Okay, here are "My Favorite Things" about our cruise.
Raindrops on deck and whiskers on my towel kitten;
Bright copper kettles making chocolate cake meltin';
Brown paper packages I didn't bring back from Jamaica;
These were a few of my favorite hings-tahs.
Cream colored skin-called a tan for my skin tone;
Late nights playing cards, John calling on the room phone;
Wild fish that fly with the sun on their fins;
These are a few of my favorite thin's.
When the boat rocked,
When my stomach flipped,
When I felt jet lagged,
I simply remembered I am not doing dishes
And then I didn't feel so bad!
Fresh bread and butter at dinner was just right;
Feeling my waistband slowly get tight;
Robert 'dancing' but Neil is dignified;
These are a few things I still miss each night!
Ordering hors'de ouvres and knowing how to say that;
Again, towel animals but the seal not the cat;
Leaving my towels, wet on the floor;
No one is picking them up for me anymore!
I could go on forever, but I won't.
Well maybe just TWELVE more things!
Oh, the 1st thing I loved about going on a cruise was being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 2nd thing I loved about going on a cruise were 2 days in airports (to get there) and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 3rd thing I loved about going on a cruise were getting THREE stamps in my passport, 2 days in airports, and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 4th thing I loved about going on a cruise was 1) seeing the Mayan ruins with Aunt Nancy, 2) getting a minor concussion on the bus, 3) eating Mexican Ruffles, and 4) using my foot to flush a toilet.
Oh, the 5th thing I loved about going on a cruise was mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 6th thing I loved about going on a cruise was 6 different towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 7th thing I loved about going on a cruise were 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 8th thing I loved about going on a cruise were eight hours of sleep in that marvelous Sheraton bed, 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 9th thing I loved about going on a cruise were 9 new souvenir t-shirts, 8 hours in the Sheraton, 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 10th thing I loved about going on a cruise were the 10 days together, 8 hours in the Sheraton, 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the 11th thing I loved about going on a cruise were 11 hours in the air- hora tiempo de local destinato is. . . 10 days together, 9 new souvenir t-shirts, 8 hours in the Sheraton, 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Oh, the last thing I loved about going on a cruise was getting the most out of Miss Stephanie's soda card, 11 hours in the air, 10 days together, 9 souvenir t-shirts, 8 hours in the Sheraton, 7 fancy dinners, 6 towel animals, mailing postcards from Hell! Seeing the Mayan Ruins, 3 passport stamps, 2 days in airports and being the only one to chum in the Caribbean!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Cruising from the Under 5 Point of View
I've put a few blogs about the cruise on the boys' blog. If you want to see some of their pictures, head on over. Cuter Kids
Friday, December 4, 2009
Diane's Top 20, too many for 10
I want to let Tim and Kym know I had a blast!! Thanks again for the sunshine!
20- Meeting 2 really nice girls at Miami Airport going home, they were from D.C.
19- Seeing all the yummy Cuban men at Miami airport, especially the one who was wrapping the luggage when we walked in. He's only been in U.S.A. for " 1 yr. 8 mths.
18- World of Coca-Cola and the 64 flavors of Coke to test, yummy! My favorite was Bibo Candy Apple from S. Africa
17- Hanging with my niece Melissa at night
16- Watching John dance and wear red war paint under his eyes
15- Chocolate Melting cake every night of course
14- Towel animals, my favorite was the stingray!
13- Meeting and getting a pic with my favorite cruise director, Butch Begovich
12- Going to the capt.'s farewell party and turning down free drinks. We didn't know they were free, dagnabit!
11- Swimming with stingrays, what a blast!
10- Eating lunch at Margaritaville in Grand Cayman, yummy food!
9- Hearing a Swedish woman in casino say " MACHGINE " with lots of emphasis.
8- Meeting Joe, he was awesome and we had so much fun hanging with him even though he was Andrew's age.
7- Seeing the shows every night, they were awesome!
6- Self-serve ice cream, I must have eaten it 3 times a day or more!
5- Climbing Dunns River, what a beautiful place!
4- Sitting by 2 women from Wyoming on plane to Atlanta, they were going to a yoga retreat in Managua. Very interesting conversation and neat women!
3- Getting my nails done, tanning and getting brow wax before trip, I never get that much pampering done and it felt so good!
2- Elegant nights, I never felt more sexy and pretty, who would have guessed I could make myself look nice instead of frumpy all the time :-)
1- This truly is #1 for me, getting all our family together and spending so much quality time with Tony and our sons, I love them and am so glad we had fun!!
20- Meeting 2 really nice girls at Miami Airport going home, they were from D.C.
19- Seeing all the yummy Cuban men at Miami airport, especially the one who was wrapping the luggage when we walked in. He's only been in U.S.A. for " 1 yr. 8 mths.
18- World of Coca-Cola and the 64 flavors of Coke to test, yummy! My favorite was Bibo Candy Apple from S. Africa
17- Hanging with my niece Melissa at night
16- Watching John dance and wear red war paint under his eyes
15- Chocolate Melting cake every night of course
14- Towel animals, my favorite was the stingray!
13- Meeting and getting a pic with my favorite cruise director, Butch Begovich
12- Going to the capt.'s farewell party and turning down free drinks. We didn't know they were free, dagnabit!
11- Swimming with stingrays, what a blast!
10- Eating lunch at Margaritaville in Grand Cayman, yummy food!
9- Hearing a Swedish woman in casino say " MACHGINE " with lots of emphasis.
8- Meeting Joe, he was awesome and we had so much fun hanging with him even though he was Andrew's age.
7- Seeing the shows every night, they were awesome!
6- Self-serve ice cream, I must have eaten it 3 times a day or more!
5- Climbing Dunns River, what a beautiful place!
4- Sitting by 2 women from Wyoming on plane to Atlanta, they were going to a yoga retreat in Managua. Very interesting conversation and neat women!
3- Getting my nails done, tanning and getting brow wax before trip, I never get that much pampering done and it felt so good!
2- Elegant nights, I never felt more sexy and pretty, who would have guessed I could make myself look nice instead of frumpy all the time :-)
1- This truly is #1 for me, getting all our family together and spending so much quality time with Tony and our sons, I love them and am so glad we had fun!!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Another Top Ten
You've inspired me, Tony.
Here's my Caribbean 2009 Top 10 Things I Learned on Vacation (in no particular order of importance or impact on my life):
10. Cate does not enjoy showering.
9. Danny does not know how to whisper.
8. My children will never share a room. (I actually already knew that. This trip just solidified it for me.)
7. I am not elegant.
6. Diet Dr. Pepper doesn't own me as much as I thought it did.
5. A glass elevator can provide hours (ok, maybe just minutes...but it felt like hours) of enjoyment.
4. It is very possible to have too much of a good thing (that chocolate cake).
3. Do not let Danny enter the room first. If you do, the towel animal will be destroyed before it can be enjoyed.
2. It is hotter than Hades in Cozumel.
1. The drunkards at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville are quite entertaining (and a little bit scary).
And since I am not capable of having a pictureless post...
Love ya, Aunt Doozy!
Here's my Caribbean 2009 Top 10 Things I Learned on Vacation (in no particular order of importance or impact on my life):
10. Cate does not enjoy showering.
9. Danny does not know how to whisper.
8. My children will never share a room. (I actually already knew that. This trip just solidified it for me.)
7. I am not elegant.
6. Diet Dr. Pepper doesn't own me as much as I thought it did.
5. A glass elevator can provide hours (ok, maybe just minutes...but it felt like hours) of enjoyment.
4. It is very possible to have too much of a good thing (that chocolate cake).
3. Do not let Danny enter the room first. If you do, the towel animal will be destroyed before it can be enjoyed.
2. It is hotter than Hades in Cozumel.
1. The drunkards at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville are quite entertaining (and a little bit scary).
And since I am not capable of having a pictureless post...
Love ya, Aunt Doozy!
Top Ten
I can't believe no one has written a post-cruise post yet, so I guess I will.
Here's my Caribbean 2009 Top Ten:
10- Dr. Linda Perry telling me I had "craggy tonsils"
9- Towel animals
8- Burying the kids in the sand
7- Butch and the live shows
6- Seeing Tim sing Viva La Vida
5- Seeing John dance the YMCA
4- Joe from Chicago
3- Climbing the falls
2- World of Coca-Cola
1- Chocolate melting cake
Here's my Caribbean 2009 Top Ten:
10- Dr. Linda Perry telling me I had "craggy tonsils"
9- Towel animals
8- Burying the kids in the sand
7- Butch and the live shows
6- Seeing Tim sing Viva La Vida
5- Seeing John dance the YMCA
4- Joe from Chicago
3- Climbing the falls
2- World of Coca-Cola
1- Chocolate melting cake
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
T-Minus...
Well, we are down to just hours away from the big trip!
