Will You Chill Out if I Sprinkle You With Pixie Dust? The End p136 *New TR Link* p138

[CandleontheWater]

Yay for F&W right around the corner! You are going to be spoiled after this trip, and always want to vacation in Oct from now on!

Your beach trip looked really nice! I wanted to get to the Delaware beaches while we were living in Alexandria, but just never made it, too much time spent in Disney trips I guess.

It looks like you guys had a nice afternoon at DHS, I'm glad you finally got your ST FPs. I love One Man's Dream too, especially the movie!

 

[NoOrdinaryPrincess]

Just joining in!

Of all the things I could say after 50+ pages of TR, one thing i've learned in my years traveling to The World, was that traveling with another couple is my ideal Disney trip, but traveling with someone else's kids is often (*cough*always*cough) really, really difficult. Bravo for trying!

 

[Millie12591]

Mary Ellen, Wow! So much to catch up on!!

So glad you had a great trip to the beach last weekend, looks like you had a great time. Kayaking looks like fun! Something I've wanted to try now that I'm not as concerned about my weight.
Actually, since I've started this weight loss journey I've been wanting to try my hand at paddle boarding, ever done it?
I'd love to get a SUP, but probably ought to try them out first to see if it's worth the investment.
I thought that would be such an amazing way to get some serious core workout work in, and not to mention have some fun while doing it. Around this part of Texas I can probably get a lot of time in on one since the weather doesn't turn as fast as other places in the fall.

Hate the look of that ride you took a picture of. My husband calls those spin-and-pukes. Can't say I blame ya for not wanting to get on one after your ordeal, but glad you've over come the fear. Look at what you'd be missing out on if you hadn't!

You're so blessed to be able to meet up with Dawn and Meadow! Aren't they adorable?!? I'm anxious to finally meet them both in WDW next May, providing Dawn survives the conditions for being able to go.

And how about your SIL and brother?!? Pretty cool, just hope they learn their own way of touring the "World," that way you don't have the burden of planning their trips for them in the future. That would be a bad place to be stuck in, if things didn't go right you might end up with the blame in the end. I have a feeling if your SIL or brother start researching they will come to realize they'll need help but they will also want to make it their own trip and want to do most of the planning. Here's to hoping so any way.

DHS is looking to be a good day for y'all. Loooove me some Muppets!!

 

[MEK]

Oh Heck- I got stuck on a ride similar to the one pictured. But it was the individual cars and you could either let them swing or lock them in as they went around.
It was my MOTHER who locked it so it would go upsidedown. Also they was a single restraint and well, only went down as far as the largest person would allow so not only was I upside down but I to put my hands up to keep me somewhat in the seat because I was sliding out.

Mind you , I don't think we were stuck but we stopped during loading and unloading.


I would only ride the teeniest coasters from then on out. Needless to say I have overcome that fear but I do like to be strapped in tight. RnR has to be clicked in tight. More a fear of falling out than going high, fast or upsidedown.

Ugh - Pat that sounds terrible. I think I would be very scared if I was upside down AND falling out. That does not sound like fun At all! I'm not at all surprised that you are still afraid of falling out. Sometimes I find myself really locking myself in too tight on RnR and EE. Sometimes it feels like the setting are loose and "too tight". I hate when I can't even move in the restraints. It creeps me out, but I also don't like to feel like I am pushing myself back in the seat.

Glad you had a fun time at the beach - we always said beach too and I grew up on LI.
I have a childhood friend that lives by the beach in DE and works at Victoria's at the Boardwalk hotel maybe?

I didn't know you were a LI girl. Yes - there is a Victoria's restaurant at the Boardwalk Hotel. I have actually always wanted to stay there, but it is probably the most pricey hotel in Rehoboth Beach. I can only afford it during off season. I think its like $400 or more a night during prime time.

I feel like I am constantly playing catch up and I need to get ahead before I go back.

Too funny about your brother wanting to go back. Looks like a wonderful time was had and they want to do it all over again.

I know, it's really a surprise. I never expected that. But I am happy that they all like it enough to want to go back. Now that my kids are too old, it will be fun to take my nephews in the future, even though I don't have the points for it this trip.

Your DHS day looks like everyone had fun.

To date, it was the best day of the trip!

Enjoyed your This & That update. You had lots of things to talk about!

I did, didn't I? Two weeks away from the DIS and I am a total blabber mouth!

I'm glad your week at the beach turned out be the relaxing getaway you were hoping for. Those beaches do look crowded, though. If you ever want a beach that's pretty much empty, come down to the Gulf Coast of FL. There are certain spots here where you can have stretches of sand all to yourself.

