Why We Are All Orlando City Soccer Club Fans!

So as everyone knows, I love to do new things! A few nights ago Shelley and I (and then two nights later Shalon and I) went to our first Orlando City Soccer Club match and I have to say they have made fans for LIFE!

Follow The Fans!!!!

The Orlando City Soccer Club is an American professional soccer team based in Orlando, Florida, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid. Their Colors are Purple, Red and Gold and White and their mascot is the Lion.

Orlando City Lions

The ownership group, originally identified as Orlando Pro Soccer, was announced on March 4, 2010, and was initially affiliated with the Orlando Titans National Lacrosse League team. However, the Titans ran into financial difficulties. Steve Donner left the Titans club after the 2010 NLL season to focus on the soccer effort. In October 2010, the Orlando Pro Soccer USL rights were purchased by Phil Rawlins, a board member of EnglishPremier League club Stoke City, who moved the Austin Aztex organization to Orlando. The team was announced on October 25, 2010. Rawlins stated at the press conference that he intends to bring a Major League Soccer franchise to Orlando “within 3–5 years”, and intends to bring international matches to the city as well. Rawlins is President and majority owner of the club’s ownership group, Orlando Sports Holdings. Also in the group is Brendan Flood, a board member of English Championship club Burnley. Rawlins announced that the Aztex organization would remain intact in Orlando, with Adrian Heath being retained as manager and most of the team’s players returning as well.

Since then The Orlando City Soccer Club has made their reign very well known in Orlando. In 2011 they were the PSL Pro Champions and they also just clinched that title for 2012 this past Friday in a 4-0 win over the Charleston Battery!

2012 Champions!!!!!

I wish I could explain the energy that these games put off! It is so much fun!!! I have been to big sporting events (Everyone knows I love my Red Sox and Patriots), and for a home town game these fans know how to have FUN!!!! They have Drums, horns, confetti, and chants and it is infectious. Even if you don’t know the words to the chants, You have to jump and clap along!

There are a few different groups that frequent these games.

The Ruckus is the oldest of these groups, whose basis was formed in 2009 as the “Orlando Soccer Supporters Club” without an affiliation to any particular soccer team. They occupy section 119.

The “Iron Lion Firm“, which separated from The Ruckus prior to the start of City’s first season. They run section 121.

The “Orlando Natural Riddim Section” is a Trinidadian drum band that occupies section 109 and plays drums and other percussion instruments throughout home matches.

“Los Guerrilloz”, a Spanish-language barra brava, has formed recently and typically occupies section 128.

For both of the games we hung out in section 121 with the Iron Lion Firm, the ILF!

These Folks know how to have fun!

I got the opportunity to speak to one of the front members of the ILF names Ahmed and he filled me in on what the ILF is about!

Ahmed shared with me that The Iron Lion Firm was formed on March 5th, 2011 by 4 like minded individuals that love the game and culture of soccer and want the sport to flourish here in the states especially Orlando. The ILF are a independent supporters club of Orlando City Soccer Club, with that being said, they fund themselves from within the group for essential items that are crucial to their game day experience; Tailgate supplies, food, streamers, flags, smoke bombs, banners, scarfs and membership T-shirts.

The Iron Lion Firm are a group of culturally diverse individuals and we are a young demographic. Their age group ranges from 17-mid 30’s, but a bulk of the group are in their 20’s. They have about 120 members paying dues to date and that grows throughout the season. Being a paid member get’s you a Purple Iron Lion Firm T-shirt with the club crest on the front, discounts on other merchandise that they create throughout the year such as scarfs, and a discount at their home pub (R.S. Busby’s Orlando) where they host their meetings at. It’s pretty crazy how a group of 4 guys who love the game and want Major League Soccer here in the city beautiful can spread like wildfire just after the first season of being together.

