Somebody's Gonna Pee in a Cup, West Coast - Link to new TR 1/21

[Steppesister]

When you pass "Go", pay your $200 and collect your meds. Or go directly to worse back pain jail. Your choices are rather limited here. Well, you could throw in a chiropractor visit, but if it's either a strain or a disk issue, they can't fix those. So I wouldn't bother.

I grew up in So. Cal. Just a heads up about the zoo.... I wouldn't recommend it with little ones. It is a VERY hilly zoo and with only one stroller, you're asking for (more) backbreaking work. I mean laundry, holy cow, haven't already overdone it!? Seriously though, it'd be tough with small kids.

Ok, I've already neglected studying WAY too long tonight. Carry on.

 

[RGirl]

Hi Andy. I’m so very sorry that everyone has been so sick but glad to hear that they all seem to be recovering. Oh no to your back!!!! And right before your trip! I sure hope it improves quickly. I REALLY want you to love Disneyland.

I’m sure this has been answered, but since we are now official DLR vets, here goes: one park (either DL or DCA) will have EMH each day, and you will be able to go each day. This time of year, the parks open late, so it is not a trial at all to get up and make the most of the EMH time. You can get a TON done. Your hotel will have the EMH parks for “today" and “tomorrow" posted in various places.

Haven’t been to the SD zoo in a million years although I think it's great. I wouldn’t spend the time going there though - use your time at DLR. Although it is smaller geographically than WDW, there is so much to do there - you will want all the time you can get.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

In not so good news... I'm in some pain. We were actually packing some things for our California trip on New Year's Day. And I hurt my back folding laundry. That's right... I hurt myself folding laundry. I leaned across the bed to toss a sock in a laundry basket and I couldn't stand back up. Any chance I'll get out of having to help with laundry in the future?

Saving the above for future reference in the DIS Dads club. Welcome to old age!

Yeah, I didn't think so either.

Anyway, I hope you can get healed up before you leave.

1. Is the San Diego zoo worth it? We considered going to the zoo when we arrive on Saturday, but I looked at their website and saw the prices. I was in shock. I mean, I've heard great things about it, but if we were just planning to spend 3 or 4 hours there, is it worth it???

I have never been there, but I do know an alternative. The San Diego Zoo also has a "Safari Park" outside the city of Escondido. My daughter and wife visited there and thought it was pretty cool. You might need to ask the SoCal residents here if it's worth your time and money, but it's also closer to the Anaheim area.

http://sdzsafaripark.org/

2. EMH... I've read about the MM and EMH stuff at Disneyland and I've got myself confused. Since I'm staying on Disney property I will have EMH as I understand it. Now, unlike the MM for the 3 day ticket which is good for one morning only, EMH can be used every day we're there... right???

If the VP is such a VIP, shouldn't we keep the PC on the QT? If it leaks to the VC, he'll end up MIA, and we'll all be put out on KP.

 

[GoofyIsAsGoofyDoes]

I'm just glad that I didn't have to hear "are we there yet" 50 million times.

You might be surprised. Since the advent of all the various electronic nanny devises, that’s becoming a less common utterance.

I've done it in less than 14 hours before. Quite a bit less...

And yet my estimate was closer to the reality.
Consistently averaging 75 or 80 the entire distance is tougher when there are other folks in the vehicle.

I know. It is really a bad habit that I should just give up.

You think?

There is literally no way that could happen to me!

Don’t be so certain.
Someone fell asleep while driving a tandem rig. The mess and ensuing clean up and investigation blocked the entire highway.

I can always count on you.

Just doin’ my part.

First of all, thanks for the concerns about our health. As of right now, both of the kids appear to have recovered and DW and I have avoided catching it. Let's hope it stays this way.

Agreed and good to hear.

In not so good news... I'm in some pain.

Playing pickup basketball again?

And I hurt my back folding laundry.

No wait, I sorry… that’s not funny…
Not…
One… <<snicker>>
Little… <<snort>>
Bit…


Bawwwwwaaahaaahaaaahaaaahaaa!!!!!!!!!

I was diagnosed with "probably just a strain, but if it isn't better next week, give us a call and we'll do an MRI to see if it is a herniated disc."

Well at least you got an authoritative and concise diagnoses.

He asked if I wanted anything stronger than Tylenol for the pain. I'm stupid enough that I actually said no.

Yah… that was probably just a skosh on the less than smart side of the equation.
May want to rectify that one in the near. Back pain will suck the fun out of even a Disney trip

May you heal quickly though

Either that or drink heavily

 

[amazingact21]

I'm sorry to hear about your back. Talk about rotten timing, too. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you start to feel better by your DL trip. With all the walking involved that would make for a tough trip.
It seems you can't catch a break with your once in a lifetime DL visit, though. First, all the attractions and shows seem to be down for refurb. Now, your back is hurting. God willing that's the last of the bad luck.


I don't blame you for only taking one stroller. At Seaworld last month, Landon sat in his stroller a whole 3 times the entire day. And he's only 1, so I can see how your DŚ wouldn't use it much.

And yeah, I'd be nervous putting my City Mini on an airline, too! Those things are as big an investment as cars are.
It's great that there's an umbrella stroller out there designed for taller people. Poor Alex has the same issue as you and feels like he's Quasimodo.

