3 Kids & A 40th at MY Castle Pre Trippie

[Johnie]

ahem....well I didn't want to call anyone out but......

When I kept mentioning that the 31st was Labor Day, not a one of you thought to remind me that Labor Day is in SEPTEMBER.

So....I am changing my dates to Tues, Aug 25th to Sunday, Aug 30th. Now you know I would never stand you up!!

[Beccaberry]

Hmmmmmmmmmm so do *I* need to change my dates too? And if I wanted to, could I and still keep my free dining?

[Johnie]

Well I just got off the phone......Pop was not available for me to change my date to arrive on the 25th. So I kept it to arrive on the 26th and now I will be leaving on Sun, the 30th. If I do come in on the 24th, I'll just priceline something.

Maybe the free dining didn't start for us until the 26th? :unsure: I don't remember.

[Beccaberry]

Hmmmmmmmmm that actually sounds right, Johnie...ok I'll leave my dates as is...they don't effect my work schedule anyway because I won't have gone back to work by then...

[Johnie]

:taunt:

[Dizneyblonde]

Can i still arrive on the 10th?

[Johnie]

:tongue: if you want to.

[Dorothy]

Well I just got off the phone......Pop was not available for me to change my date to arrive on the 25th. So I kept it to arrive on the 26th and now I will be leaving on Sun, the 30th. If I do come in on the 24th, I'll just priceline something.

Maybe the free dining didn't start for us until the 26th? :unsure: I don't remember.

When I called there was no problem changing to the 25th and he specifically said that it worked with the free dining. I wonder if I should call back now and double check too :unsure:

[Johnie]

He didn't say a word about free dining to me. He just said they didn't have availability on the 25th.

[Dorothy]

johnie I'm double checking and he's also checking yours for me too!!

hang on a sec

[Dizneyblonde]

Does that mean it's full then as we haven't booked for POP yet!

[Dorothy]

Does that mean it's full then as we haven't booked for POP yet!

Nope, but I wonder if you should make your ressie adn then just add the free dining when it comes out.

Johnie what do you think??

[Johnie]

Better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you book it as a package though.

[Dizneyblonde]

Val is sorting it for me and she has said there is no hurry.
She was going to book it for me and pay for the first night but was holding on for the exchange rate to pick up.
I assume she was goig to book a package as it was always the intention to add DDp or AA rates when they became available.
I don't like to trouble her at the moment as i know she has been poorly.

[Johnie]

well somehow Dorothy got me straightened out so I'm coming in on the 25th.

Perhaps I should buy airline tickets now since they are $69 down and $79 back. woohoo!!

[Dizneyblonde]

I wish mine were!

[Dorothy]

well somehow Dorothy got me straightened out so I'm coming in on the 25th.

Perhaps I should buy airline tickets now since they are $69 down and $79 back. woohoo!!

I wish I could get mine now too, but I have to wait for Diane to decide if she's coming or not depening on if her DH's shop starts working soon. I told her that she has to decide before I have to pay the balance on off though.

[winkwink]

wow the scrap boooks look great just catching up on this thread have been exceptionally busy with the new villa in florida (nows the time to buy people ) cant wait for you to get there now :taunt:

[Dizneyblonde]

:lol: 'YOU' can't wait!

Our countdown is taking forever.

That reminds me i must post the next few pages.

[Tinker]

You better call me , if Kimmy has the baby, I'll call you . I might be able to fly without a plane . LOL

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 25 - We now have a complete holiday! 132 days to go

A MASSIVE update today!

As the exchange rate isn't shifting i decided to just go ahead and book the final things for our trip.
Dine with Shamu became available to book for our dates so i have booked the 6.30pm seating for our first day.Hopefully booking this early should mean we get a table right in the middle by the pool again.

I also booked the kids Christmas present of the Shark Dive.When i decided to give it to them as a Christmas present the exchange rate was so much better but i couldn't hold out any longer in case we didn't get the date and time we wanted.They are booked in for the first dive at 10am on our second day at SW so i can go and take photos from Shark's Underwater Grill and the shark tunnel.

Today the announcement i was waiting for was finally made.
Disney are offering free dining again.

I sent Val an email this morning to confirm what we wanted and she phoned me at 11.48am to say that she was ready to ring Disney at 12.
I think she was on hold for nearly an hour in the end but we finally got what we wanted.

10 days at POP Century including full table service dining for FREE!
Woohoo.:lol:

We only expected to get free dining at Moderate or at the most QS dining at Value and we had many contingency plans as back up but our oroiginal hope was realised today and i was so excited when Val rang me to say it was all booked!

We now have to finalise plans for our 10 ADR's so she can ring up and book them for me on 23rd May.

My CC has taken a bit of a battering over the last couple of days but it really feels like we have a holiday booked now and not just flights and a few bits.The final piece of the puzzle fit very well and i can finally get excited.

All that is left to book now is the travel insurance which i will do after i go back to work and signed off from the hospital and BMG when the dates are available to book.

Then i can get our itinerary done properly and start getting the cards printed.

Jack and I are going to have a planning session tonight.
Now all i have to do is finish paying for it!

[lisaw]

Fantastic news! Really pleased the free dining came through for you :hug2:

I had an email about it as well for our 3 nights at POR but I have done some number crunching and I don't think it will work out better for us to pay for our meals as we would be buying 1 day tickets for the sake of it as we don't need them, also not sure how much food we will be eating for those last 3 days - even I have enough of food after 3 weeks :lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

I can't believe how many plans we made just in case and we actually got what we had dared to hope for!

Just got to decide where to eat now :)

[Britchick]

yay!!! really pleased for you hun :hug2:

[Dizneyblonde]

Thanks Julie.