The songs & chants are mostly created or donated by other members & translated into English. They have chants both in English & Spanish.
These games have to be some of the most fun things to do in Orlando. When you go you see flags from all over the world. You see fans of every ethnicity and every culture. You see kids getting into it, you see adults, you see grand parents, you see families having picnics in the stands, we even saw people on their first dates!
The games are held at the Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando. They have vendors selling the typical fair fare all around the entrance. Corn dogs, French fries, nachos and of course Beer! 🙂 They have Orlando City Soccer Merchandise trucks selling T-shirts and Scarves and Jerseys. Stickers and Posters and Balls OH My! And the best part is that the pricing for the games is SUPER affordable!
Pricing for all budgets!
The fact that the players have SO MUCH love for their fans is what has me hooked. They include local boys and girls as the ball kids for the games, the players walk on the field with kids from the local teams at the beginning of the games, and they are always out for pictures and autographs and to even kick the ball around with their fans after the games! The team wants their fans involved. They want people to scream and yell and get rowdy! We even heard from #12 Forward Matt Luzunaris that no matter where they play all over the world, The Orlando City team always has the best and loudest fans!!! Even at away matches. That says a lot! That makes me a proud Orlando Girl!
The Orlando City Soccer Club has play off games coming up and as of right now they only home game listed on their Website is the game on August 17, 2012 against The Dayton Dutch Lions at 7:30pm.
PLEASE Go see these boys in action! Take part in being a fan of Orlando, Soccer and this AMAZING team! Throw on your favorite Purple Shirt, or a red hat, grab a beverage and get ready for some fun!
I want to throw out a huge thanks to Chris Jones who is the Media Relations Coordinator for Orlando City  for hosting our blog at the games and always answering our newbie questions and encouraging us to cheer loudly!
Also a MAJOR Thanks out to Ahmed of the Iron Lion Firm for answering our questions and letting us join in the fun!!!
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Discovery Cove Is More Than A Park For Swimming With Dolphins!

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive adventure set in a paradise of rocky lagoons surrounded by lush landscaping, tropical reefs, winding rivers, a resort-style pool complete with waterfalls and white-sand beaches in which guests enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, rays, and tropical fish, interact with exotic animals, and hand-feed exotic birds.

Reservations are required, and daily attendance is limited to approximately 1,000 guests, ensuring no overcrowding. Guests are greeted at a luxurious reception center and proceed down a nature walk for their day of discovery.

The all-inclusive adventure of a day at Discovery Cove includes a continental breakfast and freshly-prepared lunch, snacks and beverages, including wine and beer throughout the day. Each guest is also provided his/her own swim vest or wetsuit, towel, and swim gear, including a snorkel, mask, fins and eco-friendly sunscreen. Private lockers and dressing areas feature Crabtree & Evelyn bath products.

The park’s animals include Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Southern and cownose rays, thousands of brilliantly colored tropical fish and sharks, and more than 250 exotic birds in a free-flight aviary.

The Discovery Cove Dolphin Interaction is one that the whole family will enjoy!

Dolphin Lagoon

The highlight of a visit to Discovery Cove is the opportunity to swim with an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin during a 30-minute interactive adventure. Accompanied by a trainer, groups of six to eight guests wade into shallow water and become acquainted with their dolphin through hugs, kisses and rubdowns. Then, taking the adventure one step further, guests interact with their dolphin in deeper water for an exciting dorsal fin tow ride back to shore. Guests must be at least 6 years old for the dolphin swim experience.

Freshwater Oasis

The Freshwater Oasis is an all-new attraction featuring wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with playful otters and curious marmosets.  Designed with a rainforest canopy above and sparkling-clear springs below, guests can relax and explore. They’ll wade, wonder, swim and float in the water-filled trails and discover marmosets and playful Asian otters. No matter where guests turn, they’ll find endless discoveries.

The Grand Reef

This imersive experience features multiple levels of exploration, from shallow waters to deeper swimming adventures, from white sandy beaches and hammocks swaying in the breeze, to snorkeling among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world.

The Grand Reef at Discovery Cove is a beautiful and amazing experience! We had a blast swimming among the fish and rays!

SeaVenture

Part of the Grand Reef, SeaVenture is an underwater walking tour where guests, wearing dive helmets, find up-close encounters with sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows), one-on-one touches with unique animals and schools of fish and gentle rays.

Wind-Away River

This waterway meanders through the park, encountering beaches, palm-covered walkways and rocky lagoons. Guests swimming through theWind-AwayRivertravel through different environments: a sunny island beach, a dense tropical forest and an underwater cave. Swimmers going under a waterfall will emerge inside the immense free-flight aviary. Flotation devices are provided as the river varies in depth.

