Did we talk about maybe going to one of the waterparks? I can't remember and I can't seem to find it on here, but I was talking to Dirk like we were going to one, and now I wonder if I'm crazy?
We are trying to work out our budget since our money is coming today. How much did you spend and how much did you buy on souvenirs last year? We don't mind spending a little much on a souvenir, but we are also picky in what we choose, to make sure it's not just junk or something you could easily get elsewhere. We don't have a Disney store anywhere near us, so we might want to stock up on some things that we wouldn't really go out of our way to buy form online, such as costumes for the future, and stuff for Ginny when she gets older. Basically, just because this is a special occasion we will probably spend more on fun things for our kids then we would normally budget in to our every day life... so now we just have to figure out how much to budget for this trip! I don't know if you can even give me an idea... Do you maybe have a link of common gift shop items with prices?
Also- I have free 2 day Amazon Prime shipping, so I think I'll just mail the diapers to you so you can pack them in your suitcases. That way you don't have to go to the store and try to find the right kinds. I'm going to start packing today, so I'll let you know if I need you to bring anything else for us, but I think since we can now have luggage for Hayden, we should be okay.
I think umbrellas would be a good option. We have a couple small ones that hardly take up any room that we will be bringing. We also have a rain cover that covers the entire stroller, so that will be good to keep all our gear safe. I plan on putting that over the stroller when we park it and leave. I've read many many stories of people coming out of a 15 minute show when there were no clouds in site when they went in, to them coming out to a soaking wet stroller!
p.s.- sorry for all my terrible writing and run-on sentences and terrible paragraph structure! I hope it's not hard to read! Usually when I'm writing these, I'm just spilling out my thoughts from my mind as they come without even paying attention to grammar! I'm usually better than that, I promise! I just write like I speak! ;)
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Touring Plan Friday? HARRY POTTER!
ONE WEEK from today we will be sitting on a plane traveling from SLC to Orlando! AhhH!
I am finally doing a touring plan for Universal! I have been following people going to WWoHP on the message boards for some time now. They state to either go to WWoHP in a few hours before the park closes or get in line before it opens. The issues with waiting until the end of the day are:
1) I would feel rushed knowing we couldn’t spend as long as we wanted to.
2) The recommendations to go later the day were from people who went when the park had extended hours. 9-6 are the hours on the day we go (we have dinner reservations at 6:30 for Raglan Road. So I was thinking about arranging a pick up for 5:30 p.m.
So, here a tentative plan. You will notice that Ollivander’s is missing, and that is because the line for that place is estimated to be 2 hours. They bring 25 people in and they only pick one or two for the demonstration. To me, it isn’t worth it. If it is to you, some of us could wait in line while the others rode rides. I don’t know how the kids would do in a line that long though. Let me know waht you think....
I didn’t know when to break for lunch, so I just made a list of attractions and we can wing it when we get there.
7:15 a.m. pick up from Port Orleans (eat at food court)
8:00 a.m. arrive at Universal
Get in line for Harry Potter. Reports say that even thought the park doesn’t open until 9 for “non resort guests” (those staying on property get early entry to HP), they sometimes let non-resort people in to HP at 8:30-8:45 a.m.
Forbidden Journey (Ginny, Hayden and Evan wait in Hogsmeade, as I don’t think Evan will fit on the ride).
Dragon Challenge (Everyone but Paula, Ginny and Hayden).
Flight of the Hippogriff (Everyone but ___ and Ginny). I could skip this one, honestly.
Should we leave shopping for the end of the day so we aren’t carrying bags? Let me know. Many of the HP merchandise can be found at the front of the parks, so we may not have to trek all the way back there at the end of the day.
Hulk Coaster (Paula, Ginny and Hayden wait)—perhaps ride Storm Force Accelatron?
Doctor Doom’s FearFall? (Does anyone care about this one)?
Spiderman (Paula and Ginny wait)
Spiderman (Evan and Ginny wait)
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls (Hayden, Paula and Ginny at “Me Ship—the Olive”)
Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges (Evan and Ginny wait)
Jurassic Park River Adventure (Paula and Ginny wait)
Jurassic Park River Adventure (Evan and Ginny wait)
Lunch at Three Broomsticks
Cat in the Hat
Caro-seuss-el
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train (Maybe we can skip a couple of these, depending on how the day is going).
Go to Universal. I am just going to list of major attractions. Please let me know what you “must do” and what you could live without. We will only have a couple of hours here (I am assuming). I have added my comments.
Rip Ride Rocket (line may be too long, someone would need to wait with Hayden and Ginny)
The Simpson’s Ride (this looks promising, Ginny can’t ride)
E.T. Adventure—the whole family
Revenge of the Mummy (looks good, Hayden and Ginny can’t ride)
|
Men in Black Alien Attack (a lot like Buzz Lightyear and Toy Story Midway Mania? Is it necessary to do another ride like this? Ginny can’t ride)
Jaws – the whole family
Disaster!—I could skip. You are just put on the tram in an earthquake, a lot like the Back Lot tour at Hollywood studios.