We have friends who live in Daytona and the first time I visited them I said, I am NEVER going back to the Delaware beaches. I love the midatlantic beaches in September and October, but prime time is ridiculous. I would LOVE to visit the Gulf coast. It is on my bucket list and I can't wait to get there during one of these trips. You are so fortunate to live in such a nice location.

DIS meets are always fun, and I bet it was even cooler to do one outside of WDW. We are sort of like a society....

It is like a not-so-secret society. It really is fun to meet other DISers, because no one gets it like we do.

How funny that your bro and SIL want to return to Disney next summer. Great for them, but potentially a lot of work for you if you decided to tag along.

It might be a lot of work for me either well. That is, if I help them plan their trip. I am happy that they want to go back. It's such a great vacation site and its such a wonderful place to go to duck away from the real world.

A Disney cruise is great, and the Dream just looks gorgeous. That's the next boat I want to travel on, and to be able to top it off with a 2 week stay in the fall.... Then again, if you do take a year-long break from WDW, that lengthy visit will be the perfect way to reconnect with the world.

With kids we have never been able to take a two week vacation. The last time we did I was pregnant with Brian and he is now 19. I think we are definitely due for a 2 week trip. In fact, I was laying it out tonight for Denny and he was definitely on board for it.

Glad everyone enjoyed the Muppets, always worth a watch every once in awhile. One Man's Dream is such an ideal spot to get away from the heat. You can also rest your feet a bit during the movie.

OMD is not only an inspirational movie, but it really is a wonderful way to get off your feet and take a bit of a rest. I love it for both of those reasons.

Holy moly,your family is lucky that you have more patience than I do i would've been a bald bear having to deal with all that LOl,sorry your brother was being a butt that sucks !!My sister is the same way in wdw and so I don't go with her because she drives me insane and i like to enjoy my trips

cheekypoppins! Thanks for joining in! A butt that sucks - Now that's an interesting expression. Yeah - he kind of was on several occasions. Fortunately, he has mellowed quite a bit since he returned home and he is even ready to take a trip back.

My brother and I have always been close, so the beginning of this trip was really tough for me. I was like, "what the H happened to my brother??????"

HOORRRAAYYYY! For 2 months to F&W!
Too funny about your B & SIL wanting to go back to Disney! That's nice though, hopefully you and he will have more in common now
Wow, I can't believe how busy the beach is! I guess because I live on an island with a low population and a high number of beaches I've never seen crowds like that. Call me spoiled! It does look like a beautiful spot though, that condo is gorgeous, and it sounds like you had a fantastic time!

I am so happy that my brother wants to go back. I actually think its awesome. I think he really enjoyed himself.

You are spoiled. The pictures I showed you are not even the crowded beaches. You should see when you can't even find a place to sit. That's why I am not a fan of visiting the Delaware beached in summer. Way, WAY too many people. Not my thing AT all.

I adore the Muppets, can't wait to see them again in WDW! I think they might just have the best and most under appreciated theming in there.

I definitely agree with you there. I am so excited for you knowing that your trip is so close! Think of me while you are watching the muppets. Are you on FB? If so, I really want to see your pics. I am not on twitter, but I may have to sign up just to follow along.

I love One Man's Dream. I try to do it every time I'm in DHS, like paying homage to the man responsible for my fun.

Doesn't it make you wonder what would happen if Walt had never developed DL? Seriously, does or did anyone else have the vision for WDW? I do think its important to pay him homage because he was simply amazing.

 

[MEK]

The Denster and I are getting ready to watch a movie. Be back tomorrow with more replies.

 

[glennbo123]

You got to meet Dawn! How awesome! I need to start working on finding some potential dates for a PA/DE meet so you can tell Denny for real that you have another meet to go to.

Your condo in Bethany looked really nice.

 

[tinacaplan]

Hi! Yep... so its been awhile. Way too long, in fact. So long that I started to get Dis-anxiety every time I thought about logging on...so much catching up to do. I was only thirty pages behind...

I have to say, your pictures really are gorgeous. You got great shots of MSEP and AK. I am finding a great deal of your SIL's behavior inexplicable. I can't imagine just up and walking out of MK right before the parade, for no apparent reason.

I'm glad you all made rope drop at DHS. We were not as good with the RD this trip as we've been in the past and we paid for it in the form of not riding TSM. Ever. Ugh. I actually really love that ride. I loved your pics of One Man's Dream. Never done it, but Max is now fascinated by the fact that there was this one man behind Disney and everything it encompasses.

Beautiful beach condo! There's nothing like a week at the beach!

And we're under two months till F&W! I can't believe it! I feel like this trip has been in the making forever.

 

[KatMark]

Fun unpdates, MaryEllen (finally catching up after the kids left...they came in for the weekend).

You couldn't pay me a million dollars to go on that ride or Ferris Wheel.

The condo looks really nice, and congrats on the kayaking (and, of course, you had the pink one ).