The crap of dawn...yes this is a good way to put it. I can't think of one person who is excited about getting up this early...except maybe my kids. They have said they will be too excited to even go to sleep. Great. MY kids will probably be the most ornery on the plane! Come to think of it, I probably won't be my normal cheerful self either. For those of you who don't know me, I am not a morning person. That might be putting it mildly. I have insomnia and am addicted to ambien. Which means in order to get the right amount of sleep and have the ambien worn off enough so I can function a little, I will need to go to bed (and sleep) around 7pm. Since I am not a morning person, that means that I AM a night owl. I don't normally go to bed till around 1 or 2AM. Even if we assumed everything that needs to be wrapped up was actually wrapped up by 7pm, going to bed at 7 is so not gonna happen. Which means I will TRY to be in bed and trying to sleep by 11. Which gives me only 4 hours of sleep (assuming I conk out right at 11, which I won't). That means that at 5am, when you all see me, I will still be sluggish from the left over ambien which won't have left my system yet and I won't have had any coffee yet to try to counteract this sluggishness.
Why am I telling you all this? Because, while all of you have had your concerns over little items gearing up for this trip, MY greatest fear is hurting someone's feelings. So, if you say something to me first thing in the morning and I look at you blankly, or I answer and it seems a bit abrupt, I apologize in advance. My brain doesn't seem to fire on all it's cylinders (is that the right terminology, Tony?) and we can't blame it on a slight overdose of sleeping meds and lack of coffee.
I'm glad there are those of you that are so detail orientated. I have racked my brain to remember how the luggage thing works. I have been on 4 or 5 cruises and for the life of me I can't remember how that worked, other than when we signed in, our bags disappeared and then magically showed up in our staterooms later. I'm not too worried.
I feel a little like I should apologize for not being as concerned about some of the details as some of you have been. To be honest, I have called the cruise lines so many times and asked questions. I have asked the SAME questions at DIFFERENT times and gotten DIFFERENT answers each time. It has been frustrating for me to say the least. We are 4 days away from boarding the ship and at this point it just seems easier to relax and try to fix whatever issues come up when we get ON the ship and the people who actually RUN the ship can help us with our concerns, rather than the idiots who just answer the phones. I know there are going to be things that have to be fixed, this trip isn't going to be completely smooth no matter how hard we tried to make it that way. I think that's just the nature of traveling in a group of 28. It will be an adventure for sure though and I am SO excited to be doing this adventure with THIS family...rather than the secret one I have.
The plan is for us to meet on the Lido deck before we run off to rooms, I will go to every one's rooms and make sure they are made up right, for the right number of people, that there is a crib for Cate, etc.
As a reminder for excursions... make sure to bring cash for any excursions that you have not paid for through the ship. They usually only accept cash or travelers checks. There is a safe in the room that YOU set the pass code up for that you can store your money, passports and any other valuables you might bring.
Well, that's all for now. See you the day after tomorrow!
Kym
Monday, November 16, 2009
Motion Sickness : An Essay
I'm forty-one years old and I love roller coasters. I especially love big, hairy, scary roller coasters like Ghost Rider and Wicked and Wild Mouse. Ever since I've been old enough to ride them I've loved roller coasters, and tilt-a-whirls, and teacups, and rides that go upside-down or really high. And I like boats and planes and sitting on a train in those seats that face backwards, and lying down to read in the back of a Suburban that's going down the highway on it's way to California.
I don't get motion sickness.
At least I didn't until this morning.
You see, most of the definitions for motion sickness have something to do with the inner ear. Your eye sees one thing and your inner ear tells your brain something else and it makes you sick. Believe it if you want, but ears have nothing to do with it. Here's the real definition: Things are moving in a way you don't like, your brain doesn't have control of the situation, so your stomach decides to mutiny and perform the only evasive action it can. Voila, the ride operator turns off the teacups and gets out the hose.
Now you see, the reason I didn't think I got motion sickness is because I thought it only applied to PHYSICAL motion. I didn't realize the same principle applies to FINANCIAL motion.
Let me explain. Back at the first of the year we were in pretty calm financial water, so planning for a cruise was no big deal. Since then we've had a few little waves. The dog has to go to the vet, the car breaks down, you lose some customers. You feel a little queasy, but you're still enjoying the ride. Then you hit some big waves, like the kind that make you hang over the side of the boat and hope you don't barf. So you do things like canceling all of your excursions and deleting all of your posts off of the cruise blog.
Blaaaahhhh! . . . . there goes the dolphin swim.
Bluuuurppp! . . . . there goes the stingrays.
Huuurrrrllll! . . . . there goes the shopping, the fancy portraits and the sodas.
You start to feel a little better, someone gives you a mint. And then the really big wave hits you. In my case that would be a letter from my lawyer about a month ago stating that since there hadn't been any activity on my case for a while it was time for me to pay the balance. He was nice enough to give me ten days. The balance due was basically everything I had set aside for this trip plus a thousand dollars.
Hhhhaaaaaaappppphhhh!!
Not everyone gets motion sickness. I didn't used to. Now I think I do. Sometimes things are moving in a way you don't like and your brain doesn't have control of the situation. Sometimes you just want to get your feet back on solid ground before your stomach decides to mutiny. Sometimes you think maybe it would have been better if you hadn't gotten on the ride.
Fortunately, motion sickness doesn't usually kill you. It can ruin your trip and sometimes people poke a little fun at you, but you usually survive. So let's all try to remember, when you see someone turning green and acting like they aren't having much fun, don't wave back and forth in front of them and make gag noises. Just let them get over it in their own way.
(Also, I was trying to figure out how to insert a joke in here about how "if you or your significant other has to take Dramamine or Pepto in order to get busy with the lights out, you might have bigger problems than motion sickness", but I just couldn't make it work. If you have any suggestions I'd like to hear them.)
(Suggestions about the joke, I mean. Not about the getting busy.)
I don't get motion sickness.
At least I didn't until this morning.
You see, most of the definitions for motion sickness have something to do with the inner ear. Your eye sees one thing and your inner ear tells your brain something else and it makes you sick. Believe it if you want, but ears have nothing to do with it. Here's the real definition: Things are moving in a way you don't like, your brain doesn't have control of the situation, so your stomach decides to mutiny and perform the only evasive action it can. Voila, the ride operator turns off the teacups and gets out the hose.
Now you see, the reason I didn't think I got motion sickness is because I thought it only applied to PHYSICAL motion. I didn't realize the same principle applies to FINANCIAL motion.
Let me explain. Back at the first of the year we were in pretty calm financial water, so planning for a cruise was no big deal. Since then we've had a few little waves. The dog has to go to the vet, the car breaks down, you lose some customers. You feel a little queasy, but you're still enjoying the ride. Then you hit some big waves, like the kind that make you hang over the side of the boat and hope you don't barf. So you do things like canceling all of your excursions and deleting all of your posts off of the cruise blog.
Blaaaahhhh! . . . . there goes the dolphin swim.
Bluuuurppp! . . . . there goes the stingrays.
Huuurrrrllll! . . . . there goes the shopping, the fancy portraits and the sodas.
You start to feel a little better, someone gives you a mint. And then the really big wave hits you. In my case that would be a letter from my lawyer about a month ago stating that since there hadn't been any activity on my case for a while it was time for me to pay the balance. He was nice enough to give me ten days. The balance due was basically everything I had set aside for this trip plus a thousand dollars.
Hhhhaaaaaaappppphhhh!!
Not everyone gets motion sickness. I didn't used to. Now I think I do. Sometimes things are moving in a way you don't like and your brain doesn't have control of the situation. Sometimes you just want to get your feet back on solid ground before your stomach decides to mutiny. Sometimes you think maybe it would have been better if you hadn't gotten on the ride.
Fortunately, motion sickness doesn't usually kill you. It can ruin your trip and sometimes people poke a little fun at you, but you usually survive. So let's all try to remember, when you see someone turning green and acting like they aren't having much fun, don't wave back and forth in front of them and make gag noises. Just let them get over it in their own way.
(Also, I was trying to figure out how to insert a joke in here about how "if you or your significant other has to take Dramamine or Pepto in order to get busy with the lights out, you might have bigger problems than motion sickness", but I just couldn't make it work. If you have any suggestions I'd like to hear them.)
(Suggestions about the joke, I mean. Not about the getting busy.)
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Got to get my 5
So I went back and checked and it looks like I still need to post a couple more times. Here's an idea that Cindy and I talked about tonight when we got home.
Take into account that this is our observation from our cruise last year and on this cruise it may be entirely different, so play it by ear.
When we arrived the very first thing that we did was give our bags to the curb-side check-in. They simply asked us what room we were in so they could deliver our bags. They simply wrote down that number and off we went. Later that afternoon/evening we got our bags in our room.
The thought is that if you simply know the room you will be staying in and give them that number then you will not need to move your bags around later. We didn't have to give them any identification or anything to show them that we were in a specific room. As a matter of fact, they had a guy with a list of everyone's names and room numbers sitting at a table so you could verify what room you were in if you wanted to look it up.
Just a thought that might make it easier to get your bags in the right room sooner!
This was what our thermometer looked like this morning when I got up (13 degrees Fahrenheit). Can't wait to get away!
Take into account that this is our observation from our cruise last year and on this cruise it may be entirely different, so play it by ear.
When we arrived the very first thing that we did was give our bags to the curb-side check-in. They simply asked us what room we were in so they could deliver our bags. They simply wrote down that number and off we went. Later that afternoon/evening we got our bags in our room.
