1 - Is not the lonliest number

It's upon us. As of tomorrow at this time - we should be nestled into our hotel room near the airport - dreaming of our flight to the Magic Kingdom.

I spent today getting done the odds and ends, preparing for out cat sitter, preparing the dog for the kennel, and preparing me for the hotter Orlando weather with a haircut.

I just need to get through 1 more day of work.

This maybe my final entry before we leave. Not sure if I will start a new blog while we are there. (so much to do, not sure if I'll have the time)

For those of you who have read this - thanks for following - and I'll let you know

Now - last year in Disney World History:
Disney-MGM Studios changes its name to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Yak & Yeti Restaurant opens at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
The Wave restaurant opens at Disney's Contemporary Resort.
Toy Story Mania! opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Spaceship Earth "relaunches" at Epcot.
Disney's Animal Kingdom celebrates its 10th anniversary on April 22.
Disney partners with Google Earth to create a virtual walk-through of Disney World.
Walt Disney World Resort closes all nightclubs at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island - including BET Soundstage Club, Mannequins, 8Trax, Comedy Warehouse, Adventurer's Club and Motion - to create a new "family-friendly environment" with new restaurants and specialty shops.
T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover opens at Downtown Disney Marketplace.
The final ABC Super Soap Weekend takes place November 15-16 at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Disney World ends its Year of a Million Dreams Celebration on December 31.

And what can we expect this year?
The American Idol Experience opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Tren-D boutique opens at Downtown Disney.
Sanaa restaurant opens at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Characters in Flight, a tethered balloon ride adventure, opens at Downtown Disney.
Hall of Presidents reopens after a major makeover that includes the introduction of a President Barack Obama figure.

2 - That's right, I said 2

It's 2 days away - and we are off to the most Magical Place on Earth.

My wife got her Crocs ans jibbits ready, I've got my honey-do list for my day off tomorrow, than work on Friday, off to the hotel near the airport than utopia!

The excitement is building, we just need to get through these last few days of work. Let's hope we can.

Then - we eat our way through the Fab 4!

4 years ago is Disney World History;

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club opens in Tomorrowland at Disney's Magic Kingdom.
Huge Mickey Mouse arm and wand are removed from Spaceship Earth at Epcot.
Night of Joy celebrates its 25th year at Disney's Magic Kingdom.
Disney World raises its adult one-day, one-park pass from $67 to $71.
Disney announces extension of "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration throughout 2008.
The Walt Disney Company releases Meet the Robinsons.
The Walt Disney Company releases Bridge to Terabithia.
The Walt Disney Company releases High School Musical 2.

3 - Are you kidding me!

I only had 4 days of work this week - and you think they could be easy - heck no!

I just keep doing a countdown and telling myself - Saturday, we are going - no one's stopping me!

So I am a little behind thanks to work - so I have this blog and will add another.

We are just tying up lose ends and focusing on the final touches at this point.

It's almost here!

3 years ago in Disney World History;

Expedition Everest, a high-speed train adventure, opens in Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Pirates of the Caribbean reopens at Disney’s Magic Kingdom after several months of renovations to coincide with the summer release of the Disney film, Pirates of Caribbean: Dead Men’s Chest.
Disney launches its Year of a Million Dreams celebration on October 1 with new attractions and live entertainment, as well as the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion.
The Walt Disney Company releases High School Musical.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Shaggy Dog.
The Walt Disney Company releases Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.

4 - planning almost over

I am down to 3 work days - and today seemed to move slowly - so I can only imagine how the next few will go.

We did our money planning today, figuring out how much we will need for tips, mouse keeping, and other expenses.

I also spent my morning before work today writing my "to do" list for the next 4 days.

I am hoping to get out of work early on Friday, put the finishing touches on things, and be ready to go.

4 years ago in Disney World history;

Walt Disney World launches its “Happiest Celebration on Earth.”
Soarin’, a “high-flying adventure,” opens in The Land Pavilion at Epcot.
The Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
The Crush ‘n’ Gusher, a series of three thrilling water roller coasters, opens at Typhoon Lagoon.
Journey Into Narnia – Creating The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe makes its debut at Disney-MGM Studios.
The Walt Disney Company releases Chicken Little.
The Walt Disney Company releases the IMAX film, Aliens of the Deep.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Pacifier.
The Walt Disney Company releases Ice Princess.
The Walt Disney Company releases Herbie: Fully Loaded.
The Walt Disney Company releases Sky High.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.
2006

5 - ready to pack

After saying good-bye to our beloved Pastor of 24 years (we've known her for about 7 years) - it was back to Disney talk.

We spent some time this afternoon preparing the clothes we will need to pack. It looks like we have about 90% of out clothes ready.

We also were planning on when laundry will be getting done, and which shirts can be double worn. Is this way too detailed planning?

Anyway - 4 work days, 5 regular days until 10 Fabulous days!

5 years ago in Disney World history;

Dominick Errico and his beautiful new wife, Mari visited Disney World for the first time as husband and wife for their honeymoon. It was Star Wars weekend and Gay pride weekend - a most memorable time.

Stitch’s Great Escape opens in Tomorrowland at the former site of ExtraTERRORestrial.
Turtle Talk with Crush! opens in The Living Seas at Epcot.
The Walt Disney Company releases Home on the Range.
The Walt Disney Company releases Miracle.
The Walt Disney Company releases Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen.
Disney's Touchstone Pictures releases Hidalgo.
The Walt Disney Company releases Around the World in 80 Days.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Princess Diaries 2.
The Walt Disney Company releases National Treasure.