Muppets are so much fun, and I love the Walt Disney Story. It saddens me how many people walk through here then skip the movie...we never miss it.

And I'm so jealous you got to meet Dawn and her daughter (glad you got a picture to show that it really happened).

 

[chloe770]

You're so blessed to be able to meet up with Dawn and Meadow! Aren't they adorable?!? I'm anxious to finally meet them both in WDW next May, providing Dawn survives the conditions for being able to go.

Awww Thanks. And your right....if I survive... Should be pee your pants funny me even trying to complete my conditions

 

[amandaw]

So exciting that your F&W trip is coming up soon!

Your trip to the beach sounds like lots of fun. The place y'all stayed at looks very nice! And how fun that you had a DIS meet, too!

Love the updates and all the pictures! The Muppets is always so much fun. And I'm glad you were able to get your Star Wars FPs.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

ThatRight now I am planning to stay in Charleston on the way home, so we can do an overnighter there.

Cool! I'd love to get back there and explore some more.

Third - you are not going to believe who emailed me saying they wanted to go back to Disney and was I "in". Yup - that's right - they even signed the email Mickey and Minnie (insert last name). Can you say . I can only assume by asking if I was "in", it meant was I in with my DVC points.

Oh my. Sounds like you handled that issue with more grace than I could have!

So, remember how I told you I developed a fear of thrill rides after hanging upside down in a "Salt & Pepper" Shaker. Well, I was pretty sure they no longer existed. That is - until I saw one of these the other night at a local carnival in Maryland.

We'll put this in the category of "Rides I Wouldn't Be Caught Dead On".

I usually do not go to the Delaware beaches during prime time because I don't enjoy crowds, but our rental was on the bay in Bethany Beach and it was very relaxing.

You and me both. But I really do like Bethany. It's just quieter than the other towns.

We went to the beach at the Indian river Inlet state park. Here is the new bridge in the background

Wow! Obviously an impressive and efficient DOT took the time to build this.

Looks like a beautiful condo.

Now I have a special surprise for you. I actually had a DIS meet in Rehoboth Beach. I posted on FB that we were eating at the Green Turtle (which is right on the boardwalk) and I got a message from Chloe777 (Dawn) that she was right next door in Funland.

Of course, I had to go meet her and her gorgeous daughter Meadow. Naturally, my friends and Denny thought I was crazy for leaving right before our food was served. But they just don't understand. I told them its like being part of a secret society and when a DIS meet calls you just gotta go!

Exactly! So glad you got to do a meet-up!

I can't help. These boxes always crack me up!

LOVE all the Muppets details.

I think you've figured out by now that I was taking pictures of EVERYTHING today. Watching the movie in One Man's Dream was no exception. I decided to continue my no-flash obsessive picture taking during the film. If you've never seen it, you really should. It's a moving tale of Walt's life.

I still have not been through here, and I need to. We thought about it on our last trip, but didn't seem to have the time.

I totally agree. A DE Dismeet would be fun. I think that glennbo (since he works in Delaware) and Captain Oblivious would be up for it. Who else do we know from the DIS who lives in DE, southeastern PA, or South Jersey. Moira lives up near Allentown, so that might be far.

Definitely would be up for it!

 

[khertz]

Glad you had a fun beach trip! I always forget how to take a relaxing vacation because most of ours are so go-go-go paced! The kayaking looks really fun, and the condo looks so nice & comfortable.

Too funny that your brother is now planning his own Disney trip...maybe he got bit by the bug! Bonnet Creek would be a great option for a family of his size. We just love staying there! You can't beat an offsite resort price that offers theme park view rooms.

LOVE One Man's Dream. Hopefully DS will at least let us walk through without being too disruptive. I don't think he'd last through the movie though!

 

[MEK]

Let me know when you decide about the Oct, 2013 trip. DW and I are planning on going to our 1st F&W then. Our dates will depend on what is available at BCV. Maybe this time we won't have to cancel and we can finally meet in person! I'm looking forward to your F&W trip this fall as a precursor to our trip next year!

I have pretty much nailed down October 27th as the cruise date. I was thinking arriving on October 26th in Disney and then over to the cruise. Then we would return to Disney on October 31st. Then I was planning to stay until the end of that first week in November. It would be a two week trip. However, I could probably be persuaded to arrive a few days earlier and leave a bit earlier. I was thinking about a driving trip and its easier to do if we start the trip on a weekend.

When are you thinking about arriving for F&W?

Thank you! I feel very blessed to have 2 wonderful(and adorable) kids. BTW DD's name is Meadow. No offense taken. That is a very common mistake with her not so common name.

MEK is was great meeting you. My DH would have thought I was crazy too had he bee with us. Like I posted on FB, Delaware is a small town. We really need to plan that meet after all of our Disney trips are out of the way.