Explorer’s Aviary

This free-flight aviary is home to more than 250 exotic birds.  Guests can hand-feed hundreds of tiny birds and interact with birds as tall as four feet. Guests enter the aviary’s lush, tropical environment by way of the park’s beaches or drifting under the refreshing waterfalls in the Wind-Away River.

Inside the Aviary at Discovery Cove you get the chance to get up close to some beautiful birds.

Serenity Bay Beaches and Pools

Sugar-white beaches are lined with swaying palms, tropical foliage and quaint thatched huts. Guests can claim their own spot among the tall shady umbrellas, lazy hammocks, sunning lounges and beach chairs. Buckets and sand toys are sprinkled along the beach for kids to enjoy. (All amenities are included with admission.

Conservation Cabana

Guests at Discovery Cove enjoy a rare and unforgettable glimpse into the lives of endangered and exotic animals through personal interaction and experiences that are as enriching as they are fun. At Conservation Cabana, visitors can dig into the animal world by touching replica bones, reading from resource books, and searching on computer terminals about the animals they will spend the day with and the park’s conservation partners. Educators are stationed at the Cabana to answer questions, provide animal information and showcase feathered and furry friends throughout the day.

Fantastic Fare

Included with admission, guests at Discovery Cove enjoy unlimited access to a fantastic selection of food and drink all day long. A full, hot breakfast is served at Laguna Grill until 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. From familiar fare to chef specials, all dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and incorporate healthy elements, with daily seafood selections, salad options, and vegetarian dishes available.

Snack Stations                 

Snack stations throughout the park provide all-day service, and offer everything from yogurt and soft pretzels to fruit smoothies and gourmet coffees. Ice-cold beverages, including bottled water, juices, sodas, wine and beer are also offered all day.

If you are looking to take your experience at Discovery Cove to the next level, there are several extras that you can add to your day at Discovery Cove!

Trainer for a Day

For a truly extraordinary experience, up to 24 guests a day can spend additional time with dolphins with three personal interactions, plus behind-the-scenes time with Discovery Cove’s trainers to learn more about the animals that call the park home.

The Trainer for a Day package includes all features of the standard Discovery Cove package plus the behind-the-scenes activities starting at $398 plus tax, depending on the season. Guests between the ages of 6 and 13 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

The Trainer for a day experience at Discovery Cove is a great way to have an experience you will never forget!

Special Occasions

Discovery Cove has created a number of unique Special Occasion packages that include the delightfully unexpected assistance of a bottlenose dolphin. Discovery Cove dolphins have assisted in countless watery wedding proposals, launched love notes, and been a splash at the best of birthday celebrations. For each Special Occasion package, a bottlenose dolphin delivers a personalized message on a keepsake buoy, putting a fantastic end to the already memorable dolphin experience. In addition to the special dolphin delivery, each package features an array of other impressive touches. Call for details.

Private Cabanas

Tucked away behind lush foliage, private cabanas (available for an extra fee) overlook the secluded Dolphin Lagoon. All come complete with table and chairs, chaise lounges, towels, fresh flowers and a refrigerator.

If you are wanted to add a touch of luxury to your trip to Discovery Cove, a private cabana is a great option.

Discovery Cove is located on Central Florida Parkway, at the Intersection of Interstate 4 and FL 528 (the Beachline Expressway), 10 minutes south of downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport.

For an all-inclusive experience like no other, admission to Discovery Cove includes:

  • Reserved dolphin-swim interaction
  • Unlimited access to The Grand Reef, free-flight Explorer’s Aviary, Serenity Bay and Wind-Away River
  • Freshly prepared breakfast and lunch plus snacks throughout the day
  • Beverages throughout the day, including select alcoholic drinks
  • All swim gear (mask, snorkel, and swim vest or wetsuit), towel, locker, sunscreen and other amenities
  • All day self-parking
  • A complimentary photo portrait of guest and their party upon entry to park
  • A pass for 14 consecutive days of unlimited admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica in Orlando before, during or after Discovery Cove visit.

Admission prices throughout 2012:

  • Seasonal rates for Discovery Cove Dolphin Swim Day Resort package start at $229 (Day Resort package, and for guests age 3-5, rates start at $129)  *Prices vary seasonally.

Discovery Cove is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Guest check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.