6 - we'll be there a week from now

It's hard to believe, but a week from tonight - I'll be sitting in the room at Coronado Springs with my wife and daughter - getting ready for an early am breakfast.

I'm also happy that I am now off for the next 2 Saturdays of work, which can be grueling.

This trip is going to be great, I can feel it.

We took out the suitcases today to evaluate packing, and which pieces we will be taking.
Now, we need to use all our free time this week to prepare.

yahoo!

6 years ago in Disney World history;
Diamond Horseshoe Saloon Revue closes and is replaced by Goofy’s Country Dancin’ Jamboree in Liberty Square at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter closes in Tomorrowland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Mission: SPACE, a state-of-the-art thrill ride, opens at the site of the former Horizons attraction at Epcot.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic, a 3-D “symfunny” of fun, opens in Fantasyland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
The Disney Golf Classic changes its name to the FUNAI Classic at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular makes its debut at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Disney's Pop Century Resort opens at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Walt Disney Company releases Brother Bear.
The Walt Disney Company releases Holes.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Lizzie McGuire Movie.
The Walt Disney Company releases Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Disney's first PG-13 rated movie.
The Walt Disney Company releases Freaky Friday.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Haunted Mansion.
The Walt Disney Company releases George of the Jungle 2

7 - One week away

Today I can say that next week at this time - I will be asleep - resting up for my plane ride to the Magic Kingdom.

My wife and I have so major preparing to do this next week. I only have 5 more work days too!
Now the excitement is building. I can hear the rides go, taste the foods, and even smell the smells that stick with me like on Splash Mountain and the just the simple smell of an Orlando morning.

Can't wait!

7 years ago in Disney world history, Big Movie Year Apparently;

Disney’s Beach Club Villas opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
Journey into Imagination with Figment opens at Epcot.
The Walt Disney Company releases Lilo & Stitch.
The Walt Disney Company releases Treasure Planet.
The Walt Disney Company releases Snow Dogs.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Rookie.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Country Bears.
The Walt Disney Company releases Tuck Everlasting.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Santa Clause 2.
The Walt Disney Company releases Inspector Gadget 2.
2003

8 - is great

We are so close at this point that I found out today both my wife and I were checking the weather for our arrival date yesterday.

As of now - it looks good - let's pray it stays that way.

Our plan tomorrow is to sit down and go over our packing list, maybe order some food. It maybe Friday - the "go out" night - but this will be better.

I'm hoping to get another picture with the Genie this year - In fact - we told our daughter we are getting our pictures taken with the characters this year, and she has to take them

Now - 8 years ago in Disney World History;
Dominick Errico travels to the Magic Kingdom for the first time at the ripe old age of 28
Walt Disney World Resort launches its 100 Years of Magic Celebration, which includes the debut of the Share A Dream Come True Parade.
Cinderella’s Surprise Celebration, a musical extravaganza that takes place directly in front of Cinderella Castle, makes its debut at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream opens at Disney-MGM Studios as part of Walt Disney World’s 100 Years of Magic Celebration.
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire – Play It! opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin kiddie ride debuts in Adventureland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage premieres at Disney-MGM Studios.
The Walt Disney Company releases Atlantis: The Lost Empire.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Princess Diaries.
The Walt Disney Company releases Max Keeble's Big Move.

9 - The single digits are here!

I can't believe it - we are down to single digits for the trip. It was close to 365 days ago that we decided to book our bounce back for this year - and now - we are almost there - unbelievable!

I'm starting to worry at this point that we are not going to find the time to get packing lists ready 100% and forget to put something on them - ugh!

I know my wife will make sure we are good, and as she likes to say, "If we forget something, it's not like they do not have supermarkets or Wal-Marts in Orlando."

She also got her new Disney Crocs in the mail yesterday. She got a great deal on 2 pair, and got one for her and our daughter. Problem is, she ordered the wrong sizes. Hers will be fine, but the other's are too big for our daughter. Lucky for me, they were ordered in my size! Now I have red Mickey Crocs with a black strap. I'm a real man, I will wear Mickey Crocs!

Now, 9 years ago (woo hoo 9 days) in Disney World history:

DisneyQuest introduces the Pirates of the Caribbean interactive adventure.
Journey into Your Imagination opens at Epcot.
The Walt Disney Company releases Fantasia 2000.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Emperor's New Groove.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Kid.
The Walt Disney Company releases Remember the Titans.
The Walt Disney Company releases 102 Dalmatians.

10 Wow I can't believe we are this close

Only 10 more days and 8 work days until we leave for Disney World.
The anticipation is building, and the days are starting to move slower because of it.

I got some more things to pack today, you know, the necessities.

I also made a bonus shirt today which I posted with the remaining shirts earlier. My daughter had been asking me to put Chip and Dale on a pair of her shorts, but I decided to to make her a shirt instead. It's baby Chip and Dale with my daughters face all has balloons being held by Mickey. I am not great with making real people, but I gave it a shot, and I think it looks pretty good. She liked it, too!

I was a little down because we bought a scale yesterday and I did not lose as much weight as I thought. Being that this is our "eating" vacation, I was hoping for a better cushion (or less weight) to add to, but, alas, I will not have it.