Shrek 4-D—whole family
Twister—scary for Hayden, not really itching to go.
Terminator 2: 3-D
Possible Shows?--
Animal Actors (we will see animals at AK)
Beetlejuice Rock ‘n’ Roll Revue (I saw this in CA, and liked it as a child, but Hayden may be a bit young)
Horror Make-Up Show (I can just watch DVD special features)
Fear Factor Live (watched the show occasionally, but really no interest in this show).
As far as food is concerned, I would love to do the Three Broomsticks. However, I also want the green eggs and ham sandwich from the Dr. Seuss island. Maybe I will convince Evan to split that sandwich with me and then we can split a meal at the Three Broomsticks. Hmm. I hear that the Green Eggs and Ham place is only open every once in a while, so we will have to see.
Go ahead and take a look at your Unofficial Guide and see if there is anything I missed any of your "must dos" at Universal or IoA.
Here is an update on the weather:
I am finally doing a touring plan for Universal! I have been following people going to WWoHP on the message boards for some time now. They state to either go to WWoHP in a few hours before the park closes or get in line before it opens. The issues with waiting until the end of the day are:
1) I would feel rushed knowing we couldn’t spend as long as we wanted to.
2) The recommendations to go later the day were from people who went when the park had extended hours. 9-6 are the hours on the day we go (we have dinner reservations at 6:30 for Raglan Road. So I was thinking about arranging a pick up for 5:30 p.m.
So, here a tentative plan. You will notice that Ollivander’s is missing, and that is because the line for that place is estimated to be 2 hours. They bring 25 people in and they only pick one or two for the demonstration. To me, it isn’t worth it. If it is to you, some of us could wait in line while the others rode rides. I don’t know how the kids would do in a line that long though. Let me know waht you think....
I didn’t know when to break for lunch, so I just made a list of attractions and we can wing it when we get there.
7:15 a.m. pick up from Port Orleans (eat at food court)
8:00 a.m. arrive at Universal
Get in line for Harry Potter. Reports say that even thought the park doesn’t open until 9 for “non resort guests” (those staying on property get early entry to HP), they sometimes let non-resort people in to HP at 8:30-8:45 a.m.
Forbidden Journey (Ginny, Hayden and Evan wait in Hogsmeade, as I don’t think Evan will fit on the ride).
Dragon Challenge (Everyone but Paula, Ginny and Hayden).
Flight of the Hippogriff (Everyone but ___ and Ginny). I could skip this one, honestly.
Should we leave shopping for the end of the day so we aren’t carrying bags? Let me know. Many of the HP merchandise can be found at the front of the parks, so we may not have to trek all the way back there at the end of the day.
Hulk Coaster (Paula, Ginny and Hayden wait)—perhaps ride Storm Force Accelatron?
Doctor Doom’s FearFall? (Does anyone care about this one)?
Spiderman (Paula and Ginny wait)
Spiderman (Evan and Ginny wait)
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls (Hayden, Paula and Ginny at “Me Ship—the Olive”)
Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges (Evan and Ginny wait)
Jurassic Park River Adventure (Paula and Ginny wait)
Jurassic Park River Adventure (Evan and Ginny wait)
Lunch at Three Broomsticks
Cat in the Hat
Caro-seuss-el
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train (Maybe we can skip a couple of these, depending on how the day is going).
Go to Universal. I am just going to list of major attractions. Please let me know what you “must do” and what you could live without. We will only have a couple of hours here (I am assuming). I have added my comments.
Rip Ride Rocket (line may be too long, someone would need to wait with Hayden and Ginny)
The Simpson’s Ride (this looks promising, Ginny can’t ride)
E.T. Adventure—the whole family
Revenge of the Mummy (looks good, Hayden and Ginny can’t ride)
|
Men in Black Alien Attack (a lot like Buzz Lightyear and Toy Story Midway Mania? Is it necessary to do another ride like this? Ginny can’t ride)
Jaws – the whole family
Disaster!—I could skip. You are just put on the tram in an earthquake, a lot like the Back Lot tour at Hollywood studios.
Shrek 4-D—whole family
Twister—scary for Hayden, not really itching to go.
Terminator 2: 3-D
Possible Shows?--
Animal Actors (we will see animals at AK)
Beetlejuice Rock ‘n’ Roll Revue (I saw this in CA, and liked it as a child, but Hayden may be a bit young)
Horror Make-Up Show (I can just watch DVD special features)
Fear Factor Live (watched the show occasionally, but really no interest in this show).
As far as food is concerned, I would love to do the Three Broomsticks. However, I also want the green eggs and ham sandwich from the Dr. Seuss island. Maybe I will convince Evan to split that sandwich with me and then we can split a meal at the Three Broomsticks. Hmm. I hear that the Green Eggs and Ham place is only open every once in a while, so we will have to see.
Go ahead and take a look at your Unofficial Guide and see if there is anything I missed any of your "must dos" at Universal or IoA.