I really must start on my diet soon so i can afford to eat all teh free food!

The exchange rate has made it a lot more expensive than originally planned for but we have still got a Disney room,1 days parks pass and free food for 3 people for £80 a night.
Couldn't do that in the UK!

[Dorothy]

You can't pick where to eat without the rest of us for Aug 25th to the 29th (for me at least since I'm leaving Sunday the 30th).

Can we plan soon, can we huh, can we :mental: :happydance: :flowerbounce:

[Dizneyblonde]

Yes of course hun.
Jack and i will be looking in a bit then i will post what we would like to do on those dates and see if we anyone would like to join us.X

[Dizneyblonde]

Just thought i'd show you the next few scrapbook pages Jack and i have done.

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF0756.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF0757.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF0758.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF0759.jpg

[Dorothy]

Those pages are awesome :D I must resist the scrapbooking but...must resist

[tb2830]

that is absolutely great news teresa :yes: let the rest of your planning commence

[Britchick]

great pages T !!

[lisaw]

I love those pages! They are fab! :yes:

[Taja]

Great news, DB!

Love the scrapbook pages--particularly Peter Pan. He looks ready to fly off the page! :D

[Dizneyblonde]

And all the character pics were cut from an old Disney calendar i had laying around or from the frames that the character photos come in.

[Disneybumble]

That is great news Teresa, I know you were waiting. You're right £80 a night in the UK with food , Forget it. XXX

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 26 - Easter Holiday Planning 118 days to go

Firstly i can't belive we've only got 118 days to go.I'll soon be getting my DD's out and asking you to join me in a dance!

Not much of an update but Jack and i have done a few scrapbooking pages to show you.

I've also ordered a waterproof camera case which we will use with our older digital camera rather than buy disposable cameras when we go to DC and the water parks as it will be better to see what pictures we have taken rather than click away and hope we have some good ones when we get them developed!.

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/15c0_1.jpg

Jack has also spent most of this week on the laptop sorting out our itinerary cards.He is putting in a daily budget,where we are going,places we are going to eat,park opening hours and all the little bits that we need to remember.When the ADR's are booked the numbers for those will go in there too.

We have also decided on an updated itinerary and the places we would like to eat at Disney with our free dining.

Sunday 9th - Travel to Gatwick by National Express,twilight check in,dinner at Frankie and Benny's,overnight stay at the Hilton
Monday 10th - V Room for as long as we can get away with,11.15am flight to MCO,check in Orlando Metropolita Express,snack at Wendy's(holiday tradition)
Tuesday 11th - Seaworld,Dine with Shamu 6.30pm
Wednesday 12th - Busch Gardens,8.30am shuttle from US bus bay,Jungala backstage tour 2pm
Thursday 13th - Aquatica
Friday 14th - Helicopter Ride,I-Drive to book Wonderworks,transfer to RPR,Fuddruckers for dinner,possibly US/IOA for the evening
Saturday 15th - Shopping,pool and I-Drive,Wonderworks and magic show
Sunday 16th - DC
Monday 17th - Seaworld,kids Shark Dive at 10am
Tuesday 18th - Aquatica
Wednesday 19th - Universal Studios
Thursday 20th - IOA
Friday 21st - US/IOA,transfer to POP century,DTD for the evening,possibly Planet Hollywood or Earl of Sandwich
Saturday 22nd - DHS,ADR Mama Melrose
Sunday 23rd - AK,ADR Boma
Monday 24th - Epcot,ADR Le Cellier
Tuesday 25th - Blizzard Beach,ADR 1900 Park Fare
Wednesday 26th - MK,ADR Crystal Palace breakfast
Thursday 27th - Typhoon Lagoon,ADR Cape May Buffet
Friday 28th - BB for mini golf,DTD,ADR Ohana breakfast,ADR T-Rex dinner
Saturday 29th - DHS,Epcot,AK,MK,ADR CRT
Sunday 30th - MK,ADR Crystal Palace dinner
Monday 31st - Home

All breakfast ADRs will be requested between 8-9am and all dinner ADRs between 6-8pm.

No doubt this will change before 23rd May when they can be booked but once the itinerary cards are laminated nothing is allowed to change.

And to finish some pics of the scrapbooking pages

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4008.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4009-1.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4010.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4011.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4012.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4013.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4014.jpg

[tb2830]

WOW another great pre trippie, your making me more and more excited lol

[Dizneyblonde]

You need to start yours Tracy!

[Disneybumble]

So you're quite busy then!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sounds great Teresa and Jack. I hope you get every single ADR that you want.:hug2:

[Jodie]

Everything look wicked. x

[caz1712]

Finally got a chance to catch up! Your scrapbook pages look fab hun! Loving all your plans hun - makes me miss it soo much!

Not long til the double digit dance tho!!!whoohoo!!!:thumbsup:

xxx

[Dorothy]

It's getting so close and I'm getting way excited!!

[Tinker]

I so wish I could have joined you , but I will be a grandma soon . :biggrin:

[Britchick]

sorry hun, only just seen this, those pages are really great:thumbsup:

[Isafari]

Teresa, those scrap pages are absolutely amazing!! :applaudit: Well done.

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 27 - More stuff booked 108 days to go

BOOKED MY BLUE MAN GROUP TICKETS!!!!

As the tickets have gone on sale today through the US site i decided to go for it.We are in the front row,centre poncho section!
Mum and Dad gave us money for Christmas towards the tickets so i've just paid the difference.