Anyway, unto why you all tune it. 10 years ago in Disney World history;
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh opens in Fantasyland at the former site of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.
The Rock ‘n Roller Coaster – Starring Aerosmith makes its debut at Disney-MGM Studios next to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
Disney’s Winter Summerland miniature golf course opens adjacent to Blizzard Beach water park.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
Discovery Island closes to guests as an attraction.
Walt Disney World introduces FASTPASS, a free reservation system that allows guests to avoid crowds at the most popular theme park rides and attractions.
The Asia section of Disney's Animal Kingdom opens with such attractions as Kali River Rapids, Flights of Wonder and Maharajah Jungle Trek.
Huge Mickey Mouse arm and wand are added to Spaceship Earth at Epcot.
The Walt Disney Company releases Tarzan.

BONUS - ALL THE SHIRTS

THESE ARE THE FINAL SHIRTS FOR THE TRIP - I ADDED THE SPECIAL SURPRISE ONE FOR CAROLINE TODAY

11 - the countdown

We are so close now - that we spend our days with, "Guess where we will be 2 weeks from now?"

It makes it seem closer and closer - and we are definitely getting excited.

Also the fact that I only have 9 work days left! Single digits are great, and I am only 2 days away from that!

I'm posting the rest of the shirts today - and I will see you tomorrow.

11 years ago at Disney World;
Disney’s Animal Kingdom opens as the fourth theme park at Walt Disney World Resort on April 22.
The Tiki Room in Adventureland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom changes its name to “The Enchanted Tiki Room – Under New Management.”
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin opens in Tomorrowland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Sponsored by General Motors, Test Track makes its debut at the former site of World of Motion in Future World at Epcot.
Fantasmic! premieres at Disney-MGM Studios.
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride closes in Fantasyland, much to the dismay of its many fans, who soon organize a futile “Save the Toad” campaign.
The Main Street Cinema along Main Street, U.S.A. is converted into a retail store.
DisneyQuest, an indoor interactive theme park, opens its doors at Disney West Side in Downtown Disney.
Cirque du Soleil La Nouba premieres at Disney West Side in Downtown Disney.
The Walt Disney Company releases Mulan.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Parent Trap.
The Walt Disney Company releases Summer of the Monkeys.

12 - they are done

I completed the last of the shirts today. Now, my wife and I are planning on making a surprise shirt for our daughter featuring her favorites, Chip and Dale.

Now with that done, I need to finalize my packing list and put together a shot sheet for our music video.

Also, can't believe I only have 9 work days left. Of course, they are scheduled to be very busy days. Oh, well.

12 days ago in Disney World History;

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Richard Petty Driving Experience makes its debut at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney Village Marketplace and Pleasure Island are joined by Disney West Side and the entire complex is renamed “Downtown Disney.”
Disney’s 220-acre Wide World of Sports Complex opens with a dozen baseball and softball fields, 12 lighted tennis courts, a track-and-field complex, six basketball courts, a golf driving range and six sand volleyball courts.
The Mike Fink Keel Boats attraction closes in Frontierland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Walt Disney World Resort celebrates its 25th anniversary.
The Walt Disney Company releases Hercules.
The Walt Disney Company releases Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.
The Walt Disney Company releases George of the Jungle.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Second Jungle Book: Mowgli and Baloo.

13 - WOW changes coming

I didn't think I'd have much to write about but my wife just shared with me changes coming to Disney World.

Basically - Fantasyland is getting an overhaul where all the princesses will be getting their own little houses and villages and Dumbo is expanding big time.

Also, Toon Town will be gone and Star Tours will be getting a make-over and will now be the pod races. Now I have even more to look forward to.

Now - since I did not do it yesterday - I am going to do give 2 days worth of history
14 years ago
Blizzard Beach, billed as the “ Coolest Water Park in Central Florida,” opens at Walt Disney World Resort on April Fool’s Day.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
The first annual International Food & Wine Festival takes place at Epcot.
The Walt Disney World Company announces plans for the development of a fourth theme park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Disney’s Fairy Tale Wedding Pavilion opens at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
The Walt Disney World Speedway opens at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Walt Disney Company releases Pocahontas.
The Walt Disney Company releases Man of the House.

13 years ago
Mickey’s Starland changes its name to Mickey’s Toontown Fair and adds two new attractions: The Barnstormer at Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm and Donald’s Boat. The track at Tomorrowland Indy Speedway is shortened slightly to make room for the new Toontown attractions.
The American Film Institute Showcase makes its debut at Disney-MGM Studios to commemorate 100 years of American filmmaking.
The first annual Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party takes place at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Disney-MGM Studios hosts the first annual ABC Super Soap Weekend.
The Disney Institute makes its debut at Walt Disney World Resort.
Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf is constructed between the Walt Disney Dolphin and the Walt Disney Swan resorts.
Disney’s Boardwalk opens at Walt Disney World Resort.
The former Disney Inn reopens as Shades of Green, an Armed Forces Recreation Center.
The inaugural Indy 200 takes place at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Circle of Life and Ellen’s Energy Adventure attractions both premiere at Epcot’s Future World.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
The Walt Disney Company releases Homeward Bound 2: Lost in San Francisco.
The Walt Disney Company releases 101 Dalmatians.
The Walt Disney Company releases James and the Giant Peach.
The Walt Disney Company releases Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves

14 - a moment to reflect

I'm taking a moment today to not talk about our up coming trip, but to reflect on where I was 8 years ago. Our trip is a great thing, but I want to share where I was, and honor the memories of those we lost, and the families who will not get the chance to enjoy a trip like we are planning.

