Rooting to Rise – Page 11 – home of yoga&you

Fashion, Food and Fun with a Disney Twist!

Posted on September 19, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Hey there folks! Friday is here and its time to view some FASHION, FOOD, and FUN with a Disney twist!

The Vera Bradley Disney Collection 2014, has welcomed a new pattern into their family and goes on sale today at the Co Op store in Downtown Disney. This print features Mickey and Minnie amongst shades of Blue flowers and leaves – a really pretty Spring time print.

What do you think of this Vera Bradley new edition?

When booking a Disney trip scheduling Fast Passes are at the top of the list ********ALSO at the top of the list is WHERE and WHAT TO EAT! When on a magical vacation, eating whatever one wants is part of the fun. That’s why this picture (from Disney Day by Day) represents a meal I would love to eat. Here we have Mac and Cheese (my favorite place to eat this is Sunshine Seasons), french fries and a chocolate chip cookie- A lot of carbs? Sure but it’s vacation!

Friday Night Cocktails in Disney! I wish we could all just click our heals while saying, “There’s No Place Like Home.” and it would transport us all to our “home away from home”. Since this is not possible this day in age, the next best thing is to dream.

Tonight’s cocktail is courtesy of the 2013 Food and Wine Festival. It was presented by the Poland Marketplace – Frozen Szarlotka Cocktail with Apple Cider and Polish Bison Grass Vodka – Isn’t it so pretty? Cheers!

Dining with Disney’s Finest

Posted on September 18, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

I just love this photograph taken in the employee cafeteria at Disneyland in 1961. I am not sure if this was staged or if it was a candid photograph, but regardless I would have loved to be present at the time this was taken.

Their smiles all seem so genuine and are just the kind of smiles we have come to know and expect from a Disney Cast Member. Do you ever wonder how they are able to maintain such authentically bright smiles? Take a look at a portion of this Disneyland Employee Handbook printed in 1962, it may help to explain the authenticity of their cheerful expressions. Maybe this world would become a little more magical if we all learned this artistry 🙂

AN HONEST SMILE...

     At Disneyland a pleasant smile is a personality
trademark which we use all the time in greeting and directing
people.

     Unfortunately, a smile cannot be painted on, like
lipstick. You can't turn it on and off like a water faucet.
And, in fact, a "forced smile"...the "grin and bear it" type
may be worse than none at all.

     You've got to have an honest smile. It's got to come
from within. And...to accomplish this...you've got to develop
a sense of humor and a genuine interest in people.

     There are a few tricks which will help you develop an
honest smile, and here they are - -

     Don't take Yourself too seriously

        One reason people can't smile
        with others is because they
        can't smile at themselves. The
        first lesson in smiling...have
        a good laugh at yourself.
        You're a bit funny (or dumb)
        yourself sometimes.

     A frown won't help

        Maybe if you are a judge or the
        villain in a play, a frown or
        grimace will help you in your
        work. But generally it won't do
        anything but harm, and
        particularly at Disneyland.....
        the Happiest Kingdom in the
        World.

     You get paid for smiling

        If nothing else helps...
        remember that you get paid for
        smiling. You don't have to
        laugh -- just smile.

     Another way you can develop your smile is to use smiling
phrases.......

~Maureen

My Search for the Ultimate Cup of Coffee ~ in Walt Disney World

Posted on September 15, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

As I sit here drinking my third cup of coffee courtesy my Keurig, I wonder how I will survive without this prerequisite to my morning on my next trip to the Vacation Kingdom. How will I start my day with a smile? Certainly Mickey is a major incentive to wake up and head out the door in optimism – but that perfect cup of coffee just helps the whole process along, creating a much smoother departure for the day. I have fantasized about packing my Keurig; I have a single cup model, maybe it would fit in my carry-on bag? Reality strikes and I am back to contemplating how I will satisfy my preconditioned need for a superb cup of liquid sunshine.

I wasn’t always such a coffee critic. My local Stewarts (upstate NY’s coffee, ice cream and convenient store), was my go to place for my morning ‘Cup of Joe’ while on my way to work. I believe it was the birth of my daughter that caused a necessity for a strong and sensational cup of black coffee and I have been on the search for the ultimate cup ever since. I think I have been pretty darn close since my beloved Keurig has come into my life, but I feel I have yet to find THE cup to end ALL cups.