 

[afwdwfan]

I'm so sorry to hear about your pain. That's awful. Have you ever considered seeing a Chiropractor? Or even getting a massage for the area in pain? I know these are "California" trearments, but both work wonders for me. Good idea to take him up on the pain pills. They work wonders for Fran.

I've thought about it. I'm not sure it would help much in my case though. My back muscles don't feel very tight, so I don't think massage would do much. I've been looking into the Chiro option though.

They gave me a steroid and a muscle relaxer, and they seem to be helping. But I think I'm going to see about getting some pain meds phoned into the pharmacy so I have back up.

Never had experiences with kids and strollers so I can't help you there, but smaller and more compact is always better. DL has much smaller passageways than MK or WDW anywhere for that matter. Those double wide strollers take up way too much space and the crowds at DL have been really bad this (well last) year.

It sounds like it will be crowded when we go, as well. I just hope that DS is going to be good with that much walking. I don't normally mind carrying one of them around on my shoulders, but I'm not sure that will be an option.

I can't give you an answer, but I will point you in a direction of where you can read someone else's report and form your own opinion. My good friend PrincessInOz (whom you may or may not have seen around these boards) took a trip to California in October. The first part of the trip began in San Diego County and she went to the zoo. Here is a link to her TR. Keep in mind that the quick link page, has three different trips from 2011, 2012, and 2014, so you have to scroll down fairly far to find the posts on her day at the zoo.

Quick Links on PrincessInOz's TR

Thanks! I'll check it out!

OK, now you've confused me! You have a 3 day ticket right? And you're spending more than 3 nights at the Grand? I believe that just by virtue of you staying at the Grand you have access to MM, whichever park it is at regardless of your ticket.

I'm glad I'm not the only one confused!!! Yes, we have a 3 day ticket. And my understanding is that a 3 day ticket gets you 1 day MM, regardless of where you stay. On the other hand, it looks like they offer EMH for guests at Disney resorts. I think this EMH can be used every morning of the trip, but I've never found anything solid that spells it out in no uncertain terms. This is just what I've gathered by reading bits and pieces here and there.

I have an AP, and rarely do we get out there in time for MM unless we're using points to stay on property, so I'm not as familiar with it, but hotel guests have access. Some people check in at 7AM knowing the room won't be ready, but so that they can show their keys and get into the park for MM.

Ok, so I think that kind of goes along with my assumptions...

Ouch! I agree with Alison...get thee to a chiro and/or acupuncture. Worth every penny! The chiro got me back on my feet super fast after my car accident. I could barely move from the whiplash.

I'm going to look into it. Not sure if I'll be able to do anything before this weekend though. The meds I got yesterday have helped some...

I would skip the zoo if you only have 3-4 hours. Its huge and its all hills. I think its too expensive for a short time.

Thanks. I don't know what we'll do, probably just wait and see what we're in the mood for after we land. We get into San Diego at around 9, so I guess we could make it a full day there, but I'm just not sure we'll want to.

I believe you get EMH everyday as a resort guest but don't quote me on it.

Jill in CO

Thanks! That's the conclusion I've come to by reading bits and pieces, but I've just not found anything that really spelled it out to me.

I'm glad to hear the kiddies are better and you guys didn't catch it, but ... ouch. I actually winced just reading about your back. Sounds like you're in a lot of pain

Yeah, I have done virtually nothing but lay around the house the past few days.

Take it easy and try not to aggravate your back further. Hopefully you'll be feeling better by Saturday. But yeah, pain meds from the doc might be a good idea ... just in case.

Yeah, the steroid and muscle relaxer are helping. But I think I'm going to see if they can phone in another prescription for me so I have a back up plan.

That Disneyland bag is awesome! Are those your tickets? They're super cute! (Last time we went it was Cars characters on the tickets, but those are cuter).

Yes, those are the tickets!

If I remember correctly, there's less space in a lot of places at Disneyland, so having a smaller stroller will definitely help.

I'm glad we did something right!

I hope your back miraculously recovers soon!

Thanks!

We stayed at the GCH in July- as a resort guest you get the extra hour at one of the parks each day.

Thanks! This confirms what I thought, but it makes me feel better about my planning.

Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday- CA
Tues, Thurs, Sat- DL

if it hasn't changed.

It looks like it has changed. It is listed for Wed & Thur for DCA, and Fri for DL. I'm kind of conflicted, because I want to take advantage of EMH and get a few chances to do RSR, but I also want to hit RD at DL at least one morning. And for EMH on Friday, that means 7am.

Hope your back feels better SOON!

Thanks!

Ugh. Back problems are the worst. The last time I had an issue my doctor prescribed muscle relaxers and naproxen sodium (OTC Aleve). I keep it around for flareups and follow the instructions on the label. Works great.

I've been using the same. I had some prescription naproxen from a past injury, and I'd been taking it all weekend. I can't take it with the steroid they've given me, but the steroid and muscle relaxer seem to be helping at least a little bit.

It's too bad they don't make fold up Sit and Stands. That stroller got me through those years when the older one can walk well but still wants to sit down now and then. Then we moved on to the umbrella stroller - I absolutely loved that thing, I think it was a MacClaren. I actually went through 2 after I ran the first one over with my car. Thank goodness the boys were already strapped into their car seats.