I was working at a TV station in Harrisburg in the creative services department. I was someone who wrote and produced commercials and news promotional spots.

When the first plane hit, the newsroom was a buzz about this unbelievable event and talk grew of a small plane missing it's mark and hitting the tall building. As more non news personnel flooded into the news room to see video of what happened, me included, we watched in horror as the second plane hit. We then knew this was a tragedy of epic proportions. We stared in utter bewilderment at what we were watching, then, the Pentagon, then, Shanksville, then fear.

The head of my department asked us to grab a camera ans help the news department cover the story. I was assigned to go to the local Catholic church to shoot some video. I remember quietly asking the priest to put our microphone on after asking to film. He was very receptive to it, as he felt we all needed to pray. I spent the entire service panning the faces as they wept and prayed for those who had fallen.

I remember how the entire TV station operations were nothing but news for days after that. I remember going home, and getting a call from my Mom as she asked how I was. I just stared at the TV in my apartment, feeling helpless and alone.

So, let us remember others today. Remember our problems and pain will never match that of those who lost someone in this tragedy.

We Remember

15 - Shirts almost done

Great progress today - I got our Lion King Shirts completed with only the icon shirts remaining.

Also started my packing list, itemizing it so I remember to pack everything.

Got a girl I work with to check on the cats for the week. She came and got the low down today.

My wife keeps working the phone trying to see if we can get into the Wishes Dessert Part and maybe Fantasmic (they added another showing) We will see.

As I continue to say, this is a new trip for us. We will have some things we have done before, some things we won't be able to do, and some new things. I think doing new things will make the trip feel fresher.

We are also planning on making a music video while we are there. We are going to use "Do You Believe In Magic" from Disney's The Game Plan (saw it last night, The Rock is the best)

Well, off to watch the opening of the NFL season with the 6x Champion Steelers (my team)

15 years ago in Disney World history;
The WEDway People Mover in Tomorrowland is renamed Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, an interactive 3-D adventure, opens in Epcot’s Future World, replacing Captain EO.
The Timekeeper opens in Tomorrowland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Innoventions East and West pavilions open in the former Communicore buildings at Epcot.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror makes its debut along Sunset Boulevard at Disney-MGM Studios.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea closes in Fantasyland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge both open at Walt Disney World Resort.
The first annual International Flower & Garden Festival takes place at Epcot.
The Walt Disney World Marathon is run for the first time, drawing approximately 8,200 participants from around the globe.
Holiday IllumiNations premieres at Epcot.
Planet Hollywood, a movie-themed restaurant, opens in front of the entrance to Pleasure Island.
The Kitchen Kabaret closes at Epcot’s Land Pavilion.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Lion King.
The Walt Disney Company releases Angels in the Outfield.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Santa Clause.

16 - PLANNING

With tomorrow being a day off for me, we have some final preps to start.
I am hoping to maybe get the shirts done (hopefully by Sunday the latest)

Also, I think I'm going to get my packing list together. Even though I'm 16 days away, I already have in my mind,"Should I stop wearing anything I plan on bringing?" which is totally insane since, guess what, we will still be doing laundry with in the next 16 days.

It's my little obsessive thing since I want to make sure I have everything.

Which adds to another issue I have, over packing. I over pack, because I like to have choices. If I just pack specifics and I am not in the mood to wear my Incredibles T-Shirt, I want to be able to choose something else. However, with our limit due to suitcase fees, I can not do this, and must wear exactly what I bring. OK

16 years ago is Disney World History;

The ATAS (Academy of Television Arts & Sciences) Hall of Fame Plaza opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
The Hall of Presidents in Liberty Square undergoes a major overhaul that includes the addition of an audio-animatronic Bill Clinton figure and new narration from poet Maya Angelou.
Mission to Mars closes at Tomorrowland at Disney's Magic Kingdom.
The Walt Disney Company releases Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.
The Walt Disney Company releases Cool Runnings.

17 - saving money

My wife - .who with 17 days left is still wheeling and dealing - has save us about $100 on our rental car for out trip - which by the way is a necessity if you are going to do Disney right. A rental car keep you in control of departures and arrivals to the parks. Plus, you do not have to ride with a backed bus of smelly tourists. You can all just live in your own family scent!

As Tigger would say TTFN!

17 years ago in Disney World history:

Splash Mountain, a thrill ride that combines the speed and adventure of a classic flume attraction with state-of-the-art Disney audio-animatronics, opens in Frontierland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid opens in the Animation Courtyard at Disney-MGM Studios.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort both open at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Walt Disney Company releases Aladdin. (MY FAVORITE!)

18 - Can you gain 30 lbs in a week?

I have been dieting for some time now to make sure I am at a comfortable weight for our Disney trip. With Orlando being a hot climate, I like to feel comfortable by wearing XL shirts and any clothing that is loose on me. This way, I will feel cooler.

