I was reading it looks like you only need the Disney Visa. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1782177 Don't understnad the AAA quote. That's a huge difference. I could see a couple of bucks on either side but 700 in outrageous. Alot of people on here complain about their agents...most of them know less than us. Hopefully, she just made a mistake.

I hear you about keeping it under budget. As much as we love Disney, this may be our last year staying on site. It is getting so expensive. We thought about leaving our stroller at home this year and just renting but with the price increase (31 a day for a double), it's not worth it. For that price we could pay for Thanksgiving Dinner for the whole family.

Good luck with getting the free dining.

 

[MagiKitty]

31 dollars A DAY? Goodness, does it come with a driver? That is just crazy talk. That's more expensive that a car rental! Its really tricky coz a lot of airlines are now charging for a second bag too. I saw a bit about the raised prices for the strollers and ECVs...I didn't see anything about the wheelchair rentals, but I wouldn't be surprised if that went up too. I have to consider renting a week from an outside source (IF we get to go).

I just guess that we've taken it for granted to be able to go every year. I agree, it may become a more special time once in a while. We're already talking about Universal next year, so much cheaper, and going to Sea World again. While not a Disney trip, it has lots of merits of its own, esp. with Harry Potter coming!

 

[D&DDisney]

Good Morning Everyone!!
I see FREE DINNING starts today. Magikitty - hope you get in on it. I'm not a Disney Visa person, so maybe I'll try on Thurs. (probably won't be anything left)

Thanks for all the kind words about the cake. It was fun to make. The sand was made w/ brown sugar. DS5 can't decide on his theme or a cake. If it gets to be too late I'll just have to order one.

DL55 - Sorry about the comforter. Bet that hurt with only a month's use. Sounds like something that would happen at my house.

Dreamn - Sorry about your step-grandfather and the family's actions. Families can be so wonderful, can't they???

Disney54us- Vent away! I'm listening.

 

[M&N]

Another damp and dreary morning here too.
HersheyPark was on the cool side Sunday and windy. Didn't go on any roller coasters. My friend's brother has Downs and we did the things he likes. We went on the antique cars and he said he was taking us to a concert. She took him to Disney for the first time last month. She said it gives you a better feeling about Hershey because there's not so much walking. If any of you come this summer, let me know. If I'm home, I'll come looking for you with my LGMH on. Giant usually has discount tickets too. Sometimes my local rec dept has discounts too.
Everything is just getting so expensive. Bananas were 59 a lb! I told Mom that I know I'm getting old when I say things like--I remember when they were 19 cents!
Some people must feel just terrible about themselves and life when they cannot get along for a short time at a funeral. You just have to feel sorry for them I guess.

 

[MagiKitty]

Oh yes, dear friends, thanks to D&D, I can now proudly wave a new banner!

I got into Free Dining! I decided to call snarky AAA lady back to clarify things. She said no! The quote was for 1200! (She must have switched the numbers). Ok, much better. I asked about free dining, changed my dates, and asked for a new quote. She called me back with a 7 and an 8 day stay. Turns out, for 1210, I got an extra day AND free dining! Not bad for 10 dollars more.

Working with her, I realized its just her manner of talking. She means business. She's really rushed and abrupt, and tends to cut me off before I get my full sentence out. But she does seem knowledgeable. The other two travel agencies haven't gotten back to me yet, but I'll see who has the best offer.

I also called for ADR and got everything I wanted, with a little tweaking. Not a big deal at all. It all has gone so fast, I keep thinking I'm acting too rash and I should slow down and really think about it. BF is no help, he's already talking about Pal Mickey.

Sorry to feel so blessed, esp with dreamin and the politics of family. Its so sad, especially in a time to remember and celebrate the life of someone else. I would think the effort to put aside differences for the occassion would have been thought of.

D&D...hope the little guy figures out what he wants on his cake! I bet he doesn't realize how great your cakes are in comparison to a store bought one! (not that I would refuse a cake of any origin...)

Ok, now I really really have to get something done!

 

[M&N]

Yeah for the new banner. Glad it worked out for you. Are you getting a Pal Mickey or taking one back? I love mine. I know you are thankful your BF loves Disney. And that is the best help he can be...going with you!

 

[DL55]

MagiKitty $2100 vs $1200 that was crazy! So glad it's the latter and you are planning for another trip. I thought about getting Pal Mickey.But 1) I'm too cheap and 2) don't want to carry it all over (must have a free hand for snacks )
M&NI've wanted to go to Hersey Park. I think we have to wait until DH retires so we can take our time. I'm worried about DH...he loves chocolate. We may spend our entire vacation funds in their store!
dreamin in pa Sorry about your step grandfather.

Almost done with the cleaning chores. I must remember to go into the extra bath more often. The cats were fascinated with me cleaning the sink. One tried to attack my scrubbing arm. After I left I could hear them wrestling. I go back in and there's cat hair all aver my clean sink.
Suitcases are on the bed, clothes next to them. Only 2 more days! (I'm not counting today, it's half over)

 

[MagiKitty]

Yeah DL55! You're on your way very, very soon. Happy packing. Just check that one of your cats decides to go with you! (mine love jumping into suitcases...)

We got a Pal Mickey last year before our trip. It was one of BF's birthday gifts, even if it was previously loved. We didn't really understand how it would work. He is a bit bulky, and his "beltclip" really is cumbersome. We tend to strap him to the back of the wheelchair, although we always worry when BF has to transfer and PM gets left behind!

