A wish for a special little girl! Catherine's Make a Wish trip! May 17th-23rd, 2010

[wishin' on a star]

I Love thast poem.. It got me through the early days. I never thought I could handle a child with special needs but now that I have her.. I can't imagine my life without her. It is hard We do what we have to do as parents.. and it does not feel saint like does it?

You will be at Disney on my 40th birthday.. did I say 40

I can't wait to read your TR

Now we wait LOL

Isn't it so true? I'm pretty sure none of my friends would describe me as "saint like" but I do know that there must be something a little extra there to make it through the days like we do.

40?? You said it, not me. I am 39 now, but will be 40 by the time we go to Disney...May 5...Cinco de Mayo It's one of those birthdays that I never fully appreciated until I was old enough to drink. Then I discovered that I actually had one of the coolest b-days out there! DH's b-day is on Christmas, so he always gets the short end of the stick. I am always able to find friends to have a margarita with! Wait...will you be on your cruise on MY 40th b-day? That would be funny!

Yes...the waiting is torture at this point...although I know I don't want it to go too fast, because then it's that much closer to being over.

THanks for stopping by...I was beginning to feel a little lonely over here!

 

[wishin' on a star]

So, when I pick the girls up from school each day, Catherine always has two questions for me. The first is "Can we go for Slurpees?" And four days out of five, my answer is no.

The other question she asks without fail for the last three weeks is "Can I watch the Disney video when we get home?" She's referring to the planning video that came in a Make A Wish packet...and to that question, I have said "Heck yeah!" pretty much every day. She will watch it from beginning to end and ask me "Will we do/see that!?" about almost every ride, show, and character. The one ride she desperately wanted to ride was Primeval Whirl, which she doesn't meet the height restriction for. It's probably not a ride she would really like anyway, so I'm hoping she can get her "spinning fix" from the Mad Tea Party!

 

[yinyanggirls]

Oops, forgot to quote...let's see if I can remember.

Schedule - I thought I read something about San Angel Inn being closed for refurb. You might call about your dates and make sure, or that might make the decision for you. The belly dancers sound fun, and the Biergarten has a band and dancing also.

Poem - I've read it before and liked it. Hard to LOVE it when I don't feel saintly. People ask how we do it, and I don't have an answer. To me it's not a choice, we just do what needs to be done. But my FIL once pointed out (he retired as a police Lt.) that many people DON'T do what needs to be done and that's what makes us special. Sad but true.

Slurpies - Heck yeah! It doesn't hurt to keep asking right?

Bdays - How funny that yours is Cinco de Mayo and his is Cmas!

 

[pacrosby]

Thanks Pamela! See, you gave me exactly the kind of info I am looking for! It's so hard with two travel days, to make time for all the parks! I will check out US/IOA websites. We were originally a little concerned that Harry Potter may be open and the crowds would be bad, but that's not happening until June, so we are okay there.

Regarding the GKTW orientation...that was a question on my list! I wish they did something mid day. It was your TR where I read that they weren't thrilled about a private orientation, right? I'll have to think through this day a little more.

Actually it was only the woman who escorted us to our villa and flipped through the 'Bunny Book' with us who was 'less than thrilled' LOL When I called the desk they were fine; and the gentleman who actually did the orientation for me? He was terrific! So, at the end, I felt perfectly ok about requesting it. I'm sure they understand that sometimes people's schedules don't jive with theirs.

 

[wishin' on a star]

Oops, forgot to quote...let's see if I can remember.

Schedule - I thought I read something about San Angel Inn being closed for refurb. You might call about your dates and make sure, or that might make the decision for you. The belly dancers sound fun, and the Biergarten has a band and dancing also.

Poem - I've read it before and liked it. Hard to LOVE it when I don't feel saintly. People ask how we do it, and I don't have an answer. To me it's not a choice, we just do what needs to be done. But my FIL once pointed out (he retired as a police Lt.) that many people DON'T do what needs to be done and that's what makes us special. Sad but true.

Slurpies - Heck yeah! It doesn't hurt to keep asking right?

