Tagrel.com – Blogalong with us…

In a few days, Tagrel.com will start an new adventure as we gather for the first Tag-O-Mania.

While the event is new, we are not new to gathering at Disney with our family of choice, and our friends.  We have been doing it for years.  For some of us, it started so many years ago we will not admit the years as we can not be that old.  And some of us, this will be the first time we have adventured into this new world of meeting our “crazy internet friends.”

I am one of those who has been doing this for so long that it seems commonplace. Yet every time we gather it is neither common or do we stay in one place for long.   I am excited to be going in October. October is a great time to be in WDW.  The weather will hopefully be a bit cooler than in the summer.  The Food and Wine Festival is happening so even if we don’t go to any of the special events, I am sure we can find some special things to sample.  Then there is MNNSHP which is my favorite of all the current parties.  I love the parade and then darker side of Disney.  And there is just something about adults Trick or Treating with their friends that we don’t get to do anywhere else but Disney!

I see we have managed to plan a lot of meets.  I think they will all be great.  As it is my job to remember myself and anyone else who will listen, I say It is great to go to the meets, it is magical to see people you have chatted with on line for years or just weeks, and yet the memories that give us the stories of our hearts happen often in the unplanned, the hey you want to go (you fill in the blank) and we are heading to -want to come.  So don’t pass up the chance to go with the flow, wander around with friends old and new and just let the magic happen.

For those of us staying home this round, we will do our best to capture some pictures, remember the stories and share them with our family of choice staying home this round.

So bring on Tag-O-Mania!  May WDW be the same when we leave as I am sure we will all have be changed by the adventure!

How can I possibly be in Disney World on my iPhone twins birthday and not spread a little birthday magic? So today Dave has joined us to celebrate:-) I made everyone get up early so we could make it to DHS at rope drop. A first for me . Hannah took our park passes and rushed her way to ToyStoryMania. Second FP of the day with a return time of 9:40am. We jumped in line and were on in 15 minutes. Dave had a real hard time shooting today but I scored 127,400. So much fun!

We had 10 minutes until fast pass time so Dave chose to see Buzz and Woody across the way. Then he rushed us across the street for our fast pass time and once again we were on the ride. This is a blast and the new riders loved it too.

Prince Caspian was at a meet and greet next door so Dave had his picture taken and saw the little attraction. He checked the showtimes for other things and decided Hannah could run ahead to get Fast Passes for RocknRoller coaster. The rest of the group went to the animation courtyard to the meet and greet for several different characters. It had been a long time since I’d been to the movie and they did a preview of UP! Can’t wait see this one. We made it back to see characters where Dave had his picture made with Sorcerer Mickey, Bolt and Rhino.

It was time for lunch and Dave picked Rosie’s. The hamburger and fries were the normal food but it was close to the next pick of Beauty and the Beast. Four for a Dollar is missed but we had great seats in the second row. Next stop was RnR to use our fast passed. We had to wait a few minutes and Dave asked me how he could be enjoying his birthday at WDW. Well the answer was via pics and texting = iPhone power! He enjoyed his ride but it was over way to fast. We voted and decided Scott didn’t get to ride today because he wasn’t feeling up to par!

Now the next pick was Indy. We had a great view at the top of the stadium. The guys like this show. I’ve seen it I don’t need to see it again for years. Next we rounded the bend to make it to Muppets but we see Star Wars Jedi Training academy or at least the end of it. Dave pouted a bit but we moved on to see Muppets.

Once again it was getting really hot outside. Dave wanted a turkey leg but they were on the other side of the park so he was out-voted on his bithday and had to settle for a Mickey bar and frozen coke. We sat on a bench for a bit and watched Scott try to eat his Mickey bar but alas some of it ended up on the pavement and quickly turned to hot fudge. Time to exit DHS for the day but we made a u-turn into the photopass shop to view our pictures and select our free one. I think I achieved greatness! We have 206 pictures and we aren’t even done yet!

The drive back to WL is fast but it is sadly time to check in online for our return flight home. Love the power of the iPhone. We leave Dave to wander the hotel while we nap, shower and change for our evening to EPCOT.