I learned a lot about this when I made our shirts the first time. That time, I colored the pictures in all the way. That made the shirts even warmer. There is also the fact that at that time, I was a little heavier, and the shirt was tight on me, and we were all uncomfortable. We learned from that, and just outlined them with a little bit of color..

All that being said, I'm down about 30 lbs with 18 days to go and feel comfortable that I will be comfortable on the trip. However, as I have said in previous posts, this is a REAL eating trip with the deluxe dinning plan and all. I wonder will a stride into the Magic Kingdom slimmer and cooler, and then be rolled down the middle of Main Street USA fat and needing 2 airplane seats?

For now, I will just enjoy the food, and get back in the saddle when we return.

18 years ago in Disney World History; The year I was graduated from High School

Jim Henson’s Muppet*Vision 3-D (later known simply as Muppet Vision 3-D) opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort opens at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Main Street Electrical Light Parade is replaced with the SpectroMagic Parade.
The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
The Walt Disney Company releases Beauty and the Beast.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Rocketeer.

19 preparing for flight

After some thought, we decided today that we are going to stay at a hotel close to the airport the night before we leave. We will leave our car there and pay the fee for the week. For an extra $30 dollars (it would cost us about $90 to park at airport economy parking) it is worth the piece of mind.

We did this about 2 years ago, and although the hotel was less than desirable, the convenience was worth it.

Well not much more today - Labor day weekend and I have an early, yet short work day tomorrow.

As for 19 years ago in Disney World history;
Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Walt Disney World Dolphin and Walt Disney World Swan all open at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure opens at Disney-MGM Studios.
Epcot adds a second entrance, the International Gateway, which allows entrance from Disney's Boardwalk.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Rescuers Down Under.

20 - No Fantasmic - but more food

We finally made the decision not to try and see Fantasmic this year. It only shows once while we are there, and we couldn't get a dinner reservation, so it just wasn't going to work
We love the show, but we realize waiting 3 hours for it just isn't worth the time when we could be exploring other places.

I did tape it last year, so it is no big deal. We enjoy it, but this is a trip of change.

We did add another dinner reservation at our hotel - so we continue our great eating adventure!

20 years ago at Disney World it was a big year:
Disney-MGM Studios opens on May 1
Typhoon Lagoon water park opens at Walt Disney World Resort with one of the world’s largest wave pools.
Pleasure Island, an immense entertainment complex with eight eclectic nightclubs, opens its doors at Walt Disney World Resort.
Two new resorts, the Walt Disney World Dolphin and the Walt Disney World Swan, open at Walt Disney World Resort near Epcot.
The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular premieres at Disney-MGM Studios in September
Star Tours makes its debut at Disney-MGM Studios in December.
Tony's Town Square Restaurant opens at Main Street, U.S.A. near the entrance to Disney's Magic Kingdom.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Little Mermaid.
The Walt Disney Company releases Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.

21 Food and Wine

As we close in on 21 days, ironic that I will be talking about beer. My wife was looking up all the good food that will be available during the food and wine festival. There are so many good foods available, not to mention wine and beer.

As she was reading them off, she started talking about how the will have all types of Sam Adams at the festival. I can't wait, I love their seasonal ales.

Anyway - I got the Beauty and the Beast Shirts done - all our enchanted servants are ready to serve.

21 years ago in Disney World's history (A lot of good stuff):
Mickey’s Birthdayland (later known as Mickey’s Toontown Fair) opens at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
The Norway Pavilion opens in the World Showcase at Epcot with specialty shops, eateries, live entertainment and the Maelstrom thrill ride.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Beach Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort both open at Walt Disney World Resort.
IllumiNations premieres at Epcot.
The Walt Disney Company releases Oliver & Company

22 - good packing news

My wife was checking to see what qualifies as a personal item when boarding the plane.
As I talked in earlier posts, we are being charged for our checked bags so we are trying to pack light.

Anyway, thanks to my wife, we learned that we are only being charged $15 for our 1st checked bag rather than $25, so we now are looking at a savings of $20! Also, we think we maybe able to use 2 of our small suitcases as carry-ons if they meet the size requirements, so we are now in better shape!

Here's hoping for more pleasant surprises!

22 years ago in Disney World History

Ground-breaking ceremonies are held for Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.
The Walt Disney Company releases Benji The Hunted.

23 - a mattingly away

What does a Mattingly away mean? It is the number of one of the greatest Yankee first baseman, Don Mattingly. (plus, I'm running out of topics)

So know that the apt is clean and the clothes are sorted, it is going to be so much easier to pack. We know where everything is, and will be able to pack in no time. Is it too early to start?

We are getting so close, I can taste it. (and all the food we will be eating)

Now for Disney World 23 years ago
The Living Seas Pavilion opens in Future World at Epcot.
The Captain EO 3-D film premieres at the Magic Eye Theater in Epcot’s Future World.
Construction begins on Disney-MGM Studios, Walt Disney World’s third theme park.
The Walt Disney Company announces plans for the construction of Pleasure Island.
The Walt Disney Company releases The Great Mouse Detective.

24 - packing list

I have already stated how we are trying to keep our packing to a minimum to save money since the Airline is charging $25 for each checked bag. Well, now that we have all done a thorough cleaning of our closets and drawers, we now must pick what is coming with us.

The given is the shirts I am making (btw - I did not get a chance to make anymore today). We will probably add 2 more shirts, plus a nice shirt for we have dinner reservations at 2 nice restaurants while we are there. This also means, for me at least, pack some khaki's.