Bdays - How funny that yours is Cinco de Mayo and his is Cmas!

Biergarten is another one we have contemplated. We may just throw the ADR to the wind and get somethink quicker too...I guess we'll just see how the day is going. We thought the kids might need a break at that point to make it for Illuminations.

Oh, and the quick service restaurant Cantina de San Angel is closed for renovations, but I think the regular restaurant is open. I hope they wouldn't give me an ADR if they were closed for refurbishment! I have heard mixed reviews, so we'll see what we decide!

Slurpees...she'd drink one every day if I'd let her. Carmella asks for a dog every day...Catherine has a better chance of getting a slurpee every day than Carmella has getting a dog!

 

[wishin' on a star]

Actually it was only the woman who escorted us to our villa and flipped through the 'Bunny Book' with us who was 'less than thrilled' LOL When I called the desk they were fine; and the gentleman who actually did the orientation for me? He was terrific! So, at the end, I felt perfectly ok about requesting it. I'm sure they understand that sometimes people's schedules don't jive with theirs.

Thanks Pamela...I think we are going to end up going this route. We're not sure how much time we'll have with Catherine's godparents, so I don't want to give up the reservation.

 

[jessica52877]

Coming on board to share in the fun and plans! What a beautiful family you have!

 

[12kizuna]

I'm following along!
I'll be at WDW from May 19-31st, so I know the excitement that it's coming up soon!

I wish I could say I knew the hardship that came with all you and your family has been through. You must be so strong, and your daughter just as strong. Your story brought tears to my eyes, and I can't wait to hear how your wish trip goes.

My father and sister have an extremely rare disease they were born with and have struggled with all their lives. They've both had their major share of hospitalizations and close calls (especially my father) alongside multiple annual visits to the National Institute of Health for testing. Over the years the disease has gotten a name and the affected gene has been found (about 2 years ago), and more information about the disease is known, but they'll never be cured. My father is one of the oldest known patients alive at this point, but most days I truthfully forget about the problems.
My lovely sister has never let her affliction stop her, and today is one year away from graduating from Cornell as a veterinarian. I will never, ever, take my mother for granted for how much of herself she has given to her family. Thank god for you moms who keep the world going 'round! I can't say I know the pain, anxiety (and moments of joy) myself, but perhaps someday I might when I start my own family. You never know.

Keep on truckin'! Have the most magical time of your life with Mickey!

 

[wishin' on a star]

Coming on board to share in the fun and plans! What a beautiful family you have!

Thanks! I just popped on and caught up on your cruise trip report! Thanks for coming over and checking out our plans!

I'm following along!
I'll be at WDW from May 19-31st, so I know the excitement that it's coming up soon!

I wish I could say I knew the hardship that came with all you and your family has been through. You must be so strong, and your daughter just as strong. Your story brought tears to my eyes, and I can't wait to hear how your wish trip goes.

My father and sister have an extremely rare disease they were born with and have struggled with all their lives. They've both had their major share of hospitalizations and close calls (especially my father) alongside multiple annual visits to the National Institute of Health for testing. Over the years the disease has gotten a name and the affected gene has been found (about 2 years ago), and more information about the disease is known, but they'll never be cured. My father is one of the oldest known patients alive at this point, but most days I truthfully forget about the problems.
My lovely sister has never let her affliction stop her, and today is one year away from graduating from Cornell as a veterinarian. I will never, ever, take my mother for granted for how much of herself she has given to her family. Thank god for you moms who keep the world going 'round! I can't say I know the pain, anxiety (and moments of joy) myself, but perhaps someday I might when I start my own family. You never know.

Keep on truckin'! Have the most magical time of your life with Mickey!

I'm so glad you popped over! Okay, so just reading what you wrote brought me to tears. I cannot believe all that your family has been through with your dad and sister. It's so hard not have solid answers, but really it doesn't change the day to day for me. Maybe as time progresses and technology advances, we'll understand more about why Catherine was born with so many problems. Anyway, very cool that we'll be down there at the same time! Thanks for joining in on my PTR!