The thought is that if you simply know the room you will be staying in and give them that number then you will not need to move your bags around later. We didn't have to give them any identification or anything to show them that we were in a specific room. As a matter of fact, they had a guy with a list of everyone's names and room numbers sitting at a table so you could verify what room you were in if you wanted to look it up.
Just a thought that might make it easier to get your bags in the right room sooner!
This was what our thermometer looked like this morning when I got up (13 degrees Fahrenheit). Can't wait to get away!
Scuba Diving in Cozumel
I spent a couple of hours looking at all of the different coral reefs where you can go scuba diving in Cozumel. Lots of places to choose from! Some with high currents, some dropping off into the abyss! Some with big fish, some with coral pinnacles. Wow! How to choose. Later today, I talked to Kymberly and we picked one and she sent an email to make a reservation.
We are looking forward to it, but we are also looking forward to stingray city and an opportunity to snorkel with the kids! That will be a lot of fun.
Of course, everything on the ship looks fun too. I finally got a chance to look at the Carnival Liberty dining rooms, entertainment areas, and it looks like there is even a room for the kids to have activities!
Grandma Gale
We are looking forward to it, but we are also looking forward to stingray city and an opportunity to snorkel with the kids! That will be a lot of fun.
Of course, everything on the ship looks fun too. I finally got a chance to look at the Carnival Liberty dining rooms, entertainment areas, and it looks like there is even a room for the kids to have activities!
Grandma Gale
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Tuxedo night
I don't know how to go about pre-ordering a tux for Rick, so he will be in the same category as Tim, he may have to show up for formal nite in less than a tuxedo.
We will be at the airport by 5:00 a.m. (even though this is definitely the crap of dawn) because you never know these days if you will need the full two hours to get through ticketing & security. You also don't know if you are going to be that lucky person that security chooses at random for the full body strip search. This search can take 30 to 40 minutes by itself! So those of us who look like terrorists should plan a little extra time for this fun activity! I guess its so close to time to leave for the cruise I am starting to get giddy!
We will be at the airport by 5:00 a.m. (even though this is definitely the crap of dawn) because you never know these days if you will need the full two hours to get through ticketing & security. You also don't know if you are going to be that lucky person that security chooses at random for the full body strip search. This search can take 30 to 40 minutes by itself! So those of us who look like terrorists should plan a little extra time for this fun activity! I guess its so close to time to leave for the cruise I am starting to get giddy!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Stop! In the name of the Mail
Did you know that you can have your mail held without stepping foot in a post office? Or out of your bathroom slippers? Yep, you can register to have your mail held for the cruise at USPS.COM. Check, check! One more thing off my list! Wahoo!
However, I can't figure out how to find out the international postage rate of mailing postcards from Hell. I might have to talk to a real person to find out. Or buy stamps in Hell-do you think they are scratch-n-sniff? Maybe Fire and Brimstone scented? Awesome! I hope so.
However, I can't figure out how to find out the international postage rate of mailing postcards from Hell. I might have to talk to a real person to find out. Or buy stamps in Hell-do you think they are scratch-n-sniff? Maybe Fire and Brimstone scented? Awesome! I hope so.
T-Minus 9 days
The countdown is officially on!
Here are a few last minute details I wanted to make sure everyone is aware of.
Formal nights-there are two and I think we have all pretty much decided to pick one and do it up ultra formal with tuxedos, prom dresses and the works. We have always been able to rent the Tux onboard, however, it does say in the guidelines that they want pre-orders with measurements no later than one week prior. I don't know if this is always the "policy" or if it might be because it is Thanksgiving week and they might have more orders than normal. I did find out that boys tuxedos DO need to be pre-ordered because they don't keep children's sizes onboard, so I will be going and getting Talon measured for a tux this week. If Tim shows up to dinner in jeans, I guess we will know they wanted the pre-orders. I can only make him do so much. :)
Let's talk about flights for this trip. After calling Delta again to verify group stuff, it seems that the Medallion status only applies to Tim for waiving luggage fees since this is a "GROUP" reservation. Lame, I know, and I am sure Tim will try to fight them on it. So be prepared to pay the luggage fees.
First bag is $15.00 max weight is 50 lbs
Second bag is $25.00 max weight 50 lbs
Each ticketed person is allowed one carryon and one personal item onboard.
Un-ticketed children do not have a baggage allowance, so Cindy and Cathy need to keep that in mind.
Strollers can be checked at the gate so you can use them throughout the airport.
For those of you thinking you were rolling out of bed at 5:30am to get to airport for our 7am flight...
WE NEED TO ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT 2 HOURS BEFORE OUR FLIGHT!!! THAT IS 5AM!!!
It takes time to get ticketed, check bags and get through security. They will start boarding 1/2 before we leave, so it's only an hour and a half for all of that.
I know we will have TONS of luggage so I went and got bright ribbons to tie onto each suitcase to make identifying a little easier. Each little family will get their own. You can pick your color out when we come up on Sunday. :) That's my contribution this week. :)
See you then!
Kym
Saturday, November 7, 2009
We are just about ready to go on the cruise. Kymberly has sent us the airline plans and we have printed it out. So nice to have someone plan the trip and just tell us which plane to get on and which ship to get on. I have managed to fit back into a formal dress I wore many years ago so I have something kind of special to wear for one of the formal nights. Being that I am getting on up there in years, I even managed to find some shoes to wear with it that are flat, so I could walk around for several hours and maybe even cut a rug or too before my arches resume their "fallen position."
Aarp has been all set to be "dog sitted" by my friend Mailia, who volunteered right after last Christmas to keep him. She loves dog sitting for us. She did Halloween as "Dorothy" from the Wizard of Oz and had to borrow Aarp for a photo shoot as Toto!
We are not too concerned about the seasickness. Sometimes you get it, sometimes not! But our past experience with cruises has been that the ships are so big you hardly notice the motion. However, let me add that our experiences in the past have had very calm seas, and we heard on the news today that there is a tropical storm brewing in the Carribbean. Hopefully, it will blow itself out before we leave!
I would also like to go to Stingray city. I got my scuba certification and would want to go on a scuba excursion if possible. If not, I would love to go snorkeling with any of you who are going!
See you soon!
Grandma Gale
Aarp has been all set to be "dog sitted" by my friend Mailia, who volunteered right after last Christmas to keep him. She loves dog sitting for us. She did Halloween as "Dorothy" from the Wizard of Oz and had to borrow Aarp for a photo shoot as Toto!
We are not too concerned about the seasickness. Sometimes you get it, sometimes not! But our past experience with cruises has been that the ships are so big you hardly notice the motion. However, let me add that our experiences in the past have had very calm seas, and we heard on the news today that there is a tropical storm brewing in the Carribbean. Hopefully, it will blow itself out before we leave!
I would also like to go to Stingray city. I got my scuba certification and would want to go on a scuba excursion if possible. If not, I would love to go snorkeling with any of you who are going!
See you soon!
Grandma Gale
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Things nightmares are made of.
Since my schedule the next couple of weeks is crazy, I've started the packing. To some, my packing list would be the cause of nightmares, but with three little ones in tow, it is hard to downsize too much.
So, what is on my list? There is your typical clothing and hygiene stuff, goofy looking rash guards for the boys and Kevin to make sure they don't have sunburned shoulders, adorable dress up clothes for the boys on Elegant Nights, a 40+ year old dinner jacket for Kevin, too many shoes for all of us, a few books and favorite toys, and then the baby gear.
Ah, the baby gear. And how to maneuver the baby gear. For starters, it will be stowed in a suitcase that will not explode outside the hotel! (Hawaii WAS fun!) And I do plan to buy some of the stuff in Miami on our Wally World Excursion, but there is still stuff from home that my sweet Rusty will need. Should I scare you all by listing a bit of it here? I think I shall:
1. Peapod Tent/Bed: This is our solution to a crib being too big and taking up too much room in our cabin on the boat. It is small enough to pack into a suitcase and about 10 times lighter than our pack-n-play.
2. Two umbrella type strollers: The only reason to take two is to keep tabs on Billy as we move through the airports. I doubt he'll have patience for one at any other time!
3. Car seats: I just couldn't NOT have them, I decided. I will check Rusty's and Ricky's booster (since it will easily fit in the car seat bag, along with coats and such), but we plan to take Billy's onto the plane with us. We think he'll be better behaved strapped in like he is used to and might even fall asleep for us. This necessitated number 4.
4. Car Seat Travel Accessory: Envisioning ourselves moving as easily as possi
ble through the airport, we knew we'd need something to help with Billy's car seat, so I got this. You just strap the car seat to a pilot-type bag and pull it along with you. It even suggests putting your child in it like a stroller, but I'm not sold on that one yet! I'll have to think about that though ... it would cut down on a stroller.
5. Baby Garb: Bottles, little spoons, sippy cup, disposable bibs, extra pacifier, baby medicine cabinet stuff, musical toy for bed time, familiar blanket, lovey, diapers, swim diapers, wipes (although I will buy most of the latter ones in port), and the kitchen sink.