Due to the exclusive, limited-attendance nature of Discovery Cove, advance reservations are required. Reservations and information are available by visiting DiscoveryCove.com or by calling toll-free at 1-877-434-7268.

 

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The Disney Artist Collection For Target Is Amazing!

The new Disney Artist Collection for Target captures the Creativity, heart, and heritage of Disney by incorporating some beloved and forgotten characters into this line of clothing for Men, Women, Boys, and Girls!

Target and Disney designers collaborated to create some amazing pieces that pull on the graphic sensibility of the older cartoons from the Disney Archives to make pieces that are full of whimsy and style.

Super huge thanks to Christa Dunbar for taking these pictures and sharing them with us!!!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLcUg-Id6GU

If you want to see the whole Disney Artist Collection for Target, you can check it out here.

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The Week in Review: July 23-27, 2012

Happy Sunday!!!

Here at On the Go we have been having another week of fun around Orlando, and it’s time to take a look back so we can Keep Moving Forward…So let’s go!!!

On Monday, we took at look at the new Oz: The Great and Powerful, opening March 8, 2013, trailer that was released. This looks like it is going to be an amazing movie!!!

Oz: The Great and Powerful will be released March 8, 2013

 

Then it is almost my favorite time of year again…Food and Wine Festival at Epcot!!! Aurora looked at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series line up for this year on Tuesday, and I am really excited!!! Sugar Ray, Boyz II Men, Smash Mouth, Gin Blossoms, Blues Traveler, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy are just a few of the bands that will be performing at this year’s series! You HAVE to check out one of these concerts if you are here for the Food and Wine Festival at Epcot!!!

The 2012 Eat to the Beat Concert Series is from September 28-November 12 at Epcot!!!

If your family is anything like mine, you have caught Wreck-It Ralph fever and November 2, 2012 needs to be here today! Tuesday we looked at the slew of talented actors from some of your favorite video games and movies that are lending their voices to this highly anticipated movie!

Wreck-It Ralph Hits Movie Theaters November 2, 2012

 

Wordless Wednesday took us to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, were we needed to be Quiet on the Set at The Great Movie Ride!

Quiet on the Set – The Great Movie Ride – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

 

The only thing cuter than a manatee is a rescued manatee that gave birth to an absolutely adorable calf! Our friends at SeaWorld rescued this momma manatee from Sykes Creek in Merritt Island, FL, because she had severe injuries to the front right flipper caused by a crab pot line. Mom and Calf are doing well and are as cute as can be!

Approximately six weeks after her rescue, rescued manatee gives birth to a calf at SeaWorld Orlando on the morning of July 18, 2012.

 

Thursday Betsy took us with us as she looked at her Happy Place at Walt Disney World where the Dole Whips flow…Disney’s Polynesian Resort. This post is filled with great photos, information, and delicious food that you can find at the Poly, and is sure to make you say Aloha to this amazing Deluxe Resort!

Congratulations! It’s a 100 Weedy Sea Dragons! Over at SeaWorld there is a rare birth about to take place, as a father Weedy Sea Dragon is taking care of 100 eggs that will hatch soon!

Nearly 100 small, pinkish eggs adorn a male weedy sea dragon. As with sea horses, male sea dragons are responsible for bearing young.

We closed out the week with one of the coolest things that we have done yet! The Gaylord Palms hosted a Christmas in July event where we found out about how Ice! will feature some of our favorite characters from Merry Madagascar and had a surprise performance from Vanilla Ice! We also take a peek inside this beautiful resort. How can you not love that???

Vanilla Ice killed it at the Gaylord Palms

Thanks for joining us this week at On the Go, and we can’t wait to bring you even more posts next week!!!

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Christmas In July At The Gaylord Palms Means Vanilla Ice And A Merry Madagascar

The Gaylord Palms hotel, located near Walt Disney World, is an amazing hotel that is transformed into a winter wonderland full of beautiful lights and decorations during Christmas and most importantly home to Ice! At Gaylord Palms!!!

At their Christmas in July event, the Gaylord Palms hotel treated guests to some great Christmas treats and entertainment in the Cypress Springs Family Fun Water Park before the big announcement and amazing surprise!