We made it to Coral Reef to find they had no record of our dinner ADR but they got us right in. Dave loved the view and had a choice of appetizers lobster bisque or shrimp and lobster cakes. At our table we had wild mushroom lasagna, grouper and mahi mahi. Our very lovely server brought us a nice celebration dessert for the engagement but we’ll let Dave think it was for his birthday

It was a beautiful night and a chill was in the air for EMH but we made it around to the last few things we wanted to do before we called it a night – Finding Nemo, turtle talk with crush and finally American Adventure. Very peaceful around World Showcase except for the last few people finishing their beers around the world.

Back to the hotel to pack and turn in because tomorrow it is back to Texas. We hope Dave enjoyed his birthday bash with us we are just sorry it had to be via iPhone!

This day begins with me trying to round up the gang of pokeys . After a few “come on let’s go!” we make to the dock just in time to board. Before we know it we are sitting out in front of the Magic Kingdom waiting for the opening ceremony. This is only the second time I’ve ever done this Scott forgot his just engaged button so a quick stop at city hall fixes that and down Main Street we go.

Fantasyland is our target, thru the castle and a quick right with a walkon to Peter Pan, and small world. We send Hannah on Dumbo with Laynie while we get the perfect spot for a photo op! We bypass the Carousel. We know it is pretty but who has time for that we’ve got BETTER things to do . Next is Pooh and teacups.

We had talked about seeing Tink and the fairies but someone just wants to RIDE! Who are we to complain? We make our way around to Buzz and get a fast pass then see how much laughter we can create to save Metropolis. My joke is used once again .

We had time for a breakfast of frozen cokes and cream cheese pretzel. Yum! I’ve created two more people who are thinking these are a great new food. Our fast pass time arrived and we walked on Buzz. Laynie road with Hannah and I proceeded to beat Scott soundly. I know unfair I’ve had practice!

It was close to the time of Laynie’s Magical Moment at Bibbiddi Bobbiddi Boutique so we all walked over and parked my scooter. I tried to check in but somehow they had my date wrong in the computer. We were supposed to be there yesterday. Not what I’d asked for but it was easily corrected with a “walkin” appt at noon. This messes up my eat early plans and beating the crowds but we survived! I called Scott and they came back from getting Splash fast passes for later.

We walked over to haunted mansion to visit the souls but we didn’t have time to stay. I took Laynie and swam upstream thru stroller parking land. We checked in and waited for Princess Laynie’s royal beautician to see her. She climbed up in the chair and picked red hair to be Ariel. I brought her costume from home but I waited to put it on her because it was so hot. The only complaint I have about this experience was the two rude people who were waiting for their princess to change and planted themselves on the spot that should have been mine to watch Laynie get her makeover!

We finished and met Scott and Hannah at Splash where we used our Fast Passes. While we were apart Scott and Laynie got a second set of FP for Big Thunder and then rode it in stand by. It was turning into a zoo that was being baked in the oven quickly. Splash was refreshing and those Fast passes sure made it better then standing in the 50 minute line. It was time for a lunch break and Pecos Bills was open and packed! The CM’s were making mistakes left and right!

It was time to make a schedule adjustment from the boutique error so we used our FP for Big Thunder. We made our way to Ariel’s Grotto for our Princess to get her twin picture taken but the line was long and it was an oven! Hannah ran to get FP for later and we decided to boat our way back to WL for some downtime.

We had an hour so I asked them to wake me at four and snoozed. We have Chef Mickey’s at 5pm so back on the boat. It was the first seating so we got to eat and see characters fast. After dinner we took the time to ride the monorail for the new kids back to MK. We had planned to use our fast passes for Space but it was BROKEN! It’s not Betsy and I together it is ME!

The evening has cooled off and it is beautiful! The little Ariel refused to change her costume earlier before dinner so we finally get to visit the Grotto. Laynie is clueless about what we are doing until just as we walk into the room. It’s the first time she’s gotten real excited about any character. She now preens her way around the park as a royal princess.

