Our Disney Daze

Rides without Kids!

2011-03-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

Ahhh - so we're back from our anniversary trip - no kids at Disney World! It was awesome. I recommend everyone take a trip without their kids at least once. The only time I got a little teary eyed about them not being there was while we were watching the Pixar parade at Hollywood. It was our first day and we weren't planning on catching any daytime parades, but our dinner reservation was for 3:30 and the parade route was right in front of our restaurant at 3:00 - so we watched - and we sort of wished the kids were there with us to see all the characters.

Anyway - this trip to Disney world we were able to focus on some of the bigger rides that we couldn't do when the kids were with us. (We could have done them, but I we didn't want to take up the time of having each of us ride the big rides alone while the kids waited.)

So... here we go:

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster: I still love this ride. The music, the speed, the lights - it is awesome. We tackled this at 8:15 in the morning and I'm not so sure that's the best time to have your body thrown around like that - but either way - we enjoyed this ride!

Toy Story Mania - Still love it. With and without the kids it's a great ride. It was fun to ride it without the kids because I could focus on the game at hand (of course, Mike still kicked my butt.)

Space Mountain - ugh. No thanks. It was very jerky. It actually doesn't go too fast (you can tell by the seats - there's nothing right behind your head) - the effects are pretty cool, but it was a very jerky ride.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - pretty fun. Quinn did this ride awhile ago, but he didn't love it.

Splash Mountain - LOVED IT. This ride must be done at night. We could see the stars during most of it. I thought the boys would like this ride, but there's quite a few drops before you finally get to the big drop. Oh - but the view from the top of that big drop is AMAZING. Especially at night.

Mission Space - I'm glad we tested this ride out - We choose the less intense line (no spinning) and we loved it. Mike got a little dizzy, but he didn't need the barf bags they provide, so that's good. I thought it was a great ride and I know Quinn will love it.

so - that's it - the rides we were able to do without the kids. We did get on plenty of other rides. (We rode Jungle Cruise 4 times - that ride cracks me up.)

Totally Normal

2011-03-01T17:41:00.001-08:00

This morning during breakfast Quinn and Liam were talking about Mike and I's upcoming trip to Disney World. They are beyond excited to be staying with their Grandma for five nights and the conversation we had this morning made it seem as though it was perfectly normal for parents to leave their kids at home and go to Disney World.

Q - You should take your Mickey Mouse cup to Disney World to show Mickey Mouse. I'm sure he'll like it.

L - You guys are going to Disney World when we go to Grandma's house?

Me - Yup.

L - Disney World is in Florida?

Me - Yup.

L - I'm going to Grandma's house?

Me - Yup.

Q and L - WooHoo! Grandma's house!

I'm so thankful for this - the guilt of leaving my boys behind while Mike and I tackle the World is starting to creep up on me and knowing they're going to be having fun with their grandma is going to make it just a little bit easier.

Also - I do have a trip planned in June for the boys - so we are talking about that too. As a matter of fact, Quinn has instructed me to ride Tower of Terror with Mike as many times as I want, because he is NOT going on that ride in June.

Disney Memories

2010-09-30T15:29:00.000-07:00

So Disney recently announced it's next campaign, Let the Memories Begin. I have to admit memories of Disney World rank as my favorites. I had been meaning to put together a slide show of our most recent trip and I found myself with some time to do so this week....inspired by all the photos here
I created this.. Enjoy! And I started saving today for our next trip :)

The Guilt Trip

2010-09-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

It's final. The flight is booked. The room reservations are made. The dining reservations are made.

We're going without the kids.

The flight - free with credit card miles!

The room - "free" thru our DVC point!

The dining - Not free at all, but I'm very excited about our choices!
Brown Derby for dinner before a Fantasmic Show
LeCellier for lunch
Marrakesh for dinner - something new for both of us!
Artist Point for dinner
Cape May - our only character meal for breakfast. We might skip this.

AND - I booked us a tour for Keys to the Kingdom with lunch at Columbia House.

It's different planning a trip without the kids.

And this guilt is wearing on me - I'm thinking of taking them in June...

Interview With Liam

2010-05-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

I love the way he says "right here."

Interview with Daddy

2010-05-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

Interview with Quinn

2010-05-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

I love the way he says Disney World.

So far...

2010-04-04T06:10:00.000-07:00

The plan:

Leave March 10th - return March 14th.

Stay at the Beach Club - haven't been there yet, close walk to EPCOT, nightlife on the Boardwalk...

Things we can't do when the kids are there:

Go para-sailing - Mike says he'll just watch!
Have lunch with an imagineer - Mike's pick.
Ride all the rollar coasters - I haven't tried Mount Everest yet. Also - I haven't tried Splash Mountain - so those are two must dos.

Places we want to eat at:

Le Cellier
California Grill
Narcoossee's
Artist Point
'Ohana
Mama Melrose

Too many places to choose from... we definitely want to try Le Cellier. And either California Grill or Narcoossee's. I think we'll save 'Ohana for when the family is there. Mama Melrose offers priority seating for Fantasmic, but I don't think we'll need that since when we're going isn't too busy. I think lunch with an imagineer is at the Brown Derby.

The Early Planning Stages

2010-04-02T05:52:00.001-07:00

I swear one of my favorite things to do is plan out a WDW trip.

Where to stay? Where to eat?

The next trip we take will be something special. Just Mike and I going to celebrate 10 years of "happily ever after!"

So... where are we going to stay? Where are we going to eat? Are we going to go para-sailing? Have lunch with an imagineer?

All things I'm in the midst of planning - and I'm enjoying every minute of it.

Rope Drop

2010-02-28T18:37:00.000-08:00

A perfect Disney Day for me involves getting to the Magic Kingdom in time to see their rope drop ceremony. It brings tears to my eyes every time. Not only that, but then you're into the park before it gets crazy crowded and can ride so many rides in that first hour while other vacationers are sleeping in.

We were only able to make the rope drop once this trip (with three visits to the MK). Of course, one of those three visits we were in the park before it opened having breakfast with Chip, Dale, Pluto, and Minnie Mouse - so that's fun too.

Anyway - the ceremony is pretty neat and always involves a real live family. Like one they pick from people waiting around for the park to open. Could you imagine being that family? I think part of the reason the show brings tears to my eyes is because I am truly so happy for that family.

Of course - once the show is over they "drop the ropes" and let everyone into the Most Magical Place on Earth. And then, it's the walk up to the castle that gets me. And all the Cast Members standing outside their shops wishing everyone a "Good morning!" Oh! I just love it.

Oh - and all these pictures were taken with a disposable camera! I left the freshly charged camera battery at our hotel room. Could you imagine? A disposable camera? I think I did alright with it...

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Characters!

