Okay, officially, the planning started when we booked the airline tickets and hotel. I've also been reading the 2008 version of the Disneyland Encyclopedia. (Our library doesn't have the 2012.) Very interesting stuff that has me posing questions to the forum. Amazon.com: The Disneyland Encyclopedia: The Unofficial, Unauthorized, and Unprecedented History of Every Land, Attraction, Restaurant, Shop, and Event in the Original Magic Kingdom (9781595800336): Chris Strodder: Books
I just bought The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland 2013. http://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Gui...nd+guide+books I love Passporter, but wanted a guide book that had Carsland in it. I've gotta wait about 5 weeks for the book to arrive though.

The 17 year old got his iPhone. He's put a couple free DLR apps on there. I basically wanted something that showed the wait times of the rides. I think it's cool to know if it's worth your while to traipse to the otherside of the park. I should have an iPad by November. I plan on taking it with me, but probably not into the park. I don't want it stolen.

The savings (as you can see by the bar on my signature when I post) is almost at 60% of what I figured we needed to take the vacation. We saved 67% on our airfare using aeroplan points or miles or whatever they are called. 67%! Granted, it isn't where we wanted to fly in/out of, but can't beat the savings! Our rental car was also purchased with points/miles. So far, that has cost nothin'. The price of the guide book will come out of the savings as will the hotel, once my mom figures out how much we owe for our share. Though, I have a feeling she'll treat us on that, especially if my sister's kids come along.

So, that's another part of this. My sister recently moved to Las Vegas and is going thru a nasty divorce that has divided the kids between her and her estrange husband. I haven't brought the idea up of her going to DLR with us because she has enough on her plate at the moment. Not sure if she'll be able to come because of her new job, but maybe my niece and nephews will be able to join us. Currently they are are 8, 6 & 3 years old. Might be a handful, but it would be enjoyable as my son is also 6.

Last night I mentioned to my husband that this time around I want to break out of our mold and try some new things. Such as eating at Goofy's Kitchen and getting the family to try a new ride, like Innoventions. We always walk right past that exhibit.

I think that's it for the planning blog for now.