I haven't been to Hershey for years, but we talked about it over the weekend. My aunt and uncle are coming to visit and we're looking for places within driving distance. And who doesn't love chocolate? Do they still do the factory tour? I've always wanted to do that. Isn't Lancaster where they have all sorts of factory tours? I'll have to look into that, it sounds so interesting....

M&N...what's your opinion of Hershey being handicapped friendly? Last year we went to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and it really was difficult, we won't go again. That's part of the reason why BF loves Disney so much, they really are spectacular for those with different needs. But if Hershey is a lot less walking than Disney, we may plan a second trip!

 

[disney54us]

Hi Everyone, read and tried to catch up! okay, not enough energy to do that and vent, a big for your support for venting. Ha, Ha you may be sorry when I do. Have dentist, for DD with a 2+ hour drive tomorrow. I am being attacked by papers, but I will get through this paper mess and live a in kept file life. I'll catch up, keep posting killers!!!!!

 

[dreamin in pa]

Just stopping in quick before bed.

CONGRATS MAGIKITTY!!! I'm so glad it all turned out good for you. 10 for an extra night, I'd do the exact same thing.

M&N-so glad you had a nice time at Hershey. We try to get out their once a year. There's is just so much for everyone. What I really like is that the kiddie rides are kinda spread out all over the park. I really want to get out there this year and ride their new coaster. Love, love, love roller coasters. Maybe, I'll see you out there.

DL55-2 More Days!!! I don't know if you said before, but how long are you staying? Have a great time!!!

D&DDisney-Yeah, families are wonderful. I just stay out of all their childish behavior. My kids don't need to see that kind of stuff. I grew up with it and that more than plenty.

On a little side note, stepmom and SIL are talking again. Full-fledged talking and without any teeth grinding while the do it. I don't know how it came about but I am so glad. Maybe I won't have to worry so much about this family vacation anymore. I can pray can't I.

Anybody hear from whgrn lately? Just wondering how she's doing in light of everything.

 

[MagiKitty]

Woo-hoo....is anyone out there? The TKers have been rather quiet lately, I hope everyone and everything is ok....

 

[D&DDisney]

I'm here checking in on my lunch.

Yeah Magikitty ...... Glad you will get to "inhale" this fall. The banner looks great on you Which resort did you get? (Never mind...just saw your ticker)

DL55 - Have a great vacation!!!!

Have you noticed how many killers are MIA lately??? Is everyone on vacation?
Killers....where are you???

 

[DL55]

Hi everyone
Well the suitcases are packed. only had to remove one cat. Doing my last load of
We are going for 10 days, not counting travel days. We like to go to Universal too. We're getting up at 4:30 am to get to the airport It takes almost 2 hours to get there.

 

[MagiKitty]

I just hope that the missing TKers just have spring fever and will return just to say hi sometime soon.

DL55...two days! Will be thinking of you while on vacation. So glad you like Universal too. If you get a chance, try Mythos at IOA...we're still talking about the amazing lunch we had there!

Hi there D&D! How's lunch?

 

[dreamin in pa]

I'm here too. Just have been trying to keep up with the spring cleaning. There is just so much to tackle.

DL55-I just realized that your trip will overlap part of DD trip. Wanna spy on her for me? Only kidding!! Have a great trip.

MagiKitty-just saw your countdown today. Have you stayed at Pop before? And you mentioned that made ADRs already. Where at if you don't mind sharing? Still trying to decided on where we should eat this year but thankfully I still have time to change my mind about a 100 times yet.

Yeah, I noticed lots of us are missing lately. Hope all is well with every single one of them.

 

[MagiKitty]

Oh, dreamin, I had no idea what I was getting into with this free dining thing. We haven't stayed onsite together yet, and the last time I did was over 15 years ago! We've driven by Pop on Osceola Parkway and always commented how cool it looked, so we're excited. The only drawback seems to be that its so far from everything!

Once I got over the idea of spending 1210, I got really excited about my ADRs. Then I realized I didn't know where I wanted to eat next. BF is really laid back, as long as he can get those darn Chipwiches, he doesn't care where we eat.

I've changed ADRs twice this morning alone. I was up all night trying to decide if I had done a good job. Here's my schedule (as of 1:01pm)

9/16: Breakfast at Cape May Cafe
9/17: Lunch at CRT
9/18: Dinner at Spirit of Aloha
9/19: Lunch at Coral Reef
9/20: Breakfast at Boma
9/21: Dinner at Tokyo Dining (in time for Illuminations)

We're aiming more for experiences, since we're mostly done CS before and been perfectly satisfied with it. Was toying with Le Cellier, but it sounds too fancy for us!

Of course, these ADRs are subject to change, but I'm pretty satisfied right now. I had issues of where to eat at Hollywood Studios, didn't really like anything, so opted for a late breakfast at Boma, then CS before Fantasmic.

This is going to be a very long 5 months.

 

[MagiKitty]

Oh, we arrive mid-afternoon, so we're heading to Downtown Disney for Earl of Sandwich for dinner. Really hit the spot last time, looking forward to it. And of course, so early shopping! Excited to be able to send stuff back to room without lugging it around. Will really be a help in the parks with the wheelchair!