2010-02-28T14:15:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do at Walt Disney World is to meet the characters. I know it is hokey and I am too old, but I still love it! And I love the pictures! I love the interaction! Tinkerbell and the Fairies were HANDS DOWN THE BEST interaction this trip. Bravo to those cast members, I will never forget that one.

I don't mind waiting in a short line to see the kids come face to face with a favorite character and snapping a quick shot for the scrapbook. I never really understood the autograph thing, and actually wasn't real fond of the people that pushed their way in to get autographs... That was until I had 2 shy children. Now I get it, and now they make you wait in a line as well. It use to be that characters would just roam the parks with a handler, and subsequently get mobbed by people as excited as I was to see them.
The autograph thing helps both my children approach the characters and gives them something to say or do when they meet them, rather than stand there dumbfounded. Here are a few pics from our most recent meet!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Upcoming Trips...

2010-02-26T07:48:00.001-08:00

March 2011 - 10 Year Anniversary Trip - just Mike and I - Bay Lake Towers - try parasailing! Eat at fancy restrauants.

Summer 2011 - family trip - Hilton Head? If there's enough points leftover for a short stay.

Oct 2012 - family trip - Bay Lake Towers or Wilderness Lodge - visit Mickey's Not So Scarey Halloween Party if it's still going on. Bring my parents with if they're healthy enough?

OR Spring break 2012 - Bay Lake Towers or Beach Club or Animal Kingdom Lodge

Epcot!

2010-02-21T08:09:00.001-08:00

We found some wonderful surprises on this trip! We spent much more time in Epcot and enjoyed every minute of it. The park always seems less crowded or maybe there is more space to wander around. As a kid, I enjoyed the Future World portion of Epcot, but not so much the World Showcase. It has always been a great place to find characters without the long lines, but other than that--you walk thru...boring.

I was pleasantly surprised this trip to enjoy the World Showcase and happy that it was one of Emily's favorite experiences. We did the Kim Possible mission, and it was one of best things we did! Here are some pictures from our mission...

We also did the Kidcot stops as we wandered around the country pavilions. Emily was really into this as well and the kids both got a fun mask to bring home as a souvenir.

Oh, and it so happened that Emily was reading something in school and was able to comment on the country because she saw it at Epcot...who says Disney isn't educational?!? All in all it was a great day and a great way to end our trip!

Princesses

2010-02-20T11:34:00.000-08:00

Dining with the princesses for breakfast in Norway...
more pictures...

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Quinn's favorite seemed to be Cinderella. He could barely look at her while talking to her, but had a huge smile on his face while watching her talk to Liam.

Ariel was funny - wanted to make sure Quinn was a "Good pirate" and asked to borrow Emily's "thing-a-ma-jig" (pen). She kept asking Quinn to explain how he flew to Florida.

Snow White was sweet and spent a lot of time talking to Liam and trying to make him more comfortable. For some reason, Liam kept saying he didn't like the princesses.

Sleeping Beauty - she seemed sort of ditsy to me, but she is Amy's favorite!

Who's Got the Ketchup?

2010-02-20T11:18:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite meals at Disney World was at the Wilderness Lodge - at their Whispering Canyon. The big "skit" of the evening involved ketchup. Ask your waiter for some ketchup - the guys yells across the restaurant, "Hey - who's got the ketchup?" And from across the room someone would yell, "Who needs the ketchup?" And you'd have to wave them over. Then, all of a sudden your table is filled with ketchup brought to you by various kids throughout the place. Quinn thought it was hysterical the first time. Liam had so much fun, that after getting rid of our ketchup, he decided he needed more ketchup - and so we asked for more. And Liam waved the people over to our table to bring us more ketchup.

Also? The waiter offered Quinn a milkshake as part of his drink choices! A milkshake!? As a drink?! He was in heaven.

The kids also got to ride some wooden horses around the place and dance the hokey pokey. Somehow - we did manage to eat and the food was pretty good!

Of course, we've got pictures...

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Dear Ryan and Amy,

2010-02-20T05:51:00.000-08:00

We had a lot of fun with you at Disney World.

Please buy into the Disney Vacation Club so we can do it all the time.

Thanks,
Cathy and Mike

Our First Day

2010-02-14T11:57:00.000-08:00

We were, thankfully, able to leave Chicago right at the start of a huge snowstorm. I was nervous - to say the least.

We landed in Orlando and it was raining.

That didn't stop us.

We checked into our hotel, left our winter coats with Bell Services and headed to the Magic Kingdom.

We arrived just in time to grab some hotdogs and see the 3:00 Parade.

We were all so excited. Standing in the rain. Waiting and watching for the parade to come...

and more pictures...

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

The Music

2010-01-24T11:28:00.001-08:00

This morning during my "Latin Fusion" cardio class - a song came on that reminded me of the music used during the Illuminations show at EPCOT every night.

Friday afternoon at work we had some traditional Native America dancers/drummers perform for the school - they were amazing. My favorite thing about live music is actually being able to feel the music in your body.

If my memory is correct, I was able to feel the music a year and a half ago at EPCOT. It may not have been "live", but I can promise it was amazing.

I cannot wait to hear it again.

Where's the Bathroom?

2010-01-18T17:57:00.000-08:00

Over my Christmas Break I potty-trained Liam.

It went well. Way better than I expected.

But now? Oh gosh...

We went out to dinner the other night. Liam asked to go to the bathroom at least 6 times until he finally pooped. I almost didn't take him that last time, but then he started crying/screaming, "poop! poop!"

While we were watching the Princess and the Frog Liam went to the bathroom at least 4 times - somehow managing to pee each time.

We were at the dentist today. Two trips to the bathroom.

Whenever we go to any store the first thing he says is, "I go potty."

I'm thinking conquering Disney World would have been easier in diapers for this guy.

49 days

2009-12-21T18:22:00.000-08:00

What's left to do?

Our last trip, our first trip as a family, I was busy busy busy getting things ready. Things that we probably didn't need, but were fun, either way.

Now? What to do?

Our park tickets arrived, hotel reservations made, dining reservations, what parks/which days figured out, flight arranged, Magical Express is all set up...

I'm not going crazy with matching outfits this time - the boys did get one new shirt each. We've got Mickey hoodies that will fit them just fine. I'm not planning their clothes, really, until it's closer and I can see the weather forecast.

Last time, we did goody bags. Mickey, or one of his friends, would leave a little bag in the room for the boys to open in the morning. As if they needed something else to be excited about, but it was fun. I'm not doing that again. Mickey will send a package (new shirts and a countdown chain) after Christmas with a letter saying how excited he is we're coming back and maybe explaining that goodies are given every day only to those who are there for the first time. But, more importantly Mickey will let Quinn know that Emily will be joining us on this trip. That news, will have Quinn jumping up and down - I promise you.