Here is an update on the weather:
 |
| I will check back for new updates. I may bring an umbrellas. Although we could get Disney ponchos when we are there if it rains. We have emergency ponchos as well, but I don't know if they would hold up to a lot of rain. I think they will be better for the rides. |
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
9 More Days!!! HERE WE COME!!
Hayden opened 2 packages today and was sooooo super excited for this shirt! I wish I would have opened our next box first so I would have thought to capture his excitement on a video that would actually upload!
I am REALLY excited about this. I can take HD video on my regular DSLR camera, but it's such a HUGE file that I've really been having trouble uploading simple videos to the internet to share with people.
So we decided to get this pocket size HD flip video camera! I can't wait to video our reactions on roller-coasters and such!!
And for only $30 I couldn't pass up the underwater case for the video camera! It will allow me to completely submerge the camera in water for any given time! It has received really great reviews. I'm excited for this as well, b/c I'm always paranoid of getting my DSLR wet when I'm even near water. This will be fun for the splash rides, and for many more events even after Disney World! I really wish I would have bought this at the beginning of this summer! You can capture still images from your video, so this will work for some still shots during the water rides as well :)
We also opened a few more packages at our house today. It was like our Pre-Disney Christmas!! Dirk got some new Adidas so he no longer wants to wear his Pumas that looked great in the store, but once he worked them in looked more like those all black old man Reeboks :( I also got some new shoes. Dirk got some shorts as well. :) We're getting really excited for the trip, but I think we both agree that what we're most excited about at this point is just getting to spend such a long time with our super awesome family in such a fun place!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
10 DAYS, 10 DAYS!
I can’t believe it is so close. This past week has flown by, mostly because I have been so busy I haven’t had a chance to think.
I received all of my “stuff” in the mail. The Camelbak and monopod are perfect, and I love the Gorillapod. I am glad I bought one. Everything should fit into the backpack with no problems—with the exception of the Monopod.
Ginny—would you mind giving up a bit of stroller space for that? LOL!
I am excited about the monopod because I can tape all the shows. When we were kids we LOVED watching the home videos of us on vacation and even watched the shows! It was like a movie to us. I may get another memory card for the camcorder… I am unsure.
Anyway, I want to tape the shows and the monopod will help keep things steady! It is really lightweight and extends to be as tall (maybe a bit taller) than I am. PERFECT for the shows where we have to stand (Pirates’ Tutorial and Jedi Training Academy- hoping Hayden gets picked, the fireworks, etc).
This morning I completed our online Check-In! This will speed up the process when we get there and allow us to bypass the longer lines.
I also checked the forecast for our first few days we are there! It looks like our first day at Epcot will be hot, but the other days call for some showers. I will keep checking as they add more information to the website. We have 17 emergency ponchos ready to pack. Do you think we need more for the rides and possible rain?
As far as my last minute plans, I need to create and laminate a stroller sign for Ginny, make a packing list so I don’t forget the little things (like our retractable Sharpie for the character autographs), the hand sanitizers, etc.
What are the last minute things you need to take care of?
I received all of my “stuff” in the mail. The Camelbak and monopod are perfect, and I love the Gorillapod. I am glad I bought one. Everything should fit into the backpack with no problems—with the exception of the Monopod.
Ginny—would you mind giving up a bit of stroller space for that? LOL!
I am excited about the monopod because I can tape all the shows. When we were kids we LOVED watching the home videos of us on vacation and even watched the shows! It was like a movie to us. I may get another memory card for the camcorder… I am unsure.
Anyway, I want to tape the shows and the monopod will help keep things steady! It is really lightweight and extends to be as tall (maybe a bit taller) than I am. PERFECT for the shows where we have to stand (Pirates’ Tutorial and Jedi Training Academy- hoping Hayden gets picked, the fireworks, etc).
This morning I completed our online Check-In! This will speed up the process when we get there and allow us to bypass the longer lines.
I also checked the forecast for our first few days we are there! It looks like our first day at Epcot will be hot, but the other days call for some showers. I will keep checking as they add more information to the website. We have 17 emergency ponchos ready to pack. Do you think we need more for the rides and possible rain?
As far as my last minute plans, I need to create and laminate a stroller sign for Ginny, make a packing list so I don’t forget the little things (like our retractable Sharpie for the character autographs), the hand sanitizers, etc.
What are the last minute things you need to take care of?
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
What to Expect From the Kids
The fun thing about kids is they are ALWAYS changing their habits, attitudes, etc. The bad thing about this, is it can be really hard to know what to expect when you go somewhere or do something new.
Virginia is usually a happy little thing and generally causes no problems at all. I still have not found any problems with her riding or sleeping in the stroller. She still can't hold her own bottle, so that is something she'll need help with, though she has no problem eating when anybody feeds her. She's also starting to eat solids, so I will try and feed her those at the restaurants while we are waiting for our food. Pretty much anyone can hold her or talk to her and she'll stay happy... unless she has a stinky diaper... then you'd better change her or get used to her fussing at you!
Hayden is getting a bit more brave, but he still seems to do best with trying new things if he gets lots of encouragement from someone who he thinks is cool (ie: not mom and dad!). This means lots of overly excited and encouraging prompts will need to be made from Evan/Paula on probably every ride... (hopefully by day 2 or 3 he will no longer need this, but you never know!).