 

[xanphylus]

Slurpees...she'd drink one every day if I'd let her. Carmella asks for a dog every day...Catherine has a better chance of getting a slurpee every day than Carmella has getting a dog!

I think I would take a slurpee any day! We don't have real slurpees here! I would most likely spazz out if I found a real slurpee here in GA..... we have icee and some other types, but not the kind I used to have in Ohio.... maybe it's really only the fact that I was 9 there and nothing tastes the same now anyway?

As for the dog- Aleks too!!! These two girls must be the same!! I told her we can get a dog when we move. And we will, but first we have to sell the condo and considering house sales right now in our area, I think she has a while to wait until we get a dog!

 

[wishin' on a star]

I think I would take a slurpee any day! We don't have real slurpees here! I would most likely spazz out if I found a real slurpee here in GA..... we have icee and some other types, but not the kind I used to have in Ohio.... maybe it's really only the fact that I was 9 there and nothing tastes the same now anyway?

As for the dog- Aleks too!!! These two girls must be the same!! I told her we can get a dog when we move. And we will, but first we have to sell the condo and considering house sales right now in our area, I think she has a while to wait until we get a dog!

That's hilarious! Carmella has just a little bit of Minnie and Daisy left in her, but mostly all Hannah/Miley, Selena, and Tink I don't want her to grow up so fast, and I'm fighting it every day!

We're headed out to an easter egg hunt with some friends today, so hopefully I'll have some pics to post later!

 

[wishin' on a star]

This was last Easter...I think they might have grown a bit!

And these are pics I took yesterday at a friend's house. We did a little easter egg hunt for the kids and they had lots of fun riding around the yard in the car. We've never owned one of these, so my kids thought they were something else.

Catherine...proud of her stash!

Cruisin'

Carmella's just a little big for this car...but she didn't care!

And John is always happy!

The kids had a blast, and a good start to their candy stash! I think the EB may need to bring spare change, instead of candy to our house!!

Today, we are enjoying fantabulous weather, 70's and sunshine...not a thing to complain about. I went on a long run this morning...9 miles, came home and went up to take a shower, but ended up cleaning the bathroom and then found a horrible trail of ants in the girls' bedroom! Of course it was leading up to a package of candy left open on the floor... So, it was a far more productive day than I originally intended!

Admittedly, I should be sitting here on the computer...I have a rare moment of an otherwise empty house...DH is playing baseball, and the kids are all across the street playing Wii with their friends. This mommy should be doing but it's more fun catching up here! Happy Easter to those who celebrate!

 

[xanphylus]

Today, we are enjoying fantabulous weather, 70's and sunshine...not a thing to complain about. I went on a long run this morning...9 miles, came home and went up to take a shower, but ended up cleaning the bathroom and then found a horrible trail of ants in the girls' bedroom! Of course it was leading up to a package of candy left open on the floor... So, it was a far more productive day than I originally intended!

Admittedly, I should be sitting here on the computer...I have a rare moment of an otherwise empty house...DH is playing baseball, and the kids are all across the street playing Wii with their friends. This mommy should be doing but it's more fun catching up here! Happy Easter to those who celebrate!

Sounds a lot like my house today. We had excellent weather and an egg hunt- and our neighbor who really loves my kiddos brought them each over a huge basket of candy!!! We all went to town eating it and they still have a ton. We bought candy already for the bunny, so the coin bit is not an option here..... and davy would try to eat the coins anyway! He thinks only candy is in the eggs. His expression is priceless when he opens and empty egg- its like, "what the?"

I should be cleaning too.... we have family coming over.... but eh.....

Have a great Easter!!!!

 

[__disneygirl]

CUTE CUTE CUTE!!! Glad the kids had such a blast. Have a Happy Easter

 

[wishin' on a star]

Jenn, Davy's at such a fun age for holidays like Easter! I know you guys had a great day, and I hope Dave and Aleks got lots of candy!! Enjoy the zoo today!

CUTE CUTE CUTE!!! Glad the kids had such a blast. Have a Happy Easter

Thanks Lia...we had a great day! Lots of time at grandma and grandpa's, two egg hunts, and of course....way too much candy!!! Now to figure out how to get some of it out of their bags and out of the house without them realizing!!