Strollers... what can I say. I love them about as much as I hate them!

If worse comes to worse and the older one needs a stroller you can always rent one. We had to do that for our then 4 year old at HS last year. He was super tired and cranky but didn't want to ride in a stroller because "it's for babies!" Then DH said the best line of the trip: "It's not a stroller, it's a kid car." After that they were both fighting over it.

Yeah, I've considered that as a viable option. I just hope we don't have to. I think the rental would end up costing more than our throwaway stroller we're taking.

Looks like a nice find on the stroller! Seems to have a pretty big sunshade for an umbrella stroller too. And, with your back pain, it may help you out - I'm thinking by pushing it, as a walker of sorts - but if worse comes to worse, maybe you could get a ride? I kid, but DH has a lot of back/hip pain issues and he actually does find that pushing the stroller helps him when it flares up.

That's a good point. I was really impressed with it for as cheap as it was. It seems like it is pretty good quality. I guess we'll find out next week! Especially if I have to start leaning on it to relieve my discomfort.

Glad to hear that the kids are feeling better and you and your wife stayed healthy through things. Just hope you're not in pain by the time you leave.

Me too...

I think I went to the San Diego Zoo like 22 years ago, so I don't remember much - I know I always hear that it's a good zoo. I know some zoos have reciprocity type things for admission, if you have a pass to another zoo - I have no idea if they do there or if you have any other pass, but just throwing it out there. And, if you are still having back pain, that probably makes your decision right there to skip the zoo with all that extra walking.

I've always heard great things about the San Diego zoo. We really thought that would be something we'd definitely want to do while we're there. But when I started looking at their tickets, it would cost us $134 just for admission.

Granted, we'd spend that much and more for a day in a Disney park without flinching, but in this case, we really only wanted a few hours to explore and decompress after the flight. I think we'll just see what the mood is once we land to decide if we want to attempt it.

I haven't looked closely enough at DL to know about the early entry details, but sounds like there are others who know - I'm taking notes too, in case we make it there sometime this year.

Good luck! I've done Disney World so many times that I never even pick up a map, but I can totally see myself being one of those people walking around with their face in a map trying to figure out what to do next when we get to DL. I've been trying to do some research, but I feel like I haven't done nearly enough!

Feel better! (and/or get those painkillers!)

Thank you! And I intend to make a phone call to see about those painkillers.

I am so sorry about your back. I second the suggestion to see a chiropractor. I was terrified to go to one but nothing except painkillers worked to get rid of the pain. One trip there and felt like a million bucks. You may need other adjustments but it should help for the time that your gone.

I'm looking into that option. The muscle relaxer and steroid have helped some. It still hurts, but I've got a little more range of motion today.

I used to live in SoCal (a very, very long time ago) and at the time San Diego zoo was one of the best and definitely worth it if you can. Its not many places you can see a Panda but I am biased their my favorite animal.

Cool! Good point about the panda. I think we'll just wait and see if we want to do it once we land. It isn't that we can't afford it, but I just got sticker shock. We're used to the Indianapolis Zoo, which is a very nice zoo in it's own right, but we can all go there for less than the cost of one adult ticket at San Diego.

 

[afwdwfan]

I'm so glad the kids are better and that you and DW haven't caught their illness and hope it stays that way.

Thanks!

Andy, I'm so sorry to hear about your back. I would try a chiropractor as well and definitely get those pain pills.

I'm looking into the chiro option and I plan to call and see about pain meds later today. The muscle relaxer and steroid seem to be helping a little bit already.

I would still make you do laundry though.

Thanks for the support.

I can't help on the questions about San Diego Zoo and DL as we've never been. I've heard great things about the San Diego Zoo, but if it's only a couple hours, not sure it's worth it.

That's pretty much my mindset at this point. But I'm sure we'll want to do something other than sit in the hotel all day Saturday.

When you pass "Go", pay your $200 and collect your meds. Or go directly to worse back pain jail. Your choices are rather limited here. Well, you could throw in a chiropractor visit, but if it's either a strain or a disk issue, they can't fix those. So I wouldn't bother.

Yeah, I'm going to call and see about getting a prescription. I just don't like relying on pain meds. But the more I think about it, if it means being able to walk around Disneyland or slowly limp around the park, it will be worth it! The steroid and muscle relaxer have helped some already. Pain hasn't diminished, but I'm getting a little bit more range of motion.

I grew up in So. Cal. Just a heads up about the zoo.... I wouldn't recommend it with little ones. It is a VERY hilly zoo and with only one stroller, you're asking for (more) backbreaking work. I mean laundry, holy cow, haven't already overdone it!? Seriously though, it'd be tough with small kids.

Thanks for the feedback. That is definitely something we'll have to take into consideration.

Ok, I've already neglected studying WAY too long tonight. Carry on.

Yeah, that is far more important than anything I have to say here. No Dis until your homework is done!!!!

Hi Andy. I’m so very sorry that everyone has been so sick but glad to hear that they all seem to be recovering. Oh no to your back!!!! And right before your trip! I sure hope it improves quickly. I REALLY want you to love Disneyland.