Holiday weight loss program is going well too.Got a doctors referral to the gym and am now on a strict 12 week program with an instructor.Hoping to lose 2 stone before we go in 16 weeks and the diet is going really weel so far.Will let you know how i get on!

[lisaw]

16 weeks! :mental:

[Isafari]

Part 27 - More stuff booked 108 days to go

BOOKED MY BLUE MAN GROUP TICKETS!!!!

YAY!! That's where we have sat on both occasions.....FANTASTIC seats :yes:
I'm sure you'll all love the show.

[winkwink]

As the tickets have gone on sale today through the US site i decided to go for it.We are in the front row,centre poncho section!
or you could all wear blue tshirts n blue hats that way when the paint starts flying its not going to be as noticable :unsure:

[Dizneyblonde]

LOL hadn't thought of that!

[Isafari]

[/COLOR]or you could all wear blue tshirts n blue hats that way when the paint starts flying its not going to be as noticable :unsure:

Ah....but the paint isn't all blue....it's luminous pink, yellow, green and....mushed up bananas aren't blue!!!!!!!!!!! :lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

I won't bother doing my hair then!

[Isafari]

I won't bother doing my hair then!

No need.....you'll be wearing a poncho hood anyway :lol:

[winkwink]

or even blue ponchos from universal studios , we bought some a few weeks ago n they r massive they would provide ample security against any stray paint that might get spilt lol:tongue:

[Dizneyblonde]

Are you 2 winding me up?

[Isafari]

Are you 2 winding me up?

oh, erm, well, ...........sure, that's what we're doing :evil:

[winkwink]

all m saying is be prepared :taunt: your gonna have a fab time n i expect to see plenty of pics :worship:

[Jodie]

You finalised the plan yet now the Aug hours are out?

[Dizneyblonde]

LOL still working on it!

[Val]

come on young lady... *cough* dish what have you been meddling with?

[Dizneyblonde]

All in good time lovely Val!

Will ring you later as i think it will be easier to explain my logic over the phone ;)

You know you love me really!

[Val]

just as well really huh? ;)

[Dizneyblonde]

:biggrin:

[Jodie]

Will ring you later as i think it will be easier to explain my logic over the phone ;)



If it can't be written down it can't make sense! :slap:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 28 - It's all coming together nicely! - 94 days to go

Well the August park hours are now out and i had tweaked my itinerary slightly to fit more in and make the most of the few EMHs there are.
Phoned the lovely Val (:biggrin:) again to change a couple of ADRs so i thought i'd share our most up to date plans with you.

Sunday 9th August - Travel via National Express to Gatwick,Twilight checkin and overnight stay at Hilton

Monday 10th August - Up early to make full use of V room and flight to Orlando at 11.15.Checkin at Orlando Matropolitan Express and have dinner at Wendy's(tradition)

Tuesday 11th August - Breakfast at hotel then Trolley to Seaworld.Dine with Shamu at 6.30pm.

Wednesday 12th August - Breakfast at hotel.Free buss to Busch Gardens from US car park.Jungala tour at 2pm.

Thursday 13th August - Aquatica all day then pack for RPR.

Friday 14th August - I Drive day.Helicopter ride.Dinner at Fuddruckers then transfer to RPR.Swim.

Saturday 15th August - Shopping.Prime and Premium.Swimming.

Sunday 16th August - Discovery Cove

Monday 17th August - Seaworld.Kids doing shark dive at 10am.

Tuesday 18th August - Aquatica.Possibly dinner at Buba Gumps.Blue Man Group 8pm

Wednesday 19th August - Universal Studios.FOTL Woohoo!

Thursday 20th August - Islands of Adventure

Friday 21st August - US/IOA then transfer to DISNEY Check in to POP.DTD in the evening.Dinner at Earl of Sandwich

Saturday 22nd August - DHS.Dinner Mama Melrose

Sunday 23rd August - Early breakfast at Tusker House.Animal Kingdom all day.Dinner Boma the EMH at Magic Kingdom for Wishes.

Monday 24th August - Epcot all day.Dinner at Le Cellier.

Tuesday 25th August - Blizzard Beach.Dinner 1900 Park Fare.DTD for evening.

Wednesday 26th August - Magic Kingdom all day.Early breakfast at Crystal Palace.

Thursday 27th August - Typhoon Lagoon.Dinner Cape May.Watch Illuminations from beach.

Friday 28th August - Early breakfast Ohana.GF photoshoot.Blizzard Beach for Wintersummerland Golf.DTD for balloon ride.Dinner at T-Rex 6.30pm

Saturday 29th August - Epcot for the morning.Magic Kingdom for the afternoon.Dinner at Crystal Palace then Animal Kingdom for EMH.

Sunday 30th August - DHS for the morning.Magic Kingdom for the afternoon.Birthday dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table.Wishes then EMH at MK.

Monday 31st August - Finish DDP credits.Finish packing.Say a tearful goodbye then Magical Express to the airport for a 19.40 flight home :(

Any comments good or bad greatfully received.:biggrin:

[Isafari]

oh my gosh, that's a fantastic itinerary DB! I sooo want to come with you guys.

[Britchick]

oh my gosh, that's a fantastic itinerary DB! I sooo want to come with you guys.

shall we secretly run away to orlando Diane?

[Dizneyblonde]

You are all welcome!

[Jodie]

It looks wicked, tiring but wicked!

[Dizneyblonde]

:lol: it's less than we did last time Jodie!

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 29 - Balance Paid 93 days to go

Just paid the final balance off on the holiday with Val!

Just the Disney bit to go now.

Woohoo :mental:

[tb2830]

Part 29 - Balance Paid 93 days to go

Just paid the final balance off on the holiday with Val!