6. Small inflatable pool: It isn't very big, but it is enough to entertain at least Rusty and Billy for a while. They aren't allowed in the regular pool on the boat since they aren't potty trained, but this can be filled by the pool and they can splash as they please. Shoot, it might even fit in our shower so they can have a bath!
7. Portable DVD Player: This one is still optional, but not really. We'll have Kevin's laptop for movies while on the boat, but will its battery life be enough for the plane? So, since we have everything else ...
When we enter the airport in two weeks and two days, with our luggage and carry-ons and children, please don't gawk at how many bags we have. Instead, be impressed with how compactly we managed to pack so much junk!
So, what is on my list? There is your typical clothing and hygiene stuff, goofy looking rash guards for the boys and Kevin to make sure they don't have sunburned shoulders, adorable dress up clothes for the boys on Elegant Nights, a 40+ year old dinner jacket for Kevin, too many shoes for all of us, a few books and favorite toys, and then the baby gear.
Ah, the baby gear. And how to maneuver the baby gear. For starters, it will be stowed in a suitcase that will not explode outside the hotel! (Hawaii WAS fun!) And I do plan to buy some of the stuff in Miami on our Wally World Excursion, but there is still stuff from home that my sweet Rusty will need. Should I scare you all by listing a bit of it here? I think I shall:
1. Peapod Tent/Bed: This is our solution to a crib being too big and taking up too much room in our cabin on the boat. It is small enough to pack into a suitcase and about 10 times lighter than our pack-n-play.2. Two umbrella type strollers: The only reason to take two is to keep tabs on Billy as we move through the airports. I doubt he'll have patience for one at any other time!
3. Car seats: I just couldn't NOT have them, I decided. I will check Rusty's and Ricky's booster (since it will easily fit in the car seat bag, along with coats and such), but we plan to take Billy's onto the plane with us. We think he'll be better behaved strapped in like he is used to and might even fall asleep for us. This necessitated number 4.
4. Car Seat Travel Accessory: Envisioning ourselves moving as easily as possi
ble through the airport, we knew we'd need something to help with Billy's car seat, so I got this. You just strap the car seat to a pilot-type bag and pull it along with you. It even suggests putting your child in it like a stroller, but I'm not sold on that one yet! I'll have to think about that though ... it would cut down on a stroller.5. Baby Garb: Bottles, little spoons, sippy cup, disposable bibs, extra pacifier, baby medicine cabinet stuff, musical toy for bed time, familiar blanket, lovey, diapers, swim diapers, wipes (although I will buy most of the latter ones in port), and the kitchen sink.
6. Small inflatable pool: It isn't very big, but it is enough to entertain at least Rusty and Billy for a while. They aren't allowed in the regular pool on the boat since they aren't potty trained, but this can be filled by the pool and they can splash as they please. Shoot, it might even fit in our shower so they can have a bath!
7. Portable DVD Player: This one is still optional, but not really. We'll have Kevin's laptop for movies while on the boat, but will its battery life be enough for the plane? So, since we have everything else ...
When we enter the airport in two weeks and two days, with our luggage and carry-ons and children, please don't gawk at how many bags we have. Instead, be impressed with how compactly we managed to pack so much junk!
Checklist made, check, check!
Hello! I am starting to freak out a little. Not about motion sickness or pirates or drowning or foreign diseases, but because I have SO MUCH LEFT TO DO AND WE LEAVE IN DAYS!!!!! Deep breath in, deep breath out.
Not that I don't do well under the self-imposed pressure of procrastination, but there is a lot to accomplish and time is flying by! So, I started making a checklist.
1. Change batteries in fire alarms-that would not be fun to come home to squealing alarms with no energy to change the stupid 9-volt batteries in 8 of them.
2. Buy stupid 9-volt batteries x eight.
3. Empty suitcases of clothes I no longer fit in to replace with cruise clothes its too cold to wear.
4. Figure out what clothes I am taking and wash them and dry them and fold them and pack them and do the same for John and then change my mind a few times and pack extra just in case and then weigh my suitcase and repack cause it weighs more than Danny.
5. Make mailing labels for postcards. (AHA! THAT is done!) Check, check.
6. Buy stamps for postcards. (Crap, I forgot to buy stamps!)
7. Empty memory cards from cameras onto discs.
8. Pre-register John with Carnival.
9. Talk John into pre-registering with Carnival.
10. Take a deep breath in, deep breath out.
There is soooo much more on this list to do it is ridiculous, but I have no time to expound on it. But it did remind me of a few more things I need to be doing in the next few days. Oi vay! At least all my posts are done and I can just sit back and enjoy the last mad scramble for the wayward few who haven't finished posting. BTW, the gambling lesson wasn't ever finished, was it?
Not that I don't do well under the self-imposed pressure of procrastination, but there is a lot to accomplish and time is flying by! So, I started making a checklist.
1. Change batteries in fire alarms-that would not be fun to come home to squealing alarms with no energy to change the stupid 9-volt batteries in 8 of them.
2. Buy stupid 9-volt batteries x eight.
3. Empty suitcases of clothes I no longer fit in to replace with cruise clothes its too cold to wear.
4. Figure out what clothes I am taking and wash them and dry them and fold them and pack them and do the same for John and then change my mind a few times and pack extra just in case and then weigh my suitcase and repack cause it weighs more than Danny.
5. Make mailing labels for postcards. (AHA! THAT is done!) Check, check.
6. Buy stamps for postcards. (Crap, I forgot to buy stamps!)
7. Empty memory cards from cameras onto discs.
8. Pre-register John with Carnival.
9. Talk John into pre-registering with Carnival.
10. Take a deep breath in, deep breath out.
There is soooo much more on this list to do it is ridiculous, but I have no time to expound on it. But it did remind me of a few more things I need to be doing in the next few days. Oi vay! At least all my posts are done and I can just sit back and enjoy the last mad scramble for the wayward few who haven't finished posting. BTW, the gambling lesson wasn't ever finished, was it?
Friday, October 30, 2009
Just gotta min. . .
Okay, I know you are all eagerly awaiting my next blog-killing post, so here goes!
I have finally started to create my own souvenir t's! Aunt Snazz thinks the ones I showed her are great, but if you haven't seen "Overboard!" with Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell they might be over your head!
Now just a few minutes to paint and time to dry and I will be the most originally/stylishly dressed cruiser ever!
Look forward to it!
I have finally started to create my own souvenir t's! Aunt Snazz thinks the ones I showed her are great, but if you haven't seen "Overboard!" with Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell they might be over your head!
Now just a few minutes to paint and time to dry and I will be the most originally/stylishly dressed cruiser ever!
Look forward to it!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
To Blog or Not to Blog? That is the Question.
Did I get it right Cindy? ;)
I keep thinking about setting up a blog, but I don’t have that many pictures of Abby and I can’t figure out how to get them on a computer anyway, so I haven’t done it. All I would really do is complain about things, and who needs more of that? So I haven’t. But I do have a lot to say about stuff and a neat-o place to put it all would be cool. Yeah right, a JOURNAL. No. Who writes in those? I use Facebook for most of my inner most private thoughts, that’s a good place to keep ‘em, right?
Anyway, I have been thinking a lot about the Cruise. I haven’t started packing or weighing my luggage yet, but I have started setting aside clothes and today I am starting to make my own souvenir t-shirts. Not because it’s cheaper, just because I have awesome ideas for t-shirts and no better reason to make them. If I could put pictures from my camera onto a computer I would show you some when I get them done, but . . . don’t hold your breath.
I have started kinda getting ready for the Cruise though. I got my passport. I don’t absolutely hate my picture. I can’t decide on my pages for my stamps yet, but I have decided that if they won’t stamp my passport I am going to draw my own. Speaking of which, Cindy says I have to enter the “Win, Lose or Draw” contest on the ship so don’t let me take any motion-sickness pills that afternoon! Hopefully someone will have thought to bring markers for their children to draw with so I will have a color variety at my disposal, otherwise I might be making my own passport stamps with Carnival Cruise line markers from the gift shop, which they better have, because now I have to have some! I think it’s important to focus on the positive things, like traveling outside the country and seeing and doing and tasting things I wouldn’t in Utah. What’s a little muss and fuss when you look at it like that? Who cares how much it costs me, who else do you know with Carnival Cruise markers? Shazaam! Add it to the list!
Speaking of sickness, John was very sweet the other day when he said he was expecting to spend a lot of time alone on the Cruise. I was confused and asked him “why?” from my fetal position under 2 big blankets on the bed. He said that when I don’t feel well he has learned to leave me alone so he figures he will be leaving me alone a lot on the Cruise. Awww, poor guy! If I hadn’t felt so crummy I would have done more than roll my eyes, but hindsight and all that. . . So I have researched motion sickness remedies and am cutting and pasting them into the blog. Supposedly you adjust, so every time I get on or off the boat I might need to readjust, although it would be quicker and less messy each adjustment. Good to know. Knowledge is power.