I'm going to love Disneyland. One way or another, it will not ruin Disneyland for me!!!!

I’m sure this has been answered, but since we are now official DLR vets, here goes: one park (either DL or DCA) will have EMH each day, and you will be able to go each day. This time of year, the parks open late, so it is not a trial at all to get up and make the most of the EMH time. You can get a TON done. Your hotel will have the EMH parks for “today" and “tomorrow" posted in various places.

Thanks for the confirmation. I'd kind of assumed that by things I've read, but I hadn't found it spelled out with that kind of clarity.

From what I've seen, we'll have EMH at DCA at 8am Wed & Thur and then 7am at DL on Fri. I'm trying to decide what to do. I'd love to be able to hit RSR a couple of times early in the morning. But I also want to hit a RD at DL... and I'm not sure we'll make it for 7am... even if we are on west coast time.

Haven’t been to the SD zoo in a million years although I think it's great. I wouldn’t spend the time going there though - use your time at DLR. Although it is smaller geographically than WDW, there is so much to do there - you will want all the time you can get.

Well, this would be on the Saturday when we land. My conference doesn't have anything that I need to attend until Sunday morning, so we're just looking for something to do in San Diego for a few hours after we land at 9am, before we head to the hotel.

Saving the above for future reference in the DIS Dads club. Welcome to old age!

I wouldn't expect anything less.

Yeah, I didn't think so either.

I've tried. It never works.

Anyway, I hope you can get healed up before you leave.

Thanks. Me too!

I have never been there, but I do know an alternative. The San Diego Zoo also has a "Safari Park" outside the city of Escondido. My daughter and wife visited there and thought it was pretty cool. You might need to ask the SoCal residents here if it's worth your time and money, but it's also closer to the Anaheim area.

http://sdzsafaripark.org/

Thanks... I did see something about a multi day ticket that included that. I didn't know what in the heck it was though, and I didn't really investigate much. I'll check it out.

If the VP is such a VIP, shouldn't we keep the PC on the QT? If it leaks to the VC, he'll end up MIA, and we'll all be put out on KP.

Sorry. This DL stuff has me all confused. Seriously... 2 different acronyms for basically the same thing. What is this, the government?

You might be surprised. Since the advent of all the various electronic nanny devises, that’s becoming a less common utterance.

Good point. I can't quite remember how I was able to handle those car rides without hand held video games and DVD players in the car.

I mean I guess I had a Gameboy for a few of the trips in the 90's, but not my first few trips.

And yet my estimate was closer to the reality.
Consistently averaging 75 or 80 the entire distance is tougher when there are other folks in the vehicle.

You think?

Don’t be so certain.
Someone fell asleep while driving a tandem rig. The mess and ensuing clean up and investigation blocked the entire highway.

Here's the thing though. I'm on backroads until I leave the county. And there's always another backroad you can use to detour around an accident. So while a minor delay could be caused, it is impossible to be that long.

Agreed and good to hear.

Thanks

Playing pickup basketball again?

Haven't played any this year yet. I was going to play Sunday, but well...

No wait, I sorry… that’s not funny…
Not…
One… <<snicker>>
Little… <<snort>>
Bit…


Bawwwwwaaahaaahaaaahaaaahaaa!!!!!!!!!

Well at least you got an authoritative and concise diagnoses.

More or less. But mostly less.

Yah… that was probably just a skosh on the less than smart side of the equation.
May want to rectify that one in the near. Back pain will suck the fun out of even a Disney trip

The steroids and muscle relaxers are helping. First time that I can recall ever having steroids prescribed. I can kind of see Jose Canseco's side of things now..

I've got a call in with the Dr. to see about getting something a bit stronger than Tylenol. Sitting at my desk at work is about as uncomfortable as I've been.

May you heal quickly though

Either that or drink heavily

Yes and yes!

I'm sorry to hear about your back. Talk about rotten timing, too. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you start to feel better by your DL trip. With all the walking involved that would make for a tough trip.
It seems you can't catch a break with your once in a lifetime DL visit, though. First, all the attractions and shows seem to be down for refurb. Now, your back is hurting. God willing that's the last of the bad luck.

I sure hope so. And I hope this isn't a once in a lifetime, but who knows? I know it is much more affordable for us to head south as opposed to west so I don't see many opportunities like this one coming our way. I really hope it improves by then, but I won't let it ruin things regardless. I'm too darn stubborn to let some back pain dictate things!

I don't blame you for only taking one stroller. At Seaworld last month, Landon sat in his stroller a whole 3 times the entire day. And he's only 1, so I can see how your DŚ wouldn't use it much.

They were good about it at Disney World. We made it clear that they had to ride certain times if we were going a long distance, but we'd park it in Fantasyland and then walk around that area. Both of them actually did quite well in the stroller and when they were tired, they wanted to be in it. So I hope we can make it work with just the one.

And yeah, I'd be nervous putting my City Mini on an airline, too! Those things are as big an investment as cars are.
It's great that there's an umbrella stroller out there designed for taller people. Poor Alex has the same issue as you and feels like he's Quasimodo.

