May the waiting force be with us. Keeping a secret may be harder than it appears.

This image is not my own, I do not take credit for it.

Usually by this point in our Disney vacation prep we are busy counting down the days, marking each sleep off on the calendar the moment we wake up.

By this point we are busy trying to figure out what rides we will go, have numerous amounts of discussions about whether we will hit up Star Tours or Buzz first. Little man will be busy planning out who he will ride with – inevitably it will be me, he decides.

But not this trip. He has no idea he is even going.

18 days from now.

So rather my husband and I busy ourselves trying not to think about things, steering him away from thoughts of Disney by counting down our August vacation – which surely feels like eons away to him now. All the while we are busy planning things to make the trip extra special.

Fastpass+ selections have already been picked and our meals have already been booked. No doubt about it the kid for the five days will be spending his time riding and eating at some of his favorite places around the world. And yes, Star Tours is booked, as is Buzz….

We received the Magic Bands a little over a week ago. Pretty sure we looked like complete lunatics opening up the package and examining the colorful bands that are our key to the kingdom so to speak. But this being a complete surprise to little man, trying to sneak in a box with Ms. Incredible on it is not exactly easy when he has super “Disney vision” powers in which he can spot anything Disney related in the house. It currently sits on top of the refrigerator far from sight – at least for the moment. I am looking forward to testing them out for the first time; I hope to have a review when we return in February.

I was able to order him the Star Wars Both Sides of the Force package from Disney Florist. We have used them before, but never for Logan. Considering you only turn 5 once, well a magical vacation he shall have. Though honestly I do not know who will find this cooler, Logan or Daddy. The force will definitely be with the two that is for sure.

18 days.

I am trying to figure out how I will keep this a secret from him. Even as I write I am sure he is going on about how much he misses Disney, how he wonders if Mickey has forgotten about him. Yes, he has asked and is majorly concerned that Mickey will not remember him due to the fact it has been absolutely way too long… I bite thy tongue when it is mentioned. I hide my countdown app, and thank the lord he has yet to master the fine art of reading most of the big words like vacation that is scribbled on our calendar. I smile as he talks about what he is going to ride next time, knowing full well that next time is just about two weeks away.

Now if only I could figure out how to tell him he is going once departure day does get here.

My Disney Parks Moms Panel, the journey comes to an end: for now.

In the end you can blog about it, you can tell yourself no matter what it will be okay.  You can prepare for it with pep talks. You can even encourage others, telling them no matter what you should be proud of yourself for getting this far. But when it comes down to it, when you get that final round 3 email informing you, you are not selected as a member of the 2014 Disney Parks Moms Panel what you aren't prepared for is the wave of emotions that overcomes you.

Or I couldn't.

This past Friday as I watched the minutes on my computer click I sat telling myself all these things. I was proud of myself for getting this far, for making it to the top 40. I said no matter what I will be back should it not be my year, though I kept telling myself not to think about this. Not yet. This could very well be my year. I waited with friends all of whom awaited their own fate. Knowing that there was a good chance some of us would make it, knowing most of us wouldn't. 

Would this, could this be my year?

My answer would come at 4:30 while I was sitting on a crowded bus. We were heading home. My phone buzzed. I didn't want to look at it, I had a funny feeling. But I flipped it over and....

my heart sank. No, this year would not be my year.

It is a hard pill to swallow. You get so close. You tell yourself not to get to far ahead of yourself. Yet you do. Because it's only natural. Because you believe.  I did not expect the emotions that came on so quickly as I sat on that bus. And even if it was dark already I slide my glasses down over my eyes and wiped away the tears that came.  I couldn't explain the complete take over that came so sudden. But it was there. And it was strong. It was a bit of sadness, and disappointment. It was heartbreaking and even a sigh of relief that despite the loss, it was over for another year. All of them mixed into one person all at one time. I immediately started analyzing everything I said and did, wondering and thinking what could I have done better. What can I do better next time? It was these sort of thoughts that ran through my head the entire night. I was so close. Yet at that moment, I felt I was so far away.

And yet?

I read through my Twitter feed as new panelist came on to announce one by one it was their year and despite my sadness, I was thrilled for them. I was excited for them. I danced for them. Because I know they deserved it. Because I know they should be excited and happy and should enjoy the time of their lives. I was in no way mad at them, or disappointed in the judging committee, this includes the wonderful Gary. I believe they made a wonderful decision in choosing their selection for the class of 2014, even if I am bummed that I wasn't in the class.

