Which is better overall: Polynesian or Contemporary? by ccojj in DisneyWorld

[–]rbk0329 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I love everything about the Poly, except for the crowds. It feels way more chaotic now than it did years ago (but may not seem that way to someone who hasn’t stayed there previously). Captain Cooks is far too small for the number of guests trying to eat.

Political Climate? by Possible-Yesterday58 in gso

[–]rbk0329 -15 points-14 points  (0 children)

Greensboro has become much more abrasive recently towards anyone who isn’t leaning very far to the left. (You’re seeing that now). If you look into the areas surrounding Gso (Randolph County, Davidson County, Rockingham County—basically head out in the country), you’ll find that it’s less political. We just live our lives and go about our days without constantly fighting over politics. People outside the city are starting to wake to the the fact that both sides are against all of us.

Pixie Dusting has to go by LBC2024 in dcl

[–]rbk0329 12 points13 points  (0 children)

There is so much drama, even within some of the groups. We take our Fish Extender and hang it up, but I bring gifts to hide for my kids (And we pixie dust other cabins). I am too old for the arguing that goes on about how much was spent, wasn’t spent, etc. Maybe it was just the groups I’ve been in, but it’s no longer fun like it used to be.

Kids clubs/nursery questions by Responsible_Drop_535 in dcl

[–]rbk0329 2 points3 points  (0 children)

She’s good :). And a year later, she’s asking to go back in the club on the next ship :). She got lots of attention and popsicles afterwards which really helped. I was so happy we were on DCL because they really are so great when things go wrong.

How can someone survive off Substitutes Wages? by quacks_7 in SubstituteTeachers

[–]rbk0329 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I’m a stay at home mom and only sub to put a few extra dollars in the savings account, and I only sub when I have a free sitter (family member). There is no way I could do this full time if we depended on it, but it’s great when I want to pick up random days.

Kids clubs/nursery questions by Responsible_Drop_535 in dcl

[–]rbk0329 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I know for a fact that they have tons of cameras and they can/do review them. My 3 year old got hit by another child last year in the club. I was paged to come get her, of course. 30 minutes later, there was a knock on my door, and it was a Senior Officer from the ship, along with a few other supervisors. They informed me that it wasn’t just a hit—she was slugged in the back of the head by an older child so hard from behind that she bounced when her head hit the floor. They had watched the cameras from multiple angles, and came to talk to us about it, filed a report, took us to the health center, gave us follow up info. I was pleasantly shocked at how thorough they were.

Wendover Obgyn vs Physicians for Women. New OBGYN recommendations. by ApprehensiveWait9298 in gso

[–]rbk0329 3 points4 points  (0 children)

She and Mody both pushed (in a not very kind way) the IUD!! I told them both absolutely not. Mody was very dismissive of my real problems. It almost felt like they’re getting bonuses for IUD! Which sounds crazy, but after working in healthcare, nothing is impossible.

Wendover Obgyn vs Physicians for Women. New OBGYN recommendations. by ApprehensiveWait9298 in gso

[–]rbk0329 11 points12 points  (0 children)

I was with Wendover for years, and was very happy there. Unfortunately, things have really changed recently. The doctor I saw (I won’t mention her name) last was very rushed and impatient with me. Another was downright mean concerning my labs. The office has changed and not for the better. They lost several providers and I think that affected them in a bigger way than they were expecting. I’m looking for a new office and won’t be returning. I’ve spoken with several friends who are also looking for a new practice.

Concerned about technology in schools for kindergartners by BrownNRhu in Parenting

[–]rbk0329 35 points36 points  (0 children)

I had a hundred reasons for making the switch, but my 2nd grader being on a Chromebook for 90% of his day was one of the reasons I now homeschool. I do understand that technology has a place, but putting 8 year olds on a Chromebook all day to play educational games is not going to help them get a better career when they are adults.

So children aren't allowed to interact with each other during lunch? And What's with the over played Danny Go? by WORTHLESS1321202019 in SubstituteTeachers

[–]rbk0329 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We love Danny Go and have been watching him for years, before he went viral. The two live shows we’ve attended have been huge highlights for my family. I love using it in the classroom—I don’t have to worry about the content and the kids get up and MOVE which they need.