"Motion sickness puts a real cramp in your travel style. If you're at sea or traveling by car, bus or train, you'll need motion sickness prevention tips and long term remedy ideas. If you're flying, you may just need to avail yourself of the "barf bag" when motion sickness strikes, but you can still try to make motion sickness on a plane as painless as possible. Let's understand what motion sickness is, understand what causes it and study some prevention and remedy ideas.
Motion sickness starts with a mild feeling of nausea while you're traveling in a car or on a bus, boat, train or plane. If you don't deal with it, it will progress to a bad case of the sweats while your tummy feels worse and worse; eventually, you'll be vomiting - perhaps nonstop. That will lead to dehydration and utter misery.
What Causes Motion Sickness? Your inner ear. According to WebMD.com: "Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, the eyes, and other areas of the body that detect motion send conflicting messages to the brain. One part of your balance-sensing system (your inner ear, vision, and sensory nerves that help you keep your balance) may indicate that your body is moving, while the other parts do not sense motion. For example, if you are in the cabin of a moving ship, your inner ear may sense the motion of big waves, but your eyes don't see any movement. This leads to a conflict between the senses and results in motion sickness."
How to stop motion sickness before it starts? For starters, you can try several over-the-counter preventative drugs and devices. [Wrist bands that stimulate the nerves in your arm are somewhat helpful, if not stylish.] Fellow travelers have reported great success with scopolamine patches, worn behind the ear. [You can] eat before you travel; starting out with something in your tummy will help.
Once you're traveling in a car or bus or on a boat or train and motion sickness has struck, try these remedies:
· Look at the horizon; focus on a distant point. Don't read - keep watching your horizon focal point. [F]resh air helps. [G]et out and walk around: restores your sense of balance.
· Carry or have access to lots of liquids - club soda [and ginger ale] is a great stomach settler. Guzzle H2O and electrolyte-laden beverages like Gatorade, even if your belly keeps tossing the liquid overboard or out the window. Drink at least eight ounces of liquid every time you throw up.
Traveling by plane? Try the over the counter helpers - the scopolamine patches are meant for long term (up to three day) use, so give them some consideration for long overseas flights. It's hard to find a horizon focal point unless you have a window seat and a clear day and, of course, this technique is useless at night. If you don't want to risk the drowsiness drugs can cause (who wants to land in Paris and head straight for the hotel to sleep?), your only choice may be the "barf bag". Ensure that you stay hydrated!
If you're prone to motion sickness, you may want to carry your own (sorry) barf bags. They're stronger than the type offered by airlines (imagine dealing with a formerly full and now split bag on top of feeling terrible).
Take precautions and take care and remember, it will end eventually!
The blog has really become a giant Frankenstein of information: some decorative and useless like the bolts on his neck, some scary and relevant like his scars on his head, and some hidden under ragged green, gray and purple clothes. Maybe we should go over Halloween instead of Thanksgiving? JK! I wouldn’t miss Halloween for, oh, edit that, it sounded funnier in my head!
I was contemplating having a Thanksgiving dinner before the Cruise, because I love the food, but figure it will go bad while we are away. Been there, done that, Sam and Ella are NOT invited to my turkey leftovers ever again! I thought about doing one after, but I don’t know if I will be in the mood and how do you ask your in-laws to pony up a turkey banquet when you just got back from lying around for 10 days? Any suggestions on this matter would be appreciated, unless they are not kind and then you can stuff ‘em in your turkey. Don’t edit that, I meant it.
I keep thinking about setting up a blog, but I don’t have that many pictures of Abby and I can’t figure out how to get them on a computer anyway, so I haven’t done it. All I would really do is complain about things, and who needs more of that? So I haven’t. But I do have a lot to say about stuff and a neat-o place to put it all would be cool. Yeah right, a JOURNAL. No. Who writes in those? I use Facebook for most of my inner most private thoughts, that’s a good place to keep ‘em, right?
Anyway, I have been thinking a lot about the Cruise. I haven’t started packing or weighing my luggage yet, but I have started setting aside clothes and today I am starting to make my own souvenir t-shirts. Not because it’s cheaper, just because I have awesome ideas for t-shirts and no better reason to make them. If I could put pictures from my camera onto a computer I would show you some when I get them done, but . . . don’t hold your breath.
I have started kinda getting ready for the Cruise though. I got my passport. I don’t absolutely hate my picture. I can’t decide on my pages for my stamps yet, but I have decided that if they won’t stamp my passport I am going to draw my own. Speaking of which, Cindy says I have to enter the “Win, Lose or Draw” contest on the ship so don’t let me take any motion-sickness pills that afternoon! Hopefully someone will have thought to bring markers for their children to draw with so I will have a color variety at my disposal, otherwise I might be making my own passport stamps with Carnival Cruise line markers from the gift shop, which they better have, because now I have to have some! I think it’s important to focus on the positive things, like traveling outside the country and seeing and doing and tasting things I wouldn’t in Utah. What’s a little muss and fuss when you look at it like that? Who cares how much it costs me, who else do you know with Carnival Cruise markers? Shazaam! Add it to the list!
Speaking of sickness, John was very sweet the other day when he said he was expecting to spend a lot of time alone on the Cruise. I was confused and asked him “why?” from my fetal position under 2 big blankets on the bed. He said that when I don’t feel well he has learned to leave me alone so he figures he will be leaving me alone a lot on the Cruise. Awww, poor guy! If I hadn’t felt so crummy I would have done more than roll my eyes, but hindsight and all that. . . So I have researched motion sickness remedies and am cutting and pasting them into the blog. Supposedly you adjust, so every time I get on or off the boat I might need to readjust, although it would be quicker and less messy each adjustment. Good to know. Knowledge is power.
"Motion sickness puts a real cramp in your travel style. If you're at sea or traveling by car, bus or train, you'll need motion sickness prevention tips and long term remedy ideas. If you're flying, you may just need to avail yourself of the "barf bag" when motion sickness strikes, but you can still try to make motion sickness on a plane as painless as possible. Let's understand what motion sickness is, understand what causes it and study some prevention and remedy ideas.
Motion sickness starts with a mild feeling of nausea while you're traveling in a car or on a bus, boat, train or plane. If you don't deal with it, it will progress to a bad case of the sweats while your tummy feels worse and worse; eventually, you'll be vomiting - perhaps nonstop. That will lead to dehydration and utter misery.
What Causes Motion Sickness? Your inner ear. According to WebMD.com: "Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, the eyes, and other areas of the body that detect motion send conflicting messages to the brain. One part of your balance-sensing system (your inner ear, vision, and sensory nerves that help you keep your balance) may indicate that your body is moving, while the other parts do not sense motion. For example, if you are in the cabin of a moving ship, your inner ear may sense the motion of big waves, but your eyes don't see any movement. This leads to a conflict between the senses and results in motion sickness."
How to stop motion sickness before it starts? For starters, you can try several over-the-counter preventative drugs and devices. [Wrist bands that stimulate the nerves in your arm are somewhat helpful, if not stylish.] Fellow travelers have reported great success with scopolamine patches, worn behind the ear. [You can] eat before you travel; starting out with something in your tummy will help.
Once you're traveling in a car or bus or on a boat or train and motion sickness has struck, try these remedies:
· Look at the horizon; focus on a distant point. Don't read - keep watching your horizon focal point. [F]resh air helps. [G]et out and walk around: restores your sense of balance.
· Carry or have access to lots of liquids - club soda [and ginger ale] is a great stomach settler. Guzzle H2O and electrolyte-laden beverages like Gatorade, even if your belly keeps tossing the liquid overboard or out the window. Drink at least eight ounces of liquid every time you throw up.
Traveling by plane? Try the over the counter helpers - the scopolamine patches are meant for long term (up to three day) use, so give them some consideration for long overseas flights. It's hard to find a horizon focal point unless you have a window seat and a clear day and, of course, this technique is useless at night. If you don't want to risk the drowsiness drugs can cause (who wants to land in Paris and head straight for the hotel to sleep?), your only choice may be the "barf bag". Ensure that you stay hydrated!
If you're prone to motion sickness, you may want to carry your own (sorry) barf bags. They're stronger than the type offered by airlines (imagine dealing with a formerly full and now split bag on top of feeling terrible).
Take precautions and take care and remember, it will end eventually!
The blog has really become a giant Frankenstein of information: some decorative and useless like the bolts on his neck, some scary and relevant like his scars on his head, and some hidden under ragged green, gray and purple clothes. Maybe we should go over Halloween instead of Thanksgiving? JK! I wouldn’t miss Halloween for, oh, edit that, it sounded funnier in my head!
I was contemplating having a Thanksgiving dinner before the Cruise, because I love the food, but figure it will go bad while we are away. Been there, done that, Sam and Ella are NOT invited to my turkey leftovers ever again! I thought about doing one after, but I don’t know if I will be in the mood and how do you ask your in-laws to pony up a turkey banquet when you just got back from lying around for 10 days? Any suggestions on this matter would be appreciated, unless they are not kind and then you can stuff ‘em in your turkey. Don’t edit that, I meant it.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Good News!!
Well, my fellow cruisers you will be happy to know I now have a new Canon Powershot 12 mp pink (of course) camera, and a new 20" rolling carry on for my comfort for the cruise!! No checked luggage for me or Tony and I will still have plenty of room for my pillow, yipee!! Not that any of you care about this or not but I thought I'd share my joy in overcoming these obstacles and obtaining peace again in my life.