I was asked shortly after receiving the news if I would do it all over again. There was no hesitation, no reason of a doubt my answer was, and still is yes. Because while it-for the three months-is an emotional roller coaster, it's a thrill ride I want to be a part of.  Because it's Disney, and I still despite everything believe in the magic that a vacation brings. I want to share it. Because as much as it was disapponting to not make the panel this year, next year is a whole new round, a new shot. Maybe next year as I apply for what will be the sixth time.

Well, maybe next year. It will be my year.

And those same panelist, friends that I cheered and danced for this year.

Well maybe they will not only be cheering for me. But maybe, just maybe they will be congratulating me.

The waiting game.

While I wait for any kind of news on the mom panel front, I am trying to busy myself by not thinking about it. As we are approaching two weeks since I hit the submit button rest assured I am pretty much losing this battle. Every time my phone goes off at a new email, I jump. I know nothing has been given away as to when we should 'maybe' expect it but still the temptation is far to great to not believe it could be.

I have done a whole lot of filling in my spare time trying to avoid it so much that here is a list of five things I have being doing a lot of while I wait.

1. Reading

This should not surprise you as I never go anywhere without a book. That is right, never. I have done my fair reading even more these past couple weeks hoping that by entering in to another world that I can forget this one, and the anxiety of the waiting process..so far, it has worked for a few minutes anyhow.

2. Played a lot of solitaire.

I am not a gamer, but I have turned myself into an awesome solitaire player lately. As long as I don't have to think, well then I should be all good. Not sure how it is fitting in with the rest of things but hey I will take the extra little distraction.

3. Watched hockey and playoff baseball

Though now that baseball is over, I suppose this should be changed to only hockey. And considering my life, the fact we are hockey lovers this is not hard at all. But I will add that fight against the Caps/Flyers the other night? Was awesome in allowing me not to think about the awaited news.

4. Made some great parodies

Mainly to the I hope I get it from the Chorus Line soundtrack. Because that's all I have been able to sing so why not change a few words to insert things like moms panel and twitter and what not. It was fun. Though thankfully it was not recorded, because that wouldn't be so much fun. I am sure I could get myself in some sort of trouble by the music biz. Still fun to do non the less.

5. Enjoy time with little man

Who helps to remind me that whether or not I make it through, I will always be the best mommy in the world, and can help plan our vacations down to our favorite place any time I want! As long as he gets to go to that is.

While we wait, there is always a trip to plan.

Image is not my own. I do not take credit for it.

While I wait to hear any sort of news regarding round 3 of the Disney Parks Moms Panel selection I have been attempting to keep my mind off of it. It hasn't worked out well. But of course what better way to not think about it than to plan the next trip  right? Absolutely. Especially with the surprises I have in store for the next go around.

Two years ago when we realized little man was growing up before our eyes, Anderson and I got this plan to celebrate his last birthday before Kindergarten at his favorite place in the world. Like we needed a specific reason to go, because let’s face it, it's his mom's and dad's favorite as well.

Now usually, we try to involve him as much as a 4 year old can be involved in the planning aspects of our trips back ‘home.’ We let him help with which restaurants to choose, where we all want to stay. He even helps pack. And when it comes down to it, he gets just as excited as we are to see those magical numbers inch closer and closer to zero.
But how cool would it be to surprise him? And so with the thought in mind, Anderson and I got to work.  

The plan is simply to build a long weekend-thankfully his birthday actually falls on a weekend-fulfilling a little boys dream, and making it truly all about him. Arriving at the end of January we will be staying at the Beach Club Villas for four fabulous nights. As this is the last DVC resort we have yet to stay at, this was Andy’s and I only contribution to the surprise. The rest is all of his favorites.

Pulling off a surprise for a kid that goes at least once a year may not seem possible, but I assure you it most definitely is. Thanks in part to parents owning a 2nd house in NC, the unexpected trip won't seem so out of place. I am sure he will get the hint when we wake him at oh dark thirty in the morning. Then again, he is up before 6 on a normal basis. So...maybe not?

And even if so, we will have plenty of surprises in store:

Food:

I was able to schedule  some sweet reservations at 'Ohana- that 'special' Logan allergy free dessert says it all. Whispering Canyon-I can't think of a better way to say happy birthday than receiving 5,000 bottles of ketchup, Coral Reef-he is in love with the Seas at Epcot. And then there was the matter of his his actual birthday breakfast. I wanted something special, something I know for a fact he will love. There was no second guessing, the kid loves Chef Mickeys. And thankfully, they had availability. I can't think of a better way to spend a birthday morning than with the fab five themselves! What a party.

