#Magic Kingdom – Rooting to Rise

“Why We Need a Blowdown” with ~ Faith in the Magic Kingdom

Posted on April 26, 2015May 1, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Today with Faith and the Magic Kingdom by Randy Crane, I am reading about, ‘Why We Need a Blowdown’ ~ and I couldn’t agree more!

**photo credit to www.mikerails.com

*photo credit www.startedbyamouse

In this segment the author Randy compares the blowdown of a #Disneyland train to the importance of a blowdown for us as people. What is a blowdown? Sludge from the sediment of minerals in the water used to fill and refill the steam train engine, along with other chemicals that build up inside the boiler of the train, can create an explosion if a blowdown is not down regularly throughout the day. When the train operator is doing a blowdown you will see a large amount of white steam coming from the trains engine along with a loud hissing noise – the train is blowingdown .. and out all the sediment, getting rid of the built up impurities.

Randy describes how we need a ‘blowdown’ as well – he says, “Think about the pressure in our lives. We are always under pressure. From work. From home. From friends. From other organizations we may be a part of. Even from ourselves. When that happens, we may want to just push through and keep going. We don’t have time to stop and do anything else.”

BUT- as the daily pressures of life build within us, so does the “sediment in our hearts”. If we don’t “blowdown” we can become, “passive-aggressive, resentful – avoid church and other believers…… risk an explosion!”

How do we prevent this and use this blowdown method? By taking some time away from these stresses. Randy tells us that, “Scripture repeatedly reminds us of the dangers of not taking time to “blow down” the boiler of our hearts and clean out the sediment.” He quotes, Hebrews 10:25, which tells us the importance of continually meeting with other Christians. This gives us encouragement, strength, and help with the littlest and the biggest pressures in life. He also uses the example of Jesus taking the apostles to a quiet place away from everyone for a much needed rest in Mark 6:31-32. We may not be able to run off to our happy place of rest, #WaltDisneyWorld or Disneyland every time we need to “blow down”, but maybe a quiet hour in the morning before everyone awakes, or a walk around the neighborhood or even meeting with a friend for a cup of coffee and a bit of laughter. Take that time to “blow down” the “impurities” that build up daily from day to day living. Set aside some quiet moments with our Lord and ask him to help “blow down” and blow out all the sediment settling in your heart ~ Psalm 23:3 “He restores my soul” ~ Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

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

Posted on February 16, 2015May 1, 2016 by twomomsadmin

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.

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!

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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!

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!

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

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

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

Starting first with Canada and their beautiful Victoria Gardens~

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!

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

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

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

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!

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

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.

Top Five Disney Desserts I Would Love on my Thanksgiving Table! ~ and their recipes

Posted on November 27, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

After the turkey has been carved and consumed and the sweet potatoes are no more, most people will excuse themselves from the Thanksgiving table for a long winter’s nap. Not my family, out roll the desserts. Today while doing a little Disney dreaming I began to visualize all my favorite desserts adorning the Thanksgiving Table, a girl can certainly dream. Below I have compiled a list of five Disney desserts I would love to see on my Thanksgiving table!

‘Ohana

Bread Pudding

Pineapple bread pudding topped with ice cream and covered in caramel sauce.

‘Ohana Bread Pudding Recipe

Tony’s Town Square

Tirmisu

Espresso-soaked Lady Fingers, Whipped Mascarpone, and Dark Chocolate Shavings.

Just like Tony’s Tiramisu

Raglan Road

Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding

Bread and Butter Pudding with Butterscotch and Custard Sauces.

Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe

Writer’s Stop

Carrot Cake Cookie

Moist Carrot Cake discs sandwiching cream cheese frosting.

Writer’s Stop Carrot Cake Cookie Recipe

Liberty Tree Tavern

Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake

Not really a cake per-say, it’s a “crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside toffee chocolate chip cookie-ish sort of thing.”- Disneyfoodblog.com

Liberty Tree Tavern’s Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake Recipe

There it is folks, the five desserts I would love to find on my Thanksgiving table today. How about you? How many of these have you tried and would love to have a serving of today?!

Just Another Disney Day

Posted on September 25, 2014April 24, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Nicole and her family have the opportunity to visit Walt Disney World quite often; they are just a short drive from the Magic. They went ahead and took that drive this weekend and sent us lots of pictures so we could share in the Magic with them! Thank you Nicole!

There is no mistaken fall has arrived at the Magic Kingdom. Greeting them at the entrance were wreaths of happy Mickey Head Jack-O’-Lanterns and peeking down from Main Street USA roof tops were an abundance of carved gourds who seemed to be engaged in creepy conversations.

It is on rare occasion the Double Decker buses grace the Magic Kingdom streets; what a spectacular photo taken by Nicole’s husband!

First order of business was the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train! On this particular visit they did not schedule fast passes; holding their breath they made this their first stop. A 30 minute wait – not bad, this also gave them a chance to check out the interactive que 🙂

A quick stop for one princess to say hi to another 🙂 Princess Bella, meet Princess Tiana ~

Now……. onto Epcot for the Food and Wine Festival!

On their way to the World Showcase festivities they stopped into Club Cool so Nicole could introduce Jordan to a new beverage, can you guess which one it was?

A great budgeting tip and one of convenience too, is to purchase one of these gift cards on a coiled stretch bracelet. What a great way to enjoy snacking around the world without over spending and maybe over eating as well!

Speaking of convenience, check out these little plastic trays that are perfect for holding your food and beverage $5.oo each – brilliant! They are available at several locations around the park and if you are a Chase Visa card owner you can also find them in the Chase Lounge.

Nicole enjoyed a sampling of Bacon Hash from Farm Fresh paired with a cup of Riesling, by the big smiles and big bites I think she enjoyed it!