So... no goody bags, no more t-shirts/shopping... hmmmm...

Mission Accomplished

2009-11-23T20:32:00.000-08:00

Last night at dinner, my 2 year old who can barely get out a full sentence, says "I go Disney World?" Be still my heart... I'm raising 2 Disney lovers. What more could a Disney Mom ask for?

Tickets

2009-11-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

So, it's even more official now. I've purchased our airfare and our park tickets through Undercover Tourist. If you're not yet receiving emails from Mouse Savers - sign up. They send a secret link once a month with a great deal on park tickets through the Undercover Tourist. Sweet!

Just 85 more days until we're in a place "where dreams come true!"

Still Trying to Believe This...

2009-10-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

Last time we went to WDW we stayed at CBR and felt like we were living it up. We had an ADR at Big River Grille & Brewing Works located at BW. I fell in love with the place and thought, "Wow. We'd never be able to stay there." Now that we're members of the DVC our next trip will be staying at the BWV. After that BLT and then maybe AKL or OKW. Who knows. I'm just still amazed that we're going to be doing this.

Translation for those not familiar with disney speak:

Last time we went to Walt Disney World we stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort and felt like we were living it up. We had an advanced dining reservation at Big River Grille & Brewing Works located at the boardwalk. I fell in love with the place and thought, "Wow. We'd never be able to stay there." Now that we're members of the Disney Vacation Club our next trip will be staying at the Boardwalk Villas. After that Bay Lake Towers and then maybe Animal Kingdom Lodge or Old Key West. Who knows. I'm just still amazed that we're going to be doing this.

116 more days

1 year ago today...

2009-10-11T20:02:00.001-07:00

we were here....meeting these guys... and watching this...

4 more months!

It just made sense...

2009-10-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

It was something we had in the back of our minds every since we took our first trip to Disney World together - almost ten years ago for our Honeymoon.

Can we do this every year? How could we ever afford to stay onsite (especially the Contemporary)?

After we got married we rarely took vacations. We went to Las Vegas once. And I think that was it. Yup. Trips up to Wisconsin, but that doesn't really count in my book. We always talked about going to Disney World - especially for Christmas time - but figured we should wait 'til we had kids. We have a difficult time spending money.

Finally, our first family trip - almost a year ago - and we fell in love with it all over again - and this time with a fresh perspective.

And then we started thinking about it again. The Disney Vacation Club. We briefly looked into it a year ago, but since the only people I knew who belonged inherited a large sum of money and that's how they got it. So I figured it wasn't for us.

Then, this past week two families I know, two families, went to DisneyWorld and the urge to join DVC got so much stronger. Not only that, but the Doorway to Dreams store in Woodfield hosted an amazing event.

And so I went. Just to check things out.

And it was amazing. I learned how flexible the DVC can be. I learned how the point system work. I learned how DVC is so very different than other time shares. But most importantly, I figured out, we can afford this. We could have afforded it ten years ago (and would have paid a lot less than today).

So we took the plunge. We joined the DVC and I couldn't be happier.

We already have our first trip planned for February. We're staying in a 2bedroom at the Boardwalk and bringing along our friends, who just happened to be with us for our first family trip.

Not only that, we've got our next two trips after that "sort of" planned out. Mike and I want to go for our 10th anniversary - just a quick weekend trip in January or February of 2011. And then, we'd love to take the grandparents (both sets) to stay with us in 2012. See how that all works - a quick weekend stay in a studio, then we can save our points for the next year and get a 2 bedroom (which is really like a 3 bedroom as far as sleeping arrangements go).

We don't even have to go every year - we can "bank" our points one year and go the following year - we can even "borrow" points from the year after that and stay in a villa at one of the nicest resorts at DisneyWorld. Well, let's face it, they're all nice.

And we can go other places too.

This is going to be good for us. It's going to force us to think about going somewhere and doing something. If we can't afford to fly to Florida - maybe we'll drive down and stay longer - or maybe we'll use our points at one of the resorts in Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, or heck, even Chicago!

Those in the DVC will say they wish they hadn't waited. Those not in the DVC will question our decision. I know. It just keeps happening. And that's okay, because I know this is for us and we will love it.

Reasons Why We Need to go to Disney World in February

2009-09-29T11:33:00.001-07:00

or in March.

I need somewhere warm to look forward to in order to survive another winter.

Liam won't be three yet - free park tickets and he can eat off of our plates for the dining plan

Quinn is still asking to eat with the princesses

All the t-shirts I got for our last trip still fit the boys

If we do buy DVC via Disney and not resale - we'll get a bunch of "bonus" points to use in 2010 and be able to stay in a really nice one or two bedroom

I don't want to go in the summer of 2010 - too hot. And Quinn might have his surgery in the beginning of the summer.

I don't want to go in the fall of 2010 - Quinn will just be starting kindergarten.

I would only have to take two days off of work in order for us to go Tuesday-Tuesday. (That's if we go in February - if we went in March - oh help us, we'd go during spring break.)

I was going to say that Liam will still be small enough for this to happen, but I'm not so sure after looking at this picture!

At EPCOT - during the fireworks show.

One of my most favorite memories.

Disney Vacation Club or Not

2009-09-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

So - here I sit, my eyes buggy from reading about all the different opinions and options of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC).

I can't even wrap my mind around it all to come up with a decent post.

Would it make more sense to just save money to vacation? Is it worth the annual dues?

If we didn't do DVC we would probably never stay at those Deluxe Resorts within walking distance to the parks.

If we do DVC - what resort would we want to be our "home"? I'm leaning towards the Boardwalk, because you can walk to both Epcot and Hollywood. Or boat there. Walk to Epcot - hop on the monorail to Magic Kingdom. The only one we'd need a bus for would be Animal Kingdom.

If we do DVC - there is no housekeeping service. No Magical Express from the airport to the resort. So we'd have to rent a car or call a cab.

How, exactly does the trading of points work with RCI? Where can we go?

As a DVC member would we get discounts using cash at other Disney resorts?

Can we use our points at other resorts not within the DVC?

Would we rather use our money to buy a trailer and land up in WI?

If we belonged to DVC it would force us to vacation. We, surprisingly, have a difficult time spending money on big things like vacation. This DVC would force us to use our points at least every other year - and take super nice vacations. Not just Disney. Hilton Head, SC looks beautiful. And over 500 other locations - but I have no idea how those other locations work! ha!

I know exactly where we stand as a couple.

We both want both. DVC and land/trailer.

I want DVC more.

Mike wants land/trailer more.

Why can't we just have it all?

And - I am officially stating that I am willing to give up my Starbucks for this. (and I love my Starbucks)

I'm like a kid...