Rides:

As this is his show for the five days, no going with what mom and dad want, but rather what he wants. He want to do Star Tours ninety times, so be it! He wants to hop over to do Buzz, well hey that is OK with us too. Ultimately we just want to make the most of the time, and the days because you only turn five once. And let's face it, the whole point is for this weekend to be all about him. So enjoy little man, enjoy.

That being said, if the kid wants to do the Jedi training session and forgo the rides all together, daddy just may be happy with that as well...he has always wanted to have an official Jedi for a son

The birthday surprise.

Photo Credit: Disneyflorist.com

Maybe the trip seems like enough, but then again what is a birthday without a present? Thanks to Disneyflorist.com they came up with the perfect answer a couple of months back. Anyone that knows my son, knows he is a Star Wars fanatic, fanatic may be an underestimate here. But he is.

So in helping someone set up a surprise for their own surprise this past summer I came across the Star Wars gift pack to beat all gift packs, well in the eyes of this Jedi to be.I figured it had to be destiny, since the advertisement even had his name on it.While it may be on the high end price wise, I can't wait to see his reaction to it when it shows up in our room from mousekeeping. Happy Birthday little man, Happy Birthday indeed.

With 95 days until we arrive, things seem to be coming together quite nicely. Other than a few minor things here and there I think the hardest part is hearing him ask every morning how many days til we go-at the moment he thinks its next August-and knowing full well what is in store for him. OK maybe the hardest part is actually going to be keeping it a secret...

60 days to go.

60 days to go.

And we have reached the point where waiting seems to be the hardest thing. So close, and yet so far away. Right around the corner and yet so far out.

We were this close once before. But had to postpone it-thanks a lot hockey-at exactly

60 days to go.

So yes, we were thrilled to wake up this morning and see the number 60 hit up on our countdown calendar. Two months. We can do this...we can, we can we can.

And yet for all the waiting around and the counting down, I know it will be here before we know it. That much I know is true. Before I know it we will be packing our bags and taking off. We are believe it or not flying this go around. Choosing to drive down in August, which will be a much longer trip, and some of it will be to visit family on both sides.

I am trying not to think about the fact that 60 days seems so far away. And failing miserably. Because while I tell myself this, the truth is. It isn't working all I can think about is, vacation. Doesn't help that everyone else I know is on spring break and heading off to the various locations for the week.

Oh yea and did I mention is snowed several inches.
Its the end of March, its not supposed to be snowing. Period.

I am trying to figure out how to make it through the next day, staring at my calender thinking well this time next week we will be so much closer. I get this way on any vacation, Disneyworld, Europe. And hey even to a weekend trip to NYC and Boston-heading there in August for a concert. But with sixty days to go, its kind of hard not to.

Although fit the urge to think about it I must.

Or its going to be a very long two months.

The DVC Decision-Part III

Its been five years since Anderson and I took that plunge into the Disney Vacation Club.  And how do we feel about it? Do we regret buying into it? The answer in short is absolutely not. In fact if you ask us, it has been one of the best decisions we could have ever made. 

Why you ask?

Because it allows the freedom to go where we want. 

And it forces us to actually take a vacation. And before you ask, no its not just at Disney World. Three months after finding out we were expecting little man, we decided to spend some time down in Vero Beach in southern Florida. We were able to use our points to spend a couple of days at Disney's hotel right on their private part of the beach. It was one of the most relaxing  beach getaways I have ever had. And since Anderson is not a beach person, the few days was long enough and perfect for him.  Not a beach fan? They have options for that as well. Though we have yet to take advantage of some of the other options and resorts Disney Vacation Club offers including the cruise line, adventures by Disney and traveling around the world, we one day hope to. The bottom line is there are so many other choices to choose from if we wish.

Because it allows us to take the family. 

After we had our son, my family decided to take a family vacation as the whole clan. My parents, my sisters and my 6 year old nephew along with my own. Anderson and I weren't going to push the thought of Disney on any of them, we were perfectly happy if they wanted to go to the Outer Banks. But it was my dad who actually brought the idea of going up. He wanted to go while they could still enjoy it, while my nephew still believed in the magic. And so for two years we planned, and plotted. And Anderson and I calculated and saved points to share with the family. In the end, we were able to provide the accommodations for everyone at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, savannah view. With a two bedroom and a studio there was plenty of room for everyone. The look on the face of my nephew as he walked in for the first time, was priceless. While it didn't cover all the financials, the fact that we could help cost with that allowed for a little flexibility elsewhere. 