Let’s talk about this beautiful culinary creation!

Yes, it’s a Dole Whip – BUT this one has an added ZING! that packs a punch. This Dole Whip can not be shared with your kiddies! But what you can offer the pint size tots is a Cronut found at the same location as this Adult Dole Whip. A Cronut is a combination of a Croissant and a Doughnut, another brilliant invention!

Nicole’s husband, Santi paid a visit to the Craft Beer Kiosk. His choices were Sierra Nevada, Kellerweis® and Punkin Ale by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery @ $4.50 a cup. Beer Fights were available for $12 per flight which included four different types of brew in smaller sized cups.

Before they ended their delicious day at Epcot’s World Showcase they took their final ride on Malestrom. Stand-by was a 50 minute wait ( I think many were saying their final good byes to this Norwegian boat adventure), but this family had their fast passes pre- scheduled making their wait 10 to 15 minutes. Farvel Malestrom ~

Farvel to Malestrom, but Aloha to the new entrance at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort!

Well that’s a wrap on this Magical update. Let us know what your favorite food and beverages are at Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival and what you think of the new Polynesian Village Resort entrance!

Farvel and Aloha,

~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 ~

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

My Magic Kingdom Monday Montage ~ of Sounds

Posted on July 8, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Another Monday~ Another Magic Kingdom Montage ~ The Magic Kingdom is in no way short of magic, it’s everywhere- in its sights, sounds, and smells. All these senses help to create our magical experience when we step foot inside this Kingdom of fantasy, fun and enlightenment. Today I am going to share three magical sounds that make my heart leap every time I hear them.

Liberty Square Riverboat~

First rings the bell, and then comes the sound of a steamboat whistle~ pure excitement and a reverberation that says, “Welcome home friend”. Liberty Square Riverboat is a Magic Kingdom classic; it has been a fixture since the opening day. This is my all time favorite magical Magic Kingdom sound.

Liberty Square Riverboat Whistle

The Ghostly Howl of the graveyard dog ~

Crossing the threshold of Frontierland into Liberty Square there is an undeniable presence, a ghostly presence, the eerie howl of the graveyard dog. Though this may not seem as a friendly welcoming into this magical land, in fact it surly is ~ welcome to the home of 999 Happy Haunts….. Just a bit of tainted magic.

Haunted Mansion Howling Dog

Walt Disney World Railroad~

Here comes the Walt Disney World Railroad! I love the sound of the train’s big brass bell that rings out loud and clear announcing its arrival into the train station. This is a sound that welcomes you into the Magic Kingdom even before you enter through the gates. A sound that says, “Good Morning” – “Good Afternoon” – and “Good Evening”, at the end of the day.

Walt Disney World Railroad Train Whistle

And that’s this weeks Magic Kingdom Montage of Magical Sounds~

Tell me about your favorite Magic Kingdom Sounds!

~Maureen

America on Parade ~ Looking back at the Bicentennial Year

Posted on July 4, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

On this happy July 4^th of two thousand and fourteen, I would like to look back about 39 years or so to 1975/1976 when Disney introduced America on Parade in honor of the United States Bicentennial, celebrating the 200^th year anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of independence. It temporarily replaced the Main Street Electrical Parade making its debut in Magic Kingdom on June 6^th, 1975 and Disneyland on June 12, with both parks grand finale held on September 6, 1976.

As I was going through my vintage Disney vacation photographs I found some pictures of this very parade. I was around the age of five at the time these were taken and though I was there I sadly do not recall this parade, but I am more than pleased to have a piece of this significant historical event.

Notice the lamp posts dressed in their Bicentennial decor down Main Street USA and it’s side streets~

This prideful patriotic parade, that I feel Walt would have been so proud of (being a man of great American pride), kicked off with our favorite pal Mickey and his pals Goofy and Donald dressed in their bicentennial best.

The story of our American History was told beginning with early pioneer days to current history (what was current at that time). This parade “spoke” of our achievements and our customs and featured influential figures throughout American history.

Rounding out the ½ hour procession was more of our favorite Disney friends and for the grand finale on September 6^th, 1976 the parade finished with a 1000 piece marching band, an amazing sight to see! Here is a short 7 minute narrated video of this amazing parade, a must see! America on Parade Walt Disney World 1976

This bicentennial parade was created for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort and was the first time both parks worked together on a “production that would appear simultaneously in both parks.” (disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog)

Disney’s celebrations are second to none from their inauguration into the world to this very era; it is just another layer of Disney that draws me in and grasps my heart and holds me tight and why I love my Disney so very much ♥

~Maureen

To read more about Walt and his American pride see Liberty Square a Nod to Walt’s American Pride

Quick Tip Tuesday ~ Disney Park Balloons

Posted on July 1, 2014April 29, 2016 by twomomsadmin

Upon Rebekah’s first visit to the Magic Kingdom she begged for a Mickey Head balloon. I stalled her day after day hoping she would stop asking or forget she wanted one – I just felt it was silly to pay such a high price, $10.00 at that time, for something that would have to be carried around all day and could not be put in our suitcase to come home. She did not forget and she did not stop asking, so I did purchase her a balloon toward the end of our stay. We ended up deflating it, to this day we still have that first Magic Kingdom-Mickey Mouse balloon in a scrap book.

So here is my Quick Tip – if they ask, buy that balloon but buy it on the first day. This way you can enjoy it in all it’s glory for your whole vacation stay, then you too can place your deflated balloon in a scrap book. ºoº

Side Note~ You can not bring balloons to Animal Kingdom Lodge
You cannot bring balloons from the parks to AKL. The balloon could float out into the savannah and injure the animals. If you do happen to bring back a balloon they will hold it for you until checkout, but it cannot be taken back to your room.

~Maureen