Just the Disney bit to go now.

Woohoo :mental:


woohooo thats fab news :wiggle:

[Jodie]

Part 29 - Balance Paid 93 days to go

Just paid the final balance off on the holiday with Val!

Just the Disney bit to go now.

Woohoo :mental:

:wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 30 - Small Update 87 days to go

Where are the days going? :lol:

Finally got round to booking the insurance.No extra premium for being post op so relieved it's finally booked.

Val managed to get us a refund on the 5 days we don't need at the I-Drive hotel now we are booked into RPR so another few £ towards paying off POP.

Jack is busy printing menus for all the places we are eating and i'm starting to get things like toiletries ready.

After todays gym session i will have done my first 3 weeks and with that and a combination of better eating (still eating well and more or less what i want in moderation) i have lost 1/2 stone.
1 1/2 to go now in 12 weeks.Gotta stay focuse.Being back at work should make it easier asi will be on my feet al the time so fingers crosse i will still do it.

Getting close to ADRs being booked on 23rd May too.Hopefully that will be my next update.:thumbsup:

[Taja]

Woohoo!

Love it when a plan comes together!

[winkwink]

i must have de ja vu as i think ive already read this once ? glad to see things are progressing nicely xx

[Dizneyblonde]

You must be frequenting the same places as me then ;)

I like to share my trip with as many people as possible!

[Dizneyblonde]

IT'S ADR DAY :mental:

[Isafari]

IT'S ADR DAY :mental:

YAY!!! :bounce:

[Val]

fingers crossed Disney Dining have their act together today, yesterday was a total disgrace.

[ukwdwnut]

great feeling when everything is coming together and getting paid off eh!! :D

teresa can i ask, do you know if DDP run til end of oct?

[Jodie]

IT'S ADR DAY :mental:

Fingers crossed you get everything you want!

[Dizneyblonde]

great feeling when everything is coming together and getting paid off eh!! :D

teresa can i ask, do you know if DDP run til end of oct?

There are so many offers about at the moment Mick it all depends who you book with.
I'm sure some of the offers see it running through December too.It would have to be booked by a certain date though as they won't offer it forever.

I'm sure Johnie or Val will be able to tell you for definite.

[Dizneyblonde]

fingers crossed Disney Dining have their act together today, yesterday was a total disgrace.


Don't i hardly slept last night as it is!

It will all be fine today and i will get every ADR within 1/2 hour of my preferred time...:worship:

[ukwdwnut]

There are so many offers about at the moment Mick it all depends who you book with.
I'm sure some of the offers see it running through December too.It would have to be booked by a certain date though as they won't offer it forever.

I'm sure Johnie or Val will be able to tell you for definite.

ok thx hun :hug2:

[Dizneyblonde]

Fingers crossed you get everything you want!


Thanks Jodie will let you know later :thumbsup:

[Val]

Mick

On the UK deal (bookable by 15 July 2009) free ddp is on through till 17 Dec... you must have checked out by 18 Dec. The usual terms and conditions apply.. length of stay pass required, min stay 5 nights, max 21 nights. All subject to availability of course.

[ukwdwnut]

Mick

On the UK deal (bookable by 15 July 2009) free ddp is on through till 17 Dec... you must have checked out by 18 Dec. The usual terms and conditions apply.. length of stay pass required, min stay 5 nights, max 21 nights. All subject to availability of course.

oh ok cool, thats good, thx val :hug2:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 31 - ADRs Booked! 78 days to go

Was on MSN to Val ready for her to phone on the dot of 12.
We got everything we wanted at a good time except Le Cellier which seems impossible to book at all at the moment.We had to make a quick decision and i decided to book somewhere else as back up then try for Le Cellier later.Coral Reef and Tuttu Italia were also unavailable and Val came to the conclusion that someone had had a party and forgot to add the World Showcase restaurants to the system!
We decided to go for Arkershus dinner with the option of changing to Le Cellier when it came available but having seen the menu the kids have decided to do the Princess Dinner anyway.

So this is what we have...

Saturday 22nd August - Mama Melrose 4.30pm
Sunday 23rd August - Tusker House 8.10am
Boma 5.35pm
Monday 24th August - Arkershus Princess Dinner 6.30pm
Tuesday 25th August - 1900 Park Fare 5.55pm
Wednesday 26th August - Crystal Palace 8.10am
Thursday 27th August - Cape May Buffet 6pm
Friday 28th August - Ohana 7.55am
T-Rex 6.30pm
Saturday 29th August - Crystal Palace 5.55pm
Sunday 30th August - CRT 7pm for my birthday :mental:

Val was on the phone for nearly 3/4 of an hour but we got there in the end.Thanks hun.

So now the itinerary cards can be completed as there is nothing left to book.
Just need to contact Quicksilver nearer the time for an airport pick up.

It's getting so close now i can smell it!

[Tink]

OH MY GOSH!!!!!! LOLOLOLOL! The 27th is Herself's birthday! :D :D :D

[Dizneyblonde]

We will raise a glass then Tink :lol:

[tb2830]

well done teresa

as you know i was nearly having palpitations doing mine :donald:

[Dizneyblonde]

We got there in the end hun and it was worth the wait!

[tb2830]

We got there in the end hun and it was worth the wait!

we sure did sweetie :thumbsup:

[Disneybumble]

Well done girlie.:hug2:

[Dizneyblonde]

Really can't wait now!