Hayden is in the "Can I have that?" and the "I need" stage. Mostly, he seems to "need" liquid refreshment every 5 minutes of every day. Sometimes less frequently when he's having fun, distracted, or sleeping.... but as soon as that ends, you'd better bet he'll be asking! We really try and limit how much he is having b/c of potty training reasons. At the same time while we are doing lots of outside activities, we like him to stay hydrated, so if he wants a drink, we encourage him to drink a lot (not just a sip or two), then shortly after send him to the bathroom.
Public bathrooms scare Hayden. He is afraid of germs. Just remind him he can stand up for #1. He is still not good about going to the bathroom on his own, especially when he is having fun, so I think the best thing to do would be to send him to one whenever we pass one (if it's been at least 30 min. from the last time), or see if he will go while he's waiting for others to finish their attractions. Sometimes he will say he doesn't need to go, because he doesn't want to, but we just have to remind him that as soon as he goes, he can come back to whatever fun thing he didn't want to leave. He is pretty good at holding it if he needs too... You'll know by his dance that you've run out of time! He's also not so good at the #2 on the potty. No current solutions to this at the moment, and seeing as he'll only have 3 days of Preschool before we go, I'm not counting on that to work quite yet. Basically, if he needs a Pull-ups change and cleaning, just use your awesome ability to channel only good air in and avoid the bad air, until Dirk or I can take care of it! Unless of course you want to brave it for us ;)
Hayden will throw tantrums if you push against him. It is kind of a fine line between not enough discipline and too much. Right now we are working on something that seems to really be working. Instead of getting angry when he does something wrong, we try to keep kind/loving sing-songy voices and say something like "uh oh... Hayden isn't being very nice, guess it's time for a time out." It sounds funny at first, but it seems to work. We'll put him in time out for 4 minutes, giving him minimal attention. We'll tell him he needs to go to time out until he is ready to be nice and apologize. Sometimes he's super fast about it, sometimes he puts up a good fight. If he's tired and needs a break, he'll put up a huge fight. I'm thinking our breaks after lunch should make this pretty okay for him (I hope!).
He usually has much better behavior when we are out and about and keeping busy. He'll probably be fine the first few days, then after we've been there for a few days, he'll start getting more comfortable with the routine and might start trying to get away with more.... Or he could do the complete opposite!
Basically, you have our permission to do what we do whenever needed. Generally it's easier for him if only ONE adult is working against him at a time. So if Dirk is disciplining, I will back off and vise versa... He gets really upset and confused if lots of different people are telling him different or same things at the same time...
So writing this all out makes it seem like our kid has tons of issues! I think he'll have lots of fun and be pretty good most of the time. He does well with long stretches, even when he's tired. I'm really excited for him and to see how he enjoys everything!
Virginia is usually a happy little thing and generally causes no problems at all. I still have not found any problems with her riding or sleeping in the stroller. She still can't hold her own bottle, so that is something she'll need help with, though she has no problem eating when anybody feeds her. She's also starting to eat solids, so I will try and feed her those at the restaurants while we are waiting for our food. Pretty much anyone can hold her or talk to her and she'll stay happy... unless she has a stinky diaper... then you'd better change her or get used to her fussing at you!
Hayden is getting a bit more brave, but he still seems to do best with trying new things if he gets lots of encouragement from someone who he thinks is cool (ie: not mom and dad!). This means lots of overly excited and encouraging prompts will need to be made from Evan/Paula on probably every ride... (hopefully by day 2 or 3 he will no longer need this, but you never know!).
Hayden is in the "Can I have that?" and the "I need" stage. Mostly, he seems to "need" liquid refreshment every 5 minutes of every day. Sometimes less frequently when he's having fun, distracted, or sleeping.... but as soon as that ends, you'd better bet he'll be asking! We really try and limit how much he is having b/c of potty training reasons. At the same time while we are doing lots of outside activities, we like him to stay hydrated, so if he wants a drink, we encourage him to drink a lot (not just a sip or two), then shortly after send him to the bathroom.
Public bathrooms scare Hayden. He is afraid of germs. Just remind him he can stand up for #1. He is still not good about going to the bathroom on his own, especially when he is having fun, so I think the best thing to do would be to send him to one whenever we pass one (if it's been at least 30 min. from the last time), or see if he will go while he's waiting for others to finish their attractions. Sometimes he will say he doesn't need to go, because he doesn't want to, but we just have to remind him that as soon as he goes, he can come back to whatever fun thing he didn't want to leave. He is pretty good at holding it if he needs too... You'll know by his dance that you've run out of time! He's also not so good at the #2 on the potty. No current solutions to this at the moment, and seeing as he'll only have 3 days of Preschool before we go, I'm not counting on that to work quite yet. Basically, if he needs a Pull-ups change and cleaning, just use your awesome ability to channel only good air in and avoid the bad air, until Dirk or I can take care of it! Unless of course you want to brave it for us ;)
Hayden will throw tantrums if you push against him. It is kind of a fine line between not enough discipline and too much. Right now we are working on something that seems to really be working. Instead of getting angry when he does something wrong, we try to keep kind/loving sing-songy voices and say something like "uh oh... Hayden isn't being very nice, guess it's time for a time out." It sounds funny at first, but it seems to work. We'll put him in time out for 4 minutes, giving him minimal attention. We'll tell him he needs to go to time out until he is ready to be nice and apologize. Sometimes he's super fast about it, sometimes he puts up a good fight. If he's tired and needs a break, he'll put up a huge fight. I'm thinking our breaks after lunch should make this pretty okay for him (I hope!).