The park closes at 8pm tonight so we made our way to a spot for wishes. I cried again as always. Even though I can say one of my WISHES has come true

It took forever to get out of MK tonight and the boat line to WL was all the way back to the bag check. We waited on a bench and then walked back to Contemporary and took the boat to WL. I’m so worn out but Scott and I take some time to get into the hot tub while Hannah stays with Laynie. She is the best daughter

Sorry about the days without pictures. I will add them later

This morning we woke up on our own. It was about 8:30 when Laynie woke me up so I made Scott and Hannah get up too . I’m evil that way. We got ready for Blizzard Beach and off we went. The valet, Fernando commented that Scott and I didn’t have our “just engaged” buttons on this morning! Yes apparently we’ve made an impression on people around us just as they have for us

We got to Blizzard Beach and I used my AP discount to buy us all one day passes. It was cheaper then adding the water option to their park passes just to go for one day.

We found a nice spot close to Meltaway Bay camped our stuff out and headed to the chairlift and teamboat springs. Since we are a party of four we got our own raft and away we went. Laynie always has this look of not sure on her face but by the time we are done she is grinning and giving us high fives! Scott keeps saying “we will win this battle!” and she has come out so much over the last few days.

Afterward we stopped at Tikes Peak and sent Laynie down the kiddie slide on her own. Scott took her to the top, Hannah stood on the stairs in the middle and I waited at the bottom. She wasn’t sure but once again high fives so down again. Just as she was on her way down this little boy decides to try to climb back up the slide and Laynie plows right into him. She was really not sure now but I told Scott she needed to go again to get that out of her head so we sent her down again. Just as she was going up the same little boy was going in front of her again so Scott told Cody the lifeguard what had happened and the kid got in trouble! Sorry but I can get on a soap box about this but I won’t for now . She went down with a little coaxing and was great. Smiles and thumbs up again!

Next stop the wave pool and a turn around Cross Country Creek. I could have kept going but we all needed food. A pit stop at Lottawatta Lodge for refueling got us a pail and bucket with the kids meal. Laynie and I went back to the chairs and she buried herself in the sand, got a timeout for throwing sand and then again for kicking sand while I typed yesterdays blog, sent some “naw naw” pics to a friend about how beautiful the weather is and got too much sun on my back! Meanwhile Scott and Hannah spent some time racing on the ‘big kid’ water rides. When they got back Hannah took the rebel kid to the wave pool.

At 2 pm I was worn out and ready to head back to WL for cleanup and then back out to EPCOT. once there we did another turn on the ‘EPCOT RIDE’ and got a good postcard pic of the girls. Then a character spot stop for a Mickey photo op. Laynie is tired of characters and keeps aaking “what we gonna wide next?”

With that question we know we’ve created a monster so we head off to Mexico to see if we can find Donald. On the way there we run into Ripkensnana, Bob and their grandson! It was a quick nice hello and then we were off again. Mexico is refreshing because my back is burning up!

Next a quick ride in Norway but we skip the movie bacause we gave dinner at LeCellier. We putt over and are checked in. The weather is beautiful with a nice breeze so we wait outside with the beautiful flowers. Soon it is our time and we are in!

I have a huge complaint about the dining plan! It is nice to do and a huge amount of food but the pickings just seem to keep getting smaller and smaller each time we come! I didn’t do the dining plan this time since I’ve been sick it is a waste of food but service is also getting worse these days. I love LeCellier, the food (soup and filet) was great but the service mediocore! We made him take our order in pieces!

After dinner we beelined to my favorite Impressions de France. We made it three minutes before the next show! Afterward the hostess who introduced the show was standing outside and Laynie walked right up to her like she wanted to say something so with help from Scott and Hannah she told her she liked the movie! We are making huge progress with this trip

It’s time to find a spot to view Illuminations so I turn the group away from the UK/Canada side of the pond because of the wind. Hannah finds a beautiful spot between America and Italy. We can feel the heat from the big first flame we are so close and a fireworks launcher is just below us.

We are now back in the room and ready to call it a night because we have EMH in the am at MK

Tuesday morning brought us early entry day into EPCOT. We got up and ready but I’ve discovered these two new people in my life don’t follow schedules well. I have to get them going almost an hour before we really need to because they are POKEY! We have been using Valet at WL and have met some of the nicest people. In the morning it is Fernando and in the evening it is Christian. We arrive at EPCOT and Scott and Hannah unload my chariot!

The early entry is still going on so we make it to Soarin get fast passes and walk on to the ride in 15 minutes. Next living with the land is a walk on. Our fast passes are a bit out so we make our way to the Princess Breakfast by way of imagination.