Because it allows us to go when we want.

The reality is, we aren't always able to take big chunks of time off. Anderson's crazy work schedule during the season means we often don't see one another come hockey season. So when there is a break in the schedule, we like to try and get away. Unlike some timeshares I have known we aren't locked into a certain week. If we want to go for a couple of days to celebrate my son's birthday in February, so be it. What about a spring break trip-awesome-in fact I recommend going down during the Flower and Garden festival personally. If we want to go down for a week and a half in July. That's perfect as well. If we want to bank our points to go on a mega trip the year after, we can do that as well. There is no set rule that says we have to vacation this way or that way. We can go for three days or 14. It is all up to us, its how we want to vacation, when we want to vacation...I know it doesn't work for everyone. But its perfect for us.
 

Because  we don't feel rushed.

I know several families that go down and when they return they look at us and think we are nuts. 'Its an exhausting week, I don't think I could do it year after year.' We thought the same thing after our honeymoon, we came back sour, tired and totally exhausted. But when we returned the year after, when we joined the DVC we found that all of a sudden we don't have to see every show, we don't have to ride every ride every year. In fact we don't even have to go to the parks if we don't want to. Some of my best memories have been doing things outside of the parks. We painted pottery with my mom, we have horseback ridden. We have made jewelry. In fact, the simple fact that we know we will be back in a year or less allows us to enjoy the simpler things that Disney has to offer. I know people look at me like I am a crazed person, but really going to Disney now and days is some of the most relaxing and lazy days there is..

Because if that wasn't enough....

The look on his face is...

Maybe we are crazy, and a little insane. I know that going to Disney World every year isn't exactly what everyone decides to do. But every year, when I head down there and am greeted by 'Welcome Home.' I can't help but smile and think yes, for me and the family.
It was right.

Part I

Part II

The DVC Decision-Part II

If you ask me, I am pretty sure by the time we got off the plane the decision on whether or not to join had already been made. Anderson and I had discussed and rediscussed it until it was pretty much dead. We were going to join. Still we toyed around with it, as if we were walking on egg shells. Because even though we both knew we were going to join, at the same time I think there was the unknown, that kind of scared us.

For Anderson, it was more of the thought of vacationing down there just about every other year at least. For myself it was the financials. I was totally happy with the thought of hitting up Florida, and Disney every year. But it was a lot of money to sink into. I do not want to lead on anyone when I say that it is a cheap way of vacationing. Because while yes it will save you money, it will take a couple of years until you actually start seeing that savings taking effect. And if you go in thinking its a free program, and you will automatically start seeing that savings pay off. I think one would actually be quite disappointed.

 Then again, it would pretty much ensure that we would have a vacation to go on from here until whenever. And from where I sat, on the other end of things with a husband who reluctantly went on vacations. Well that deal seemed pretty good.

All we would need to do was crunch a little bit of some numbers. 

Which thanks to my father in law we did within the week.

Now all we had to do was agree. Or rather to come out and say that yes officially.

Still we thought about it. We talked about it. To everyone else, we were crazy. After all, going to Disney every year is not everyone's cup of tea. And to think that it was ours, as mentioned seemed absurd to most. There were several who questioned us. Wouldn't we get old of it? Tired of it? And wasn't it for kids? And since we were two people without kids, what was the point? We did our best to back each question with a response. I tried to remind people that it was no different than buying a beach house, I mean the beach never changes?(I pointed out Disney did from time to time) Do you they get bored of sitting there looking at the same beach every year? Does it ever get old to them? As for the statement of being for kids, well I tend to believe everyone is a kid at heart, and have had more enjoyment out of the parks since becoming an 'adult' than when I was kid. And while we didn't have any kids at the time, one day we would and wouldn't that be something to enjoy with the kids for years to come?

Some got our points. Some didn't
.

And while a few tried to discourage us from joining. Anderson and I in the end decided to not listen to them. It made us happy. And simply when it came down to things, well that is all that matters in the long run...

And so we signed those papers, naming our home resort as Saratoga Springs, had them notarized and sent them off to the good folks at DVC and made it official. We were members.

Welcome Home.

Now the only question that remains is do I still feel the same way five years later?