[mumof2]

omg you're almost done - well done you! :yes:

[Dizneyblonde]

I know hun and look how quick your countdown is going too! :hug2:

[mumof2]

I know hun and look how quick your countdown is going too! :hug2:


i know! :wiggle:

[Jodie]

A couple of compromises on your plans but it all worked out. xx

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 32 - A few more bits done 64 days to go

It's been a couple of weeks since i updated and i need cheering up today so i'll show you what i've been up to.
Firstly i've bought a few bits and pieces for the holiday including travel kit and toiletries.I've even bought my trip report book!

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4122.jpg

Avon had their flight bag on offer again so i bought one of those too!

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4123.jpg

I've started collecting some bits for when we come to do our scrapbook for this trip too.Had a field day on Ebay.

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4124.jpg

My lovely friend Claire got someone to do a design for me to use on our trip.She did one each for us and i've been trying to decide what to use them for.

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/mybadge.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/jackbadge.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/robynbadge.jpg

I thought about printing t-shirts but i really wanted them made into badges.I found some plastic pockets on Ebay that i was going to buy so that i could print them on card and put them in then i found a company that makes their own badges from designs you send them.
I emailed them and sent the designs over and this is what they sent me.

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4121.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4116.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4120.jpg

I am so pleased with them and can't wait to wear them in the parks!

I have also been watching the exchange rate carefully over the last couple of weeks and decided to buy on Wednesday when the tourist rate hit 1.6114.
I'm glad i did as it is only 1.5536 at the Post Office today.
Thought you might like to see them!

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4125.jpg

So i think thats me updated.The only thing left to do is book the transfer from the airport to I-Drive.
And pack and get excited!

[lisaw]

Loving the Travellers Cheques photo - I just love those things, it's like spending Monopoly money :lol:

Have started getting my toiletries together as well - I am very late as I haven't written a list yet though :mental:


Those badges are fab!

[Jodie]

The badges look wicked, much better idea than t-shirts 'cos you can wear them all the time! Can't you get some Universal styles ones done aswell?

[Dizneyblonde]

Good idea Jodie i can celebrate for 3 weeks then!

Will get onto it...

[Dizneyblonde]

I've managed to make a badge for places other than Disney but it is saved in a word document.I copied the original into paint but couldn't paste pictures into it so saved it as word and edited from there.
How on earth do i make it into a jpeg like the original was? :lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

Jack's come home and saved the day.
What do you think of these for badge designs?

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/JackUniversalBadge.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/MumUniversalBadge.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/RobynUniversalBadge.jpg

[Jodie]

Perfect, exactly what I was thinking of. Can't wait to see the badges, on you, in a photo trip report!

[Dizneyblonde]

Thanks Jodie i have emailed the lady who made the others for me so she can make a start on my new ones!

[Disneybumble]

Looking good Teresa. Those badges are great.

[tb2830]

they look great teresa, quite a talented young lady you are

[Dizneyblonde]

Jack did the complicated bit! :lol:

[Isafari]

The badges look great :yes:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 33 - Last minute bits and pieces 34 days to go

Well here we are with just over 4 weeks to go.
It's not sunk in yet though so i'm not at all excited.
I've not been around for a while as there's been work and family stuff to deal with that i will be glad to leave behind for 3 weeks.

Phoned Val to pay the balance off on POP so we are set to go!Shouldn't be long until the tickets arrive.

Booked Quicksilver to pick us up from the airport and to take us from RPR to POP on 21st August.

Had an email from Busch Gardens yesterday to say that they had replaced the Heart of Jungala Tour we are booked on with a Jungala Behind the Scenes and reduced the price.We will get about $30 refunded when we check in for the tour.It's 45 minutes now instead of 30 so we get more and for less money!

Don't think i ever showed you the other badges i had made either so here they are...

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4133.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4134.jpg

Have checked all dates and bookings with my Dad to make sure i haven't forgotten anything and made sure the API is up to date and complete.

I really wish i could get excited and i'm sure i will when school finishes next Friday.I'm starting to get nervous and the dreams of things going wrong have started.
I can't belive our countdown was over 500 days when we booked and now we are so close.

I've not lost the weight i really wanted to but i've had so much else on my plate i never quite got there.

We have lots happening in th enext few weeks so time should fly by.
This week is activities week at school so i have a couple of day trips to go on.Got my hospital check up on Thursday too.The prom is at school on the Friday night.
Next week is the last week of term and i am going out with a few friends on Friday night.
Jack's birthday is on 23rd July so we are going to Pizza Hut and to see the new Harry Potter film.
Saturday 25th we are going to London for the day also for Jack's birthday.
29th July i am finally having my tattoo done then it's haircuts on 4th August before packing and up to London for our overnight stay on 9th.

Just need to get this next week or so over then i'm sure i will be in holiday mode and bouncing off the walls.

Please feel free to ask me any questions about things i need to do or may have forgotten.It's a huge pressure doing this all by myself and i've got quite worked up over it.

Anyway that's you all updated for now and i hope i'm a little more excited next time i post!

[Jodie]

33 days! Whoooop Whooooop!

[Jodie]

30 days T! don't tell me your not wetting yourself! xx

[Dorothy]

I can't wait to see you :parrot::flowerdance::critterbounce::HamsterDance:

[Dizneyblonde]

No excitement in this house yet.

Holiday clothes don't fit and i'm fed up at work.Can't wait to finish next week then i might allow a smile...