The announcements began with people around and in the pool (only in Florida!), and we found out that Ice! will feature characters from Merry Madagascar this year. Ice! at Gaylord Palms featuring Dreamworks Merry Madagascar will run from November 10th – January 1st, and I can’t wait!!! Last year was our first year going to Ice! and we are excited to see what this year’s sculptures and slides will look like!

ICE! is Florida’s favorite frigid Christmas tradition, with over 20,000 square-feet of frosty 9-degree bliss played out in a winter wonderland of exciting hand-carved sculptures. And this year it’s really all that it’s cracked up to be, featuring 30-foot ice slides carved entirely from TWO-MILLION pounds of ice and an all-new, awe inspiring tribute to the unforgettable DreamWorks’ Animation TV classic Merry Madagascar. Relive the story of how Alex the Lion and his friends saved Christmas after Santa and his reindeer crash onto the island of Madagascar. ICE! is hand carved by 40 artisans from Harbin, China and will be arriving in early Fall. And while you’re thawing out from this coolest of attractions, you can bask in the dazzling lights of the magnificent Christmas décor throughout the resort and spirited Luminescence Christmas show. You may feel a chill in the air but you’ll feel warmth in your heart as you create wonderful holiday memories that last a lifetime

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_35scTMKoI

But when we thought it was all done, we were wrong!!! Cause out from the speakers came a familiar beat…then a familiar voice…and before I could even form the words Vanilla Ice took the stage for some Ice, Ice Baby goodness. It was such a treat, because I never thought I would be able to relive that memory with my daughter.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAwYOlNPYb8

After the announcement and performance, guests were invited inside to take pictures with the characters, and to enjoy the beautiful Gaylord Palms Hotel. If you have never been inside of the Gaylord Palms hotel, you are seriously missing out on a beautiful place to spend your vacation.

We are all really excited for Ice! at Gaylord Palms featuring Dreamworks Merry Madagascar, and can’t thank them enough for hosting an amazing event that we won’t soon forget!!!

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Father Weedy Sea Dragon Gives Birth at SeaWorld Orlando

Nearly 100 small, pinkish eggs adorn a male weedy sea dragon. As with sea horses, male sea dragons are responsible for bearing young.

A rare and exciting event has taken place at SeaWorld Orlando. A weedy sea dragon has given birth to his first few baby sea dragons.

This is the first time sea dragon eggs have successfully hatched at a SeaWorld park and is considered a very extraordinary occurrence in aquariums around the world. In fact, there have only been three other aquariums in the United States to successfully breed weedy sea dragons.

Like the closely related sea horse, male sea dragons are actually the ones in charge of bearing young. The female deposits the eggs onto a spongy patch found on the underside of the male’s tail. The eggs are fertilized during this transfer and remain on their father for the next five to nine weeks. Dad is responsible for incubation and care of the eggs until they reach full term.

Close to 100 eggs were laid by the female in June and will continue to hatch over the next couple of weeks. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny sea dragons are on their own. They’ll receive nutrition by absorbing the remains of their yolk sac and from zooplankton found in the water. Once the egg sac has been absorbed, the newborns will begin feeding on newly hatched brine shrimp. The baby sea dragons will take around a year to reach full size.

The sea dragon is a protected animal found naturally in tropical coastal waters of south and west Australia. Due to human invasion and pollution, the numbers of sea dragons that live in their natural environment have drastically dropped since the 1980s. The weedy sea dragons can normally be seen at SeaWorld in the aquarium exhibit inside Manta

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My Happy Place – It Must Be the Dole Whips

The sounds of steel guitars and ukuleles skip across the lagoon and you immediately think “mahalo.” Sun sets off to your left as you sway peacefully in a hammock between two palm trees on the beach and you truly believe you are in heaven. To me, these are just a couple of the things I equate with my happy place, otherwise known as Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Now for those of you who don’t know, I love almost all things Hawaiian. My house is decorated in Hawaiiana, with tropical accents, travel posters, surf boards large and small, hibiscus prints, and even some vintage maps of the islands. This is right up my alley, but let me explain why so many others agree with me in choosing the Polynesian as their favorite deluxe resort at Walt Disney World.