2009-09-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

You know how when you hear about other people going to Disney..then you get all jealous and wish you were going? That's what I'm feeling right now.
And then you hear about people who got back and said it was just too hot, or too crowded, or they would never do a character meal again...and you are thinking "are you crazy?"
That's what I'm thinking right now.

I would go there every year if I could.

One more reason to do Disney

2009-08-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

As if I needed one...
A trip to the Wisconsin Dells would be just as expensive as going to Disney for the same period of time on the same dates and that included 2 meals and a snack a day at Disney. Not including airfare!

It's just a little farther...

Maybe a little Disney crazy...

2009-06-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

Don't you just sit at home and watch your kids and think... "Gosh, they are the PERFECT age to take to Disney World!"
And then rationalize to your non-Disney obsessed husband, "I know I said that last year, but really Joe would enjoy it so much more now. He knows all the characters names, he watches some of the shows on Disney Channel.... Emily asks about it all the time. We didn't get to spend enough time to relax and visit all the parks. I mean really this would be the best time to go..."
But some how, your non-Disney obsessed husband says "we just went" "it's too expensive" "I want to relax on vacation"
Don't worry, I'm raising 2 Disney obsessed children--soon it will be 3 against one...

Planning...the early stages

2009-03-15T04:39:00.001-07:00

Before this past trip in October, the last time I was at Disney World was 8 years ago. Now, I want to go again. Right Now.

This winter I seemed to survive a bit better and I think it's because I had a little trip to Arizona planned for February. Something to look forward to after all the cold and dreary days. So it only makes sense, that for my emotional well being, I should plan a trip for next winter to Disney World.

I think park tickets are free if you're under 3 - so we better go before Liam turns 3 next June.

I want to go in one year - in March. I think I'll start visiting the disboards again and watching for discounts.

And then maybe we should go to CA and visit DisneyLand - I've never been there and I have a ton of friends in CA that we could also visit. Then, it wouldn't be a total Disney trip - so that would make Mike happy.

I don't know. But we're going somewhere.

Our Magical Moment

2008-11-17T16:38:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned before about how great all the Cast Members were at Disney World. Well - the following story and pictures would not have been such a great memory had it not been for the Cast Member dressed as Woody and the Photopass Photographer who captured the entire event.

So - while Quinn and I were waiting in line to see Woody and Buzz Lightyear Quinn noticed that he only had Buzz on his shirt. "But Mommy, Woody will be sad, because I don't have him on my shirt." Do you want to draw Woody a picture? "Do you think that will make him feel better?" I do. "Okay."

And so Quinn drew Woody a picture - and even signed his name on it!

When we finally made it to the front of the line - Quinn went right up to Woody and gave him the picture. "Here Woody. I drew this for you and signed my name for you!"

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And Woody quickly gave Quinn a hug.

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And brought him in a little closer...

And just that would have been enough. That would have made me happy.
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But then, Woody made such a big deal out of that picture. He showed it off to Buzz. He pretended to hang it up on the wall. He danced around a little. And showed it off to Buzz again. It was perfect. And just that would have been enough.
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And so Quinn asked for Woody's autograph.
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And Woody called Quinn closer to watch what he was writing.

And Woody wrote, "Howdy Cowboy! Thanks a LOT! Your pal, Woody"
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And just that would have been enough. But no. Woody held up that picture for the picture. And then, yes then, is when the really magical part happened. The "character handler" asked Woody, "hey Woody, you want me to hold onto that for you?" And Woody shook his head NO and put that picture right into his holster belt and patted his 'pocket'!

When we got outside to meet up with Mike and Liam Quinn saw Mike and said, "Daddy! I gave Woody a picture and my autograph and he put it in his pocket and is going to keep it FOREVER Daddy! Woody's got my picture in his pocket!"
And then I almost burst into happy tears!

Pluto!

2008-11-16T17:44:00.000-08:00

Our last morning we went to Animal Kingdom and on our way to Donald's Safari Breakfast I noticed a bunch of characters with almost nobody by them! Pluto was just standing around and so I said to Quinn, "Do you want to go say 'Hi!' to Pluto?" No thanks, I already saw him! And I said, "But, look, nobody's giving Pluto a hug - he needs one!" And Pluto got down on his knee and motioned for Quinn to come and hug him!

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I'm pretty sure this is my most favorite picture of Quinn with any character!

Character Fun!

2008-10-21T19:31:00.001-07:00

Cathy talked about rides, so I decided to blog about the characters....

I always love meeting the characters, those are the pictures I can't get enough of. It use to be that you could just walk up and elbow your way to the character and snap a pic, now it's lines or special meals to meet and greet.

It was kind of funny, but not really surprising to me, that Joe prefered the characters with the big head. He would not interact with the ones who's faces were actually showing!

We met most of our characters at meals (Chef Mickey and Princess Storybook Breakfast), but as we walked to our first ride these fine ladies were out near the castle, and we only had to wait for 3 people in front of us. Emily was a bit nervous, and man were they in character, but still must have sensed her uneasiness and were as 'nice' as you would expect.

The next friend was Ariel. This was a nightmare for Ryan, but we waited the 45 minutes in the sweltering heat to have our own personal time in her grotto. She was very talkative. In the end it was worth it, since this was the only place we could meet her, and she is a favorite of Emily's.

These are from Chef Mickeys. That is definately the way to go to meet characters. They come to the table, you get plenty of pictures. My only regret is that I wish I had some other ones with Mickey not in a chef outfit.

As you can see here, Joe was fine with them being right at his level.

We did see a lot of Princess at the breakfast, but Mulan was my favorite, and Emily's too. She also took time to talk with Joe and bent down for a picture with him. The CM was the most personable and knowledgeable in my opinion as well. She talked about Mushu, and when Emily fell of the chair in excitement, she asked if she was practicing her 'warrior moves.'

It was so worth it to do the character meals, especially with the Disney Dining Plan. You avoid the lines! I do think I would do a few more character meets when we go back...you never know how long the kiddos will be into that....but if they are anything like their mother, they have a long time to enjoy it!

The Rides

2008-10-20T18:12:00.001-07:00

Our first ride as a family at Disney World was the Haunted Mansion. After getting the boys hair cuts done we were sort of late getting on rides and everything had a long wait - except Haunted Mansion - we walked right on, right into the room where the lights go off and everyone screams, and right into our little "car". I loved it! I love that it was our first ride as a family and that we were able to squeeze into one car, with Liam on my lap. Quinn loved it and asked to ride it again every day of our trip. And Liam surprisingly didn't mind it that much - compared to other rides... Oh and Mike almost had a heart attack when something "jumped" up - seriously Mike jumped and Quinn laughed at him! We rode Haunted Mansion two more times on our trip - and always just walked right on!

