A Little Spring in the Midst of Winter ~ and a Big Surprise at Check-In

There is always something special going on at Walt Disney World; each season bringing that extra magical touch. My favorite time to visit Walt Disney Resort has always been September. I love the carved Jack -O- Lanterns that line the top of Main Street’s buildings and the fall garlands and wreaths that adorn the lamp posts, with the added bonus of the park attendance being at a low capacity.

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One year I decided to take an impromptu trip in May. I was really excited to see Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival, the online pictures were just breathtaking! Going in May was not the only change that was happening during that particular Walt Disney World vacation. This time Rebekah and I were traveling with my sister-in-law Jackie who had not been to the resort since she was sixteen, she was beyond eager for our travels to commence!

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Before I share some of the gorgeous topiaries I reveled in, let me share with you a couple highlights of my Walt Disney World vacation with my sister in law.

We had the absolute pleasure of staying at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort; this happens to be one of my top three favorite resorts on WDW property.

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Upon checking in we were informed that we had been upgraded from a standard view room to a Junior Suit with Concierge service.  I guess at the time I was a bit uninformed because I had no idea what this entailed, but I quickly became informed and  just couldn’t believe the extra Magic we were receiving! I asked the Cast Member why we were receiving these upgrades and he replied, “Just because we wanted to make your time extra special.”

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After settling ourselves in the room, we made our way up, up, up to Old Faithful Club on the concierge level which was located on the 7th floor. Our Key to the World card gave us special access to this club level. When we loaded onto the elevator, in order to enter onto this floor we had to insert our card into the slot provided.

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We enjoyed free continental breakfast in the morning and in the evening it was so wonderful to have a complimentary cocktail! During the day they also offer an afternoon tea that includes yummy treats and in the evening they have a small buffet of dinner foods. This was an amazing experience and one that I was completely grateful to have!

That evening we enjoyed a delicious dinner and dessert at T-Rex in Downtown Disney.  I LOVE this restaurant for it’s prehistoric atmosphere. Even if you are not able to stop in for a bite, I suggest you pop in just to take a peek.

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The following morning we bee-lined it to the Magic Kingdom.  Our first stop was to get Jackie her first pair of Ears where we happened upon another wonderful surprise. She received her name embroidered on her Ears free of charge; they said because we were the first guests of the day! Next onto meet my favorite Mouse…. he needs no introduction!

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The next day we visited Epcot and I was so excited to see the International Flower and Garden Festival! During our time there we enjoyed another delicious meal at the Coral Reef in the Living Seas with Nemo and Friends Pavilion. This is another restaurant I just LOVE because of it’s unique setting. It is as if you are dining under the sea with all the beautiful creatures of the ocean. The lower wall is an open view into the Living Sea tanks and it promises to be great view from any table!

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NOW …. onto Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival!

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Entering the walkway that leads to World Showcase we were greeted by Peter Pan, Captain Hook and tick tock – tick tock, hooks greatest fear!

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Coming upon International Gateway we found my favorite fellow and his best girl along with Donald and Daisy.

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Starting first with Canada and their beautiful Victoria Gardens~

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I adored the tea cups in the United Kingdom where we also met Alice.  Along the route we Pooh and friends and here we also found the infamous Captain Hook and both his nemesis’ Peter Pan and tick tock the Alligator!

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Moving on toward France we saw gorgeous topiaries of Aurora and Cinderella dancing with their Princes~

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Onto Italy we found the most adorable couple, Lady and Tramp. They look beautiful surrounded by all the colorful flowers and plants!

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Germany was in great company with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!

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Along our travels we came across the cutest Mickey Heads, I would so love to place these in my front yard so I could share my #Disneyside with all my neighbors!

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A not to miss experience is the Butterfly Tent, this particular year it was themed with Bambi and his friends~

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This event has become one of my favorite times to visit Epcot. If you are planning a vacation anytime from March to May please make sure to enhance your experience by taking time to meander around World Showcase.

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Super Bowl Sunday Snacks ~ Disneyfied

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It’s Super Bowl Sundayfootball, food, half  time and commercials.

My husband asked me several times yesterday, “what are we going to eat tomorrow?” It was obvious this was very important for him to have the proper eats while he ” joined”  the Seahawks on the field with determination for a Super Bowl victory!