The condo you stayed in looks really nice. I may have to get the info from you for next summer(if we don't buy before then).

Kayaking is fun isn't it? We bought one last year but I don't think it's an ocean kayak. We have only even used it in a lake up in NJ.

Can you believe I have never seen the Muppet show. I really need to rectify that soon.

Hey Dawn - hopefully you saw that I already commented early when I realized I had mistaken Meadow for a Willow. Doh! You can bet I will not forget / confuse her name now.

On my way to the gym so will do a better reply later but did your SIL look at the Fort Wilderness cabins? Their kids are small enough it could be perfect. I'm sure BC would be less and AoA is up there but if they are set with being on property that deck and kitchen is pretty sweet, really great if some get up earlier and don't want to wake the others. I've done the VBRO thing, I'd think gets have a lot more fun at somewhere like BC if it's just them.

Cynthia - I think this is an excellent idea. I never even thought about the Fort Wilderness Cabins, but this could work out really well for them since they will have a car. They are planning to take the auto train again. I will definitely recommend it for them. Great idea!

I'm really loving your update!!

I think my husband and son would love to do the kayak tours. Me? Not so much. I have a deep and abiding fear of kayak's. I was in one in high school and fell out of it and my best friend scared the heck out of me by telling me there was an alligator behind me. Never swam so fast before!! LOL!!

OMG - that sounds akin to my experience with the salt and pepper shaker. I probably wouldn't be too fond of Kayaks either if I had fallen out of one. That was one nasty friend. Yikes!

Love the pictures of Mupppet Vision. I love that show. It brings back good memories from when I was a child. LOL!

It is rather nostalgic, isn't it. I wish the 3D was a little clearer, but I really do LOVE that attraction. Such a classic.

You are going to have a blast at the F&W festival. It is awesome!! I know that I can't wait!!

I am really looking forward to it. I didn't think I was going to be so excited for F&W, but I really love trying new things at Disney. Plus its no secret that I love food! A lot!

F&W will be awesome!! I've never been either so I can't wait to hear what you think!

I can't wait to see what I think. I know its going to get a bit crowded on the weekends, but other than that it should be a blast. I mean, what's not to like about the world showcase peppered with amazing food and drink.

Your beach trip sounds great! DIS meets seem like so much fun and a surprise one seems even better!

We had a great time at the beach. It was a nice way to end the summer, even though it was the first week of August. I am starting to feel like summer is over. Boo! And I was very psyched to meet Dawn and Meadow.

Aww, I'm loving the One Man's Dream pictures. I've always wanted to see it, but I've never had a chance! Ugh, now I really wish I could see it.

Make some time for it on your next trip. It is such a heart warming story about an amazing man. I have no idea how many times I have actually seen the movie, but it still brings a tear to my eye everytime.

Why yes, you CAN give a major shout out! I am SO excited. I love our plans!!! Knowing this was aroudn the corner made it so much less painful to come home from our trip. Not really sure how I'll handle coming home from F&W with nothing official on the books.

It is aways far less painful coming home from a Disney trip when you have another one planned. That's why the F&W trip will be tough. It will be hard to come home and know that I'm not going for another year. I'll have to put my "tough" skin on.

They don't seem like the kind of folks to bail over something like that but you never know. Many folks just can't plan that far out or commit financially (though in the HHI case if driving it's less of an issue, but there are things like work and vacation days and all that. I had a bit of a downer night on that front with my sisters last night. I have a feeling it may end up being DLR or not at all if we want everyone to go but we will see.

Really? I guess DLR wouldn't be too bad, but I know your heart is set on WDW and mine would be too. WEll, I hope things turn around and swing in your direction.

As far as my friends, it really can't be work that's holding them back and they are now officially becoming empty nesters. I thought it would be a no-brainer, but I am not going to worry about it. The balls in their court now and they can let me know if they decide they want to go. I am just happy to be going because I think Denny is really going to enjoy it. In fact, he may like it so much that he doesn't want to go back to Florida. I can't let that happen!

Even though I knew about the email, it's still cool. Gotta love conversions! I admit I've been pretty careful not to offer up points, I don't even really have enough for us at the moment. LOL!

I have already borrowed a few of my 2013 points and I used SSR points for HHI. So, I think I will just wait for the 7th month booking window to book a 2BR for October/nov 2013. I don't have enough points in either contract to book at a home resort without borrowing and then it could leave me banking in the other contract. I really don't want to do that. So, I'll probably go point conscious and either book OKW or standard view AKL at 7 months. The standard view AKL villa is such a bargin pointwise, even in comparison to SSR. Then I want to use some VWL points to book a VWL studio for a few nights for Denny and I. I want to be there for the Christmas decorations.