Here's Quinn and I on the Magic Carpet Ride. The coolest thing was as we were walking off Aladdin and Jasmine were walking into the ride area! Jasmine made a big deal out of Quinn's hair and Aladdin said hello! How cool - BUT I didn't have a camera to grab a picture (plus they weren't really doing meet and greets - just going on the ride, I guess).

And well...here we are on the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh Ride. Liam did not enjoy this ride AT ALL. Seriously.

Quinn enjoyed looking at all the stuff!

I told you Liam HATED this ride. This was right after the bouncing that happens with Tigger during the ride. He HATED it. (In case you can't tell).

Next - our favorite ride - Toy Story Mania!

We had to go straight to this new ride at Hollywood right when the park opened. We waited about 20 minutes. When we got off the wait was up to 70 minutes - and fastpasses were almost gone. Quinn loved it - Liam hated it. Bascially, it's like a moving arcade game - only in 4D. You spin around in the car, stop in front of big screens, pull and shoot rings or things at stuff, and get points! All while wearing 3D glasses - and - the part that Liam hated the most - anytime you shot something you'd feel air coming at you! Truly an awesome experience, unless, you know, you're one and just don't get it!

Now of course you're thinking, man, you guys really tortured Liam. No. That's not true. He did enjoy this ride...

Any ideas what it is? I'll give you a hint. Or, rather, I'll just tell you. "It's a small world..." I know it's cheezy, but I like this ride. It totally makes me think of Disney world, way more than Dumbo.

Here's a quick break down of the rides and how the boys reacted to them (oh - and our wait times, just for fun!)
Dumbo - we waited 10 minutes, Quinn thought it was ok, Liam didn't like it.
Peter Pan's Flight - we didn't wait at all, Quinn liked it, Liam HATED it, I thought it was pretty cool.
Winnie the Pooh - we didn't wait at all, do I need to talk about what the boys thought? I thought it was OK.
Snow White's Scary Adventure - We didn't wait. We didn't take Liam on it, Quinn loved it, I thought it was OK
Mickey's Philharmagic - not really a ride, a show, we didn't wait - Quinn loved it. I loved it! (We didn't take Liam)

Goofy's Barnstormer - 5 minutes, Quinn loved it, I thought it was too short, but probably perfect for a kid's first rollercoaster ride (Liam wasn't tall enough - nor would we have tried)
Big Thunder Mountain - We used fastpasses (Didn't wait), Quinn said, "It went down too fast!" I thought it was fun and was surprised Quinn wasn't screaming. It's a real rollercoaster! (Liam wasn't tall enough - nor would we have tried)
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin - Not quite as cool as Toy Story, but Quinn enjoyed shooting at things. Liam did a little better, because he was playing with the gun. =) Still - didn't like it much.
Triceratop Spin - Just like Dumbo. We didn't wait. Liam didn't mind it as much as Dumbo. Quinn thought it was ok.
Finding Nemo - We walked right on. Liam liked most of it (except this one part where it appears you're spinning, but you're not). Quinn loved it so much he asked to go on again - and a CM let us cut into line by the handicap entrance and we hopped right back on!
Journey Into Imagination - We walked right on. I enjoyed it more because Quinn was into it. Liam kept saying "bye bye" to Figment.

For the most part, the only ride Liam enjoyed was "it's a small world". Everything else he would very clearly say, "All done." and "bye bye". Or, you know, just cry.

And here's a list or rides I WISH we would have done:
Pirates of the Caribbean (too long of a wait)
Splash Mountain (wanted to do it, but didn't want to get wet)
Tower of Terror (Quinn said he wanted to do it at home, but when he saw it - NOPE.)
Dinosaur (same as Tower of Terror)
Tomorrowland Indy Speedway
Soarin' (We went to EPCOT late - fastpasses were gone and the wait was over an hour)

I suppose that's why I have to say, "next time we go!"

Caribbean Beach Resort

2008-10-19T13:17:00.001-07:00

My feelings towards our resort are sort of that of a love/hate relationship. After it took us so long to check in and get to our rooms and after having pretty much none of our requests filled I really didn't like the place much. But then I woke up very early Thursday morning and saw this:

And on my way across the bridge to the main area (food court, store, information center, etc.) I saw this and took a quick picture.

This was the view from our hotel room. Can you see how one might fall in love with this place?

Quinn loved staying here and leading us to either a bus stop or over the bridge to the pool or lunch. We was insistent that we stay behind him and let him lead. Since that was one of the only places we could let Quinn walk on his own we took advantage of this.
Here Quinn's going to lead us over the bridge that leads to everything!

Here's a view of our "island" Aruba. Each "island" has it's own beach and we spent one morning letting the boys play on the beach. I wish we would have had more time to enjoy the resort. Boat rentals, bike rentals, pirate's cruise, swimming pool with slides, and I waited until the last day to find out the "Banana Cabana" (hotel bar) has the most awesome Orange Dream drinks ever. There was a ship holding a pirate's cruise the morning we let the boys play on the beach, so we saw all these boys on a ship chasing a pirate on another ship - and then the pirate ran right onto our beach and ran away. Quinn got into the action by grabbing a stick and yelling at the pirates, "Stay away from our island! Argh!" So he had fun and we didn't even pay the $30 to have him on the boat!

I know some people love this resort and stay there every time they go to Disney World. For us, there's plenty of other places to try and I can't wait to try something new next time! (I'm thinking either the Dolphin or the Swan - I heard teachers get discounts there?!? Or the boardwalk - if we happen to win the lotto or something.)

Cast Members

2008-10-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

A few posts ago, Amy mentioned that one of the things she was looking forward to was, "The fact that being at Disney means that everyone working there treats my kids like they are the most special kids at the most special place on Earth." I really didn't understand what she was talking about, but after our vacation, oh my gosh, I totally get what she meant.

Every "Cast Member" (that's what Disney calls their employees) made me feel as though Quinn and Liam were a part of their family. From the smiles to the stickers - my kids received plenty of both from everyone who wore a Disney name tag. From the moment we arrived until the moment we left Quinn and Liam were constantly being waved at, smiled at, ooooohed over, talked to, or getting stickers. It didn't matter what job these people held - from table cleaners, cashiers, bellhops, bus drivers, security guards, ticket takers, crowd management, street cleaners, bathroom attendants, and everyone else - they all treated my kids as if they were the most special kids there!

We had a lot of "magical moments" on this vacation - and pretty much all of them were because one or two cast members went out of their way to be nice to the boys.

After spending a busy morning at Hollywood (where my most favorite magical moment happened, but you'll have to wait until those pictures are ready) we were heading out of the park. Quinn and I needed a bathroom break before waiting for the bus and heading back to the hotel for our afternoon naps. When we walked out of the bathroom, this is what we saw:

The street cleaner was talking with Liam - and Liam was SO engaged and happy to see him. I stood back for awhile and watched in awe as the two of them interacted together. The Cast Member even let Liam show him where to sweep - and would sweep up there. Liam loved it!