Back to Walt Disney World and where to find my required liquefied liveliness ~

I have done some research on finding the best coffee within Walt Disney World Resort and have found several locations, some of which I have experienced, but many I have not! Let’s start out with the resorts and work our way into the parks.

While stumbling into the resort’s food court first thing in the morning to filler-up, once upon a time, Nescafe’ would have been found. I am not sure about you but this was the only part of the morning I would dread at Disney. I couldn’t comprehend what I was actually drinking- was it tea, maybe hot chocolate? One thing for sure, I knew it was NOT coffee! I later found out this was instant coffee……. well that explained it!

I am so happy to report back in February of last year (2013) Nestcafe’ was replaced by Jeoffrey’s. Jeoffrey’s specialty coffee was already being served at several kiosks through out the parks as well as some fine dining locations, then it became the standard coffee for all Disney owned and operated locations. In my eyes and according to my taste buds, this was a huge improvement; I could at least identify what I was drinking 🙂

I have heard far and near that if I wanted THE BEST cup of coffee I was to find it at the Polynesian Resort in the form of Kona coffee. This Hawaiian blend is rich, not too bold and is run through a French Press– what’s not to like? But for me it is still lacking a bit in flavor. That being said I would order a cup right now in a hot minute if I could! This Hawaiian delight can be found in several areas within the Polynesian Resort. Kona Cafe (French Press Pot), Ohana (French Press Pot) and for the To Go-ers, Kona Island.

Next stop on this search is Animal Kingdom Lodge. I have read that I can find an amazing cup of African bean coffee called Kenya AA at Boma, an African inspired buffet within this resort. This coffee is said to be “full bodied and full of flavor with heavy acidity displaying a gentle floral aroma as well as berry and citrus notes”. At Boma this is served in a French Press as it is in the Polynesian Resort table service restaurants. I will make a special trip to Animal Kingdom Lodge on my next visit just to experience this!

Onto the Grand Floridian where the cutest cup of coffee can be found at the Grand Floridian Cafe. This restaurant has become one of Nicole’s favorite breakfast spots and is also where she loves to order her latte’. This is no ordinary latte’…… see for yourself!

According to Nicole this latte’ receives high marks, the Mickey head may have something to do with it 🙂

We are heading out to the parks so put your Mouse Ears on! Destination, Magic Kingdom.

The Grand Opening of Starbucks in June of 2013 brought another dimension of coffee drinking to the Magic Kingdom and later on to Epcot and in the near future to the remaining two parks.

Out here in the “real world” Starbucks is not my first choice of coffee but I do enjoy one in a low fat latte’ form. Just stepping into a Starbucks intimidates me. These coffee drinkers are very serious about their caffeinated purchases which keeps me from scanning the menu for a new and exciting coffee concoction. I think I will stick with my low fat latte – quick, easy and safe!

Traveling over to Hollywood Studios–

Nicole’s favorite coffee spot is a little nook called Writer’s Place. It’s a cozy little coffee shop that is rarely busy. It serves Barista-style coffee and delicious bakery items; I am told the carrot cake cookie is a must! Specialty coffee is not the only favorable item in this shop, there is a selection of books to browse or maybe find a new favorite coffee mug to take home.

Next stop will be in Epcot, World Showcase. Have you heard of ‘Drinking Around the World’ (World Showcase)? This can apply to coffee drinkers as well! Depending on the time of day ordering a Coffee Margarita from La Cava in Mexico may be somewhat of an interest, but for now lets stay on the hot coffee track.

I have read Via Napoli serves up an Italiano coffee that will turn steps into sprints and make mouse ears stand up straight and tall – this cup may be for experienced coffee drinkers only!

Let’s dip into Tangierine Café located in the Morocco Pavilion. Here I read about the Kasbah Coffee – strong and bitter but the hazelnut liquor adds just a touch of sweetness. This sounds like a delicious way to end the night while watching illuminations and maybe gives that little extra zip to find the car at the end of the night.