Boutiki

One of three resorts that opened at WDW in 1971, along with the Contemporary and Fort Wilderness, this classic features some of the most beautiful landscaping on property. The resort is situated on the shores of the man made Seven Seas Lagoon and is directly across the lagoon from the Magic Kingdom. It is one of the three monorail resorts that is accessible to the Magic Kingdom, and it also offers boat transportation. I personally prefer the peaceful cruise by resort launch to the theme park as it relaxes me and is often less crowded than the monorails tend to be. The main building, the Great Ceremonial House, is home to the shops and restaurants as well as the front desk and monorail station. There are two shops on the first level in Boutiki and the Wyland Gallery. Boutiki is where you find mostly the latest and greatest Disney gifts and apparel in addition to resort specific merchandise. The Wyland Gallery is home to beautiful oceanographic art, some even featuring Disney characters in the paintings and sculptures. Upstairs you find Samoa Snacks (appropriately named for snacks and drinks) and Trader Jack’s which is aimed more at the kids with clothing, toys and games.

Disney’s Polynesian Resort features standard rooms that accommodate up to five guests plus an infant under three with two queen sized beds and a day bed, in addition to club level rooms and larger suites that can accommodate up to nine plus an infant. This is the only one of the deluxe resorts that can guarantee the bedding of two queens and a day bed, whereas it is a request at the other deluxe resorts aside from Animal Kingdom and Wilderness Lodges which offer two queen beds standard. The rooms are some of the largest at WDW and offer a mini fridge, coffeemaker, ceiling fan, full bath, desk area, complimentary wifi, and either a patio or a balcony.

Polynesian bed
Polynesian room
Polynesian room looking towards patio
Polynesian room day bed
Polynesian bathroom vanity
Polynesian fridge area
Polynesian room closets
Polynesian bathroom
Polynesian toilet room
Polynesian bathroom shower
Polynesian room tiki lamp
Polynesian room patio

A great draw to the resort is the variety of restaurants and bars between the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (a luau!!!), ‘Ohana, Kona Cafe, Kona Island Coffee/Sushi Bar, Capt. Cook’s, Barefoot Pool Bar, Tambu Lounge, and of course, private dining. Now, being that this is my favorite resort in all of Walt Disney World, I have experienced the majority of these dining experiences with the exception of ‘Ohana for the character breakfast, Kona Cafe for lunch and private dining (WDW’s nomenclature for room service).

Spirit of Aloha
Kona Cafe
Capt. Cook’s
‘Ohana

The Spirit of Aloha in Luau Cove was a great time with good food and fun for kids and the adults with a story at the beginning and more adult geared cultural information and dances towards the end of the show. Capt. Cook’s is a wonderful counter service location on the first level of the Great Ceremonial House, and is one of only a handful on property that is open 24 hours (the grill is usually closed from 11pm to 6:30am). One of my favorite things ever is here in the self serve dole whip, which you can get in either pineapple, vanilla, or my favorite twist. I have been known to take my dole whip creating to a whole new level. 😉

Kona Cafe is located on the second level of the Great Ceremonial House and features awesome meals for breakfast like the infamous Tonga Toast (which you can also get at Capt. Cook’s), a thick slice of sourdough bread stuffed with sauteed bananas and covered in cinnamon sugar. Another great breakfast find is Kona coffee in a French press and the pineapple macadamia nut pancakes. Lunch and dinner offer nice salads, sandwiches, pot stickers, coconut chicken and an awesome teriyaki strip steak. The adjacent Kona Island Coffee Bar in the morning and Sushi Bar at night, shares the same menu and also offers a few other grab and go items in the morning. The tuna poke at the Sushi Bar is one of my go to quick, but delicious sushi meals on property. It is awesome being able to watch the sushi chefs prepare your meal right in front of you if you are lucky enough to get a seat right at the counter.

Tonga Toast
Kona Cafe pineapple macadamia nut pancakes
Kona coffee
Kona Island Sushi Bar tuna poke