He usually has much better behavior when we are out and about and keeping busy. He'll probably be fine the first few days, then after we've been there for a few days, he'll start getting more comfortable with the routine and might start trying to get away with more.... Or he could do the complete opposite!
Basically, you have our permission to do what we do whenever needed. Generally it's easier for him if only ONE adult is working against him at a time. So if Dirk is disciplining, I will back off and vise versa... He gets really upset and confused if lots of different people are telling him different or same things at the same time...
So writing this all out makes it seem like our kid has tons of issues! I think he'll have lots of fun and be pretty good most of the time. He does well with long stretches, even when he's tired. I'm really excited for him and to see how he enjoys everything!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Three Weeks: What we are excited for!
Three weeks from this moment will be disembarking the plane in Orlando! WOOT!
In order to celebrate, I asked each adult what they were excited about. Here are their responses
Evan:
What are you excited to do for the first time this year?
I am really excited about Dirk and Laura coming to hang out with us. I am also REALLY excited about POFQ!
What are you excited to do again?
I am really excited for Philharmagic, Tower of Terror, eating at Raglan Road again, and actually being able to enjoy Disney Hollywood Studios. (Evan was sick last year, so we only spent half a day at DHS).
Which restaurants are you most excited for?
Oh, this is a hard one. I am really excited to eat at the Brown Derby or Ohana.
Which foods are you looking forward to?
Meat! Disney steaks and pork chops are making me salivate right now! I also want to try some of the desserts.
+++++++++++
Paula:
What are you excited to do for the first time this year?
I am also excited for Dirk and Laura to come with us, of course. I am excited to have Hayden with us as well. I am also excited to have Hayden do the Pirates League! I just made an appt for our second day at MK!
We are seeing Wishes for the first time as well. I am not big on fireworks, but Laura likes them, and I’ve heard Wishes is great! I am especially excited for WWoHP and the Forbidden Journey ride. I hope that Evan can ride, but I fear he is too big and will be “stuck” with the kids.
What are you excited to do again?
Toy Story Midway Mania, Expedition Everest, Space Mountain (closed last year), Pick a Pearl in Japan.
Which restaurants are you most excited for?
Ohana, Jiko, Character meals with Hayden.
Which foods are you looking forward to?
I am most looking forward to my “try one new thing every meal” plan. I look forward to the Mashed Potatoes at Yachtman and trying the Grapefruit Cake at Brown Derby.
+++++++++
Dirk:
What park, rides or activities are you most excited about?
Actually I am most excited about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
What restaurants are you most excited about?
The Polynesian ones like Ohana.
What are you most excited for when it comes to Hayden and/or Ginny?
Ginny....not much. She will have fun no matter what. Hayden I am excited to see him during the night shows.
What is Hayden most excited about, in your opinion?
I don't think he actually understands what is happening yet.
+++++++
Laura:
What park, rides or activities are you most excited about?
I am super excited about Harry Potter world- but for Disney, I'm excited for just any of the roller coasters and thrill rides! I've hardly been on anything like them in my life, so I'm excited to push myself :)
What restaurants are you most excited about?
I'm not sure what restaurants I'm excited about... The inner child in me is just super excited for the character meals. I think the one I'm most looking forward to though is the one in Norway- forgot the name- too lazy to look it up.
What are you most excited for when it comes to Hayden and/or Ginny?
I'm excited for Hayden to see how brave he will be. We went to the state fair today and he got REALLY brave with the rides and had tons of fun! I'm also really excited to see how he will react to the characters.
For Ginny, I'm just excited to take some cute pictures of her first time ever that she'll never remember!
What is Hayden most excited about?
I just asked Hayden what he's most excited about, and he said riding rides, and he specifically asked about some types that the fair had today and asked if Disney World had those kind. So hopefully this ride excitement will keep up! (p.s. he was terrified of the animals and would not pet a single one, even though that is normally what he loves!)
In order to celebrate, I asked each adult what they were excited about. Here are their responses
Evan:
What are you excited to do for the first time this year?
I am really excited about Dirk and Laura coming to hang out with us. I am also REALLY excited about POFQ!
What are you excited to do again?
I am really excited for Philharmagic, Tower of Terror, eating at Raglan Road again, and actually being able to enjoy Disney Hollywood Studios. (Evan was sick last year, so we only spent half a day at DHS).
Which restaurants are you most excited for?
Oh, this is a hard one. I am really excited to eat at the Brown Derby or Ohana.
Which foods are you looking forward to?