Yeah, I just didn't want to take any chances with our nice stroller getting damaged and I don't know what kind of rental car we'll end up with and those things take some serious cargo space.
I think we've found a winner for the cheap umbrella stroller category. I'll let you know what I think after we put it through its paces.

 

[pkondz]

As of right now, both of the kids appear to have recovered and DW and I have avoided catching it. Let's hope it stays this way.

That's great news!

In not so good news...

uh, oh

I'm in some pain. We were actually packing some things for our California trip on New Year's Day. And I hurt my back folding laundry.

Been there. Not laundry, but stuff that's equally (supposedly) benign.

Any chance I'll get out of having to help with laundry in the future?

Yeah, I didn't think so either.

He asked if I wanted anything stronger than Tylenol for the pain. I'm stupid enough that I actually said no.

I'm walking like I've got something shoved you know where.

In the sock drawer?
The dishwasher?
The pantry?

Where????

My left hip is starting to hurt, I assume from compensating for the altered range of motion caused by my back.

Yeah, probably.
I hurt my back (again) about a week ago. The pain was in the spine, but moved over to the left side due (I think) to compensating.

We apparently received an insulated Disneyland tote for booking with our Disney Visa Rewards card. I didn't know they did that, so it was a nice surprise when it came in the mail.

There's just something about getting a package in the mail, isn't there?
And to have that package be Disney stuff, well....

Instead, DW found a Kolcraft umbrella stroller on Amazon for less than $30.

Good idea. Is $30 a considerable saving?

1. Is the San Diego zoo worth it? We considered going to the zoo when we arrive on Saturday, but I looked at their website and saw the prices. I was in shock. I mean, I've heard great things about it, but if we were just planning to spend 3 or 4 hours there, is it worth it???

I can't help you, but even I've heard of the San Diego Zoo.
But as to it being worth it... Will you get another chance? Do you and or your family like zoos? If you spend the money will you be kicking yourself, or will you be kicking yourself if you don't spend the money and don't go?

Ok, I will work on trying to get the next real update ready. Thanks!

Looking forward to it!

 

[franandaj]

I saw your comment about wanting to kill some time after landing by going to the zoo. If that's the case, there are plenty of other places that at much cheaper and less hills. Also the safari park is at least an hour from Downtown San Diego and probably as expensive.

Some suggestions would be:

Old Town San Diego - There are lots of great Mexican restaurants, shopping, Historical Tours, Museums and other interesting sites. There is also a Haunted House.

Seaport Village - Again restaurants and shopping, but it's on the waterfront and they have a vintage carousel and other entertainment depending on what day you visit.

Balboa Park - There is much more to Balboa park then the zoo. Your kids probably aren't so into the museums, but there are unique gardens and play areas where you could tire them out so that they're ready to nap when your room is ready.

Just a few less expensive alternatives to the zoo. I've heard also that the zoo is not as cutting edge as it was 20-30 years ago. Many newer zoos have surpassed it with their cage free habitats and other more modern displays.

 

[that's nice]

Caught up!

Hope the kids are doing better and you figured out a solution to your back issues. I messed mine up bad one time from sneezing while I had my head turned.

Nice job packing the rig... imagine if you had to pay for all those bags?

I pull 'time games' with my family. I always tell my dad to be at my house 45 minted before I want him here. And we tell Melody's grandfather 30 minutes late.

Glad your drive was mostly uneventful.

I cannot believe someone was stopped on World Drive taking a picture. Maybe their last wish was to die at WDW.

 

[MEK]

Glad the kids have recovered, but OMG on the back situation.

I do not have back problems, but my younger son has had several bad back moments. Your symptoms sound very similar. The ONLY thing that works for him is Vicodin. He tends to have these back flair ups when he is under stress at school. He has tried industrial strength NSAIDS and muscle relaxants. They don't work. Just a few doses of Vicodin and he is OK again.

I agree that a chiropractor or physical therapy can be very beneficial.

Hope you are feeling better ASAP!

 

[eandesmom]

In not so good news... I'm in some pain. We were actually packing some things for our California trip on New Year's Day. And I hurt my back folding laundry. That's right... I hurt myself folding laundry. I leaned across the bed to toss a sock in a laundry basket and I couldn't stand back up. Any chance I'll get out of having to help with laundry in the future?

Yeah, I didn't think so either.

Anyway, I was feeling better Saturday morning, but by Saturday night, if I sat down, I could barely stand back up. Yesterday was even worse than Saturday. I told DW I would call the Dr. today and see if I can get in. When I woke up it felt better, but I called anyway. It was a good thing, because after sitting at my desk at work for about an hour this morning I was miserable.

I was diagnosed with "probably just a strain, but if it isn't better next week, give us a call and we'll do an MRI to see if it is a herniated disc." He gave me a prescription for a steroid and a muscle relaxer. He asked if I wanted anything stronger than Tylenol for the pain. I'm stupid enough that I actually said no. I figured the other meds would help, and I can deal with the pain since it doesn't keep me awake at night once I get myself in a comfortable position.