Then there are the "necessary" garments and amount. Basically this all hinges on doing some laundry while we are there. Although I will have an issue wearing the same shirt twice, I understand we must do this. Ask my wife, I always over pack shirts, especially when I go to Disney because A.) I have a lot of Disney shirts and B.) Florida is hot and I perspire enough that I want clean shirts.

I will not let this cause any issues and I will abide by these rules. It's all about the fun, not the clothes.

Historical Moment - 24 years ago a licencing agreement was reached with MGM and Disney MGM (now Hollywood) Studios began development. In theatres "The Black Cauldron."

25 - MAEVELous times await

For all the years we have been traveling to Orlando, my wife has always decreed that we would NOT go to Universal Studios. Why? To her, it was the Disney Villain, the Lex Luther, the Joker. As of today, it quite possibly has become the the partner of the the Mouse!

Disney purchase Marvel today for about 4 billion dollars. As you know, Marvel heroes play a big role in the set up of Universal. So the question is - how will this marriage impact both parks?

Will Disney Hollywood studios now become over run with heroes in tights? Will Universal suddenly be over run with rodents, dogs, ducks, and chipmunks!

For me, I've always been a big fan of super heroes and their creators, so I'll be interested in seeing how the two groups will merge. Wouldn't it be great if your park hopper now included Universal!

We shall see.

Now for tonight's historical fact from 25 years ago The Morocco Pavilion opened at Epcot (one of our favorites), Michael Eisner became chairman of Walt Disney Productions, and "Tiger Town" opened in theatres (never heard of it)

26 - finally some shirts completed

I got the ball rolling today and got 3 shirts completed. Our monkey shirts are now drying and ready to go. I had some issues keeping the animals away, and a Food Network Challenge moment transferring one shirt from the table to drying area, but none the less, completed.

I started off with a Terk shirt for my daughter. As I was doing them, my wife decided that I should put the character names on the shirts, and idea originally dismissed. I did my best to incorporate the names into the sketch to add a little flair and it came out pretty cool on the Terk shirt and my wife's Rafiki shirt, but my King Louie shirt, well, couldn't figure out a way to go with it.

I also decided this year to add hidden Mickey's to each shirt. I had fun with this idea, and can't wait to see how I will do it with the next shirts.

I realized I forgot to put my historical moment for day 27 last entry, so I will add it to this one, enjoy!

27 years ago in Disney history - EPCOT opens (our favorite park) and "Tron" is released (and would you believe a sequel is just now in the works!)

26 years ago in Disney history - Journey into imagination opens at EPCOT and "Something Wicked This Way Comes is released

27 - oops, feel alseep

Very tired yesterday, so I missed my blog, but have no fear - double it will be.

Our topic for 27 - how to bring enough for a 10 day vacation for 2 adults and a 9 year old when your airline is charging you $25 per checked luggage.

Right now, we definitely are going to back our carry-ons with as much as we can, keeping them regulation size. Of course part of that comes after last year's incident where we had one of our bag's misplaced. Nothing like watching the Jammin' Jungle Parade and getting a call that your underwear was found!

We have in the past each had a checked bag, a carry one, and a personal item. Now, we are trying to get it down to only 2 checked bags. The idea is to due 2 loads of laundry while we are there. (we have done one in the past, and it actually works out pretty well) The other idea my wife has is to ship most of our toiletries to the hotel ahead of time. Another option is to stop at Wall-Mart or some place like that and purchase the toiletries there, travel size of course, and just leave them.

A worthless idea would be to buy them at the hotel where the prices are high enough to merit just packing another carry-on.

Anyway - with 27 days to go, it is something to think about as we try to build up spending money

28 and feeling great

I never thought anything could tear my wife away from the amazing planning of a Disney World Vacation - until a scary looking man came to our house, armed with - a DVR!

Now all she has to do is find out when the travel channel will be airing one of their Disney Vacation spots marathons so she can use her new toy.

I am wondering - can you take your DVR with you on vacation? I'm sure that's what my wife is thinking as well. (the park isn't open all night - gotta watch something in the room once Stacy goes stale.

Anyway - tomorrow it will be business as usual, and there will be more food talk.

Made arrangements for a friend to cat sit for the vacation, while the dog will be staying at a posh kennel (in his little mind)

Fact of the day - 28 years ago "The Devil and Max Devlin" was released starring a famous TV Dad - guess who?

29 - WOW less than a month

So we are now less than a month away from our latest Disney World Adventure, and we are all getting pretty excited.

I also have now decided to add a little tid-bit about what happened the amount of years ago based on how many days we have left. I got the idea from my last post. I hope they will be more exciting.

I did not get to start the shirts today. We had to clean for the cable guy tomorrow to upgrade us. It's almost like the parents or in-laws are coming to visit or something. The good thing is that now we will have the apartment clean for when we go away. We do like to come home to a clean house after a long vacation.

We are staying at Coronado Springs, as I mentioned before, and my wife pointed something out to me that is a plus. I posted earlier about missing the 2 sinks we have had in other rooms, but the trade off is the beds are bigger. Big advantage for us, which will make for a better nights sleep, and with all the food reservations, we are going to need it to rest out bellies.