Time to explore Africa and Asia while searching out the best cup of coffee in the jungles of Animal Kingdom! These travels lead right to Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery. I am not sure if the best cup of coffee can be found here, but they serve espresso, even double espresso and that spells out CAFFEINE! Also offered on their menu is ice coffee – I have read it has a white chocolate flavor to it which sounds interestingly delicious. Animal Kingdom and ice coffee go together like peas and carrots – it just seems like this park is extra hot- Africa hot!

Our final stop is Downtown Disney. What goes well with mega shopping? A great cup of coffee, there is a need for super charged energy to conquer all those amazing shopping opportunities! The Ghirardelli shop is known for their ice cream, but I recently read they also kick out a great dark ice coffee with a dark chocolate flavor. A huge smile won’t only be from that awesome new Dooney and Bourke just purchased- it will also be from the Ghirardelli Ice Coffee!

Thank you for accompanying me on my search for a great cup of coffee. I have definitely found some new locations I will be visiting upon my next trip to Walt Disney World. Tell us about your favorite coffee spot(s) or a place you plan on trying on your next visit.

~Maureen

runDisney ~ Run for a Cause ~ Run for YOU!

Posted on September 9, 2014January 17, 2015 by twomomsadmin

I did it! I ran my first race! I ran for runDisney, I ran for a cause, and I ran for me!

I started on this run-journey a few months ago after becoming inspired by my dear friend and fellow princess. I say run-journey because that is what it has become.

I committed to the 2015 Princess Marathon Weekend by registering with my Disney sister Nicole and a couple of her close friends. Then it was time to commit to running. This didn’t happen as quickly as clicking “register” on the computer – I allowed life to take up a lot of my time and I procrastinated just a bit. Finally I set a start date in my head and stuck to it.

I am not sure what I intended my running to become when I set out that very first morning with new sneakers on my feet and armband securely velcro-ed on my arm. I’m not sure if I really gave it much thought at all, except that I wanted to wear a really cute tutu for the runDisney Princess race in Walt Disney World.

(Nicole at her very first runDisney Princess race)

I began my journey using Jeff Galloway’s program, but along the way I ventured off into my own program. I began to run/walk according to how my body felt; then one morning I set out for my run and just kept running……..I completed 3 miles that day! I was so proud of myself and I believe it was that day that I became hooked! I was hooked on the euphoric feeling of accomplishment, hooked on the feeling of strength I didn’t know I possessed to challenge myself and not back down -pushing through the barriers of discomfort and not allowing my mind to override my successes.

I continued to build on that 3 miles, then one day when I set out running I didn’t stop until I completed 5 miles! I completed a 5 mile run! I never intended to run for 5 ongoing miles , but once again I proved to myself the only obstacles that will ever be in my way will be the ones I create. I then decided it would be a good idea to register for a few local races to gain some race experience and maybe receive an official corral time for the Princess 10K. I registered for a local United Way 8K race, 4.97 miles… I can do that I told myself, not allowing any doubt to creep into my thoughts.

Fast forward to September 5th, 2014, the day before the race. I was giddy with anticipation and excitement as I walked into the building of the race location to pick up my race bib and package. I couldn’t believe I was actually doing this! This was never something I ever aspired to do, but now it was on the top of my list of important accomplishments to achieve. The lady asked for my name and then asked, “running or walking?”

I held my head high and proudly said, “running”, inside my smile was a mile wide. She handed me my race bib- #124. This number immediately became significant to me, it would be the number I would be wearing when I crossed the finish line, a finish line I never foresaw myself crossing but was now my most anticipated moment.

As the night progressed I wasn’t feeling too well. I made sure I went to bed at a decent hour but unfortunately awoke the next morning an hour late and not feeling my optimal self. Regardless it was race day and now it was time to see what I was really made of! I slipped my sneakers on and while tying my laces, random nervous thoughts entered my head. I quickly dismissed them, grabbed my race bib and a miniature pair of Minnie ears – of course I had to represent my #Disneyside! My household was still fast asleep when I left but they had promised to meet me at the finish line later that morning 🙂 It took a short drive of 10 minutes to reach my race destination and you better believe I had Nicole on speaker phone the whole way, how I wished she was with me. I parked my car and began walking toward the starting line, MY KEYS…. I had my keys in my hand! Where was I going to put them? This was a total rookie mistake; I hiked it back to the car and hid them behind my front tire, note to self……. find a better place for my keys during the next race. I was once again on my way back to the starting line, with a detour….. well three detours….. to the bathroom, I was nervous!