How long would that drive take? If I were you, even though the other couple isn't commmitted, I'd book now. You can always move it or upgrade the cabin (if you aren't sharing). Prices fluctuate a LOT and generally the earlier you book, the better.

I think its a 17 hour drive. If we left on a Friday afternoon/ evening I figure we could drive 6 -8 hours, then finish the rest of the drive the next day. I'll reserve that decision until Denny and I drive to HHI. That's 11 hours and that's probably about 10 more hours than I really want to spend in the car with Denny. I'm telling you, we fight too much. I hate the way he drives. He hates the way I drive. He's always freaking out about speeding tickets and I'm always calling him a whimp. Plus, I like several hours of no music because I have one of those personalities that tends to get overloaded if I listen too long to music. All of a sudden I want quiet! He never wants quiet. He'd rather just turn it UP. Yup - makes for an interesting drive.

UGH! Those things give me nightmares.

They still give me nightmares, too!

Actually, in a weird sort of way I would like to ride one again just to really kick my dislike of them.

The beach looks beautiful!!!!!!! What a wonderful summer trip. If we end up with DLR then I'd probably try to tie in some beach time. Nice condo too.

It was a lot of fun. I am very glad we decided to do it. It was a good mix of pool, beach, and bay time.

You did pretty good! I love that film.

I should have taken more pics, but it was distracting me from watching and I just love that film.

So did we

 

[MEK]

Two month dance!!! .

Not quite as exciting as your ...what....12 day dance?.....but still worth a woo hoo!

I agree, book the cruise now if you can. The prices just keep increasing the sooner you get to your date. .

I am going to take yours and Cynthia's advice and do just that! Thanks for the tip.

I also cry at the Walt movie, I just get so emotional when I see him talking about his vision for the future. He was an amazing man.

He really, really was and he experience so much adversity and never gave up. That's what I find so remarkable. I just can't think of anyone who compares to him in the same respect.

Glad you had a great time at the Beach!

I'm still reading but I had to comment on that pic. My BIL has a vacation house on Cayuga Lake in NY and I have to say he has almost that same fireplace, right down to the stone wall and the Sailboat! I just thought that was neat! Ok now, back to reading and looking at pics...

We had a great time. Thanks.

Well, you sister and BIL are certainly lucky to have that house because that interior was just stunning. They really need a nice job. Very first rate! One day, while it was raining, Denny and I went down there just to sit and read for a couple hours. We figured, why not take advantage of it and just sprawl out. Glad we did.

I really need to get back in to see OMD, I haven't seen it since 2004 and I know there have been changes since then. We rushed through because the movie was starting too so I only got to see about 3/4 of the displays.

Definitely plan for some time during your next trip. It really is such a cool display and I am such a sucker for the movie. I get a little teary-eyed every time.

Love the Muppets queue pics! I read somewhere on here that they are planning to have some more Muppet themed things at HS like a restaurant and maybe another show. Not sure if it is a rumor or fact but that would be cool. .

I wish I had taken more pictures. The queue was fairly empty. It's just that once I start focusing on one area, I just stay there. It really is an awesome queue and a fun little show. I certainly wouldn't be opposed to more Muppets. When we toured University of MD last week they had a statue of Jim Henson on campus because he was a graduate.

Your future trip plans sound great! That's awesome your brother got bitten by the bug! I really want to see F&W again, we are planning a trip in 2014 so I hope our dates match up with it. We were there for F&W in 2004 but I really didn't know as much about it then so we really didn't take advantage.

I am very excited for my future plans. Its always a good thing to have a trip or two in the queue. Makes real life much more bareable.

Cool that you are planning for 2014. I haven't really thought about 2014 yet. Well, maybe I little. I'll probably get an AP in 2013, so maybe I'll go in the spring on 2014. Of course, that AP would also be good for F&W 2014.

Put it on the list for OCT.

It's already there, sister!

I lives 15 minutes and even though I went often I never appreciated it until I moved away. SEptember is my favorite timeto go too. Hate the massive crowds.

I know that is exactly what would happen to me if I ever moved away from the coast. Sometimes I do think I need to appreciate it and take advantage of it more than I do.

September is the MOST awesome time for the beach. Especially since September is my favorite month of the year.

Yay for F&W right around the corner! You are going to be spoiled after this trip, and always want to vacation in Oct from now on!

Yup - you're right - I probably will be spoiled because I bet the weather is perfect. Although, I had some pretty perfect weather during my November, Dec, and Jan trips. Can't wait!

Your beach trip looked really nice! I wanted to get to the Delaware beaches while we were living in Alexandria, but just never made it, too much time spent in Disney trips I guess.

That is definitely happening to me right now. I am always trying to decide between a Disney trip and "another" vacation destination. Disney always seems to win out. Funny how that happens.