[Dizneyblonde]

I can't wait to see you :parrot::flowerdance::critterbounce::HamsterDance:

How will we recognise each other or shall i just hug everyone i meet til i find you? :lol:

[Wendy]

:hug2: school will soon be over and your holiday will be here :hug2:

[Wendy]

How will we recognise each other or shall i just hug everyone i meet til i find you? :lol:

You will know Dorothy when you see her trust me, you will just "feel it" I did anyway :yes:

Thinking about it though she will probably spot you first and you'll hear her coming then :lol: :lol: and then it will be time to get ready for a huge hug :lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

:hug2: school will soon be over and your holiday will be here :hug2:
Thanks Wendy :hug2:

[Tinker]

You will know Dorothy when you see her trust me, you will just "feel it" I did anyway :yes:

Thinking about it though she will probably spot you first and you'll hear her coming then :lol: :lol: and then it will be time to get ready for a huge hug :lol: I can guarantee that Wendy is right . :lol:

[Dorothy]

How will we recognise each other or shall i just hug everyone i meet til i find you?

Maybe I'll wear my pink flamingo T-shirt, that'll narrow the field down some for you :lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 33 - The final countdown 19 days to go

I really can't believe we are so close now!

I have my moments of excitement but this swine flu business is getting me down a bit.

We have a busy week this week with a trip to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,Harry Potter and a trip to London all for Jack's 13th birthday on Thursday.

Jack has been working hard on the itinerary cards and as they are now printed and laminated the trip must be real now!

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4375.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4377.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4378.jpg

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm287/dizneyblonde/DSCF4382-1.jpg

Most of our bits are waiting to be packed.All the toiletries have been bought and all new clothes have been washed ready to go in the case.Yes i've bought new undies again this year!

Just waiting for the red envelope to drop on the mat now with our plane tickets and i assume we will also get a pack from Disney.
The kids are more excited than me as usual but i'm sure the closer it gets it will start to sink in and i will be back to my normal childish bouncy self!

[Dizneyblonde]

Forgot to say i emailed RPR to request a room with a decent view as we are there for a week for my 40th and the reply was that they would do their utmost to accommodate my request :biggrin:

Also had the 'release' forms emailed from Seaworld for the kids Shark Dive so all i need now is for Rip Ride Rockit to be open and all will be well in my little world!

[tb2830]

they look fab babe xx

[Jodie]

13 Days T, come on, show us some excitement!

Like this -----> :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle: :wiggle:

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 35 - Nearly there 4 days to go

Well i thought it was about time for an update as i've not been in the mood for a while with one thing and another going on!

Tickets have finally arrived today despite Virgin promising 3 times that they had already been sent.

Kids have their $$$ and are absolutely bouncing and driving me potty!

At last the sun is shining and i am able to get the washing done and beds changed.
Tomorrow it's housework then Friday we will pack.
Saturday i'm hoping to relax and have a take away!

The itinerary is finalised although i'm sure it will be changed and i think i have finished my vacation planner which i don't think has changed much from the first draft.

Sorry i've neglected you all for a while but i've found it hard to get into it this year.After my op at the beginning of the year and having 3 months off work before going back to a not so friendly welcome i was glad when the end of term came and thought that would be when the excitement would kick in.
Then we had the ticket fiasco..........

Anyway evrything is now on schedule and we are off on holiday on Sunday.
I am officially the biggest kid in the family again and just can't wait.I've had plenty of tears this week as i still can't believe i've managed it on my own again but we are so close now.
We've hit the 'this time next week' stage and the next few days won't go quick enough.

Thanks for sticking with me and i look forward to writing you a 2009 trip report on our return.

[Isafari]

You have had a lot going on this year and deserve this holiday :yes:
And it's nearly time.....can you believe it!!!! You are all going to have a blast and enjoy every single second. Make lots of magical memories and live the dream. :hug2:

[Dizneyblonde]

We are really looking forward to spending time with friends and can't believe how many of us are there at the same time!

[Dizneyblonde]

And Val if you read this thanks for putting up with me and keeping me sane!

Love you lots.

XX

[lisaw]

We are really looking forward to spending time with friends and can't believe how many of us are there at the same time!

It will be quiet around here for a while :yes:

[Britchick]

i'm very pleased for you all but also a tad jealous! i'm hoping some of you will be there when i go in 2 years time, have a fab time hun xxxxx

[Isafari]

We are really looking forward to spending time with friends and can't believe how many of us are there at the same time!

Who will you be meeting up with then teresa?

[Dizneyblonde]

Lisa is on our flight and we are meeting them a couple of times during the 3 weeks too.

Tracy checks in to POP on the same day as us so we will be seeing her during her week.

We are meeting up with Johnie,Becca and Dorothy for a meal at Mama Melrose and i can't wait to see them all.We met up with Johnie and Becca in 2007 but we haven't met Dorothy (kids still call her Aunty Breeze!) yet and we are so excited to see them.

There are other people on other forums that happen to be at the same place at the same time as us so we may bump into them too.

My excitement levels are starting to rise!

[tb2830]

Lisa is on our flight and we are meeting them a couple of times during the 3 weeks too.

Tracy checks in to POP on the same day as us so we will be seeing her during her week.

We are meeting up with Johnie,Becca and Dorothy for a meal at Mama Melrose and i can't wait to see them all.We met up with Johnie and Becca in 2007 but we haven't met Dorothy (kids still call her Aunty Breeze!) yet and we are so excited to see them.

There are other people on other forums that happen to be at the same place at the same time as us so we may bump into them too.

My excitement levels are starting to rise!


wooo hooo reading that makes it sound much more real now

im sooooooooo looking forward to seeing you robyn and jack again and im also looking forward to meeting johnie too :hug2:

we are so gonna have a blast

[Disneybumble]

You girls are going to have the best time. So pleased it's all sorted hun.xxx

[Jodie]

Packed yet?

[Dizneyblonde]

LOL no Jodie packing day is tomorrow!

[Isafari]

Wow, when you lot get together I hope someone has a camera!!