To show you how good my camera works, Tony tested it out on Andrew's beautiful eye. Cool huh?
Anyways, hope everyone is getting excited. I know I am........to start tanning this week until cruise! I have also booked our first excursion to Stingray City through Captain Marvins. We get to go to Stingray City and go snorkeling at Barrier Reef all for only $35. If anyone is interested in going with us, just let me know and I can add you on to our reservation easily. You don't pay till you get there, so let me know :-)
As a last note just make sure you watch out for these kind of beaches, OOPS! We wouldn't want to stumble across any of this now would we?
Happy Cruising Everyone!!
To show you how good my camera works, Tony tested it out on Andrew's beautiful eye. Cool huh?
Anyways, hope everyone is getting excited. I know I am........to start tanning this week until cruise! I have also booked our first excursion to Stingray City through Captain Marvins. We get to go to Stingray City and go snorkeling at Barrier Reef all for only $35. If anyone is interested in going with us, just let me know and I can add you on to our reservation easily. You don't pay till you get there, so let me know :-)
As a last note just make sure you watch out for these kind of beaches, OOPS! We wouldn't want to stumble across any of this now would we?
Happy Cruising Everyone!!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Kinds of FOOD
When I get to the boat and the first restaurant, I want to get something new that I have never heard of. If it comes and it looks weird, I will try it and hopefully I will get to taste new foods that I will like. My mom says I can try whatever I want and it won't matter if I don't like it, I can send it away and try something else.
My mom and Tim say that we are going to try and rent a tuxedo for me to get all dressed up for dinner one night! I've never gotten really dressed up for anything before, so I am really excited about it!
Talon
My mom and Tim say that we are going to try and rent a tuxedo for me to get all dressed up for dinner one night! I've never gotten really dressed up for anything before, so I am really excited about it!
Talon
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Sea Sickness
What is going to happen when someone looks at the water then spins around and gets sea sick? NOTHING because NOBODY is going to spin around after looking at the water unless your CRAZY!! If we get sick we should go to our rooms and cry because no one is going to care about your sickness!! There going to care about the fun on the ship, but I will because I care!! I'm pretty sure that every one else will care too!!
Shaelynn
Talon's Blog
This is Talon. My mom says I have to blog.
When I get to the boat my only concern is going to be finding the pool and all the hot 9 year old girls, planting my butt in a lounge chair and asking the pool boy to bring me a coke!
After I drink 3 cokes, I am gonna jump in the pool and swim around like a little fishy!
On Thanksgiving, we are gonna be in Jamaica and we will probably go to Dunn's River Falls and walk up the falls. I hope I get to hold a hot girl's hand and not my mom's hand. I am excited to go snorkeling. I have been practicing snorkeling with my Grandma at Lake Powell. In Lake Powell we see these little bitty tiny fishies. Not much else. I can't wait to see what is in the ocean. My mom says there is lots of big, pretty corral and lots of different colored fishies and I will be able to see to the bottom of the ocean in some places.
I am SO excited to go on this trip!
TALON
When I get to the boat my only concern is going to be finding the pool and all the hot 9 year old girls, planting my butt in a lounge chair and asking the pool boy to bring me a coke!
After I drink 3 cokes, I am gonna jump in the pool and swim around like a little fishy!
On Thanksgiving, we are gonna be in Jamaica and we will probably go to Dunn's River Falls and walk up the falls. I hope I get to hold a hot girl's hand and not my mom's hand. I am excited to go snorkeling. I have been practicing snorkeling with my Grandma at Lake Powell. In Lake Powell we see these little bitty tiny fishies. Not much else. I can't wait to see what is in the ocean. My mom says there is lots of big, pretty corral and lots of different colored fishies and I will be able to see to the bottom of the ocean in some places.
I am SO excited to go on this trip!
TALON
Monday, October 5, 2009
Eh. I decided against the whole getting my head done in braids thing. I don't really want my hair to break off and die. Anyway. I just need to get my 5 blogs done, and I have enough homework as it is. Soooooo... Um. I'm going to find some really cool pictures.
I can already taste the tacos
How freaking fun
When I think of Jamaica..
I bet someone is having a heart attack I posted this
Stingray city
I'm sure some snorkeling will be done
These are just pictures I found and thought were pretty sweet. I would look for more buuut I think this good enough.
2 blogs down 3 more to go
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Things people asked me today ...
My name is Cindy and I spend too much time on the Internet. I admit it. It is my release. I love the learning and the window shopping and the social networking. So, when I was asked some questions about the cruise today, I looked up the answers online.
1. What nights will be the formal nights? Most likely Sunday and Thursday
CARNIVAL SAYS: For cruises with one formal night, the formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise, with schedules permitting. For cruises with two formal nights, the first formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise; the second formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening prior to the end of the cruise, with schedules permitting.
2. What can you wear on elegant nights? Most anything. Ties are NOT required for men.
CARNIVAL SAYS: Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Elegant dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, gym shorts, t-shirts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, jeans, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, sportswear, and baseball hats.
3. Will there be services on Sunday? Think of this as your one-on-one time with the Lord.
CARNIVAL SAYS: When available, a clergyman will be on board for Christmas, Easter, Passover, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur; this is subject to availability of booking clergymen during their most holy days.
4. There is a children's menu in the dining room.
CARNIVAL SAYS: Carnival's children's menu is presented in a small booklet with a packet of crayons.
Fresh Fruit Cocktail
Peanut Butter Jelly Sandwich
Hamburger - Cheeseburger
Chicken Nuggets
Hot Dog
Pepperoni Pizza - Cheese Pizza
French Fries
(From the Captain's Sweet Treasure Chest )
Chocolate Brownies
Ice Creams
Banana Split
Jello with Custard
Assorted Cookies
5. Kevin and I will have our laptop with us for those who need to upload the pictures from their camera. Be sure to bring your cable though. (When does Kevin travel anywhere without his laptop?)
6. Kym asked Kevin to do the actual, real live, where everybody is going to sleep room assignments. Carnival thinks you are in certain rooms, but when it comes to be bedtime, this is where WE will look for you:
Cabin 2329
Andrew
Skyler
Talon
Cabin 2333
Melissa
Steph
Shaelyn
Cabin 2337
Dan
Cathy
Danny
Cate
Cabin 6298
Tony
Diane
Cabin 7428
Rick
Gale
Cabin 7424
Mom
Aunt Nancy
Cabin 7420
Suzy
John
Cabin 7416
Vanessa
Makayla
Cabin 9221
Kevin
Cindy
Ricky
Billy
Rusty
7. How do you find out what activities there are on the ship? Every day you will get a little newspaper under your door (or from the room steward and it might be the night before, but you'll get it). This is one from our same cruise that someone went on in May. Ours may be totally different, but it gives you an idea. This is Sunday, a day at sea. (to see them larger, click on them)
And for those of us with kidlets in the the 2-5 age range, we will get something like this:
8. Tim, unless you start following your own rules (especially the one about blogging), certain people are going to rebel against some of your other rules! You have been warned ...
That's all I can remember being asked. At least when I do a post like this, it makes my Internet time feel a bit more productive! Bon voyage!
1. What nights will be the formal nights? Most likely Sunday and Thursday
CARNIVAL SAYS: For cruises with one formal night, the formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise, with schedules permitting. For cruises with two formal nights, the first formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise; the second formal night is scheduled for the second or third evening prior to the end of the cruise, with schedules permitting.
2. What can you wear on elegant nights? Most anything. Ties are NOT required for men.
CARNIVAL SAYS: Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Elegant dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, gym shorts, t-shirts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, jeans, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, sportswear, and baseball hats.
3. Will there be services on Sunday? Think of this as your one-on-one time with the Lord.
CARNIVAL SAYS: When available, a clergyman will be on board for Christmas, Easter, Passover, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur; this is subject to availability of booking clergymen during their most holy days.
4. There is a children's menu in the dining room.
CARNIVAL SAYS: Carnival's children's menu is presented in a small booklet with a packet of crayons.
Fresh Fruit Cocktail
Peanut Butter Jelly Sandwich
Hamburger - Cheeseburger
Chicken Nuggets
Hot Dog
Pepperoni Pizza - Cheese Pizza
French Fries
(From the Captain's Sweet Treasure Chest )
Chocolate Brownies
Ice Creams
Banana Split
Jello with Custard
Assorted Cookies
5. Kevin and I will have our laptop with us for those who need to upload the pictures from their camera. Be sure to bring your cable though. (When does Kevin travel anywhere without his laptop?)