Before I knew it the loud speaker announced the race would begin in one minute…….. and they were off! Yes, I said they because I was just fast walking while trying to get my run application and music application on my phone set correctly, UGH! Then I was off!

I was doing it! I was running in a race. I found I didn’t mind running alone; I felt at peace and one with myself. My thoughts drifted as I ran, mostly about the ladies that surrounded me throughout the race. I wondered about their personal run journeys, why they chose to run this race and who would be waiting for them at the finish line. I silently began rooting for them, if they stopped running I was cheering them on in my mind. I no longer felt I was running this race alone. I was running with 100’s of other men and woman, each one running for a distinctive purpose.

Before I knew it I was nearing the end of the course. I picked my pace up just a bit, I had plenty of steam left from keeping a steady pace all the way through. I started to hear cheering! The finish line was right around the corner! I couldn’t help to smile, not just inside but outside as well and I couldn’t wait to see my family at the finish line! I rounded the corner and there it was, the big red Finish Line banner…… and there was my husband and daughter. I started waving to Rebekah as I closed in and at that point I was not just running to the finish line but I was also running to her.

When I crossed the finish line Rebekah came running with the gift of a big hug, not even caring that I was just a bit damp with sweat- well a lot soaked with sweat! Another gift, a big hug from my husband topped off the day. I crossed that finish line with an 11:39 mile a minute run time. Not too bad for a new runner, I was hoping for a better time, but I immediately focused on the success of the entire journey.

I DID IT! I finished the 8K race! I ran for runDisney, I ran for a cause, I ran for me…… but at that moment I knew I had also run for her, my little Rebekah. She has been with me every step of this process, even the part of finding the right running shoes! She sees my determination and hard work, my trials and my triumphs. She has cheered me on every step of the way. Watching my run-journey has inspired her to begin her own run-journey. I have registered her for Girls on the run . This is a wonderful program that teaches girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.

Thus far this run- journey has been one of the greater defining moments in my life. Not all journeys are as unexpected as this one was. But all journeys lead someplace and I have learned that it is my choice where that someplace shall be. It is my choice how to run the race, how to handle the hills I climb and how I cross the finish line.

~Maureen

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ YoHo YoHo A Pirates Life for ME!

Posted on September 3, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Do you have a little Scallywag or maybe a Pirate Princess?

Well to make this official take them over to the Pirates League, located next to the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in the Magic Kingdom. You’re little Swashbuckler will choose their own pirate name and be sworn in as an official Seadog!

For more information see the official site for The Pirates League ~

Give Kids the World and the Disney Community ~

Posted on August 28, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

When Nicole and I began our blog we had no clue of the new world we would be exposed to. We have met, through social media, a truly wonderful group of people. This community of Disney writers is comprised of compassionate individuals who not only want to share their enthusiasm and love for a magical place but want to make a difference in the lives of others. This difference is with Give Kids the World nonprofit Village.

In becoming a part of the Disney community I have learned of this wonderful place, Give Kids the World Village. This is a “storybook” resort located in Kissimmee, Florida, where children with life threatening illnesses along with their families are able to stay and experience Central Florida’s most fun parks and places at no cost. This is possible through donations and the many volunteers that give of their time to help bring a memorable and fantastically fun experience for these children and their families. I encourage you to go to their website, GKTW and “like” their facebook page to read more about this inspiring place.

Two Moms and a Mouse want to join our fellow Disney bloggers to raise donations and awareness for Give Kids the World Village. We have decided to do this in honor of the Ice Cream for Breakfast Campaign. This campaign was started by former wish family who celebrates the anniversary of their stay at GKTW by eating ice cream for breakfast every year, just as they did at the village!