I can't even explain how much this reminded me of how much I love being at Disney World. After awhile Quinn and I went up to the stroller and the guy started talking to Quinn - did "the pound" with him, and wished us a "magical day".

Harmony Barber Shop

2008-10-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

One of my only requirements for this trip (besides NO WHINING - which didn't work) was to have Liam's first hair cut at the Harmony Barber Shop on Main St., USA (Magic Kingdom). We waited quite a bit, after not getting to our hotel room until 2am - we didn't get an early start as planned - so we waited! But it was so worth it! As you can see, Quinn needed a trim as well! (The above picture is my favorite - notice Quinn is the one in the chair!)

Two boys - waiting for the bus to the Magic Kingdom. Both in need of a haircut!

Quinn's an old pro at this.

.

Whenever a barber tells Quinn to close his eyes he makes such a funny face!

After Quinn's hair cut the barber put some Pixie Dust in his hair! (Yellow gel, spiked it, and threw some Mickey Mouse confetti on it!)

Liam's not too sure about this...

Liam wanted nothing to do with this - until we gave him some bubbles to play with - he kept eating them!

Bye bye long hair!

He's screaming at this point! (Get that hat off of me!)

It was totally worth waiting for.

We're Baaackkk!

2008-10-13T20:22:00.000-07:00

It's a Magical Day...My Minnie Mouse
With her favorite!
I just absolutely love this shot...
We're back from our trip!!

Magic Kingdom will always be my favorite, I could spend almost my entire trip there. The music, the rides, I love it all....even Small World especially after seeing how much both of the kids loved it. I found new rides I loved, Winnie the Pooh and Buzz Lightyear and old favorites that I wished hadn't changed, Tiki Room and Pirates of the Carribean.

I was a little unimpressed with Animal Kingdom. I suppose I should feel lucky we have such a great zoo in the area. Maybe as the kids get a little older, we would enjoy it more but for now all the magic is at the castle.

I loved staying on-site. The buses were that bad, we only had to wait a long time a few times. I think it's probably the choice of 2 evils--wait it out with the parking lot tram, and then driving the traffic--or a wait for the buses, but no head ache of driving. Ryan and I discussed that it would have been nice to have more time to spend at the resort using some of the amenities there--boat rental, bike rentals, pools...but since was a short trip we didn't get a chance.

It was a great trip...Emily cried when it was time to go.

I cried at the airport when our flight was delayed 5 1/2 hours...

Dad's the only one happy we are home :)

Shhh... Emily and I are already ready to plan our next trip!

Live Update

2008-10-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

Waiting for buses is no fun. Sitting on a crowded bus is no fun.

BUT - almost everything else - fun! Even getting drenched in the rain after dinner while waiting/running for a boat!

Want some pictures? Go here!

How to get your kids ready for Disney...

2008-10-05T19:33:00.000-07:00

Have them participate in a 5K walk... Emily made it and Joe rode in the stroller. It took us about an hour.

Have a gift from Mickey waiting at home for the kids...filled with a note and some goodies for the trip.

Things I Don't Want to Forget

2008-10-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

I've spent all weekend trying to pack things up for Wednesday. (That's right, Wednesday - what? Oh, I forgot to post the 10 days to Go picture. Sorry - here it is. And a bonus one for you as well.)

Anyway...I've been packing all weekend, I thought I'd finish it all Saturday, but what I finished Saturday included printing stuff, goody bags, laundry, making more lists, and deciding that I was wrong - we cannot fit all of our stuff in the bags we have. So - this morning we went and got a new suitcase. As of now I've got one checked suitcase completely packed - not to be opened again until we get there. Another checked suitcase almost packed - need to add my make-up and other stuff the day of. Another checked suitcase empty - waiting for Mike to fill with all of his clothes - he's seriously freaking out about having to decide what he's going to wear days from now. I've got a carryon suitcase almost packed - just waiting for some more things. Quinn's carryon packed and done and ready to go. And my new carryon pretty much ready, but I'll need to add things like snacks for Liam and what not. Hmmm...I thought I was more put together then it sounds, but there's all this last minute stuff. Anyway...there's a few things I don't want to forget that aren't packed yet and can't be packed until the day we leave.

pillow case covers - I learned this trick this summer. It's not the hotel pillows that suck, it's the scratchy covers. (Ok, the pillows do suck, but not so bad when you have a good cover on them. And it's a lot easier to pack a few pillow cases then pillows - though I will miss my pillow. Oh I love my pillow...)
Cameras
Batteries (they are currently charging)
laptop charger
cell phone charger
battery charger
Quinn's Disney Dollars
camera connector thingy for laptop
formula for Liam (both in the can and some pre-measured for the flight)

My First "argh" Planning Moment

2008-09-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

It started last night around 10:30 - when I wondered, "hmmm....where are we sitting on the plane?" and so I checked. And found that they had me in 21C, Quinn in 21F, and Mike in 12E - read that again - Mike is in row twelve, we are in row twenty-one - and Quinn is NOT sitting next to anyone he knows. WTF? And of course I checked this at 10:30, right before I was about to go to bed. Big Mistake! First, I emailed Amy, "Where are you sitting? Can you believe this? What should I do?" Then, I went over to the disboards and posted my dilemma on the transportation portion of the discussion boards. Then, I tried to go to bed with positive thoughts, "Well, someone will trade seats with me - who wants to sit next to a 3 year old?" And Mike shot that down, "They don't have to switch with you, nothing is going to make them." Uh yeah, thanks Mike. So, I tried to fall asleep, which didn't really happen, and then I woke up around 2am with a horrible feeling in my tummy that didn't go away until an hour or so later and some Tums. This morning I called Disney, who I used as a travel agent, and was told, yup, those are your seats - and they said all I could do was show up early and check in and say we'd like to be together. And since I was at work all day - and don't have any "planning periods" I had to wait 'til lunch to check out what the wise people over at the disboards were saying - and then I got lots of good info. from someone over there. I came home ready to call United and tell them that it was WRONG that they had put a 3-year old by himself and see what they could do to fix it. If they were willing to do nothing, then I would ask to be upgraded to Economy Plus and then choose my seats with the 3 of us in a row (we didn't buy a seat for Liam). But, when I called United I spoke to a very nice lady who was laughing at the thought of a 3 year old sitting by himself as she said, "Oh, do not worry about this. I will add this note, 'traveling as family' and when you get your boarding passes they will do everything they can to seat you together. The airline attendants do NOT want a 3 year old sitting by himself - because he'll be running all over and possibly screaming or crying. They have seats open to use to move people around as needed." I talked with her about upgrading to economy plus - and she said I could do that - but to go through the website to view what seats are available and how much it would cost. There are lots of E+ seats available - and lots of 3 seats available together - and it would cost us $150 - which is exactly how much I saved by downgrading our parkhopper tickets to base tickets. So, I don't have to upgrade my tickets - I just have to remind them when we check in that we need to sit together. BUT, I can upgrade my tickets - get 5 more inches of space - and choose the seats.