At Norway we check in and are promptly placed in the line to be photographed with Belle. My picture was better then the one we paid for!! We were seated close to the buffet which was nice for us but we were in a major walkway and people kept running into us. The princesses arrived and we got the visits by Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. It is okay food but not worth the price of a small country. I’m glad Scott can eat his weight at every meal!

After breakfast we made our way to Test Track and collected a fast pass! Hannah was ready to do another Kim Possible Mission so we signed up but our report time in Italy wasn’t until noon. We did a quick stop in Canada for the movie and Kidcot. Then we stopped at several other Kidcot stations and arrived at Italy where we were sent back to Japan to save the world.

But first we needed some kaki gori on the super hot day. Scott didn’t want one at first but then he tasted ours! He went back and got his own while we saved Japan! Hannah was ready to save another country so we picked Germany. These adventures are really amazing and no matter your age should be tried at least once.

We were getting really hot and the park was picking up so we decided to leave by way of Test Track. Just as we entered the ride went down. Hannah wasn’t happy but I can’t control that so with a family council we rearranged and we will come back this evening after a nap.

Nap time was very refreshing. I know I needed it that heat just zapped me. Back at EPCOT we used our Fast Passes for Test Track then did walk on baby swap for Mission: Space. Scott did green! I did orange We still have our am FP for Soarin too so across the park we go.

We had planned to play mini-golf but I was vetoed by Scott and Hannah. They decided I needed to rest so we head back to the hotel for laundry and eat at roaring forks. We are packing it in but not commando! Tomorrow Blizzard Beach and dinner at LeCellier!

We started the morning off a little slowly for Scott, Hannah and I. Laynie on the other hand was the last one to sleep and the first one up this morning. Truthfully we don’t know if she actually slept!

We finally rounded everyone up and got in the Escape for the quck drive to Animal Kingdom. It is an extra magic morning but we are running a little behind. We are sent through the resort guests line at five minutes until it opens to everyone. We rush back to Expedition Everest where Hannah gets four fast passes. Hannah and I head to the five minute stand by line and ask for baby swap. Laynie is still to short but she keeps asking if she can ride. When we are finished Hannah gets to ride again with Scott while I wait with Laynie.

Hannah is happy she got to ride twice in 10 minutes. Laynie not so much! We have time before our fast passes so we decide to go do Safari. Along the way we come across Baloo and King Louie. Laynie’s getting the hang of this she hugged Louie great big. The safari said it was 30 minutes but we were on in 15. I haven’t done this in years but we had a great guide James. And for my animal photo taking friends I took some pictures just for you! They know who they are .

The Lion King show starts in 30 minutes so we made our way there. I don’t usually take my scooter into places because I only need it for distance but this is one exception. We got nice seats in the third row with a great view. Valeria came over and asked Laynie to teach the audience how to hand jive. She didn’t want to go alone but took Hannah with her. We are really working on getting her to do more out of her comfort zone! The show was great but I noticed the pretty female singer of the main four was not there so it was a little lacking for me with the whole effect. At the end Laynie was once again chosen to play the shaker and dance around. She went willingly this time!

After the show we walked out to Camp Minnie/Mickey where we ran into Pocohantas and Koda. We were going to do more but our tummies were singing. We had a vote and Scott lost. Pizzafari it is.

Then we headed back over to use our fast passes for Expedition Everest with a stop for caricatures of the girls. Hannah is one happy camper today. She’s ridden four times! Next stop in the 86 degree weather was a cool off at Kali! Laynie was tall enough so this was her first official big girl ride and she got soaked! She was funny about not being real sure but we made a big deal about how much fun it was and she was fine.

A quick drive back to the hotel for a nap that didn’t happen for Laynie and then it was time for our reservations at Prime Time. We piled back into the car and then the plan was EMH at MK. I should always double check because this changed from what I had printed off the WDW website to MGM. We made some adjustments to our entire week and stayed to see Little Mermaid, ride StarTours, decide not to do Fantasmic and baby swap for Tower.

As I was sitting there waiting for my turn Laynie kept asking when it was her turn. She was quite miffed we wouldn’t let her ride. She was tall enough but we just think it may be a bit intense for her since she’s just learning bug girl rides! As she sat on my lap she was almost asleep so when Scott came back and I went with Hannah in the 15 minutes we were gone she was asleep. We decided to leave and head back to WL.