GKTW Village has an Ice Cream Palace that serves the sweet treat up in cones, cups, milkshakes, sundaes and banana splits beginning at 7:30 in the morning! Just $25.00 will provide unlimited ice cream and all the toppings one could think of for an entire family for an entire week! Ice cream always makes me smile so I would love to make these children and their families smile too with as many trips to the Ice Cream Palace morning, noon, and night!

What Can You Do?

Donate to our Ice Cream for Breakfast Campaign by clicking on this link and know that you will be creating many frosty smiles for these children and their families! or………

Go to Give Kids the World and start your own fundraiser, it’s easy as 1-2-3!

~ Maureen ºoº

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ Where the Magic lies in the Magic Kingdom

Posted on August 26, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Visiting the Magic Kingdom is innately a Magical experience and there is no doubt you will return home with an abundance of Disney memories that will last a lifetime. But to truly take in all that this Kingdom has to offer, you must slow your pace and listen. For what you ask? For the sounds that are hinting to where the Magic lie.

Listen for the Walt Disney World Railroad steam whistle; it blows a welcome that says, “come experience what life has to offer.” The sounds of the horse hooves as they clip clop down Main Street tell you to slow down and enjoy the sites. The hypnotizing beat of the tiki drums lure you deeper into Adventurland.

The twang of the banjo and the unhurried whine of the fiddle will set your pace through Frontierland. The steam whistle of the Liberty Square River Boat calls you down to the Rivers of America.

Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel plays to a tune that will no doubt make you feel a little more lighthearted and the sounds of Astro Orbiter blasting off into space prepare you for futuristic journeys.

Upon your next visit to the Happiest Place on Earth ~ slow down and listen for the magic.

~ Maureen

It’s Raining in the Magic Kingdom ~ Oh What Fun!

Posted on August 13, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

A rainy day at the Magic Kingdom is better than a sunny day at home. No one wants to have a wash out during their vacation, but just because it’s raining doesn’t mean Mickey’s magical fun stops. Rain or shine the Magic Kingdom promises to deliver marvelous memories and fantastic fanfare!

Put on your poncho and don’t forget your smile, you’re in the Magic Kingdom, the happiest place on earth! Usually the Florida rain is quick to roll in and quick to roll out, but if it decides to make itself at home, no worries the excitement does not come to an end. Most attractions are indoors where you will feel the sunshine beaming in. Take the opportunity to browse through the gift shops or enjoy a leisure lunch with your family and friends. Take a ride on Splash Mountain and sit in the front seat, “You’re gonna get wet!”, but who cares it’s raining anyway!

The show must go on…… and go on it does. When the rain drops fall always look for the rainbow ~ and here it comes, Disney’s Rainy Day Cavalcade! Mickey and his pals would never miss an opportunity to welcome and greet their guests, so on rainy days the Main Street vehicles escort them through the parade route to the tune of “Singing in the Rain” ~ go ahead, get into the spirit and jump in that rain puddle!

Magic Kingdom’s Rainy Day Cavalcade by Mr DizneyKing ~

So if it’s raining on the day you plan to visit the Magic Kingdom, turn your frown upside down because ~ A rainy day at the Magic Kingdom is better than a sunny day at home 🙂

~ Maureen

A Classic Fairytale with a Modern Twist ~ Cinderella and her Running Shoes

Posted on August 6, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Welcome to those of you joining me from Frontierland Station and those of you just hopping aboard. I am the Final stop on our Magical Blogorail.”

This is a story of a classic fairytale with a modern twist ~

She slid on her finest pair of running shoes, the new 2014 New Balance Cinderella sneakers. Though she bought them nearly six months ago they were in mint condition, no princess would ever be caught with disheveled shoes! She was on her way to Central Park for her longest run yet – 8 miles. She had a whole 7 months to work up to 13.1 miles for the Glass Slipper Challenge; it wasn’t going to be easy but she was more than determined.

It was a rather brisk morning, the chill in the air and the bright orange hues across the tree tops suggested fall was settling in. It wouldn’t be long before a blanket of white would cover the city; she shook the chilly thought out of her head and set off to achieve her new goal.