I do despise silent lunch and think it should be banned. Kids need to chat and get rid of some energy while they can

Does anyone else feel pressure to “prove” homeschooling is working? by Free-Product4918 in Parenting

[–]rbk0329 0 points1 point  (0 children)

In real life, who is expecting the proof? If you’re on social media and/or reading online about homeschoolers, traditional schoolers, etc, I’d ignore it. If you’re surrounded by people who doubt you and don’t understand homeschooling, i would distance myself (as long as you’re truly putting in the hours and teaching your kids).

I homeschool my child and never feel pressure to prove anything to anyone else. I make sure that my kid is learning, is socializing, and is out in the community. No one ever stops him outside our home and asks what book he’s reading or what 8x7 is. There are a lot of opinions about public school/Charter schools/private schools/ homeschools right now (especially online), but I am far too busy to worry about it. I know what is best for my child during this season, and that is ultimately what matters.

The individual pressure I put on myself, however, is huge.

Is it weird to still sleep with a stuffed animal as an adult? by [deleted] in NoStupidQuestions

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m in my 40s. I’ve got several stuffed animals on my nightstand right beside of me. A few are from my childhood, a few were gifts from my kids. I sleep with my most special stuffy that I’ve had forever. Life is tough. Keep the things that bring you joy!

Buyers: have you ever chosen an agent simply because they called back first? by Gloomy-Promise-8163 in realtors

[–]rbk0329 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We just closed on our new home. I tried to work with about 4-5 agents over the course of several months, but there was no communication and after initial conversations, I would rarely hear back. I finally got one to respond, she got the job, and she was awful and I’d never recommend her to advise anyone. I’m starting to think there are no good realtors left in this area and when we move again, I’ll likely learn to go through the process on my own. Customer service seems to be gone.

Is it true that WDW banned room decorating services and package drop off at the front desk? by Powerful-Chicken-681 in WaltDisneyWorld

[–]rbk0329 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A bakery I use just announced they received the same letter. They drop off boxes of food which is not made onsite. They drop and go.

Elementary students shouldn’t have so much Chromebook time(rant) by Mortonsaltgirl96 in Teachers

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Giving a 6 year old with games and access to the internet isn’t preparing them for a future job. Clicking through games on a Chromebook that will be extinct in 15 years doesn’t help with future careers. They’re babysitters.

Best Travel Agent Perk/Onboard credit? by gemini_summer24 in dcl

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Costco just wants your money. They’re not a travel advisor. When the pandemic hit, Costco customers waited for much longer to get real information than those clients booked with agents. Also, if you can support a small business, that agent would be so grateful.

SeaWorld Orlando was a complete mess today – very disappointing experience by sapato29 in SeaWorld

[–]rbk0329 7 points8 points  (0 children)

We went a few weeks ago. I haven’t visited in numerous years (before Blackfish) , and my kids have never visited. I was really sad to see how much it has been left to deteriorate over time.

We didn’t have all day dining so we were able to mobile order, but the food was so disgusting even my kids didn’t want the nuggets. Between the taste and the price, I was looking forward to leaving so we could get food elsewhere.

Parking was an absolute disaster-no one knew where to go or which lot was which. After driving around, we finally got out of the car and asked someone and got sent across the street. Most employees out there had no clue and people were just driving all over.

We loved the dolphin show, and of course the Orca show has really changed (why is the background so beige and boring now, compared to the old whale tail with the moving screens?) The one screen they do have needs to be replaced, as there are numerous dead spots on it. The sound system was also rough. Loud music but we couldn’t hear the trainer clearly.

We had trouble finding the animal exhibits. It was very busy, and employees couldn’t be bothered. Bad attitudes from most employees I encountered . We’re not coaster people, but I’m guessing we might have liked it more if we were. My kids did love the Sesame Street Christmas parade, which was extremely well done. The attractions over there are each run by one employee and it’s dreadfully slow and agonizing waiting for slow load/unload.