-Part I.  Part III

The DVC Decision-Part One

Five years ago Anderson and I made our way down to the happiest place in the world on vacation. It was the second time in two years we had done so. The first being on our honeymoon. Yes we had loved it so much we decided to go back down. This gained thousands of questions from family and friends who immediately questioned why were heading back down. After all we had just been. Of course now they merely shrug and bat an eye when we mention this. But back then, believe me this was a foreign thought to most everyone in our little circle.

But that second trip would change everything. You see mid way through our vacation we hopped on one of the many Disney buses that would take us back to the resort, we were tired, exhausted and looking forward to getting back for an evening of relaxation. The bus was unusually empty. The only other passenger's was a family-whom just happened to be from just outside the DC area-they were discussing their next trip down. They were throwing around words like points, and villas and DVC left and right. Now I had heard of DVC, one of my best friends had a mother that was a member. I was lucky enough to stay with them for a couple of days back in the early days. And even if she hadn't how could you have missed the signs around the park. After all they are practically around every corner. But as we listened to them, even Anderson's ears began to perk.

Perhaps I should really blame that bus ride. Because we soon found ourselves talking to that very family, who talked us into at least checking out what DVC had to offer. Because we were young, and we didn't have anything else to do. They sat there telling us of all these great memories with their kids, how they wished they would have done it a lot sooner than they did. And how we would be lucky if we did it sooner than later. They encouraged us to even take a listen to what they offered if nothing more Disney would provide fast passes for our times. Which is what I think sold the husband on the whole willing to listen to the speech.

As the bus pulled into our resort we thanked them and made our way-which was the Wilderness Lodge-and wouldn't you know there in the lobby was the DVC stand. Anderson and I looked at one another. I mean what did we have to lose? Twenty minutes? And so we found ourselves signing up for a session the following day.

In all honesty we were there more for the fast passes. Were we interested in the DVC? Yes but neither of us really knew if we were exactly serious about it. Still we went, we listened and we came with an open ear and mind. While I don't remember specifics about the discussion it has after all been five years. But I remember the guy really getting to know us. And I remember being asked three questions.

1. Are you willing to vacation here at least once every other year? 

2. Are you willing to have a lifetime of memories?

3. Can you afford $$ a month.

We didn't answer these question, only told to think about them and discuss them at home. Which was fabulous since it was a lot to process. I liked the fact it wasn't pushy. I didn't feel like I had to make the decision right then and there. After the discussion we we were told they would have a packet of info waiting for us back at the hotel. He shook my husbands hand and told us not to think to much about it until we got home In fact he didn't want us to make a decision until then. As promised he handed us the fast passes and we were on our way. They even dropped us off at the location of our choice, Epcot. Where we slipped among our fellow vacationers, none of whom knew that we had just learned. 'The Best Kept Secret.'

But like every good secret, would we be able to keep it? And would it be right to do so?

Part II

The 48 hour countdown

Its crunch time.

With less than 48 hours before we land in the most magical place around we found ourselves scrounging last night to make sure we had everything we needed.

Its unbelievable the amount of crap you need to bring. Seriously this was one thing no one prepared me for when we were expecting.

There is the toys, to get him through the sitting around the airport. The several changes of clothes for the airport.

The sippy cups and the extra bowls. And his favorite big Mickey. And just when we think we have everything there always seems to be one more thing to add to the list of necessities.

Just in case.

That isn't counting everything for Andy and I.

Funny, looking back my parents hated packing for vacations. We never took them on a regular basis but when we did it took them at least a week to pack everything. And we never flew. Due in part that the prices were outrageous, but they always claimed it was just easier to drive.

I get why now. Here I am 48 hours away from being in the happiest place on Earth and I am freaking out that I may have missed something. And its not like we will have a car to just drive there to the nearest Wally World to grab something.

Maybe my parents were on to something all those years ago. Really. Maybe they were.

Because I can guarantee you, right up until we take off. I am going to be rethinking everything we packed. And I can guarantee there is going to be at least one thing we will forget.

Though, being at my happy place. I kind of doubt I am going to care to much about it.

Packing 101

I used to be the kind of packer that would throw things together for a trip the night before. OK it was more like the morning of. I mean there were things that I needed, my makeup, my toothbrush I wasn't going to be caught out of the house before I had brushed my teeth.

But of course Logan has changed all this, no more last minute packing. No more putting it off until the morning. Instead I sit here, as I am currently looking at two weeks from vacation officially and I can already feel myself going through a minor panic attack. Two weeks seems as though I have plenty of time, but with a full time job, and an active toddler roaming the house, I assure you these next two weeks aren't nearly enough time.