[ukwdwnut]

hope you all have a fantasmic time...lots of pix please :D

[Taja]

Hope everyone has a wonderful time! :)

[msarahg123]

Part 35 - Nearly there 4 days to go

Well i thought it was about time for an update as i've not been in the mood for a while with one thing and another going on!

Tickets have finally arrived today despite Virgin promising 3 times that they had already been sent.

Kids have their $$$ and are absolutely bouncing and driving me potty!

At last the sun is shining and i am able to get the washing done and beds changed.
Tomorrow it's housework then Friday we will pack.
Saturday i'm hoping to relax and have a take away!

The itinerary is finalised although i'm sure it will be changed and i think i have finished my vacation planner which i don't think has changed much from the first draft.

Sorry i've neglected you all for a while but i've found it hard to get into it this year.After my op at the beginning of the year and having 3 months off work before going back to a not so friendly welcome i was glad when the end of term came and thought that would be when the excitement would kick in.
Then we had the ticket fiasco..........

Anyway evrything is now on schedule and we are off on holiday on Sunday.
I am officially the biggest kid in the family again and just can't wait.I've had plenty of tears this week as i still can't believe i've managed it on my own again but we are so close now.
We've hit the 'this time next week' stage and the next few days won't go quick enough.

Thanks for sticking with me and i look forward to writing you a 2009 trip report on our return.

Just curious are you a single mom with 3 kids.....
I totally know how you feel and am very excited with you. I am a single mom with 3 kids and this will be our first trip. I have been planning for a year or so and can't wait for December to get here.

[Johnie]

You have my phone number right????

[Vixynne]

. I am a single mom with 3 kids and this will be our first trip. I have been planning for a year or so and can't wait for December to get here.

*pipes up*

I'm a single mom with two kids, heading for my first "the-parent-is-outnumbered" trip, and I'm both thrilled and scared out of my wits. Kids are 9 and 12, so I'm hoping they'll listen to my constant "don't wander off, don't argue, let's make this work" ramblepatter.
We're going in December as well! :wave:

[Dizneyblonde]

Yep I am a single mom and yes Johnie I have your number!
This is our second trip just me and the kids and I can't wait!
I did a trip report about our 2007 visit if you want to read what we got up to.

[tb2830]

omg last day at home for you :donald: how excited are you today hun ????

[Dizneyblonde]

:bounce:

:biggrin:

:bounce:

:biggrin:

[tb2830]

im bouncing with you today :donald:

maybe with you out the country i will finally get my packing done instead of sitting on the phone with you lol

will text you later if i dont get the chance to ring xx

[Dizneyblonde]

Part 36 - Just look at that countdown! 1 day to go

Well this is it!

I've got to the feeling sick stage now but i'm so surprised none of us are ill and i haven't had any dreams about things going wrong!

All the holdalls are packed and the hand luggage is just about done.

We've been to Sainsbury's for our last minute eateries for the coach and the Hilton tomorrow night.

I've done my legs and my toes and we are sat twiddling our thumbs imaptiently!

Going to order a chinese now and enjoy a bottle of pear cider.

Keys have been dropped off with the neighbour and the cats are wondering what's going on.

Still doesn't feel like we are going at all but i'm sure it will when we get on the coach.
Might still be on this evening but if not be good,look after each other and i will see you all sometime after 1st September!

[SleepinCatz]

Have a wonderful time!!!!!

[lisaw]

Have a safe journey tomorrow - let me know when you get there. :yes:

[Dizneyblonde]

Will do Lisa you too.

Will probably see you at the airport at some point!

[Shellyamc]

You have waited and planned so long for this!!

Have a wonderful time and bring us lots of pictures :hug2:

[Isafari]

You're probably in bed now for that 'one more sleep' ....but I bet your still awake cos you start your journey to WDW tomorrow :yes::lol:

[Dizneyblonde]

Diane you know me so well I hardly slept at all!
So excited but nervous this morning!
See you soon if I can get wifi later!

[Dawn]

Haven't you gone yet? :lol:

Have a great time. :hug2:

[Isafari]

Have a truly wonderful trip :wave2:
safe journey :hug2:

[Jodie]

Tuesday 11th August - Breakfast at hotel then Trolley to Seaworld.Dine with Shamu at 6.30pm.

SW & DWS today, wicked x

[mrsc]

have a fab day on manta !!!!

[msarahg123]

I am getting watery eyes reading all these posts. I can't wait to be there. I know how you feel when you say scared and excited at the same time and i still have 16 weeks to go. Have a safe trip. Praying you have a blast.

[Jodie]

Wednesday 12th August - Breakfast at hotel.Free buss to Busch Gardens from US car park.Jungala tour at 2pm.


God I love Busch Gardens!

[Disneybumble]

I could so do with being at BG today.

[Jodie]

Thursday 13th August - Aquatica all day then pack for RPR.


I hope they enjoy/ed Aquatica, Roa's Rapids are wicked fun!

[mrsc]

i smiled most of yesterday remembering the fun we had in aquatica last year!!

hope you guys had fun xx

its the big move today and i know Teresa was reeally excited to be spending a week at rpr!!!!

[Jodie]

Friday 14th August - I Drive day.Helicopter ride.Dinner at Fuddruckers then transfer to RPR.Swim.

I bet they get some wicked airel pics, just hope no-one barfs!

Fuddruckers always sounds so rude!

[mrsc]

never heard of fuddruckers, had to check as i typed that for no sp mistakes

[Jodie]

never heard of fuddruckers, had to check as i typed that for no sp mistakes

Carp!