Meat! Disney steaks and pork chops are making me salivate right now! I also want to try some of the desserts.
+++++++++++
Paula:
What are you excited to do for the first time this year?
I am also excited for Dirk and Laura to come with us, of course. I am excited to have Hayden with us as well. I am also excited to have Hayden do the Pirates League! I just made an appt for our second day at MK!
We are seeing Wishes for the first time as well. I am not big on fireworks, but Laura likes them, and I’ve heard Wishes is great! I am especially excited for WWoHP and the Forbidden Journey ride. I hope that Evan can ride, but I fear he is too big and will be “stuck” with the kids.
What are you excited to do again?
Toy Story Midway Mania, Expedition Everest, Space Mountain (closed last year), Pick a Pearl in Japan.
Which restaurants are you most excited for?
Ohana, Jiko, Character meals with Hayden.
Which foods are you looking forward to?
I am most looking forward to my “try one new thing every meal” plan. I look forward to the Mashed Potatoes at Yachtman and trying the Grapefruit Cake at Brown Derby.
+++++++++
Dirk:
What park, rides or activities are you most excited about?
Actually I am most excited about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
What restaurants are you most excited about?
The Polynesian ones like Ohana.
What are you most excited for when it comes to Hayden and/or Ginny?
Ginny....not much. She will have fun no matter what. Hayden I am excited to see him during the night shows.
What is Hayden most excited about, in your opinion?
I don't think he actually understands what is happening yet.
+++++++
Laura:
What park, rides or activities are you most excited about?
I am super excited about Harry Potter world- but for Disney, I'm excited for just any of the roller coasters and thrill rides! I've hardly been on anything like them in my life, so I'm excited to push myself :)
What restaurants are you most excited about?
I'm not sure what restaurants I'm excited about... The inner child in me is just super excited for the character meals. I think the one I'm most looking forward to though is the one in Norway- forgot the name- too lazy to look it up.
What are you most excited for when it comes to Hayden and/or Ginny?
I'm excited for Hayden to see how brave he will be. We went to the state fair today and he got REALLY brave with the rides and had tons of fun! I'm also really excited to see how he will react to the characters.
For Ginny, I'm just excited to take some cute pictures of her first time ever that she'll never remember!
What is Hayden most excited about?
I just asked Hayden what he's most excited about, and he said riding rides, and he specifically asked about some types that the fair had today and asked if Disney World had those kind. So hopefully this ride excitement will keep up! (p.s. he was terrified of the animals and would not pet a single one, even though that is normally what he loves!)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Purchases and Quirks
Purchases: I have been spending too much lately. I know that. I told myself 3 days ago that I would stop, but it didn’t work. Here are the recent purchases for the trip.
New Phones: I bought them used online, but we are upgrading to smartphones. I figure that I can get the app for the WDW lines and we can text when we get off a ride, for example.
Monopod: For videotaping the shows. A tripod was too cumbersome. This is perfect.
Never Let Me Go: A new book to read (the movie comes out this fall).
Book about photography: I want to take nice pictures with my Point and Shoot (even though its not fancy). This may help. Also, the more I know what I am doing, the more I can justify a camera upgrade when we have kids. This was recommended on a blog I read—she said that after reading this book her camera made sense.
New Shoes: So that I have shoes for each outfit’s “color scheme”. I realized that if I change one of my outfits I won’t need the black, so I am planning on doing that. All I will need are the tan, the white ones I have, and the dark brown ones. I will take the black ones back.
Gorillapod: I know you have one, but I wanted one as well.
Camelbak: 100oz with a couple of pockets for “stuff”. I am going to be carrying the video and still camera. This bag will hold hand sanitizer, my little journal/touring plan book, my touring plan “book”, and the Gorillapod/monopod. We may have to make Ginny carry the emergency ponchos. =)
The only thing that I still need to get is a pair of jean shorts, Moleskin (which saved our lives last year) and some nice smelling hand sanitizer for our bags (Bath and Body Works). I also want to purchase some emergency ponchos. Here is what I am thinking, poncho wise:
• 1 for Kali River Rapids
• 1 for Jurassic Park
• 1 for other IoA water ride
• 3 extra for rainy afternoons.
That is 6 ponchos per person x 5 people. We can just stick a couple in Ginny’s bag each day, as needed. What do you think?
This weekend we are going through Evan’s side of the closet to determine what outfits he has. He will be taking 4 pairs of shorts, a pair of jeans for the nice dinners and shirts, of course. I will post his outfit selections once we figure them out (we may have to go shopping for a few more t-shirts).
++++++
Setting Expectations: Quirks
Evan and I have some weird practices—and we want to communicate them up front.
Paula: I will be taking a picture of every food we eat. I will also be asking you what you thought of your food, as I am writing dining reviews for the DISboards.
Evan: likes to look in every gift shop after we exit a ride, but never buys anything.
What are your quirks? What other expectations should we set before we go and hang out with each other for a week?
New Phones: I bought them used online, but we are upgrading to smartphones. I figure that I can get the app for the WDW lines and we can text when we get off a ride, for example.
Monopod: For videotaping the shows. A tripod was too cumbersome. This is perfect.