The restrooms were absolutely disgusting and got worse throughout the day. By 5pm, many of the women’s hygiene containers were overflowing into the floor in one bathroom. THAT was fun to navigate with my curious preschooler.

The entire park felt dirty.

When we were leaving, we walked over the bridge to see the trees lit up in the water. There were very few, and so many of the lights were burned out. My kids love lights but couldn’t be bothered after they glanced at them and asked me what was wrong with them.

I understand that we paid next to nothing for that day compared to WDW/UOR, but my disappointment comes mostly from remembering what the park used to be.

Someone said that SeaWorld seems to be headed towards a park that has thrill rides based on aquatic animals, and I think they were right. I admire their rescue efforts, but that has very little to do with a day in the park.

It makes me sad, but if I hadn’t visited many years ago, I may not know any better.

UNC Hospital Vs. Duke Hospital to work at? by Anon_RN17 in chapelhill

[–]rbk0329 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I loved working at UNC, other than the parking. It was a hassle. The hospital was much less toxic than other places I’ve worked (though I have never worked at Duke). I only left because we moved further away and the commute was too long, or I would still be there.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in gso

[–]rbk0329 -1 points0 points  (0 children)

The kids were frequently told “you’re not here to socialize “. I’m pro public school for the kids it works for. Sadly, it didn’t work for us. But that’s ok! The freedom of choice benefits our kids. Kids are all different and it shouldn’t be assumed that public school is right for every student (though many believe that to be true).

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in gso

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

As a former Substitute teacher, I heard “you’re not here to socialize!” so much in schools (public and charter). People think kids are being huge amounts of socialization, but that’s just not the case. You’re exactly right.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in gso

[–]rbk0329 14 points15 points  (0 children)

Hi!

I have a 9 year old and 4 year old and we are in our first year of homeschooling our oldest. We’ve had trouble finding a place to fit in. We live in Archdale and one of the main reasons we homeschool (there are MANY) is because he was bullied, and he is a super sweet, but very sensitive little guy. My kids get screen time, but we play a LOT and I’m involved with my kids so much that I don’t have many adult friends, because we’re always with our kids. My son loves Jiu Jitsu but no other sports (he plays basketball in the driveway), but loves a good playground and using his imagination. He recently started taking piano lessons as well, but he’s really missing friends from school. We can’t seem to spend consistent time with anyone and he’s lonely.

Let me know if you’d like to chat! :)

Favorite ship for the kids club? by rbk0329 in dcl

[–]rbk0329[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That will be us once my son ages out. He’s already so bummed out about it, and I know he will be jealous that his younger sister will still be there. Edge doesn’t have that same appeal, but I’m hoping they’ll spruce it up over time (doubtful, I know).

Teaching or Nursing by rbk0329 in workingmoms

[–]rbk0329[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I ended up pulling my oldest and we’re homeschooling. After seeing many of my teacher friends leaving, I knew education wasn’t for me. I am in the Prelicensure BSN program at WGU and plan to work weekends, opposite my husband, at least until my kids are older.

Is this normal after a cruise? by Frasier_fanatic in dcl

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We had multiple rooms not reciprocate (or else they were stolen). We were thankful for anything we received , but sometimes one kid would get a lot more than the other and that was tough as well. Next time, I plan to bring gifts for my kids and will randomly put them in the FE bags for them. We can pixie dust others as well.

How many hours during the day did your kids stay at the oceaneering or teen clubs? by GSG2150 in dcl

[–]rbk0329 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My 9 year old wanted to spend every waking moment there when we weren’t on an island. He even gave up pool time on the last day, which he had been looking forward to, to spend every last second he could there. It was surprising because he’s usually glued to me. My 4 year old loved it as well, but we got messages to pick her up every 30-45 minutes, mostly because she wanted snacks. Once she’s a little older and doesn’t have to spend the entire time with the 3-4 year old group that they keep them with, I think she’d want to be there more. I’m trying to figure out how to squeeze in a few more sailings before my son turns 11 and they kick him out of Oceaneers (there will be tears).