[mrsc]

lol that is so funny!!!!

old times are the best

[Jodie]

Saturday 15th August - Shopping.Prime and Premium.Swimming.


Shopping! Noooooooooooooooo! :taunt:

[Jodie]

Sunday 16th August - Discovery Cove


DC today, Dolphins and 'free' food!

[Jodie]

Monday 17th August - Seaworld. Kids doing shark dive at 10am.


SW & Manta!!!!

She's been in the Sunshine State for a week now, a full week already!

[Jodie]

Tuesday 18th August - Aquatica.Possibly dinner at Buba Gumps.Blue Man Group 8pm


Will they make Aquatica after such a busy first week?

[Dizneyblonde]

LOL nope we are still in bed and not bothering with Aquatica as it was so busy last week.
Lazy day and a couple of hours in the US parks before BMG tonight!

[tb2830]

LOL nope we are still in bed and not bothering with Aquatica as it was so busy last week.
Lazy day and a couple of hours in the US parks before BMG tonight!

hope the crowds start thinning out before i get there lol

any luck yet with the photo's

[Jodie]

You gotta go to Bubba's - Run Forest Run!

[Isafari]

LOL nope we are still in bed and not bothering with Aquatica as it was so busy last week.
Lazy day and a couple of hours in the US parks before BMG tonight!

Sounds like a great way to recharge those batteries....wish I could see your faces tonight at BMG. You'll love it!

[Jodie]

Wednesday 19th August - Universal Studios.FOTL Woohoo!


After a rest day of sorts yesterday today should be GO GO GO!

[Dizneyblonde]

Yay we are off to do RRR again and spend the whole day in the parks!

[Isafari]

Yay we are off to do RRR again and spend the whole day in the parks!

I couldn't possible...ever, go on RRR!
hope your making lots of notes for us :yes:
Keep on enjoying :hug2:

[Jodie]

Yay we are off to do RRR again and spend the whole day in the parks!

I hope it takes less than two hours to get on RRR!

[Dizneyblonde]

Yay RRR by 9.30 this morning!
Haven't taken photos for days as the camera is playing up and we've photographed it all before.
It's been so nice just to enjoy time with the kids without carrying loads of camera stuff so tomorrow we are having a day to take lots.Its not as though we haven't done it all before so we are not going mad.
Not even taken my phone with me so haven't texted for a couple of days either.
Having an awesome time and making some fantastic memories.
BMG was awesome last night and is one of our highs.
We did all the water rides today and spent so much time laughing!
Surprised that it's still so busy though!

[Tink]

It's the peak of the last hurrah of summer, Teresa. :yes: The schools in the north are still out for at least another two weeks, where some of the schools in the deep south are just now preparing to return to session. :yes:

I'm so glad that you are focusing on the holiday and not on photographs or feeling like you have to text anyone anything!

Just enjoy being with your children and making those forever memories! :yes: :hug2:

[Isafari]

Pleased you enjoyed BMG.....knew you would :thumbsup:

[Disneybumble]

Sounds soooooooo good Teresa.

[Jodie]

Glad everything is going to plan

[Jodie]

Thursday 20th August - Islands of Adventure


Last full Universal day, enjoy!

[ukwdwnut]

glad you having a great time teresa...i luv IOA have fun :)

[Jodie]

Friday 21st August - US/IOA then transfer to DISNEY Check in to POP.DTD in the evening.Dinner at Earl of Sandwich


EoS! Yummmmmy!

[Jodie]

Saturday 22nd August - DHS.Dinner Mama Melrose


First Disney park, have fun guys! :)

[Disneybumble]

Disney. YAYYYYYYYYYYYY

[Jodie]

Sunday 23rd August - Early breakfast at Tusker House.Animal Kingdom all day.Dinner Boma the EMH at Magic Kingdom for Wishes.


Long day coming up, no rest for the wicked!

[Jodie]

Monday 24th August - Epcot all day.Dinner at Le Cellier.


I hope this holiday isn't going as quick for you lot as it seems to be! Enjoy Epcot :) x

[mumof2]

yaaay, i love Epcot!

[Dorothy]

We all spent Saturday afternoon with her and the kids at DHS and we had a blast!! They're having a great time at Disney and Teresa is celebrating her birthday at every meal :D :lol:

[Jodie]

Tuesday 25th August - Blizzard Beach.Dinner 1900 Park Fare.DTD for evening.

OMG, I love water parks! Have fun splishing and splashing!

[Jodie]

[B]Wednesday 26th August - Magic Kingdom all day.Early breakfast at Crystal Palace.


Another early start and long day, have fun guys. Jack, don't get lost bud! x

[Jodie]

Thursday 27th August - Typhoon Lagoon.Dinner Cape May.Watch Illuminations from beach.


Don't forget to lift your butts up and G'n'G!

[Jodie]

Friday 28th August - Early breakfast Ohana.GF photoshoot.Blizzard Beach for Wintersummerland Golf.DTD for balloon ride.Dinner at T-Rex 6.30pm


A few first's to be done today, have fun! :)

[Jodie]

Saturday 29th August - Epcot for the morning.Magic Kingdom for the afternoon.Dinner at Crystal Palace then Animal Kingdom for EMH.


Talk about park hopping! Hope the buses are frequent!

[Jodie]

Sunday 30th August - DHS for the morning.Magic Kingdom for the afternoon.Birthday dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table.Wishes then EMH at MK.


Make the most of your last day guys, have fun and smile for Cinderella!

[Jodie]

Monday 31st August - Finish DDP credits.Finish packing.Say a tearful goodbye then Magical Express to the airport for a 19.40 flight home :(


Safe journey home. xx