It looks like you guys had a nice afternoon at DHS, I'm glad you finally got your ST FPs. I love One Man's Dream too, especially the movie!

One Man's Dream is awesome. I really think its a best kept secret. If you are a Disney addict, you've got to see that movie. Plan and simple.

In my next update we finally make it to Star Tours!

Just joining in!

NoOrdinaryPrincess! Thanks so much for joining in. Love your name.

Of all the things I could say after 50+ pages of TR, one thing i've learned in my years traveling to The World, was that traveling with another couple is my ideal Disney trip, but traveling with someone else's kids is often (*cough*always*cough) really, really difficult. Bravo for trying!

A large group is definitely challenging and children have their own challenges as well. Fortunately, I think they kids handled themselves pretty well and I love traveling with LJ. We took him with us in 2009 and he appreciated everything so much that it was an absolute pleasure. But having all four of them was a challenge, that's for sure.

(*cough*always*cough)

 

[eandesmom]

Cynthia - I think this is an excellent idea. I never even thought about the Fort Wilderness Cabins, but this could work out really well for them since they will have a car. They are planning to take the auto train again. I will definitely recommend it for them. Great idea!

Those kids would LOVE a golf cart.

Really? I guess DLR wouldn't be too bad, but I know your heart is set on WDW and mine would be too. WEll, I hope things turn around and swing in your direction.

It is a cost issue. Everyone wants to go but being able to save up and plan dates that work is a challenge. DLR is easier there is no doubt and would cost quite a bit less and could be done as a shorter trip. So that's appealing. However it doesn't get my dad to Harry Potter which is one of the main goals. I actually sent out some info last night, figure if I send it now maybe we can have a plan by Christmas. If I need to book in Jan, I need to start the nagging process now. Of course, no response from anyone yet but it'll make nagging around Halloween easier. LOL!

I figure if it ends up being DLR then we will just invite my dad and mom on our next FL trip.

I have already borrowed a few of my 2013 points and I used SSR points for HHI. So, I think I will just wait for the 7th month booking window to book a 2BR for October/nov 2013. I don't have enough points in either contract to book at a home resort without borrowing and then it could leave me banking in the other contract. I really don't want to do that. So, I'll probably go point conscious and either book OKW or standard view AKL at 7 months. The standard view AKL villa is such a bargin pointwise, even in comparison to SSR. Then I want to use some VWL points to book a VWL studio for a few nights for Denny and I. I want to be there for the Christmas decorations.

And if you stay Jambo,the standard view will have a decent view no matter what! If they don't go you won't need a 2B anyway right? So it would make sense to wait and book the right size room/amount of points and not worry about any borrowing. At that time of year, I'd think AKV Standard wouldn't be an issue to get at all at 7m.

I think its a 17 hour drive. If we left on a Friday afternoon/ evening I figure we could drive 6 -8 hours, then finish the rest of the drive the next day. I'll reserve that decision until Denny and I drive to HHI. That's 11 hours and that's probably about 10 more hours than I really want to spend in the car with Denny. I'm telling you, we fight too much. I hate the way he drives. He hates the way I drive. He's always freaking out about speeding tickets and I'm always calling him a whimp. Plus, I like several hours of no music because I have one of those personalities that tends to get overloaded if I listen too long to music. All of a sudden I want quiet! He never wants quiet. He'd rather just turn it UP. Yup - makes for an interesting drive.

Ok, I'm with Denny, I'd have a hard time with several hours of no music, especially if I was the driver. 17 hours with what you describe does not sound like a happy way to start a trip. And at the cost of gas....maybe not saving all that much other than the rental car once there.

 

[saintstickets]

I have pretty much nailed down October 27th as the cruise date. I was thinking arriving on October 26th in Disney and then over to the cruise. Then we would return to Disney on October 31st. Then I was planning to stay until the end of that first week in November. It would be a two week trip. However, I could probably be persuaded to arrive a few days earlier and leave a bit earlier. I was thinking about a driving trip and its easier to do if we start the trip on a weekend.

When are you thinking about arriving for F&W?

We are going either 10/13-10/19, 10/20-10/26 or maybe even 10/27-11/02. It all depends on when we can get a 1br at BCV at the 11 month window. Your beach trip was great. Can't wait to read more on this TR.

 

[glennbo123]

Oh yeah, I forgot to post my reaction to your brother and SIL planning another trip to Disney. It was something like this --->

You've created a monster.

 

[MEK]

Mary Ellen, Wow! So much to catch up on!!

So glad you had a great trip to the beach last weekend, looks like you had a great time. Kayaking looks like fun! Something I've wanted to try now that I'm not as concerned about my weight.

It was so fun and its very, very easy to do. It didn't bother my arms at all and I really didn't get tired. Definitely try it if you ever get a chance.