She loved to run, it was the only time she felt free, free from the constraints of her tiny apartment. It was as if she could conquer the world when she was running. She picked up her pace, feeling extra ambitious this particular morning. Something felt different, good different; she lifted her head higher as the chilly air pinched her cheeks. Her thoughts wandered through her past relationships. She thought to herself, when would she find her “Prince Charming”?

The next thing she knew she was on the ground. Some how she had tripped, What just happened?, she thought. “My shoe! Where is my shoe?!” she said frantically.

“Excuse me, does this belong to you?” She looked up where she saw her Cinderella sneaker held gently within a pair of masculine hands. As she slowly raised her eyes her jaw dropped open. She had never seen this beautiful creature in the park before.

“Are you ok?” he asked. “Let me help you up. My name is Alto, well Al- you can call me Al,” he said as he helped her to her feet. “Lean on my shoulder,” he slipped her royal sneaker back onto her foot.

She had yet to speak a word. She thought, where is my voice? She took a deep breath, “ Thank you. My name is Ella, you can call me…… Ella,” she said with a smirk hoping he had a sense of humor.

They began walking together; she forgot all about her 8 mile run. As time seemed to stand still she glanced down at her armband that was still velcro’d securely around her upper arm.

“OH NO! I have to run, I’m late! I’m so sorry. It was so nice to meet you, thank you for your help!” she called back as she sprinted down the park’s walkway.

For a moment Alto stood still in disbelief, he couldn’t believe she was gone. He continued along the walkway that they had just indulged in deep conversation, his thoughts completely focused on her. There is something different about Ella, he thought. He just couldn’t get her out of his mind. As he shuffled his feet along the walkway he came across a blue satin ribbon.

“That’s the ribbon from Ella’s sneaker,” he said out loud to himself. He began to feel an excitement in which he didn’t quite understand and without another clear thought he began to run. He assumed he was running to find Ella, but how was that possible when she had left him over fifteen minutes ago? He didn’t care, he continued to run without reason. As he rounded the corner, there coming toward him in the same fashion was Ella. Relief washed across him as if he had just found a long lost heirloom. She ran straight to him smiling so brightly that it made him feel as if her smile was meant solely for him.

“I found your ribbon after you ran off,” he said as he once again knelt down to assist her with her royal sneaker.

“Al?” she said as if she had something very important to ask him.

He gazed up at her longing for her to speak her next words just so he could hear her voice again.

“I am on my way to a ball room dance class, would you care to join me?”

He slowly rose from his kneeling position, though his heart felt as if it were beating faster and harder than a horse galloping through a field. “I would be honored to accompany you to your dance class Ella.” How he loved the way her name sounded as it rolled off his tongue. He put his crooked arm out and she intertwined her arm with his. Off they went arm and arm with boundless possibilities surrounding them. Both knew there was something different about the other, a good different.

As their dance lesson came to an end, neither was ready to say goodbye. They found themselves sitting in a diner a block down the street. Both Alto and Ella talked how this was their favorite place to eat and each one claimed to frequent the restaurant, yet neither had ever seen the other there. The evening progressed from dinner to dessert and still neither was ready for it to end.

As they walked out into the starry night, this time hand in hand, a horse and carriage stopped in front of them. Alto turned his head toward Ella and once again she smiled at him with that incredibly bright smile that he now knew was made just for him.

“Your carriage awaits my lady”, he said as he gestured his hand toward the open aired entry. She stepped into her future with Alto right behind her. As the horse and carriage journeyed down the street, off in the distance the faint sound of church bells could be heard ringing.

Thank you for joining Magical Blogorail Red this month. We will be back on September 4th with an all new theme. Keep checking in with our blogs in between loops to keep up to date with our Disney info, photos and stories. If you are looking for more Disney magic, you can make your way over to The Magical Blogorail website to see all our members and their blogs, as well as all our previous loops.

Here is the map of our Magical Blogorail should you happen to have to make a stop along the way and want to reboard:

1st Stop ~ A Disney Mom’s Thoughts – The Princess and the Frog

2nd Stop ~ Magical Mouse School House – Lady and the Tramp

3rd Stop ~ The Disney Point – Up

4th Stop ~ Frontierland Station – The Little Mermaid

Final Stop ~ Two Moms and A Mouse – Cinderella