6. Kym asked Kevin to do the actual, real live, where everybody is going to sleep room assignments. Carnival thinks you are in certain rooms, but when it comes to be bedtime, this is where WE will look for you:
Cabin 2329
Andrew
Skyler
Talon
Cabin 2333
Melissa
Steph
Shaelyn
Cabin 2337
Dan
Cathy
Danny
Cate
Cabin 6298
Tony
Diane
Cabin 7428
Rick
Gale
Cabin 7424
Mom
Aunt Nancy
Cabin 7420
Suzy
John
Cabin 7416
Vanessa
Makayla
Cabin 9221
Kevin
Cindy
Ricky
Billy
Rusty
7. How do you find out what activities there are on the ship? Every day you will get a little newspaper under your door (or from the room steward and it might be the night before, but you'll get it). This is one from our same cruise that someone went on in May. Ours may be totally different, but it gives you an idea. This is Sunday, a day at sea. (to see them larger, click on them)
And for those of us with kidlets in the the 2-5 age range, we will get something like this:
8. Tim, unless you start following your own rules (especially the one about blogging), certain people are going to rebel against some of your other rules! You have been warned ...
That's all I can remember being asked. At least when I do a post like this, it makes my Internet time feel a bit more productive! Bon voyage!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Suitcase or No Suitcase that is the question???
I am really struggling here with making a decision about whether to bring a suitcase or not. Tony has already decided, he is going with a backpack on his back ONLY! Well, we tried practicing last night packing just a backpack and for Tony it was easy and do-able(?sp). For me however, the clothes weren't an issue but fitting my full-size down feather pillow in my backpack was. As you all know, I don't go anywhere without this little item of comfort from home. Plus the fact it just grosses me out to no end sleeping on another pillow that someone else has sweated on and pillow drooled on, YUCK, YUCK, AND DOUBLE YUCK, GROSS!!
If it weren't for the pillow then I'd be able to go without a suitcase so I just need to decide if I want to have 9 days of horrible nights sleep and be miserable every day.
Also, and this is a BIG one, what do you do with all your luggage AFTER you get OFF cruiseship? We will have to get off ship by 8 am and our flight doesn't leave til 4 pm. That is 8 HOURS of lugging around bags around Miami. You can't check in luggage any earlier than 4 hours before a flight ( I checked with my friend, she works for Delta). Which means you will be waiting outside at the Miami Airport to go inside to check luggage for 4 hours!! Think about it people, 8 hours with your luggage! Sooooo, I asked my friend and she said there is a program called the " Luggage Express Program" with Carnival. Carnival will take your luggage for you, check it in at the airport and you won't see your luggage til you arrive back in S.L. all for $20! That would be the best $20 ever spent, except if your luggage gets lost which is something else you have to think about. Do I really want to replace all my clothes when I get back home? NO! So I go back again to the carry-on only. So much to think about for one trip.
So, for those unsure like me, which I'm sure its nobody, here are some guidelines from Delta's website for carry-on luggage and baggage rules. I still need to have enough room to pack home my Mexican rug and blanket so I might have to lug around a suitcase, grrrrrr!
3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 oz. container size is a security measure.
Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.
Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.
3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.
Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.
Come early and be patient. Heavy travel volumes and the enhanced security process may mean longer lines at security checkpoints.
TSA working with our partners. TSA works with airlines and airports to anticipate peak traffic and be ready for the traveling public.
Sharp Objects carry on checked
Razor-Type Blades - such as box cutters, utility knives, razor blades not in a cartridge, but excluding safety razors. No Yes
Sabers No Yes
Scissors - metal with pointed tips and blades shorter than four inches Yes Yes
Swords No Yes
NOTE: Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
Back To Top
Other Items
Item Carry-on Checked
Gel-type candles No Yes
Gel shoe inserts - Gel shoe inserts are not permitted, but shoes constructed with gel heels are allowed and must be removed and screened. No Yes
Non-flammable liquid, gel, or aerosol paint Yes - 3 oz. or smaller container Yes
Flammable liquid, gel, or aerosol paint No No
Snow globes and like decorations regardless of size or amount of liquid inside, even with documentation. No Yes
PerishablesDelta allows you to carry perishable items such as fresh or frozen foods, fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, poultry, bakery products, flowers, cut flowers, floral displays and vegetable plants in the aircraft cabin as part of your carry-on baggage allowance, provided no agricultural rules are violated for the destination country.
If the item does not meet size or weight restrictions for carry-on baggage, we will accept the item within your checked baggage allowance upon completion of a limited release form. However, Delta will not be liable for deterioration or spoilage of any perishable item contained in checked baggage, whether with or without the knowledge of Delta.
Dry Ice shipments are limited by dangerous goods regulations. Customers are encouraged to use frozen gel packs or similar products to keep perishable items checked as baggage, frozen.
Wet ice shipments are not accepted as carry-on baggage, checked baggage, or cargo on Delta or Delta Connection flights.
Carry-on Baggage
All Delta passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item that meet the criteria below. See Security Check-in for liquid and gel restrictions.
Size and Weight Restrictions
If your carry-on bag doesn't meet these size restrictions it must be checked, and all checked baggage rules will apply. Your bag must:
Not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height), or 115 cm. Fit easily in our SizeCheck® unit (approximately 22"x14"x9", or 56x36x23 cm). Fit in an overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you.
Personal Items
You're allowed one personal item from this sample list:
Purses, briefcases, camera cases, and diaper bags
Laptop computers (can’t be checked and must be carried on)
Items of a similar or smaller size to those above
Other Carry-on Items Allowed
You may also bring these items onboard. They do not count toward your personal item.
Food items for immediate consumption
Assistive devices such as wheelchairs or crutches
One box or bag of duty free merchandise
A coat, jacket, or umbrella
Exceptions
Additional restrictions to carry-on baggage may exist due to available space and limitations on certain flights. If you have additional questions, please see a check-in agent for help or review our Baggage FAQs.
Checked Baggage—within the United States
When traveling within the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico, customers are charged $15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second checked bag (each way, for round trip). There is a $5 surcharge on each of the first two checked bags when checking in via ticket counter, kiosk, or curbside. There is no surcharge for bags prepaid during online check-in at delta.com.
*For tickets purchased on or after September 19, 2009 for travel on or after October 13, 2009 Canada will be considered part of the U.S. area for baggage purposes and will be subject to the same fees.
General Conditions of Acceptance
Delta will accept your baggage for transportation, subject to the following conditions:
All baggage is subject to search.
We reserve the right to refuse baggage whose size, weight, character, or condition is unsuitable for transportation on the particular aircraft which is to transport it or which cannot be accommodated without harming or annoying passengers.
Baggage check-in requirements, which vary by airport, must be met. Please review airport Check-in Requirements for details.
Baggage must be checked at a Delta designated city or airport office.
Your name must be on your baggage.
Baggage will not be checked to a destination that is not on a passenger's itinerary.
If it weren't for the pillow then I'd be able to go without a suitcase so I just need to decide if I want to have 9 days of horrible nights sleep and be miserable every day.
Also, and this is a BIG one, what do you do with all your luggage AFTER you get OFF cruiseship? We will have to get off ship by 8 am and our flight doesn't leave til 4 pm. That is 8 HOURS of lugging around bags around Miami. You can't check in luggage any earlier than 4 hours before a flight ( I checked with my friend, she works for Delta). Which means you will be waiting outside at the Miami Airport to go inside to check luggage for 4 hours!! Think about it people, 8 hours with your luggage! Sooooo, I asked my friend and she said there is a program called the " Luggage Express Program" with Carnival. Carnival will take your luggage for you, check it in at the airport and you won't see your luggage til you arrive back in S.L. all for $20! That would be the best $20 ever spent, except if your luggage gets lost which is something else you have to think about. Do I really want to replace all my clothes when I get back home? NO! So I go back again to the carry-on only. So much to think about for one trip.
So, for those unsure like me, which I'm sure its nobody, here are some guidelines from Delta's website for carry-on luggage and baggage rules. I still need to have enough room to pack home my Mexican rug and blanket so I might have to lug around a suitcase, grrrrrr!
3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 oz. container size is a security measure.
Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.
Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.
3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.
Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.
Come early and be patient. Heavy travel volumes and the enhanced security process may mean longer lines at security checkpoints.
TSA working with our partners. TSA works with airlines and airports to anticipate peak traffic and be ready for the traveling public.
Sharp Objects carry on checked
Razor-Type Blades - such as box cutters, utility knives, razor blades not in a cartridge, but excluding safety razors. No Yes
Sabers No Yes
Scissors - metal with pointed tips and blades shorter than four inches Yes Yes
Swords No Yes
NOTE: Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
Back To Top
Other Items
Item Carry-on Checked
Gel-type candles No Yes
Gel shoe inserts - Gel shoe inserts are not permitted, but shoes constructed with gel heels are allowed and must be removed and screened. No Yes
Non-flammable liquid, gel, or aerosol paint Yes - 3 oz. or smaller container Yes
Flammable liquid, gel, or aerosol paint No No
Snow globes and like decorations regardless of size or amount of liquid inside, even with documentation. No Yes
PerishablesDelta allows you to carry perishable items such as fresh or frozen foods, fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, poultry, bakery products, flowers, cut flowers, floral displays and vegetable plants in the aircraft cabin as part of your carry-on baggage allowance, provided no agricultural rules are violated for the destination country.
If the item does not meet size or weight restrictions for carry-on baggage, we will accept the item within your checked baggage allowance upon completion of a limited release form. However, Delta will not be liable for deterioration or spoilage of any perishable item contained in checked baggage, whether with or without the knowledge of Delta.