New Shoes: So that I have shoes for each outfit’s “color scheme”. I realized that if I change one of my outfits I won’t need the black, so I am planning on doing that. All I will need are the tan, the white ones I have, and the dark brown ones. I will take the black ones back.
Camelbak: 100oz with a couple of pockets for “stuff”. I am going to be carrying the video and still camera. This bag will hold hand sanitizer, my little journal/touring plan book, my touring plan “book”, and the Gorillapod/monopod. We may have to make Ginny carry the emergency ponchos. =)
• 1 for Kali River Rapids
• 1 for Jurassic Park
• 1 for other IoA water ride
• 3 extra for rainy afternoons.
That is 6 ponchos per person x 5 people. We can just stick a couple in Ginny’s bag each day, as needed. What do you think?
This weekend we are going through Evan’s side of the closet to determine what outfits he has. He will be taking 4 pairs of shorts, a pair of jeans for the nice dinners and shirts, of course. I will post his outfit selections once we figure them out (we may have to go shopping for a few more t-shirts).
++++++
Setting Expectations: Quirks
Evan and I have some weird practices—and we want to communicate them up front.
Paula: I will be taking a picture of every food we eat. I will also be asking you what you thought of your food, as I am writing dining reviews for the DISboards.
Evan: likes to look in every gift shop after we exit a ride, but never buys anything.
What are your quirks? What other expectations should we set before we go and hang out with each other for a week?
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Tuesday Planning: Clothes~
HI! I decided to do a post about the clothes I am thinking about taking to WDW. I have three pairs of shorts (olive green, tan and black) and I plan on getting a pair of jean shorts before we go. I also plan on bringing a pair of long jeans to wear when we eat at the nicer restaurants like Jiko and California Grill. Brown Derby and Cinderella's castle aren't as fancy becuase they are in theme parks (where everyone is in tank tops and shorts).
Here are the tops! The low cut and tank top ones will be worn with... DownEast Basics wondertees, of course! I love those things!
I don't know which one of these I am going to take. The purple one is a really nice, so I may just wear that on the plane there and to Cinderella castle. I may bring the brown so I can choose what to wear based on mood.
I probably don't need to bring 9 days with of clothes, but I don't want to have to bring quarters to do laundry. Also, then each day can have an outfit. For example, I am going to wear the green tee and olive shorts at animal kindgom, since the colors are safari. Or I could wear the red, to make me stand out against the greenery.
Yes, I am a dork.
Here are the tops! The low cut and tank top ones will be worn with... DownEast Basics wondertees, of course! I love those things!
 |
| With tan shorts |
 |
| with tan shorts |
 |
| with jean shorts |
 |
| with tan shorts. I know this is essentially the same shirt as the previous one, but the sky blue was/is on sale for $9.95 and I could not resist. It is a good layering thing for work, too. |
 |
| with jean shorts |
 |
| with olive green shorts and olive wonder tee, I think. I would wear this with a cardigan to work, but I am unsure how a cap sleeve woudl look underneath. I may go with an ivory wonder tee as well. |
 |
| I have this in a light pink, and there is some olive tones in the beading, so I am going to wear olive shorts |
 |
| with olive shorts. |
 |
| with black shorts and black wonder tee |
I don't know which one of these I am going to take. The purple one is a really nice, so I may just wear that on the plane there and to Cinderella castle. I may bring the brown so I can choose what to wear based on mood.
 |
| With a half sleeve tee and jean shorts |
 |
| With black shorts |
I probably don't need to bring 9 days with of clothes, but I don't want to have to bring quarters to do laundry. Also, then each day can have an outfit. For example, I am going to wear the green tee and olive shorts at animal kindgom, since the colors are safari. Or I could wear the red, to make me stand out against the greenery.
Yes, I am a dork.
Friday, August 6, 2010
I am so bored at work today I could just cry…
Which is why I am writing this post. Just so you know, Evan was a sweetheart earlier this week and called to requested a top floor room. He also double checked and you have a crib on your reservation. Only 18 more days until I can complete our online check-in and 28 days until we leave! I can’t believe it is so close!
I hope you are all getting excited as well… and that Hayden has been enjoying his gifts from the characters.
Because I am bored today and only have a small frozen meal for lunch, I am going to dream about Disney Food!
Cinderella’s Royal Table— don’t expect awesome food here. While Evan loved his pork chop and salad, the rest of the food was “meh”. The reason we are dining here is because we are EATING INSIDE THE CASTLE.
I am split between two appetizers here. I had the corn and crab chowder last year, and I remember it being good but not memorable. Evan had the BLT salad and raved about the dressing.
BLT Salad - Applewood Smoked Bacon, Tomato, Egg, Red Onion, and a wedge of Iceberg Lettuce drizzled with Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette
Corn and Crab Soup - with Sour Cream and Chives
As for my entrée, Evan loved the his pork chop last year, so I may get that. The chicken last year was good, but once again, not memorable. The prime rib could be good, but I already plan on getting beef at several restaurants, so I would probably choose the pork or chicken. I would choose the Salmon as well, but I am planning on having Salmon elsewhere.