Actually, since I've started this weight loss journey I've been wanting to try my hand at paddle boarding, ever done it?

No, but I've seen a lot of people doing it in Hilton Head. It looks very frustrating, although our kayak tour guide said its pretty boring. Not really sure.

I'd love to get a SUP, but probably ought to try them out first to see if it's worth the investment.
I thought that would be such an amazing way to get some serious core workout work in, and not to mention have some fun while doing it. Around this part of Texas I can probably get a lot of time in on one since the weather doesn't turn as fast as other places in the fall.

You are very lucky to have good weather on your side. I really enjoy September and October up here, but my mid Oct things just start to go down hill and fast. Anything that does a good core workout is good in my book.

Hate the look of that ride you took a picture of. My husband calls those spin-and-pukes. Can't say I blame ya for not wanting to get on one after your ordeal, but glad you've over come the fear. Look at what you'd be missing out on if you hadn't!

I am so glad I overcame my roller coaster fear because there are so many great coasters in Florida.

You're so blessed to be able to meet up with Dawn and Meadow! Aren't they adorable?!? I'm anxious to finally meet them both in WDW next May, providing Dawn survives the conditions for being able to go.

Yeah - poor Dawn - she has her work cut out for her this winter. But for WDW I bet she can do it. I was so happy to meet up with them. It was such an unexpected surprise. I knew Dawn said she might be going to Rehoboth on Monday or Tuesday, but I forgot about that until she saw my post on FB. Perfect timing.

And how about your SIL and brother?!? Pretty cool, just hope they learn their own way of touring the "World," that way you don't have the burden of planning their trips for them in the future. That would be a bad place to be stuck in, if things didn't go right you might end up with the blame in the end. I have a feeling if your SIL or brother start researching they will come to realize they'll need help but they will also want to make it their own trip and want to do most of the planning. Here's to hoping so any way.

DHS is looking to be a good day for y'all. Loooove me some Muppets!!

It turned out to be a really good day. I was very pleased.

You got to meet Dawn! How awesome! I need to start working on finding some potential dates for a PA/DE meet so you can tell Denny for real that you have another meet to go to.

Yeah, I'll have to break him in slowly for that one. Where do you think would be a good spot for a meet? I've been thinking about it lately and I'm not coming up with anything. I did think about maybe Longwood Gardens, but I guess we really need a restaurant.

Your condo in Bethany looked really nice.

It was a good pick. It wasn't overly expensive and the floor plan was great for our group. I especially loved the clubhouse.

Hi! Yep... so its been awhile. Way too long, in fact. So long that I started to get Dis-anxiety every time I thought about logging on...so much catching up to do. I was only thirty pages behind...

Well, I am glad you are all caught up. I know you have been busy with your trip and your return to school. I know that feeling about DIS anxiety. I get like that when I get back from a trip and am behind on every TR.

I have to say, your pictures really are gorgeous. You got great shots of MSEP and AK. I am finding a great deal of your SIL's behavior inexplicable. I can't imagine just up and walking out of MK right before the parade, for no apparent reason.

Thanks on the pictures.

I really can't believe they left right before the parade either. I was so disappointed when they did they. And I knew it was not possible to even talk them out of it. Such a waste. Spend almost 24 hours on the train, but can't wait an 1/2 hour more to see the parade.

I'm glad you all made rope drop at DHS. We were not as good with the RD this trip as we've been in the past and we paid for it in the form of not riding TSM. Ever. Ugh. I actually really love that ride. I loved your pics of One Man's Dream. Never done it, but Max is now fascinated by the fact that there was this one man behind Disney and everything it encompasses.

Maybe Max will be old enough to sit through the movie the next time he goes. My youngest nephew made it through and I don't think he's too much older than Max. The kids really loved TSM. It was a huge hit.

Beautiful beach condo! There's nothing like a week at the beach!

You said it. It was a wonderful week. Very glad we decided to do it.

And we're under two months till F&W! I can't believe it! I feel like this trip has been in the making forever.

for less than 2 months. Can't wait.

Fun unpdates, MaryEllen (finally catching up after the kids left...they came in for the weekend).

I hope you had a great weekend with the kids. They are such a cute couple.

You couldn't pay me a million dollars to go on that ride or Ferris Wheel.

I think I could brave the ferris wheel. It really didn't look too bad, although some of those carnival ride ferris wheels do feel like they are going to fall apart at any moment.

The condo looks really nice, and congrats on the kayaking (and, of course, you had the pink one ).

The only thing better than going kayaking is getting to paddle a pink one.

Muppets are so much fun, and I love the Walt Disney Story. It saddens me how many people walk through here then skip the movie...we never miss it.

Ugh - the movie is the BEST part. I mean, I have seen some of those pictures in other documentaries on TV, but this movie was made for WDW and its such a poignant story. I love it.