So here is my handy dandy top four things to pack, reminder to those that may be looking to travel with a toddler.

Medicines-This past March my husband and I went on an adult only trip. We both ended up getting sick. Having no medicine cabinet handy, we marched ourselves down to the resorts store in search of anything that would relieve our aching bodies. We were in luck, of course with a price. Lesson learned. You may never need this, I pray you never need this. But perhaps its better to be safe than sorry. Or you just may find the majority of your souvenir cash being spent on medicine. And we are not just talking about adult only, this goes for kids as well...the last thing you want is a cranky three year old running around the parks.

Entertainment-I know what your thinking, you are heading down to Disney, what more entertainment could you need? But lets be real here. Unless you live in Orlando you are either going to be flying or driving. Both of which mean the kids and you will be doing a lot of sitting and waiting. And that is if it all goes well. While the two hour wait may be ok for you, to a two year old, the wait is forever. Go ahead and break the to much is bad for your kid rule, bring that portable DVD player, or your Ipad, and a couple of movies....you and those around you will thank you in the long run.

Utensils-My son is at the age where he wants his own plate, his own fork etc. Mr. Independent he is. And while Disney may be as kid friendly as you get. The one thing that they didn't have was kid friendly utensils. And while its cute to see Logan with an over-sized fork, at the same time its a lot less of a cleanup, both for us and the waiters if you bring your own. Not to mention its great for breakfasts in the mornings. And don't forget to grab a couple of them. I can't tell you how many times Logan drops his fork on the floor in a single sitting

Patience-I mentioned this last year. But this is well worth a reminder. Patience is key. I have already come to terms that not everything is going to go smoothly, there will be meltdown and tears. There will be moments when he isn't feeling it. And I am not having it. But this is all apart of it. I know there will be rides that I won't get to go on, and plans that will have to be changed but this is alright with me. Perhaps because I return to the Magical Place every year. Or perhaps because I have come to expect this...But for whatever reason, patience is the key...without it, it may be a very long unenjoyable time after all.

These are just a few things that one must pack. And in the next two weeks I am sure there will be more tips and trades as I gear up for vacation..

After all, there is still plenty of time to unpack and repack all over again.

4 unexpected things to do at Disney.

So you want to take a Disney Vacation. Great! The thing is, you aren't much of a ride, or even a theme park kind of person. Well there is good news. Disney, isn't all about theme parks and rides. In fact there is much more to there than one might think. So without further ado, here are my favorite things to do beyond the parks.


Horseback Riding

As someone who happens to love horses and horseback riding herself I admit this has been one of my favorite activities to do outside of the parks. Located at Fort Wilderness Campground Tri-Circle-D Ranch is home to the horses seen on parades and special events around the parks.
Guests are taken on a 45 minute trail ride throughout the grounds on the very horses you see on Main Street every day. Accompanied by two guided cast members, who are there not only to act and lead the way through the trail, but were quite helpful in answering any questions one may have. Guests take a leisurely trip where they could encounter magical critters and some amazing scenery. Horses are well trained and capable of holding up to 250 lbs. Riders should be over the age of nine, no experience needed. Reservations are strongly recommended and should arrive thirty minutes before the scheduled time.

Cost-$42
For reservations please call 407-WDW-PLAY.


Cirque du Soleil-La Nouba

Looking for a Broadway type of show in the heart of Disney? First run in 1998 this high energy showstopper aims to please. This 90 minute show treats guests to a visual delight featuring acrobatic, circus like performances from some of the best and brightest athlete, performers and dancers. Bring the family, sit back and be prepared for one of the most exciting and most imaginative 90 minutes you will ever experience. The show runs most days, except for Sundays and Mondays. Please note there is no intermission.

There are four ways to order tickets, and ticket pricing varies from seating area to seating area.

To order tickets, call (407) 939-7600.
In person at the Box Office next to the Cirque du Soleil store at the West Side.
Through your travel agent
Online up to six months in advance at: www.cirquedusoleil.com

(information thanks to allears.net)

Paint your own Pottery and Make your own Jewelry

While my family and myself was down at the World this past July we took my mother who recently was involved in an accident and was injured. Not being much of a park person anyway, we were on the search for something other than hopping from park to park we looked at the activities guide provided to us when we first signed in to the hotel. What we found was two classes/sessions. One, a jewelry session and the second, a pottery session. We decided to make our way down just to check it out not expecting much of anything. Let alone a variety. We were pleasantly surprised. Offered at most Deluxe hotels, (we were guests at Animal Kingdom Lodge) this relaxing event shows the unlikely side of Disney Magic most would never know about unless looking for. Pieces are fairly priced and vary depending on size of the piece and length of the jewelry made.