So, hopefully, I can get some shirts done in the next few days. Maybe I'll post them, but hey, it's still just for my wife. (love you, Honey)

29 years ago at Disney World Big Thunder Mountain Railroad opened and in theatres, "Popeye" starring my favorite, Robin Williams opened.

30 - sorry I'm late

Sorry I'm late - I fell asleep. So I will do 2 posts today. Then again, my wife continues to be my only follower, so it's not like I'm missing anything.

To mark 30 days out until our vacation - I have decided to check out things that happened 30 years ago at Disney World, so here goes.

My wife's and my favorite park began construction in 1979, Epcot. Total cost at the time, $600 million.

The Disney sci-fi hit "The Black Hole" open in theatres. Also in theatres that year "The North Avenue Irregulars" remember that one?

In October of 1979 - Disney World welcomed its 100 millionth guest.

Discovery Island was accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.

Not much else happened that year in the history of the park, but hey, it's OK, time to make some new history.

Anyway, my wife continues to tweak our dinning reservations. Mexico is out - Germany is in. From tacos to brawts - it's all good!

31 - What to talk about

With 31 days to go - I don't have much to talk about right now. I know I have to try and start the shirts this Thursday - my day off - so I will try.

Getting excited - but is still seems so far away until we leave.

Disney World vacations can be crazy and at time tense - but they can also be magical (except for the the fact that we never got a dream during the 2 times we were there during the year of dreams)

My Honeymoon was there - I rode my first rides with my step-daughter there - I got my picture taken with the Genie there (and even better, when my step-daughter was little, she was afraid of the Genie, but toughed it out and got her picture taken with him for me - I will always remember that.)

Not every dream may come true in Disney World - but the dreams that are there - are the memories that will last forever.

32 - The Snack issue

What to do with our snack credits? Our trip co insides with the annual Wine and Food Festival at Epcot. (which we have been to before) We are eating our way through this year's vacation, and are trying to decide the proper way to use our snack credits.

Do we stick to the traditional snacks, Mickey ice cream, soda and water, soft pretzels....or use them for the Festival?

We did try some sampling last year - but we wished we could have done more. It was just that we were so full on other foods, we missed out on so much. But how to resist the Mickey Head? The chocolate, the creamy vanilla ice cream...

OK - solution - DO IT ALL!!!!!!!

Keep up - all my followers - which is my wife.

33 - not much today

Sorry but this will be a quick one. I have an early day for work tomorrow and Yankees/Red Sox on TV (go Yanks)

I'm hoping to do a couple shirts tomorrow after work to get the ball rolling.
Dog's kennel reservation was made yesterday, so he is set while we are away.

My wife is preparing by watching live feeds from Disney on her computer tonight.

Good night all.

34 - looking at our restaurants

Yak and Yeti, Kona Cafe, Hoopy Do Review, Flying Fish, Cap May Cafe, San Angel Inn, Rose and Crown, Tusker House, Chefs De France, Ohana, The Plaza, Narcoossees, Boma - Why did I just randomly list all these restaurants? This is our list of where we will be eating on our great Disney Adventure.

Now we have already experienced the Hoopy De Do Review, Cape May Cafe (but this time it's for breakfast), Tusker House, Chefs De France, and Ohana. Of course, my wife and I went to Chefs De France on our Honeymoon, so this will be the first time for our daughter. I remember when we were there watching the street performers from the window. In fact we have great memories at all these places, so I am looking forward to adding to our memories with these new restaurants.

My wife is looking forward to the cheese plate appetizers at several of these places. So much so that she was getting etiquette questions from other members of the DisBoards (this is a place on the Internet where Disney fans share there experiences and then some.

So now that you know where we are eating, maybe I'll fill you in on menus, but you gotta stay tuned!

35 and paid off

Today, my beautiful and super planning wife paid off our trip - so it is official - Disney we're coming back!

This entire trip is my wife's true passion. Every year she takes great pride in making the plans and saving us money in the process. (you should see the great deal she got us on the Comcast Triple Play) I love that my love loves this. She works at a very stressful job, and she needs this planning to keep her sanity I think. It's her therapy. Most of all, it the end product is great for the whole family.

It seems like I just sit back and let her do it, but I do appreciate the time and effort she puts into every trip. I love how giddy she gets talking about planning each day, making our dinner reservations, and discussing our menu's and what we will eat.

What is my job then? I make and plan the shirts, and try to coax our 9-year old daughter to try out all the rides. (I'll go on any roller coaster, but no spiny rides, sorry Tea Cups - you're my un-ride). Last year I finally got her to go on the Rockin' Roller Coaster, and she loved it. I can't wait to ride it with her again.

Any way, thanks to my wife, my making our trip even more special every year with your intense planning, and love.

We love you

36 - Shirt sketches are complete!

Step one in the Disney Adventure 2009 T-Shirt mission is complete. All sketches are done, now it is time to transfer them to the T-shirts. Unfortunately, instead of 5 sets we decided to only do 4 sets and save the money for extra Disney fun. Thus, the 3 caballeros will not be made.

What do we have? We will have a primate set with King Louie, Rafiki, and Turk. Next, we have our Beauty and the Beast set with Lumiere, Mrs. Potts, and the Dresser (not sure of her name). Then is our Lion King set with Timon, Nala, and Baby Simba. Our Final entry is our traditional ICON shirt. It will be a bright green (know as Dis-Board green) shirt, on it will be an image that looks like a pin lanyard. There will be mock pins of the Disney Icons on it (Tree of Life, Epcot Ball, Sorcerer's Hat, and Cinderella's Castle). At the bottom will be a Mickey head with 2009 in it.