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We walked around our local supermarket gathering an assortment of foods ideal for gluttony gratification. First we found ourselves at the deli counter for a selection of meats and cheeses, for on this day my husband will become a brilliant Sandwich Artist. Next we hit up the chip aisle and fully stocked the cart with bags of the perfect dipping chips, then set out to gather the ingredients for his favorite cheesy dip. We must not forget the bag of frozen chicken wings, (I guess he did not have confidence in my ability to cook fresh wings); then last- but in my opinion- not least, the essentials for brownie making!

I began to wonder….. if we were to watch the Super Bowl in Walt Disney World, what would be on the snack menu? To somewhat appease my contemplation, I turned my attention to The Disney Chef, where recipes to all our favorite Disney Dining Delights can be found.

Starting with:

  • Chicken Wings  

If we Disneyfied our wings they would become ‘Ohana’s Honey Coriander Chicken Wings! Nicole has made this delightfully delicious masterpiece and she raves about it!

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  • Cheesy Dip

The recipe we are using has been passed down from my Auntie P. – 1 8oz. block of cream cheese, 1 can of Hormel Chili, 1 can of Rotel Tomatoes (any style), and 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix all ingredients together in microwave safe bowl and microwave until just melted. You can also add chopped olives (any style of your choice), cilantro, Adobo seasoning, garlic and onion powder . I don’t have exact measurements, this is my first time making it.

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BUT if we were in WDW I think my husband would LOVE to try Queso Fundido from San Angel Inn; he is a huge Queso lover and this recipe looks like a touchdown!

  • Brownies

I read that Magic Cookie Bars, found at Wilderness Lodge and Port Orleans, are pretty popular. I have never seen one but that will change upon my next visit. After seeing this cookie bar, the thought of brownies is fleeting. I may have to take another trip back to the supermarket for some additional ingredients.

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I am sure that I could spend endless hours finding Disneyfied food to incorporate into this Super Bowl celebration. Disney Dining is like a sport in itself! What will you be noshing on during the big game today?  

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

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!

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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!

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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 🙂

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~ Maureen

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ We LOVE the Disney Dining Plans

Nicole and I love Disney Dining and we LOVE the Disney Dining Plan?  Why you ask?  When you select a Disney Dining plan ~

  • Your dining is pre-paid, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.  No need to worry what your bill totals to!
  •  Character dining can be expensive – but with the dining plan it is more affordable.  Depending on which plan you choose will depend on the percentage you can save!

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  • It allows you to try a variety of different foods that you may not other wise try- depending on the dining plan you choose will depend on what is included with your meal- such as an appetizer or dessert.

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  •  And finally…….. You receive a resort (free) refillable mug with your dining plan!  Even if you don’t have the need to refill, refill, refill- you will have a great souvenir to drink out of at home!

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Disney Dining plans may not be the best choice for everyone- but they are certainly worth checking out.  Have you used a Disney Dining Plan?  Which is your favorite and why?

~Maureen

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ Making your Meals more Magical ºoº (part 1)

Dining is one of my favorite features about Disney. Whether it is a Quick Service meal or a Table Service selection, dining at Disney adds even more magical experiences to your enchanted vacation.

One of those enchanted magic experiences is the opening ceremony held by Table Service restaurants across Walt Disney World property.  If you have booked the first time slot for a dining reservation, you will have the opportunity to participate in an opening ceremony~ they are always looking for volunteers!  Each restaurant has their own special ritual that could include singing, dancing, or instruments – this makes for great fun, unforgettable pictures and that added Disney magic!

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~Maureen

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ Ordering a Specialty Disney Cake

Celebrating a special occasion at Disney is the utmost awesome experience!  Everyday at Disney is a day filled with magic and wonder, add into the mix your special occasion and you have a recipe for pure enchantment!

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There are many ways Disney helps to create extra magical experiences for your special occasion and today’s tip is all about the CAKE!  Who wouldn’t love to receive a specialty cake just for them in honor of their special day or celebration?!

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This is an easy magical moment to create.  Just call the Walt Disney World Resort at (407) 827-2253 or the Disneyland Resort at (714) 781-DINE or (714) 781-3463, at least 72 hours in advance to order your customized cake, this magical feature is available at most Table- Service Restaurants on property.

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Have you ever ordered or received a special occasion cake while at a Disney Parks Restaurant or cruise?

~Maureen