Scott and I just enjoyed some quiet time on the balcony talking about the future and both girls are crashed. We have another big day in the am with am EMH at EPCOT and our Princess breakfast in Norway. No pictures for tonight but check back tomorrow I will insert them when I’m not so worn out

I know you all know that excitement for the day!  Yes Scott proposed to me in the lobby of Wilderness Lodge   I did say yes!  And the wedding will not be for some time because I want him to finish school before we take the next step.  He is working on his Master’s in Occupational Therapy.

Okay now for the DETAILS   Hannah and I went to the lobby to pick up my scooter and we were coming straight back to the room.  As we were turning I see Scott pushing Laynie headed straight for us.  I’m asked “what are you doing?”  He looks really funny and says “you know I love you right?” I nod and he gets down on one knee if front of me on my scooter and says “Will you marry me?”  I’m in shock.  We had talked about it for the future and someday but not right away.  Hannah took pictures and captured the moment. He pulls out the most beautiful ring that Hannah says looks like a Princess crown.

So with all this said and done the lobby at Wilderness Lodge has changed for me as has in one fell swoop Disney World!  He knows me well! My favorite place to be, the ring I liked and tolerating all the attention today

So we hopped on the boat to Magic Kingdom for Laynie’s visit to Disney World.  When we entered the park characters were all over Town Square but with some really long lines.  We headed to Guest Services to collect Scott and Laynie’s first visit buttons when I stumbled upon Pinnochio in the MainStreet Courtyard with zero line.  Laynie’s first character of our visit!  We didn’t get great pics but I have the Photo Pass CD on order and we have been STALKING Photo Pass people today   We ran into guest services and got not only first visit buttons but Scott and I got “just engaged” buttons.  We wore them all day!

We had plans to head to Fantasyland but a certain little girl only has Pirates on the brain so we were flexible and redid our day.  Straight to Pirates oh but first zero line at Alladdin so we stop there first.  She has ridden everything with Hannah and won’t ride with Scott or I which is fine with us.  Then off to Jungle Cruise with no wait and a great tour guide, Tim!  Next stop finally Pirates.  She of course sang along and loved Captain Jack!  I got a text from Zac as we were headed across the park to find some princesses.  He was working at Stitch.  I hope to see him later.

We stopped for Storytime with Belle and a photo op! Then headed to Toon Town.  We had planned on riding Goofy’s Barnstormer to get a feel for how she would do with a coaster but it was down.  We then toured Minnie’s and straight to the Characters. I gave Laynie a choice of Tink or the Princess and she choose the Princesses.  She was not real sure and trouble smiling but by the time we got to my favorite, Sleeping Beauty she was all talk!  She kept telling me “Her is your fabit!”  We have some great family shots and Laynie shots with the characters!  Next she was ready to see Mickey’s house.  Little did she know we would meet Mickey and Minnie.

After chasing photos we stopped for lunch at Casey’s.  Once again a really good hot dog.  I’m not much of a fan of hot dogs so for me to rave about a frankfurter it must be GOOD!  Got a text from Zac that he would be working somewhere else after lunch but was currently in Stitch.  We wandered into Tommorrowland and it was packed!  Stroller Heaven had relocated!  We rode the favorite Thrill ride – TTA with some texts to SusanL!  Then off to sing along to Carousel of Progress. The guy manning this ride was much nicer then the one from Mousefest ego woman!  He did his spiel and he was gone.  I got another text from Zac that he was at TTA.  So off we went to ride it again.  I got a quick hug and then we loaded onto the ride.  I’m sorry we didn’t get to spend more time with him because this darn time change has us ready for a nap! 

A boat ride away and Laynie and I are both sound asleep.  Scott finishes his homework and then joins Hannah on the exploration of the hotel.  After a good nap Laynie and I are up and ready to tackle our evening of EPCOT.  We find a photo pass person in the Lobby of WL so we stop for a picture.  I’m on a mission to fill that CD   Once inside EPCOT we find the Kim Possible station and sign up for an adventure.  We pick up our Kimmunicator at the International Gateway and we are sent to UK to stop the bad dude.  Hannah does most of the work and the rest of us just follow along.  She said it was great and wants to do them all!  I’m sure we will it is definately designed for her age group! 