The girls are off this week but John goes back to preschool tomorrow. I have no idea what we are going to do with our week! The weather is beautiful, so I'm guessing we'll hit a couple of parks and spend a lot of time in the backyard.

I think we'll venture to the nature center today. Carmella and John like to "hike" there. Catherine has a hard time keeping up though and doesn't tolerate the heat as well, so there may not be much hiking in our day. That's an easier activity when DH is with us. I think we'll be exploring the inside of the nature center, and maybe a picnic.

 

[xanphylus]

Jenn, Davy's at such a fun age for holidays like Easter! I know you guys had a great day, and I hope Dave and Aleks got lots of candy!! Enjoy the zoo today!



Thanks Lia...we had a great day! Lots of time at grandma and grandpa's, two egg hunts, and of course....way too much candy!!! Now to figure out how to get some of it out of their bags and out of the house without them realizing!!

The girls are off this week but John goes back to preschool tomorrow. I have no idea what we are going to do with our week! The weather is beautiful, so I'm guessing we'll hit a couple of parks and spend a lot of time in the backyard.

I think we'll venture to the nature center today. Carmella and John like to "hike" there. Catherine has a hard time keeping up though and doesn't tolerate the heat as well, so there may not be much hiking in our day. That's an easier activity when DH is with us. I think we'll be exploring the inside of the nature center, and maybe a picnic.

That sounds like a great idea! I may do that Wed with the kiddos. Since the zoo got postponed one day, today will be our rest day! I have never taken them hiking together at our nature center. Aleks went with me to a waterfall once, but that was a while back. Davy has never been- thanks for the great idea!!
Did your kiddos get as much candy as we now have? Its insane here.... Davy loved it all! You're right, it is a great age for Easter!! He found one egg at a time and opened it, ate the contents if allowed, and would not find another one until he was done! Silly boy.

 

[kellyw8863]

Okay...what a crazy weekend. We thought we might have a little free time around the house, and we were just on the go constantly. The girls were exhausted getting up for school this morning! My son, in preschool, is on spring break this week. My girls go to catholic school, and they are off this Friday and all of next week. They were mad that John didn't have to go to school!!

But, we had fun anyway. Carmella and I went shopping for a few new summer clothes on Saturday. She's outgrown most things from last year, so she was pretty desperate for some new things! Then we had dinner at a friends house with the kids Saturday night. Margaritas...yummmmmm! Yesterday we went to church, and then a birthday party (bowling!), and then to Annapolis to my sister's house for dinner. Today I need a nap!

Okay, I've been working on a list of questions, but first I'll run through what we have put together so far. DH and I are both having a blast putting together plans, but I'm a little worried we are overscheduled!! I plan to be very flexible and not afraid to change things up if everyone is wiped out.

Catherine's godparents and their two boys are going to be at Disney the same time as us. They are staying at a timeshare off property somewhere. We'll have a few meals with them, and hang out a little bit.

Monday, May 17th
We haven't been given any information about airport transportation yet, except that they usually provide that. I guess it will be early, but not middle of the night early!
Depart Baltimore 9:45
Arrive Orlando 12:00
Get checked in to our villa, lunch, and spend the afternoon exploring GKTW.
5:30 Dinner at Portobello's Downtown Disney with Catherine's godparents (It was hard to find a reservation for something for all 9 of us!)

Tuesday, May 18th
Breakfast at GKTW. Hopefully catch the characters at GKTW as well before we head out for the day.
Epcot today.
We don't have any lunch reservations, so something counter service. Dinner at either San Angel Inn or Marakesh. Any opinions? I've read that the mexican fare at San Angel is not necessarily "traditional" tacos that my kids would eat? We thought the experience at Marrakesh with the belly dancers might be fun?
We'll most likely hang around and watch Illuminations that evening.