Pottery is welcomed and open to anyone while the jewelry making is only open to those over the age of 13.


For those that are interested please see guest services early for schedules and resort offerings.


Spas and Salons

Going to Disney, isn't exactly the kind of relaxing getaway you thought about? Think again! With three deluxe resorts offering full spa's and several others with spa services you are bound to find some time for a relaxing day fit for any princess in waiting. With world class accommodations and spa services, they offer massages, manicure and pedicure's. Most are for adults, but several are now offering such things as Mommy and me services and my first manicure for the younger guests.
Please see guest services to schedule an appointment.


4 things most would never think about while visiting Disney, but all offer guests a chance to experience a different kind of magic.

Disney Planning for others

By now everyone knows of my love for Disneyworld. They know how much I enjoy every minute of planning every detail. From the flights, to the meals. To figuring out which resort we will be calling home. But what you may not know, is just how much I enjoy helping others who have yet to get hit with the Disney bug plan their own Disney vacations.

I was contacted last night by a friend who plans on taking her almost four year old daughter to my magical place. Neither have ever been, which means as a newbie she was looking for anything. She began looking at things but didn't even know where to begin, and that's when she said she knew exactly who she would go to. That person just happened to be, yours truly. I must say, I was touched that out of everyone she came to me. As she stated there is a lot of information out there, some more helpful than others. But as someone who has never even ventured the idea of Disney prior to this, she became overwhelmed and lost. She figured I would know and be able to pick apart things even further. Or rather as she said, she felt like she would be getting an inside track of everything.

Lets face it, vacation planning can be hard enough. To quote my friend 'its just so overwhelming' to most. After all how do you make sure you know what your doing, four parks, two water parks. An interactive indoor park? Not to mention a downtown shopping center area and all those food choices. Even myself, a veteran of the whole planning process looks back now at the days when I didn't know half of what I know now and still admits to needing help and researching things from time to time. I can only imagine what it must be like to someone who has never been to Disney.

We sat there as I explained the dining plan, the ticketing options. Fastpasses. Which resort may be best to fit her needs.

And what I find in return is pure enjoyment. Watching them get all excited about it. Seeing their eyes light up when I talk about the electric water parade or the fact that no they don't just have to do parks all day. Something inside of me bursts with a little more pride seeing them put things together. And ok so I admit, knowing I had a hand in getting them to this point dif doesn't hurt. In fact its even a sense of accomplishment. I have helped yet another person out. While they may be the ones that are heading down to the world. It is I, who gets excited for them.

As my friends conversation moved on to other things, she asked if she had any other questions could she come to me?
Naturally I smiled and said absolutely. She knew where I was.
And then in true Disney fashion I told her to have a magical day!

Spread a little Glee

So you have someone special going to Disney?

Yes we do. My six and a half year old nephew who has never been to the magical world. From the very start of the process-two years ago mind you-we wanted to make this the most special of events for him. After all you only go to Disney for the first time once. We have already set up an in room surprise, which I will further explain once we get back. But what about before? To get him pumped up.

I had been doing my research on how to make it special for anyone. In doing so I cam across one of Disney's websites, where you can get one of the characters to call your house and wish you a magical greeting. Yesterday during an uneventful day at work, I decided to go ahead and schedule the call-for a total of 2.49- which my nephew would receive that evening right around dinner time.

So we gathered around the dinner table as at 7:01pm 'Mickey Mouse' called the house to speak to my little buddy. And as the phone rang and his face lit up as Mickey told him he was excited to see him, and wish him good night I realized something.

This is what the magic is all about. This is what Disney is all about. Its make believe and happily ever afters. Its little boys and Peter Pan. And its the pure joy that a mouse can bring to just about anyone.

He hung up and asked how I knew Mickey. I told him I had special connections, to which he looked at me skeptically and muttered how cool that was. It made his entire night.

And was dif. worth the nearly three dollars. Every cent of it.

Planning:30 days out.

As you know, we are in the thick of vacation planning mode. With the arrival of our Magical Express package in the mail yesterday it has truly hit us that our magical journey will soon be under way. And so as I did for ninety days, I will now do my thirty days to go list of things you should do if your planning.