Just as we finish Laynie spies Tigger sticking his head out the back of the shop waving at her.  She is thrilled.  Scott takes her in and finds not only Tigger but Pooh and Eeyore too!  She is getting the hang of it but still goes into overload if too much is going on at once.

It is now time to head to Japan for a great dinner at Teppenedo.  It is 8 pm as we finish.  We have time to stay for Illuminations but we are all getting worn out so we head out of the park with a quick stop to ride “EPCOT” We try to explain that it is called Spaceship Earth but not quite getting the concepts   On the ride home to the resort we watch Illuminations fireworks and Wishes fireworks on both sides of us.

Tomorrow is Animal Kingdom early entry and Magic Kingdom late entry so we will have a busy day

Wow we are finally on the way. I checked in online yesterday morning so we are in boarding group A number 20 – 23. That means I was the fifth person on the plane after the preboards because there were no business class folks flying to Orlando on Saturday!

I was surprised but the girls slept last night and I had trouble getting them up at 6:15 am! Scott on the other hand is like he’s had way to much sugar. We got ready and I tossed the stuff back into the bags and we were out the door of the hotel at 6:55 am and in the parking lot at the airport at 7 am! Now who remembers where I parked the car?

We got through curbside baggage check and airport security in 15 minutes. Laynie is wound up now. I managed to get some muffin and milk down the girls but they were both to wired to eat much. We moved over to the gate area, did the preflight potty break and before you know it we were on the plane. Our seatbelts are fastened and now I’ll listen to my book on the iPhone for the next two hours.

We arrived at MCO and Hannah and I quickly drug Scott and Laynie to baggage claim and the car rental. As we were headed out to pick out the car from the Alamo kiosk Scott kept asking “wait where are we going?” I looked at him and said, “just follow along for now!”

We picked out a freshly washed Ford Escape. Loaded the mound of luggage and maneuvered our way to the tollway for Osceola pkwy to Kissimee for our Target stop for water, breakfast items and a cheap stroller. I was sure wishing Brian could just load the cart with what I needed and meet me at the door.

We made our way to Wilderness Lodge for a quick check in and our $200 gift certificate from Disney. Since it was straight up three our room was ready. I love the new design of the décor. We got a bunkbed room with a nice towel mickey on the queen bed. I called down and had our luggage brought up to our nice garden view room with our own ducks!

We decided to forgo the unpacking and head straight to Downtown Disney for linner at T-Rex. We are in the under the sea room. I love the giant jellyfish and the octopus that moves. As we entered Laynie kept saying “dinosaurs are bad.” Her other new thing, just like every kid I’ve ever known, is a visit to every bathroom at new places. We now have started keeping track of when she goes just to stop this game. By the end of dinner she was no longer frightened and looking at everything!  We keep trying to tell her it is all plastic it won’t hurt you!

Dinner was good but that place is really loud. Hard to hear even when sitting right next to the person you want to hear. We walked straight over to the new t-shirt shop and customized some really cute shirts. Hannah made a Marie, Laynie insisted on Pirate Princess!, Scott got Buzz and wrote “I’m your hero” on it and mine is Sleeping Beauty and it says “BriarRose”! Be warned it takes some time so do this before all the rest of your shopping.

We have browsed and meandered our way through downtown Disney. I didn’t really want to go into World of Disney tonight so we are hanging out outside on a beautiful night people watching. They have sales on merchandise again! Toys are 35% off, plushes 25% off and hats 15% off! While we rested a bit Scott took Laynie over to in front of Rainforest Cafe to see the elephants.  I guess while she was standing there a little boy said “it’s only plastic”  She came running over and told me, “it’s only plastic!” It was a light bulb moment.  I hope we have this work in our favor the rest of the trip!

Scott, Laynie and Hannah just headed into Ghiradelli’s for our dessert! Okay well I guess I’ve rambled enough for tonight. I’m going to enjoy my hot fudge sundae, pick up our shirts and head to sleepy time in my nice comfy Wilderness Lodge bed. The time changes tonight so I need my Sleeping Beauty sleep!