Ok here's the thing. All you are doing is treating the symptom with drugs and rest. Chiro and PT can get to the root of the issue and actually get it healed, versus just calmed down. Just my 2 cents but I would really suggest getting in to see someone. I actually see a Chiro that has PT there and also does ART (Active Release Therapy) which has been amazingly helpful. Backs and other parts get tweaked generally because something else is weak. PT can help isolate what that is, give you a HEP plan (home exercise plan) and you can really be on the road to recovery and also know what to do if it flares up again. Even if it is a herniated disk. Which I hope it isn't.

Also....ICE! ICE ICE ICE.

It really does help.

That said, having an RX for something stronger as a back up on the trip is probably wise.

[/CENTER]

1. Is the San Diego zoo worth it? We considered going to the zoo when we arrive on Saturday, but I looked at their website and saw the prices. I was in shock. I mean, I've heard great things about it, but if we were just planning to spend 3 or 4 hours there, is it worth it???

It is great. It is HUGE. It is hilly. Unless your kids are obsessed with zoos, at their age, for 3-4 hours, I'd probably skip it. Jeff and I spent a full day there without kids!

2. EMH... I've read about the MM and EMH stuff at Disneyland and I've got myself confused. Since I'm staying on Disney property I will have EMH as I understand it. Now, unlike the MM for the 3 day ticket which is good for one morning only, EMH can be used every day we're there... right???

Ok, I will work on trying to get the next real update ready. Thanks!

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They are the same thing. Only difference is you get it every day thanks to your resort, whereas a ticket holder like your ticket has to pick just one day to use it and morning only. It's like someone buying a one day EMH pass at WDW. Basically your tickets give you a benefit you don't need as your resort stay trumps it and is better.

 

[Steppesister]

I saw your comment about wanting to kill some time after landing by going to the zoo. If that's the case, there are plenty of other places that at much cheaper and less hills. Also the safari park is at least an hour from Downtown San Diego and probably as expensive.

Some suggestions would be:

Old Town San Diego - There are lots of great Mexican restaurants, shopping, Historical Tours, Museums and other interesting sites. There is also a Haunted House.

Seaport Village - Again restaurants and shopping, but it's on the waterfront and they have a vintage carousel and other entertainment depending on what day you visit.

Balboa Park - There is much more to Balboa park then the zoo. Your kids probably aren't so into the museums, but there are unique gardens and play areas where you could tire them out so that they're ready to nap when your room is ready.

100% agree with the above! Don't know why I didn't think of these suggestions before! Seaport Village is AMAZING! Locals fly kites there of all shapes and colors, I think there is still a pretty nice carousel there, and there's a ton of places to eat. However, hands down our favorite place to eat in SD is called the El Indio on India Str. (yes, the street and name are similar). It's by the airport- nothing fancy, but GREAT food, cheap, and you can sit outside too.

Balboa is perfect for a family. Mini-train museum, free HUGE arboretum, grass to run and play...

Yeah, that is far more important than anything I have to say here. No Dis until your homework is done!!!!

Boy, I sure needed some comic relief today! "You're killin' me Smalls!" Homework done.

 

[afwdwfan]

That's great news!

Definitely

uh, oh

Yeah... not good

Been there. Not laundry, but stuff that's equally (supposedly) benign.

Yeah. Not the first time I've had this happen. Although, typically, it is better within a day or 2. I'm at a week now and still not back to normal.

I've remedied that situation...

In the sock drawer?
The dishwasher?
The pantry?

Where????

We'll just leave that to your own imagination.

Yeah, probably.
I hurt my back (again) about a week ago. The pain was in the spine, but moved over to the left side due (I think) to compensating.

That's the bad thing about back injuries. You use your core to do so many things that you don't realize until you can't.

There's just something about getting a package in the mail, isn't there?
And to have that package be Disney stuff, well....

Always a nice pick me up!

Good idea. Is $30 a considerable saving?

Well, I haven't exactly priced a bunch of umbrella strollers. But I think the little, tiny, cheap ones at Wal Mart are like $25. This one seems to be decent quality. Most good strollers are probably $100 - $150. Our City Mini that I don't want to take on the plane would cost about $400 to replace. So yeah, I guess $30 is a considerable savings.

I can't help you, but even I've heard of the San Diego Zoo.
But as to it being worth it... Will you get another chance? Do you and or your family like zoos? If you spend the money will you be kicking yourself, or will you be kicking yourself if you don't spend the money and don't go?

You're asking all the right questions. And those are what we're trying to answer.

I saw your comment about wanting to kill some time after landing by going to the zoo. If that's the case, there are plenty of other places that at much cheaper and less hills. Also the safari park is at least an hour from Downtown San Diego and probably as expensive.

Some suggestions would be:

Old Town San Diego - There are lots of great Mexican restaurants, shopping, Historical Tours, Museums and other interesting sites. There is also a Haunted House.

Seaport Village - Again restaurants and shopping, but it's on the waterfront and they have a vintage carousel and other entertainment depending on what day you visit.

Balboa Park - There is much more to Balboa park then the zoo. Your kids probably aren't so into the museums, but there are unique gardens and play areas where you could tire them out so that they're ready to nap when your room is ready.

Just a few less expensive alternatives to the zoo. I've heard also that the zoo is not as cutting edge as it was 20-30 years ago. Many newer zoos have surpassed it with their cage free habitats and other more modern displays.

Thanks. I'm looking into these options. I did see something somewhere too, about the USS Midway, and it is close to our hotel. I think DS and I would love that, but I'm not sure about DW.