Wednesday, May 19th
This is our BIG DAY!!!
Early b-fast at GKTW.
Magic Kingdom!!!!
THe girls will do the whole shabang package at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, while John hits the Pirate's League with Daddy. Then we are having lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table at 1:20.
We have an ADR for dinner at Tony's for 5:50, so we'll have to see if we use that one or just grab something faster, later since we'll have had a late lunch. We kinda figured we were better safe than sorry with more ADR's in case the kids really need a break to sit down somewhere cool and relax, rather than eating on the run. Of course, we'll stay for Wishes that night.
Then we'll head back to GKTW, and hopefully sleep very well that night!!

Thursday, May 20th
Hopefully sneak in a couple of character visits at GKTW at 8:00 am.
Animal Kingdom!!
9:25 Character b-fast at Tusker House...Catherine really wants to see Daisy, and I think this is one of the few choices for that.
I have a lunch ADR at Rainforest Cafe, but I think we'll end up cancelling this one.
Back to GKTW for dinner and Christmas!!!

Friday, May 21st
Breakfast, character greetings at GKTW.
Then, over to DHS!
It's a Star Wars weekend, and John and Dave are VERY EXCITED!! If anyone has experienced this, and can share with me what to expect, how we can get chosen for something cool, etc. I think the park will be crowded this day, but we are just going to go for it anyway.

12:30 50's Primetime Cafe
Dinner, not sure. We have an ADR at Mama Melrose's for 7:15, but we want to do Fantasmic, and I think we will be done with dinner too late. Couldn't get one of the reservations for the combo deal where you can eat and then have guaranteed seating at Fantasmic. I think we will end up eating something quick, and making sure we get seats at Fantasmic.

Saturday, May 22nd
We're not sure yet. I think the kids would like to do the horseback riding at GKTW. We may try to do Universal this day, but we really aren't sure. It's our last full day in Orlando. We may just plan for a relaxing day at GKTW, enjoy the pool, maybe go to the boardwalk or Downtown Disney. Mayor Clayton's b-day party is that evening, so we'll definitely be back for that.

Sunday, May 23rd
Departure day...
There's nothing on the GKTW schedule for that morning. I'm sure we'll be packing, etc.
Depart Orlando 2:55
Arrive Baltimore 5:15...home for a good night's rest, and back to school Monday!


PHEW!!! Okay, I'm tired just reading all this. We really want to make the most of the Disney experience this trip, so we're not planning much for any of the other attractions. If anyone can offer me compelling reasons to change this plan, I'd love to hear it. We don't want to miss out on something that would be totally fantastic! Right now, our plan is to buy one more day of Disney tickets so we can really experience all 4 parks.

We seem to be on similar wave lengths in regards to planning. We aren't planning on doing SW or US/IOA either. I feel like our time is already so limited that we just want to focus on the Disney parks and hanging out at GKTW. And I know that if we try to do too much Ali will crash big time. So, I think your plans look fantastic!

I love all the Easter pics. We have a jeep similar to the car in the photo. On Sunday, we had all the big kids piled onto it, and I was amazed that it moved at all. Until it went around the corner and I realized that one of the cousins was actually propelling it with her own feet.

 

[cantwaittoseemickey]

Lovin the Easter pics! Your itenerary looks great. I

 

[wishin' on a star]

We seem to be on similar wave lengths in regards to planning. We aren't planning on doing SW or US/IOA either. I feel like our time is already so limited that we just want to focus on the Disney parks and hanging out at GKTW. And I know that if we try to do too much Ali will crash big time. So, I think your plans look fantastic!

I love all the Easter pics. We have a jeep similar to the car in the photo. On Sunday, we had all the big kids piled onto it, and I was amazed that it moved at all. Until it went around the corner and I realized that one of the cousins was actually propelling it with her own feet.

Thanks for the input on the plans. I'm just a little weary about planning too much park hopping. I would like to just spread the joy a litte more in each day and really take our time to enjoy it! I'll be excited to hear how your plans turn out...because you are going SOON!!!

Oh....that car. It is hilarious when the big kids stuff themselves into it!

 

[wishin' on a star]

Lovin the Easter pics! Your itenerary looks great. I

Thanks Tonya!!