Tonight when we walked back into the hotel we stopped for a photo op at the Mickey totem pole.  Something happened in the hand off to change photographers amoungst us and my camera got dropped.  I launched into meltdown when it was discovered that it was busted.  This was a huge deal for me but once my meltdown and Hannah’s meltdown wer over she and I loaded into the Escape and iPhone googled our way to the nearest Wal-mart.  I bought a cheap replacement and I guess when I get home I will do some research once again to find a new camera.  I examined my Olympus and it is not closing and can’t take pictures.  One of life’s little moments that happen but it always seems so much especially at the end of a long day.

Off to bed finally!  Tomorrow is Magic Kingdom!  It is also the day of the Princess half marathon so we shouldn’t be too bad heading over on the boat.  Don’t forget to change your clocks

 Just as I was posting this blog.  I looked over and found a little girl sleeping like this!

The work day is over. Who knew so much had to be done. Hannah walked to my work building after school while I finished up the last of my stuff. Scott picked up Laynie and they ran to get haircuts before they came home. Hannah and I got gas and for some odd reason I just had to wash the car!

 (They tried to join us)

We all landed at home for the closing ceremonies of the suitcases. Hannah rounded up the three kitty kritters, left her dad detailed instructions on their care and feeding during our time away. We all grabbed our bag and rolled out to the car.

We are off! Oh wait the cell rings and it is Mike and his fiancé on their way to a bike ride in Bastrop and they are stuck on the highway. Thanks for the heads up I gladly take the back roads to avoid the jam. We get passed the accident and manage to pass Mike and Pamela at the same time.

Austin has this great new toll road that takes you around from way north on the east side all the way to the airport on the south. Sure saved time. I’ve got a theory that they say ‘keep Austin weird’ just because of the idiot drivers on I-35.

The hotel is nice and we are all checked in! Love those reward points! Laynie informs us she “wants sumtin to eat!” I’ve got Abuelo’s on the schedule! I guess I didn’t have enough Mexican food last night! The layered cheese dip is so YUM!

We are back in our hotel room. The lights are about to go out as soon as Hannah finishes her shower. Laynie has been wound up all day. Her teacher said she only talked about WDW today and we couldn’t talk in the car because she was listening to park music! Let’s hope she sleeps tonight.

I guess I’d better set the alarm on the iPhone can’t miss that flight tomorrow!

The luggage ceremony is almost complete. I’m waiting on the last piece of luggage to arrive from Mike’s (Hannah’s dad). It’s nice to still be good friends. Today we talked about how strange it is to go to the one place where life was always good for us but then well the real world always came crashing back! Someday we’ll be able to bring everyone together again but that is another blog in itself

After work I made it to the pool store for chemicals to shock my dark green pool before we go. That chore took some time but hopefully I don’t have to mess with when we get home. It will be time to turn the heater on and get back to my exercise routine after all the food I’m sure we’ll eat over the next week.  Scott caught the toad that lives in our pool year round tonight but he was nice and put him back!  I’m fine swimming with Toady just not the snakes that hop in from time to time!  

(THE Mini Touring Guide Pages before binding)

Then I finished our mini guide book for the trip. It’s printed on 4×6 cardstock and I went to get it bound at Kinko’s tonight. That was a slow process in itself because the little worker dude kindly took great pains to make sure the binding was just perfect. All those people in line weren’t too happy with the slow service but I know I PAID for it !

(THE Mini Touring Guide)

The final errand of the night was a tradition that can’t be left off! MEXICAN FOOD! Florida and more specifically don’t have good Mexican food for this adopted Texan. I have consumed enough nachos, chips, salsa and guacamole to hold me for the week, I hope!

(Bring on the Mexican Food)

Scott did his evening check in with Laynie tonight and according to her mom she was ‘Thumbs Up’ to the phone when Scott asked if she was ready to go. One more sleep and the trip begins Poor kid I can only imagine how she wound up she’ll be tomorrow at daycare and we are only driving to Austin.

So the clock is ticking down to the Southwest check in at 8:55am. Will I sleep tonight, most likely but not tomorrow night when we arrive in Austin because my airport phobia will kick in. Not airplane but airport! That means I have to be sitting at my assigned gate 2 hours before we go! I am NOT missing that plane. Off to make sure I have that darn Southwest confirmation number programmed into the iPhone somewhere – gotta get the A check in group