Hope the kids are doing better and you figured out a solution to your back issues. I messed mine up bad one time from sneezing while I had my head turned.

Yeah, I've had this kind of thing happen to me before. But it has never been anywhere near this bad. Usually I tweak my back, take some advil, go to bed and wake up in the morning feeling fine. I don't like this lingering pain.

Nice job packing the rig... imagine if you had to pay for all those bags?

Yeah, I think I've convinced DW to cut back for our flight to California.

I pull 'time games' with my family. I always tell my dad to be at my house 45 minted before I want him here. And we tell Melody's grandfather 30 minutes late.

I don't think I've got anybody that I have to worry about being too early.

Glad your drive was mostly uneventful.

Always the best kind.

I cannot believe someone was stopped on World Drive taking a picture. Maybe their last wish was to die at WDW.

Well, that wasn't World Drive. That was the arch over by Coronado Springs.

Glad the kids have recovered, but OMG on the back situation.

Thanks... and yeah...

I do not have back problems, but my younger son has had several bad back moments. Your symptoms sound very similar. The ONLY thing that works for him is Vicodin. He tends to have these back flair ups when he is under stress at school. He has tried industrial strength NSAIDS and muscle relaxants. They don't work. Just a few doses of Vicodin and he is OK again.

Well... I will say that right now, I'm not in as much pain as I was earlier this week. I've got more range of motion and can actually walk normally right now. But I'm still hurting. They've given me prescriptions for a steroid, a muscle relaxer and I've since gone back and got a prescription for vicodin. At this point, I can move around and function fine... but it still hurts. I think I'm just numbed up enough that pain is now just discomfort. It gets worse when I sit or stand for a long time. And it takes a bit to loosen up when I start moving. I think as of right now, I will be just fine, but I'm already in the phase of weaning myself from the steroid and I'll be completely off of them by Tuesday, so I'm kind of worried about what will happen then.

I agree that a chiropractor or physical therapy can be very beneficial.

Yeah... I looked into it, but I just never could make it work this week.

Hope you are feeling better ASAP!

Thanks!

Ok here's the thing. All you are doing is treating the symptom with drugs and rest. Chiro and PT can get to the root of the issue and actually get it healed, versus just calmed down. Just my 2 cents but I would really suggest getting in to see someone. I actually see a Chiro that has PT there and also does ART (Active Release Therapy) which has been amazingly helpful. Backs and other parts get tweaked generally because something else is weak. PT can help isolate what that is, give you a HEP plan (home exercise plan) and you can really be on the road to recovery and also know what to do if it flares up again. Even if it is a herniated disk. Which I hope it isn't.

Thanks. I know I need to. But I'm also trying to play the insurance and referral game. Which is becoming a huge PITA these days, but that's neither here nor there. Anyway, I've kind of run out of time to be able to get anything done before the trip, so hopefully I can manage for the short term.

Also....ICE! ICE ICE ICE.

It really does help.

I've been using it. It does help some. Laying down with ice under my back is about as comfortable as I've been.

That said, having an RX for something stronger as a back up on the trip is probably wise.

I did go back in and get a prescription.

It is great. It is HUGE. It is hilly. Unless your kids are obsessed with zoos, at their age, for 3-4 hours, I'd probably skip it. Jeff and I spent a full day there without kids!

Well, they are somewhat obsessed with animals. So I can see them really getting something out of it. I don't like this hilly thing everyone keeps mentioning though.

We're really still on the fence. It is kind of a situation we hate to miss out on it since we'll be right there... I think we'll just see how we feel and what kind of mood everybody is in when we get there Saturday.

They are the same thing. Only difference is you get it every day thanks to your resort, whereas a ticket holder like your ticket has to pick just one day to use it and morning only. It's like someone buying a one day EMH pass at WDW. Basically your tickets give you a benefit you don't need as your resort stay trumps it and is better.

Ok, thank you. This is what I had assumed from reading up on it, but I really wanted to clarify it before I got there.

100% agree with the above! Don't know why I didn't think of these suggestions before! Seaport Village is AMAZING! Locals fly kites there of all shapes and colors, I think there is still a pretty nice carousel there, and there's a ton of places to eat. However, hands down our favorite place to eat in SD is called the El Indio on India Str. (yes, the street and name are similar). It's by the airport- nothing fancy, but GREAT food, cheap, and you can sit outside too.

Balboa is perfect for a family. Mini-train museum, free HUGE arboretum, grass to run and play...

I'm going to spend some time on google today as long as people don't want to try to make me work too much. Thanks for the suggestions.

Boy, I sure needed some comic relief today! "You're killin' me Smalls!" Homework done.

 

[sejnoha]

Lost the title- I am a newbie too and the title cracked me up. My 7 year old actually convinced his brother (5) to do this! I was mortified!

 

[afwdwfan]

Lost the title- I am a newbie too and the title cracked me up. My 7 year old actually convinced his brother (5) to do this! I was mortified!

Well, when you've gotta go, you've gotta go...

I hope I don't disappoint, because nobody in our party actually peed in a cup.

 

[that's nice]

I hope I don't disappoint, because nobody in our party actually peed in a cup.