Dry Ice shipments are limited by dangerous goods regulations. Customers are encouraged to use frozen gel packs or similar products to keep perishable items checked as baggage, frozen.
Wet ice shipments are not accepted as carry-on baggage, checked baggage, or cargo on Delta or Delta Connection flights.
Carry-on Baggage
All Delta passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item that meet the criteria below. See Security Check-in for liquid and gel restrictions.
Size and Weight Restrictions
If your carry-on bag doesn't meet these size restrictions it must be checked, and all checked baggage rules will apply. Your bag must:
Not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height), or 115 cm. Fit easily in our SizeCheck® unit (approximately 22"x14"x9", or 56x36x23 cm). Fit in an overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you.
Personal Items
You're allowed one personal item from this sample list:
Purses, briefcases, camera cases, and diaper bags
Laptop computers (can’t be checked and must be carried on)
Items of a similar or smaller size to those above
Other Carry-on Items Allowed
You may also bring these items onboard. They do not count toward your personal item.
Food items for immediate consumption
Assistive devices such as wheelchairs or crutches
One box or bag of duty free merchandise
A coat, jacket, or umbrella
Exceptions
Additional restrictions to carry-on baggage may exist due to available space and limitations on certain flights. If you have additional questions, please see a check-in agent for help or review our Baggage FAQs.
Checked Baggage—within the United States
When traveling within the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico, customers are charged $15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second checked bag (each way, for round trip). There is a $5 surcharge on each of the first two checked bags when checking in via ticket counter, kiosk, or curbside. There is no surcharge for bags prepaid during online check-in at delta.com.
*For tickets purchased on or after September 19, 2009 for travel on or after October 13, 2009 Canada will be considered part of the U.S. area for baggage purposes and will be subject to the same fees.
General Conditions of Acceptance
Delta will accept your baggage for transportation, subject to the following conditions:
All baggage is subject to search.
We reserve the right to refuse baggage whose size, weight, character, or condition is unsuitable for transportation on the particular aircraft which is to transport it or which cannot be accommodated without harming or annoying passengers.
Baggage check-in requirements, which vary by airport, must be met. Please review airport Check-in Requirements for details.
Baggage must be checked at a Delta designated city or airport office.
Your name must be on your baggage.
Baggage will not be checked to a destination that is not on a passenger's itinerary.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Itenieraries
Good Grief. I just looked at how the flight info pasted over. Cathy, send me your email and I will forward it to you in a readable format. Sorry 'bout that!
Kym
All your questions answered in one short novel
Ok, let me see if I can give some information about this cruise for all you people who are already packing, for those of you who need the details. Please understand that I think we are all a bit baffled by each other. I am silently shaking my head because some of you are freaking out over the details, as I know you are all shaking your heads at me because I don’t need the details. Tim included. I have now called Carnival Cruise lines a total of 4 times today and Delta twice (the first time maybe didn’t count. I hung up and called back to try to get someone I could understand.)
Flight info: for everyone except Dan, Vanessa and Makayla:
OLD GROUP #407240
SubGroupA - Group Size: 22 | Record Locator(s): 3H4H9X
Itinerary / Fare Basis:
Carr/Flt# Date Departure Arrival
DL / 1586 19NOV2009 SLC 700A ATL 1241P
DL / 1993 19NOV2009 ATL 130P MIA 322P
DL / 1996 28NOV2009 MIA 412P ATL 619P
DL / 1835 28NOV2009 ATL 930P SLC 1156P
The outbound is for everyone except Dan, Vanessa and Makayla, who will be coming in on Friday and Saturday (good luck with that, Dan.)
DELTA CONFIRMATION #: D45UZ7 TICKET #: 00623156536542 Bkng Meals/ Seat/ Day Date Flight Status Class City Time Other Cabin --- ----- --------------- ------ ----- ---------------- ------ ------ ------- Sat 21NOV DELTA 1720 OK N LV SALT LAKE CI 1250A V M 24A TY COACH AR ATLANTA 622A Sat 21NOV DELTA 1985 OK N LV ATLANTA 830A 24F AR MIAMI 1033A COACH Sat 28NOV DELTA 1994 OK N LV MIAMI 300P 13A AR ATLANTA 508P COACH Sat 28NOV DELTA 1333 OK N LV ATLANTA 614P F M 32A AR SALT LAKE CI 840P COACH
DELTA CONFIRMATION #: C4LNP5 TICKET #: 00623155347220 Bkng Meals/ Seat/ Day Date Flight Status Class City Time Other Cabin --- ----- --------------- ------ ----- ---------------- ------ ------ ------- Fri 20NOV DELTA 24 OK N LV LAS VEGAS 745A F M 19A AR ATLANTA 237P COACH Fri 20NOV DELTA 1997 OK N LV ATLANTA 400P 22F AR MIAMI 556P COACH Sat 28NOV DELTA 1990 OK N LV MIAMI 1221P 13E AR ATLANTA 227P COACH Sat 28NOV DELTA 25 OK N LV ATLANTA 335P F M 22E AR LAS VEGAS 511P COACH
Onto the other concerns: I tried to get them to move our rooms so that we were all on the floor, but it just ain’t happening. Apparently they only have 30 rooms left available. Right. Whatever. I tried.
We are confirmed for early seating dinner which is at 6PM. Just a reminder, one of the rules is that we all eat dinner together, so please plan to be there.
The bad thing is that they told me they only give 2 room keys per cabin. We will figure out how many room keys we actually need for each room and see who this might affect. Someone might have to “lose” a room key and get a replacement.
*Go to www.Carnivalcruise.com
*Set up your profile (and your children’s profiles) using the booking numbers provided
*Set up your Sail & Sign Cards or FUN PASS accounts, this will make the boarding process much easier and faster.
*Please don’t freak out when you see other people assigned to your rooms. Remember these are fake assignments and for Carnival's benefit only.
*When it asks for what hotel you are staying at, use the Marriott. It worked when I set up my account.
Aunt Nancy 19F4W4 7420
Melissa 19F4W4 7420
John 19F7W9 2329
Billy 19F7W9 2329
Ricky 19F7W9 2329
Andrew 19F7W9 2329
Suzy 20F3W5 6298
Shaelynn 20F3W5 6298
Rusty 20F3W5 6298
Tony 13FC57 2333
Diane 13FC57 2333
Skyler 13FC57 2333
Talon 13FC57 2333
Dan 14FC07 2337
Cathy 14FC07 2337
Danny 14FC07 2337
Cate 14FC07 2337
Marilyn 14FC31 7424
Stephanie 14FC31 7424
Rick 14FC69 7428
Gale 14FC69 7428
Vanessa 14FC88 7416
Makayla 14FC88 7416
Kevin 15FC67 9221
Cindy 15FC67 9221
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Got Some Questions for You
My Dearest Kym,
I am absolutely horrible at letting others plan my vacations for me. I guess I'm just not trusting enough to just show up. In light of that, could you give me a few details that my heart desires now that we are two months from take-off?
1. What flight are we taking? Airlines? Departure? Lay-overs? Transfers? Arrivals? Return flights? I've got three kidlets and would like an idea of how much entertainment I'll need to provide them.
2. Where are we staying in Miami? What kind of accommodations are we looking at? How many/who will be in our room? I'm looking for things to do while we are there and where we stay could influence our choices.
3. Do we need to do some paperwork for Carnival? When Kevin and I traveled with them last year, we had some online fun pass or something that we did in advance to make boarding smoother. And if we wanted to book an excursion in advance (still deciding at our house), would we do that through you or can we log in as being passengers ourselves with Carnival's site?
4. Have cribs been reserved for us both on the ship and at the hotel? (This is strictly my distrusting self kicking in here)
I opted to post these questions here, on the off chance that someone else might also be interested in the answers. Any answers you can provide will be oh so greatly appreciated! I enjoy the planning almost as much as the vacation, so my fun is just kicking into high gear!
With sincere adoration and only slight mockingness,
Cindy
I am absolutely horrible at letting others plan my vacations for me. I guess I'm just not trusting enough to just show up. In light of that, could you give me a few details that my heart desires now that we are two months from take-off?
1. What flight are we taking? Airlines? Departure? Lay-overs? Transfers? Arrivals? Return flights? I've got three kidlets and would like an idea of how much entertainment I'll need to provide them.
2. Where are we staying in Miami? What kind of accommodations are we looking at? How many/who will be in our room? I'm looking for things to do while we are there and where we stay could influence our choices.
3. Do we need to do some paperwork for Carnival? When Kevin and I traveled with them last year, we had some online fun pass or something that we did in advance to make boarding smoother. And if we wanted to book an excursion in advance (still deciding at our house), would we do that through you or can we log in as being passengers ourselves with Carnival's site?
4. Have cribs been reserved for us both on the ship and at the hotel? (This is strictly my distrusting self kicking in here)
I opted to post these questions here, on the off chance that someone else might also be interested in the answers. Any answers you can provide will be oh so greatly appreciated! I enjoy the planning almost as much as the vacation, so my fun is just kicking into high gear!
With sincere adoration and only slight mockingness,
Cindy
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