And I'm so jealous you got to meet Dawn and her daughter (glad you got a picture to show that it really happened).

I really enjoyed meeting both of them and I had the camera out in about 3 seconds flat. No way was I going to forget the picture.

 

[MEK]

Awww Thanks. And your right....if I survive... Should be pee your pants funny me even trying to complete my conditions

You got this Dawn! You can do it. Just think what's waiting for you at the end of this hockey season.

So exciting that your F&W trip is coming up soon!

I can't wait for F&W and I think it will be here quick because I have a busy month coming up in September. I will probably be so busy with things this fall that it will actually come up really quick.

Your trip to the beach sounds like lots of fun. The place y'all stayed at looks very nice! And how fun that you had a DIS meet, too!

I really enjoyed my DIS meet with Dawn and Meadow. We had a great time at the beach and I really enjoyed the condo and the clubhouse.

Love the updates and all the pictures! The Muppets is always so much fun. And I'm glad you were able to get your Star Wars FPs.

Thanks! I love the Muppets and I was very excited to get that ST FP. That's coming up in the next update. I love that ride and it was great riding with all the nephews.

Cool! I'd love to get back there and explore some more.

Isn't Charleston such a great town. I was online earlier today looking at some of the things I want to do when Denny and I visit HHI and I am just in awe of what a gorgeous area it is.

Oh my. Sounds like you handled that issue with more grace than I could have!

I was so shocked. Seriously shocked. So I just offered to help them plan their next trip. What else could I say? I mean, really?

We'll put this in the category of "Rides I Wouldn't Be Caught Dead On".

True. So true. But if you ever change your mind you can head on over to Cecilton, Md next August and I'm sure it will be right there waiting for you.

You and me both. But I really do like Bethany. It's just quieter than the other towns.

It's a lovely little town and I love the proximity to the bays. Plus, I think Oceanview is so cute. Denny and I went bike riding a couple days and I was pretty overwhelmed by the amount of traffic on the back roads. I think a lot of people must live there year round because we went away from the tourist areas.

Wow! Obviously an impressive and efficient DOT took the time to build this.

That bridge is very impressive so kudos to Del DOT for the role they had in building/designing it. The blue lights at night are very impressive. I mean, I love our canal bridge, but this bridge was cooler.

Looks like a beautiful condo.

It was a very nice home away from home. I wouldn't hesitate to rent from them again.

Exactly! So glad you got to do a meet-up!

I was really psyched to meet Dawn and Meadow. Even if everyone else thought I was crazy for getting up from the table before dinner. I don't care.

LOVE all the Muppets details.

I wish I had taken more pictures. It's an awesome queue. Never thought I would want more time in a queue, but I did.

I still have not been through here, and I need to. We thought about it on our last trip, but didn't seem to have the time.

It's an awesome movie and a great display. You really should try to fit it in during your next visit. It's really a bit of a hidden gem, IMHO.

Definitely would be up for it!

We have got to put our collective heads together and came up with a location that works for everyone. I would love a Delaware DIS meet.

Glad you had a fun beach trip! I always forget how to take a relaxing vacation because most of ours are so go-go-go paced! The kayaking looks really fun, and the condo looks so nice & comfortable.

For years all I took were go, go, go vacations - skiing in the winter and disney world in the summer. I really did appreciate the time to sit back and smell the roses, or in this case, the salt are. It was awesome to have time to finish whole book. I loved that. The condo worked out great for our crew.

Too funny that your brother is now planning his own Disney trip...maybe he got bit by the bug! Bonnet Creek would be a great option for a family of his size. We just love staying there! You can't beat an offsite resort price that offers theme park view rooms.

Who would have thought, right? I think he did get a little Disney bug bite of his own. Glad to hear that you like Bonnet Creek. I have not heard anything negative about it. I bet a theme park view is awesome, especially from those high floors. I would love that. I hope I get a chance to stay there at some point.

LOVE One Man's Dream. Hopefully DS will at least let us walk through without being too disruptive. I don't think he'd last through the movie though!

Yeah - he is a bit too young for the movie. Too bad. It's such a cool movie, but at least you have it to look forward to on future trips. The whole display is really awesome.

 

[Wicket's Mom]

I rode one of those rides you have pictured when I was 15. It scared the crap out of me I, too had a jerk of an operator who was trying to freak out two teenage girls! I hate those rides & will never ride carnival ever!

How wonderful your feelings for WDW rubbed off on your DB!

I loved the Disney tv shows, especially Mickey Mouse Club. I watched every day. I subscribed to the Disney channel to watch those old shows. Now I rarely watch it as I dislike the programming. I have a book that I found that lists every episode of Wonderful world of Disney & gives synopsis & pictures. I love it!