Wait, what?

This is the only reason I'm reading this report!

 

[afwdwfan]

The Best Little Mermaid Room Ever

First off, thanks for the concerns about the back. As of right now, I'm a little bit better. I have full range of motion back and I can walk as I normally would without being in a lot of pain. But the bad news is, there is still pain. It is just being numbed by the medications and it is more like discomfort now. Today is my last day being on the full strength prednisone. I'm to start taking lighter doses to wean myself off and Tuesday will be my last one. I'm really nervous as to what will happen at that point, because I really feel like it is helping me more than the muscle relaxer. I don't notice too much difference in how things feel when I take one of those.

I still have several doses of the muscle relaxer that will accompany me to California, and I went back and got a prescription for Vicodin. Hopefully they can help me at least get through next week before I can get a chance to go back to the Dr. and get a referral for something more, if necessary.

I'm really feeling old though. I've had back injuries before, but it has always been a case where I'm sore all day, take some Advil before bed and I wake up feeling fine. Having this one still linger a week later is kind of getting me down.


This will be my last update before we leave for California since our flight departs at 5:45 am on Saturday. But as some of you who followed my PTR know, I'll try to pop in once in a while with an offhanded observation or a picture or 2 from our trip. I may not reply to all responses while we're gone, but I'll definitely be reading them.


Now on to the real update:


We arrived at AoA shortly after 2 pm and headed inside to check in. Prior to leaving, I did online check-in for one room, but I left MiL and FiL’s room alone. Mainly because I didn’t have their credit card number handy at the time, but also because I kind of wanted to see who would get checked in first.

We had reserved 2 Little Mermaid rooms. In the requests, we had asked for adjoining rooms, and on my online check-in, I had requested early check-in as a priority as well.

We headed into the building, and I’ll admit. I was blown away. I took a few seconds to take in the details of the sketches on the wall. They really did a great job with this resort.

There was virtually no line to get checked in so we directed MiL to an open check-in line and DW and I headed over to online check-in.

Our CM was named Sharon and she was awesome! She greeted us and asked DD if it was her first trip. She was being shy, but we told Sharon that she’d been there before when she was about 8 months old. Sharon then handed her a rose and gave both kids coloring sheets and crayons.

She did a few things on the computer and then asked me what our plans for the day were.

• Well, we’d like to check in and get settled into our room if possible, and then we’re heading over to the Studios to see the Osborne Lights.
  
  
• Would you be interested in a complementary upgrade? We can put you in a Cars Suite. And I see you have another room attached to your reservation. We can put them right across the hall and both rooms are ready.
  
  
• Yes, that would be awesome!!!!

We had to show her where MiL and FiL were. She walked down to the CM assisting them to get everyone on the same page, and within a matter of minutes, we were checked in and we got the Cars Suite that we really wanted all along. I couldn’t have been happier!

Sharon was really great. And not just because she gave us an amazing upgrade. She made DD’s day by giving her a flower. I couldn’t even begin to estimate how many times I had to smell that thing, but DD was happy. Sharon also was great with DS. She was telling him all about his room and the Cozy Cone pool area and she had him all excited about it. By the time we walked away, DW was wiping a tear away. It really was one of the most special things we’ve ever had happen to us at Disney World.

And the way the night would proceed, we'd come to appreciate that extra bit of magic to start our stay on the right foot even more.

We walked over to Landscape of Flavors to get our refillable mugs and fill them up. DD wasn’t happy because she didn’t get one, so we ended up buying an extra for her. Spoiler alert: Complete waste of money. But at least they love to use them at home, so I guess it is ok.

I told DW that I’d go get the Suburban and head over to park by our building, so they could walk through the courtyard areas and check the place out on their way to the room. Here are some of the pictures she took:

Um… yeah, that’s right. She didn’t. Oh well, here’s a few of the Cars area and our room. At least I was able to get to the room before they did and get a few quick pictures before we trashed the place.

We were located in the Wheel Well Motel building. This was our home for the week:

Lightning and Sally were parked right in front of our building. DD wanted to stop for pictures with them every single time we left the building.

A view of the Cozy Cone pool from our room:

And some random pictures taken while walking around the resort… obviously not all from our arrival afternoon.

I did walk around the resort and explore, but I was carrying a drink and a snack so I didn’t take any pictures. Sorry. Truthfully, we were so in love with the Cars area and what we had to our disposal there, that we didn’t spend much time anywhere else around the resort.

Once we got to our rooms, FiL and I hauled all the luggage in. We had about an hour to get showers and unpack before we headed to the Studios. We had FP+ for the Frozen sing-along that was to start at 4:55. Our FP+ window opened up at 4:25, I think and we were going to meet up at 3:30 to leave. Plenty of time to get there and get into the show...

 

[KatMark]

I remember how much you wanted the Cars suite so I know this was awesome for you. And you can see how excited the kids are standing in front of the car for their pictures. How sweet of the CM to give your DD a flower.

I agree with you...Disney did a GREAT job with this resort.

Here's hoping the back pain is better before you leave for DL.

 

[glennbo123]

"You're killin' me Smalls!"

The Sandlot


Andy, so awesome that you got an upgrade! The Cars area and room look fantastic!