10 day countdown: Things left to do...

2008-09-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

1. Sunday: Make a list of what I still need to buy
2. Monday: Call the car service to request pick up
3. Tuesday: Confirm requests with Carribean Beach
4. Wednesday: One week to go! Try to get Joe's hair cut.
5. Thursday: Watch the fan's guide to WDW on travel channel!
6. Friday: Start the laundry and packing up
7. Saturday: Charge the camera batteries
8. Sunday: Mickey delivers a special package to Emily and Joe
9. Monday: Call to confirm the car pick up
10. Tuesday: Finish up the packing

Flashback - 54 Days Ago.

2008-09-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

Why I Can't Wait...

2008-09-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

Yeah yeah yeah - all that stuff Amy said. The kid's faces, the excitement, first words, etc. But really - I'm so looking forward to the food! We've booked our packages with the Disney Dining Plan - which means we've already paid for each of us (me, Mike, and Quinn) to have one table service meal with dessert, one quick service meal, and one snack per day. With access to the menus and reservations made my mouth is already watering. After looking at some of the menus I'm really looking forward to:

1. The Chocolate Wave from Coral Reef in Epcot

2. Chocolate Confusion from the Big River Pub on the Boardwalk

3. Mickey Cheese Ravioli and Marinara Sauce at Chef Mickey's

4. Garlic Redskin Smashed Potatoes at The Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom

5. Cheese-filled Danish at Tusker House in Animal Kingdom

6. Fish and Chips at the Rose and Crown Pub in Epcot (I enjoyed these so much while there on our honeymoon Mike and I went back to Epcot 3 times just to eat there!)

That and I always love the snacks I treat myself to at ballgames, the zoo, carnivals, anywhere I go I seem to find a good excuse to have a special treat. While in Disney World my excuses will include - 1. I've been doing so much walking. 2. I won't be able to come here again for at least two years. So...here's a list of the snacks I'm looking forward to (some of which I'll eat on site and others that I will save):

1. Mickey Mouse Rice Krispie Treat

2. Dole Whip (some sort of pineapple thing at MK)

3. soft pretzel (I would get that anywhere)

4. frozen coke

5. nachos (I'd get those anywhere)

6. a nice old fashioned ice cream cone

7. cinnamon roll

8. funnel cake

And I heard of a drink called The Gray Goose that's available at Epcot - something about lemonaide - it includes some type of alcohol. This will be on my list as well - and my excuse for that one is that we're visiting Epcot on Day 4 of our "vacation" with the kiddos and I will, by that point, have truly earned a nice adult drink.

Why I can't wait...

2008-09-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

Most people think Disney is about the kids, true Disney fans love it just as much as kids...here is what I am looking most forward to about going with my kids.

1. Seeing their faces when they meet Mickey for the first time.
2. Watching them be overwhelmed by the enormity of The World.
3. Watching Emily's excitment build and burst out of her when we get there.
4. Joe saying "Mickey"--or at least I'm secretly hoping!
5. The fact that being at Disney means that everyone working there treats my kids like they are the most special kids at the most special place on Earth.
6. Watching them sleep after a long, unforgetable day in the parks.

Twenty

2008-09-18T07:40:00.001-07:00

20 more days. That is all.

Walking Shoes

2008-09-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

Three years ago I made a committment to walk about 32 miles in two days for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. During the training process for that it was highly recommended that I go to the Running Company in Naperville and have them find me a good pair of shoes for my feet and walking style. And so I did. And I loved it there - they looked at my old gym shoes for wear, watched me walk on a treadmill, looked at how my feet are when I stand, had me walk around and asked if there were any "hotspots" that I felt, taught me about lacing my shoes, and so much more. I walked out of there with a new pair of "running" shoes that felt so good to put on. I walked that charity walk and didn't get any blisters - I saw so many people at all the first aid stations treating some really nasty looking blisters. I remember when I was in that store I was very upfront with the fact that I do not run. And they were so friendly and said they get a lot of business from people doing charity walks or people going on vacations that will require lots of walking! ding! ding! ding!

This Saturday I had an entire "Me Day" planned - a massage, shopping at the Running Company, and then finally dinner with some friends. Mother Nature decided to make my "Me Day" a very rainy day, but regardless I accomplished all that I set out to. Sort of. After trying on about 7 different shoes and sizes and widths the lady at the Running Company and I decided that I needed basically the same shoe I walked in with (just the latest version). New Balance 768 - size 9.5, narrow. Except, they didn't have the narrow in stock and she really didn't want me to just take the regular, because, "look, see how tight I have the laces, and the shoes are still sliding back and forth." So - she said she'd order me a pair Monday morning. Tuesday morning I got a call from the Running Company and I couldn't believe my shoes were in. Well, they weren't. And they wouldn't be in in about a week as previously thought. Apparently the 768s are very popular and completely sold out - New Balance has some On A Ship. I was told my shoes would finally make it to the store no sooner than Oct. 8th. We leave Oct. 8th. I told the guy I might be coming in this weekend to find another pair that would work, but was so dissappointed. But then I searched online and ended up at Zappos - and found my shoes! And ordered one of the last three pairs left on there! God Bless the Internet - but now I have to call the store and tell them, thank you so much, but I won't be coming in to look for different shoes!

To Drive Or Not To Drive?

2008-09-16T07:35:00.001-07:00

I've been wondering lately about how to get to the airport. The plan is that I'm going to take a half day of work, then come home and pack up the car, then Mike and I will go and get the kids from the sitter's house and head to the airport. But - how fun and exciting would it be for Quinn if we showed up with a Limo? AND - then we don't have to worry about parking and trying to figure out how to get our bags to the airport. OR - I could have Mike drop me and the boys and the bags at the curb and he can go park the car. AND - would I need a carseat for Liam in a limo? It seems like a limo or cab is not going to be the best way to go. I suppose the other option is to ask someone to drop us off, but I never really like asking people for favors. hmmm....decisions, decisions. And of course if I ask Mike he'll give me the standard, "I don't know."