The hard part of the sketches are over. Now I just need to fine the time to complete the 12 shirts in the next 35 days.

Wish me luck! Until next time.

37 - It's all about the food

As we prepare for our latest journey to the Magic Kingdom and it's brother and sister worlds, I have been preparing myself by dieting. (As is my wife) We have been on NutriSystem and we are losing weight. What does all this mean to our trip?

Every discussion we have about our trip revolves around where we are eating! So we are losing the weight to make room for all the glorious, wonderful food we will be eating. Another bonus, it's the wine and food festival at Epcot when we are there. Sweet Oliver, Food Glorious Food!

We have been pre-picking our meals by looking at the menus on line. One thing is for sure, I will be eating as much calamari as is available to me. I can eat anything (well almost anything). Let me say, I am not a huge man, just average, slightly plump, and I love food. We have done the focus on the rides, and shows, and special things, (and still will) but the food is our focus this time.

What I am looking forward to most is our second trip to Hoop De Do Review. Good food and good show, I mean, how much better does it get?

Anyway from buffets, to servers, to Mickey Head Ice Creams, we will be eating out way through the worlds. Stay tuned for more detailed updates on our reservations. Until then, as Julia Child said (and I did just see the movie Julie and Julia) Bon Appetite!

38 to go - with changes ahead

Talking to my wife today she was telling me about the new rooms at Coronado Springs. She brought to my attention that there is only 1 sink in the room. Reminding me of the changes of our trip this time.

Call me crazy, but there was something great about having 2 sinks, one for the girls, and 1 for me. As a vacation, it is nice to seem like I have my own "Man Bathroom." At home, although we have 2 bathrooms, one is our daughter's and the other is ours. That little sink was my vacation man territory, where I kept all my man grooming stuff. (guys call it stuff) Alas, down to one sink, reminding me that isn't about the sink, it's about the Mouse.

Also on this trip, another tradition will probably being go by the wayside, and I am the one who has confessed that maybe we were being told to change.

Every trip, we have had the first seating at Crystal Palace for breakfast. This is by far my favorite table service breakfast, for 1 major reason, BREAKFAST LASAGNA!!!!

What is it? Picture pancakes, pudding, fruit, heck, I couldn't even tell you everything that is in it, but it is FANTASMIC!!! I think it is the first thing I go to when we start. It is so special, it has it's own place away from all the other food. I think it actually has a spotlight on it.

Unfortunately, we were unable to get the early reservation. We did make a reservation just in case, but you need the early one to plan your day properly. Breakfast than rope drop go hand in hand. If you can't manage that, then what's the use.

So 2 changes for this trip. Suck it up, I must, for it is about the adventure!

Time for bed, early wake-up tomorrow.

39 to go

It was a very tiring day at work, so not much got done as far as trip preps. We got a check to put toward our expenses. It's all about saving a little extra cash at this point.

I am off work on Thursday, and I am looking forward to getting the shirts started with my daughter. I think it will be a great Daddy/Baby day as we call it, even though she is 9 going on 16. My wife and I are hoping she never loses the magic of a child as Disney World. It is for all ages, but you know how teenage girls can be. She has asked me to draw the "Wardrobe" from "Beauty and the Beast" for our "Beauty and the Beast" shirts. (She likes to find characters that don't already have shirts - so do I) We will wear them for our dinner in France. I will be Lumiere' and my wife will be Mrs. Potts.

I realize there has been a lot of shirt talk, but this is my blog, and my job for the trip. I also have to remember to make a kennel reservation for the dog! Gotta go!

40 days and counting

After watching the movie "Julie and Julia" I have decided to create a blog. The topic, my Disney Vacation with my family this year. We are exactly 40 days out, so what a perfect time to start the blog.

Here's where we stand. The last 3 trips we have have gone to Disney World, I made T-Shirts with characters on them that all were themed. The first year we took our niece, so we had a total of 4 corresponding shirts. Themes ranged from "Lilo and Stitch" to "Winnie the Pooh" to Minnie and Mickey. I also created shirts with all 4 park icons. (We each wore 1 icon). Since there were only 3 of us the following year, I had to create a shirt with all the icons on 1. Bottom line, the shirts have become my biggest contribution to our trip. I enjoy drawing them, and coming up with our themes each year. Usually the shirts all have to do with some place we have a dinning reservation, too.

As for the rest of the trip, my wife does all the planning, airfare, hotel, dining, she's great with all that planning. (If you need a good planner, she is available.) This year we are staying at Coronado Springs. Our favorite has been Port Orleans French Quarter.

This all started with our honeymoon. (well, started for us as a family that is) We have gone every year since, my wife has sometimes gone twice in a year. It is our family tradition, and it is a great vacation. My wife uses a planning website to help guides us each day, and I got to tell you, it has been spot on each time we have used it.

So this is where we are as we count down. What will you see in this blog? I will be giving an update on how the shirts are coming, let you know about our dinning reservations, and share some past Disney stories with you. We are just a regular family who loves Disney and loves planning and taking a trip to Disney World. Hope you enjoy it as we get closer to a week of sanity.

Stay tuned!