Magical Express-

Maybe you've heard of it. Maybe you haven't. Maybe you have used it, maybe you haven't. But whether you have or not let me take the opportunity to explain it. Because believe me, it could be your best friend, and greatest time saver around. Now if you have ever flown before you know how much time it is to grab your bags, to check in. Not to mention that when you finally do get them you have to hail a taxi to your destination which costs you an arm and a leg more in likely. So leave it to Disney-because after all they think of everything-to come up to a solution. If you are a guest at any of the Disney Resorts you can utilize the free transportation from Orlando International Airport straight to the front doors of your home for the next little while.

This free service is exclusive only to those guests on property and is offered through most major airlines. Once reservations have been requested and arranged, Disney will send you a magical express packet. In this packet, you will find your boarding passes to board the bus and special luggage tags that you place on your bags. Why so special? Well once you hand over your bags at check in you will not have to do another thing to them except wait for them to arrive in your room upon arrival. That's right, there is no picking up standing at those turn tables waiting because Disney will pick up the luggage, and will deliver it to your door usually about three-four hours after you get there. Now note, this works only if you arrive before Ten PM, after this point you are still able to use the free shuttle service to your resort but you must pick up your own bags.

I must say my husband and I have used this service several times and find it to come in quite handy. For we board, we get to the resort check in and off we go to enjoy our vacation and pack in that much extra magic without the hassle of such things as dealing with the luggage. However I would suggest the following

-In your carry on, make sure to have at least one change of clothes, especially if you arrive from a colder region, you may just want to jump in the pool and since the service doesn't bring your luggage right away better to be prepared.
-Check with the airline to make sure they offer such a service. While Disney has partnered with most major airlines it hasn't partnered with all of them yet. Which means while you can still use the bus, you will have to get the luggage and bring it to the bus yourself.
-Its about a half hour ride from airport to each resort. Sit back and relax. Watch the video they have playing which explains in depth how ME (magical express) exactly works. Remember, its not just there to bring you to your vacation, its there on your return as well.


Grocery Shopping

No, I don't expect most people would be buying or even thinking about grocery shopping when they are on vacation. However if you are like myself-a DVC member-or are someone who is lucky enough to stay at a Villa which offers a full kitchen you may say why even bother with such a thing as the dining plan and cook. Mind you I am one who wants to go on vacation and not think about cooking what so ever. But that's just me. Or you actually may just find yourself longing for an omelet after hours and with most everything on property closing around midnight. I doubt one is going to be readily available. Which makes looking into getting groceries perfect for you. There are several companies which actually deliver groceries right to your hotels room. One in particular gardengrocer.com seems to be quite popular and recommended by several die hard Disneyaholics. Their prices do seem a bit cheaper than the ones used through Disney-which is only offered to DVC members. and offers more of a variety than the little gift shops on property.

I have never used this myself, but will be doing so this July when we are staying with a group of seven adults. I am sure I will be able to go on about this a little more in detail upon my return but for now I will have to go by what others have said.

Just a reminder, they are quite popular therefore its better you get your request in early to avoid any delivery complications.

Getting Excited?

So your an adult and you think there is nothing to do but rides and kiddie shows. Well then might I suggest you pick yourself up one of these books. Hidden Mickeys are stored throughout all four theme parks and two water parks and even in Downtown Disney. They are exactly what you think a Mickey shaped head hidden throughout lands, in rides, on buildings etc. There is no set number of just how many there are and with each new attraction comes new chances to find them. Believe me we have been going for years and haven't even touched nearly a quarter of all of them And with each trip down my husband and I like to be the one to find the most, or the hardest one. Or one neither have seen before. And its just not for adults, I have seen several kids get into the act. Dif. a must do if you ask me.

Don't forget the cash

Disney did away with the above Disney Dollars. But this still brings up a good reminder, you are now coming up on a month to go. Time to start thinking about any last minute savings. Lets not forget Disney, is a money machine. And no matter what you bring it never seems enough. Which is why its a good idea to start thinking about just how much you want to bring. To think about the extras you know your going to look into. The t-shirt you want. The ears. The last mickey shaped rice crispy treat. My general rule of thumb is always prepare and bring more than I need...only taking so much with me-in room safes are perfect-if you happen to pull to much out. Just think of the lunch money you won't need to worry about when you return.

30 days may still seem far enough out to go. But remember this, they go by rather quick. And before you know it, you will soon be boarding that bus as your magic awaits.