Pork Chop - with Bacon and Mushroom Ragout and Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes finished with Sweet Chipotle Glaze
Lemon Lavender Chicken - on Mashed Potatoes served with Wilted Spinach and a Chicken Jus
Roast Prime Rib of Beef - with Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Potatoes, and Cabernet Sauce
Pan Seared Salmon - with a grain Pilaf, Grilled Asparagus, and glazed with Rosemary-Lemon Honey
As for dessert, I remember not being impressed with the “buckle” last year. I thought it was rather dry. The sorbet is “no sugar added”, but I would need to find out the flavors first. I think I may have crème brulee the next day at Coral Reef, so I don’t really want to get it here. I guess it depends on the flavor.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Buckle - A single layer of Chocolate Cake stuffed with Cream Cheese topped with Créme Chantily and finished with Créme Anglaise Sauce
Seasonal No Sugar Added Sorbet - with berries
Seasonal Cremé Brulée
My dream would be to order the Cinderella Slipper Dessert (one for each couple). You have to call 48 hours in advance for this beauty, and we would get this on top of a regular dessert? Too much? Probably. But I am still considering it, I don’t know why. Sometimes it is all chocolate and sometimes the shoe is white chocolate.
I hope you are all getting excited as well… and that Hayden has been enjoying his gifts from the characters.
Because I am bored today and only have a small frozen meal for lunch, I am going to dream about Disney Food!
Cinderella’s Royal Table— don’t expect awesome food here. While Evan loved his pork chop and salad, the rest of the food was “meh”. The reason we are dining here is because we are EATING INSIDE THE CASTLE.
I am split between two appetizers here. I had the corn and crab chowder last year, and I remember it being good but not memorable. Evan had the BLT salad and raved about the dressing.
BLT Salad - Applewood Smoked Bacon, Tomato, Egg, Red Onion, and a wedge of Iceberg Lettuce drizzled with Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette
Corn and Crab Soup - with Sour Cream and Chives
As for my entrée, Evan loved the his pork chop last year, so I may get that. The chicken last year was good, but once again, not memorable. The prime rib could be good, but I already plan on getting beef at several restaurants, so I would probably choose the pork or chicken. I would choose the Salmon as well, but I am planning on having Salmon elsewhere.
Pork Chop - with Bacon and Mushroom Ragout and Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes finished with Sweet Chipotle Glaze
Lemon Lavender Chicken - on Mashed Potatoes served with Wilted Spinach and a Chicken Jus
Roast Prime Rib of Beef - with Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Potatoes, and Cabernet Sauce
Pan Seared Salmon - with a grain Pilaf, Grilled Asparagus, and glazed with Rosemary-Lemon Honey
As for dessert, I remember not being impressed with the “buckle” last year. I thought it was rather dry. The sorbet is “no sugar added”, but I would need to find out the flavors first. I think I may have crème brulee the next day at Coral Reef, so I don’t really want to get it here. I guess it depends on the flavor.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Buckle - A single layer of Chocolate Cake stuffed with Cream Cheese topped with Créme Chantily and finished with Créme Anglaise Sauce
Seasonal No Sugar Added Sorbet - with berries
Seasonal Cremé Brulée
My dream would be to order the Cinderella Slipper Dessert (one for each couple). You have to call 48 hours in advance for this beauty, and we would get this on top of a regular dessert? Too much? Probably. But I am still considering it, I don’t know why. Sometimes it is all chocolate and sometimes the shoe is white chocolate.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Touring Plan Tuesday: Downtown Disney
My mom has our book, so I can’t create a Universal touring plan until next week. However, I figured that I could list all the places I wanted to go to at DTD.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop – we got a sundae here last year and it was SO WORTH the $8 we spent out of pocket
Basin – “homemade soaps, shampoos, facials, body masks and more premade or made to order. Custom made scents begin at $3.95”. We should totally make a WDW scent and use that soap throughout the trip. We then take a bar home. When we use it, we remember WDW!
Disney's Days of Christmas – we got some ornaments here last year. We don’t have any Disney stuff around the house normally, but don’t mind having ornaments.
Goofy's Candy Company—we totally need to build our own creation, even though it will be an out of pocket expense.
LEGO Imagination Center – This may be fun to explore with Hayden!
Mickey's Mart - Everything Ten Dollars and Under. This might be a fun stop for a cheap toy for Hayden.
Once Upon A Toy – Build your own lightsaber and/or fill a box with Mr. Potato Head parts for a set price.
TrenD – “a stylish boutique with designer flair and eclectic offerings opens in March 2009. The urban-inspired specialty store is a one-of-a-kind, hip destination for fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories.”
World of Disney – “The largest Disney character merchandise store with just about anything Mickey Mouse you can think of! The World of Disney store is HUGE! It is very easy to get separated and/or lost in the store. Keep close watch of your children. When you enter, pick out a landmark so you can more easily find your way out.-- TIP: At the entrances you will often find a Cast Member greeter who will be happy to give you a Disney sticker to wear and direct you towards what you are looking for.”
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