It's In the Bag! (almost)

2008-09-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of my new Bagalinni Messanger Bag - to be use at Disney World - of course! Everyone over at the disboards highly recommends this bag for use in the parks. Amy went ahead and got hers weeks ago and tried it out - filling it with diapers, wipes, clipboards, and a few other items. I'm hoping I only have to use this and just leave some ziplock baggies of extra clothes in the bottom of the stroller! I've never even heard of Bagalinni bags before, but apparently they're pretty good. And my internet "twin" Sue wasn't too surprised to learn I ordered orange - because she has the same bag/same color! Of course! She also offered to loan me her carryon Bagalinni - I just might take her up on the offer after I check out what kind of bags we have in the basement for that purpose.

A bit of Disney history...

2008-09-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

After seeing how many times I've actually been to Disney (I think it's 7, this trip will be 8--but I could be missing a few), you might think--geez either that girl's obsessed or was spoiled as a child. It's actually the latter--BUT that's what happens when you are the oldest grandchild!

As we are getting ready for our trip I dug up some photos to show Emily from a trip when I was in grade school (I think 1984). She says I look like a boy, and actually as we were running to our plane--I do recall the flight attendant calling to tell them to hold the plane for a mom and TWO sons (pixie haircut--thanks Dorothy Hamill). Enough about 80's fashion and back to Disney. Here's what I found...

Always a classic

Cathy--we were 'that' family back then, riding on the monorail

Me and my brother

The pooh costume seems to change over the years...

This was the first time we visited after EPCOT opened. I was obsessed with having the acronym memorized-Experimental Protype Community of Tomorrow. I guess in the mid 90's it was changed from EPCOT center to simply Epcot--just a bit of useless Disney Trivia

Here we are in Germany

How I Taught My 3-year Old to Read Double Digit Numbers

2008-09-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

As I started putting this countdown chain together I was cursing the idea (hi Amy!). But then I realized the staples work a lot faster than a glue stick - duh! And in no time at all we had our countdown chain for Disney with 70 days to go!

Ahhh - now it's off the floor. 60 more days!

Oh...to his knees. 50 more days!

Getting shorter.... 40 more days!

Mike took a look the other day and said, "Oh no! It's getting shorter! Is it really that close?"

Uh, yes it is!

30 more days, baby!

Every morning Quinn remembers to take a link off his chain (if not the morning then he'll remember at dinner). We started showing him how to "read" the numbers at some point in the 60s. It was funny, because when he got to 60 he said, "sixty-zero". Not quite, we're still working on that. When we got to 30 (a few days ago) he said, "thirty-zero more days!" Well, it actually sounded like "forty-zero", but only because when a 3 year old almost 4 year old says "thirty" chances are it's going to sound pretty close to "forty". I once had two 4 year olds arguing in my class.

Boy 1 - "It's forty (30) - not forty (40)."

Boy 2 - "That's what I said. 'forty (40)'"

Boy 1 - "No, you said forty (40)."

Boy 2 - "No I didn't. It's forty (30)."

I don't remember what they were talking about, but looking back I should have just taken one away and said, "there. Now it's twenty-nine, right?"

About Amy

2008-09-08T19:23:00.000-07:00

Favorite Disney Movie - Sleeping Beauty
Favorite Disney Character - Minnie Mouse
Favorite Disney World Park - Magic Kingdom -- it's a classic!
Number of Times at WDW - at least 7 (1996 1994 1992 1985 1983 1979 1977)
How often do you want to visit WDW - I would love to go every year!
Favorite WDW Ride - Peter Pan's Flight and I also love Carousel of Progress
Family - husband (33) me (33) Emily (5) Joe (1)
Anything else you need to know?

About Cathy

2008-09-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

Favorite Disney Movie - Beauty and the Beast
Favorite Disney Character - Goofy
Favorite Disney World Park - Last time I was there on my honeymoon - I totally fell in love with Epcot and the Fish 'n' Chips from England. Yum! (We also had a blast in Downtown Disney.)
Number of Times at WDW - 3
How often do you want to visit WDW - Every year would be nice, but every 2 or 3 years seems more doable. Plus - there's more to life (gasp!) than Disney World!
Favorite WDW Ride - I really loved Rock 'n' Roller Coaster.
Family - husband (33 years old), Quinn (almost 4), and Liam (16 months) Oh and me (almost 31)
Anything else you need to know?

A Package From The Mouse

2008-09-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

(reposted from the Tub)

Alright. So my friend Amy and I have truly been going a little Disney crazy. We've got our dinner reservations made, days planned out (as to which parks we'll be visiting), some outfits planned for the kiddos, treats for goody bags purchased, and so much more. We've been working on letters for the kids to get every morning with a little goody bag - telling them what's going on that day. She made some really cool looking autograph clipboards - go see! And she made some stroller tags! Oh yeah - she is the more creative one out of the two of us - and actually most of the ideas of what we're making/doing start with her - I just sort of adapt them a bit or add to 'em.

Quinn and I wrote Mickey Mouse a letter the other day - letting him know we were going to come and see him in October and that we were so excited. So Quinn went out to check the mail today and found a package from Mickey Mouse. (I have a really cute video of him doing this, but alas, can not share it with the world, because our address is as clear as day on there - and although I realize this whole blogging thing requires some sort of leap of faith - I'm not about to jump that high.)

What's in here?

I see something.

Ohhh....look at this.

A letter from Mickey Mouse! Read it mommy!
(actually - it looks kind of like this - I changed my mind and printed it on 8.5x11 paper and that allowed me to change the layout a bit, but the words, they are the same)

Ohhhh...a camera. Mickey Mouse sent me a camera! Say Cheese Mommy.

Uh yeah, a $60 camera that was on sale at the Disney Store for $17. Shit, if I paid $60 for that piece of crap we'd be packing it up and sending it back to Mickey. But anyway, Quinn loves it and it'll hopefully keep him busy in the airport and on the airplane. We're going to have to tell him he can't bring it with to the parks - no way I'm lugging around that.

We're Totally Going to Be THAT Family

2008-09-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Yup - I've convinced Mike to allow me to make him wear a t-shirt for one of our five days in Disney World.

from left to right

Daddy, Liam, Mommy, and Quinn

I love that they're all different colors, but with the same pose.

Cute, right?

So Here It Is

2008-09-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

My friend and I have been family our family vacations to Disney World. I've talked about it a little bit at the Tub, but with only 34 more days left I don't think my regular readers would like it very much if every single one of my posts from now until then focuses on Disney. Plus, my husband is getting sick and tired of me asking him questions or for his opinion on things. Apparently, what types of shoes to get the kids is one of the only things he doesn't have an opinion on. That and everything else related to the trip. I tend to get the old stand by, "I don't know," when I ask for his thoughts. But trust me, when it comes to anything else - my husband has no trouble making his opinions known (and also claiming them to be fact).

So here it is - my Disney Daze. Expect dilemmas, questions, lists, stories, photos, and maybe some fun facts!