Now if you like meat ‘Ohana is the place for you to go for dinner. The restaurant has an open concept and serves their meals family style, bringing the meat straight from the open wood fire grills. Shrimp, pork, chicken and beef are served off of giant skewers that are brought table side by the servers. Side dishes are just as tasty as the meats and accompanying dipping sauces. The salad features a honey lime vinaigrette that is one of the best in my opinion. Coconut bread, asian noodles, pot stickers and broccoli are also served with the meal. And then comes dessert. The bread pudding. Oh my goodness the bread pudding. Now in general, I am not a fan of bananas cooked in things or banana flavored food, despite the fact I love bananas themselves, but the bread pudding at ‘Ohana and the Tonga Toast at either Capt. Cook’s or Kona seem to be the exception to the rule. I don’t know what they do to it, but that bread pudding is magical. Thank goodness it is all you care to eat because you will be asking (maybe even begging) for more! As I mentioned, I haven’t had the breakfast at ‘Ohana, but I have heard great things about it and have snuck in to take a few pictures for the sake of reporting back to you fine folks. It looks like it is a great time with Mickey and friends (please be aware characters may vary), which on the day I visited featured Mickey in a very festive Hawaiian shirt as well as Pluto, Lilo and Stitch.

‘Ohana breakfast
‘Ohana breakfast view
‘Ohana asian noodles and broccoli
‘Ohana dinner bread pudding

Tambu Lounge is probably my favorite place to stop for an adult beverage at Disney World. It offers great views of the grounds and even a peek at Cinderella Castle across the lagoon. On top of this, it also is home to one of my favorite drinks, the backscratcher. This is not for the faint of heart as it consists of rum, more rum and some Jack Daniels, along with some tropical fruit juice and is typically garnished with an orange, a cherry, and of course a backscratcher. No, I’m not kidding. The drink is served in a hurricane type glass and comes with a backscratcher, which is usually placed in your drink by the bartender. It is fruity, but not too sweet, and hits the spot if you are just looking for a nice drink to help you unwind while in this tropical paradise. They also make a killer zombie as well as the standard fare found in almost all the bars across property. If pool bars are more your thing, check out the Barefoot Pool Bar for gorgeous views of the Nanea Volcano Pool and the beach as well as the Magic Kingdom. If mom and dad want to have an evening to themselves while enjoying a few cocktails they can always look into enrolling the kids (ages 3-12) at the Neverland Club from 4pm – 12am. This is the Children’s Activity Center located right at the Polynesian and offers a kid’s club atmosphere with dinner, snack, movies, games, arts and crafts (call for pricing). Hey, parents are on vacation too you know!

Tambu Lounge
Backscratcher
Zombie
The Neverland Club
Nanea volcano pool

Speaking of pools, the Polynesian offers two: the aforementioned Nanea Volcano Pool, which is the main theme pool complete with a slide running down the volcano and zero entry at one end, and the quiet pool. For views, I don’t think the main pool can be beat with a beautiful panorama of the beach and lagoon as well as a direct sight line to Cinderella Castle. The only thing I feel the resort is lacking is a hot tub. They offer great private cabanas with poolside service, restrooms and showers by the pool, hammocks on the beach, lounge chairs and the bar. Other recreation options at the resort can be found in pool activities and games like trivia, name that tune, diving for toys in the pool and dance parties. The resort also has its own marina, called the Mikala Canoe Club. Sea Raycers, pontoon boats, Boston Whalers, sailboats and bicycles can all be rented here. For those who favor more of the indoor activities, the Polynesian also has an arcade called Moana Mickey’s, which is next to Capt. Cook’s on the first level of the Great Ceremonial House.

Mikala Canoe Club

The beach at the Polynesian is beautiful and offers sweeping views of the Magic Kingdom resort area with the Wedding Pavilion and Grand Floridian to the left, the Magic Kingdom straight ahead, and Bay Lake Tower and the Contemporary to the right. One activity that I love to partake in when I stay at the Polynesian is the nightly movie on the beach. Each night (subject to cancellation due to inclement weather), the resort inflates a large movie screen and sets up lounge chairs on the beach for guests to watch a Disney movie free of charge. This is a great way to spend a nice evening at the resort relaxing after being on the go in the parks all day. Sometimes they even set up a small fire pit and sell smores kits or marshmallows to roast. Another classic, not to be missed nighttime display is the Electrical Water Pageant, which has been around since the 1970s, shortly after the resort opened. If you are lucky, you may even be able to time it right to where you can see Wishes from the beach of the Polynesian with the water pageant in front of you. Talk about magic!!!

combing the polynesian beach
Electrical water pageant and Wishes
Lobby
Polynesian beach featuring my hammock

I don’t know what it is about this resort that makes it just feel like home to me. Maybe it is the welcoming smell of grilled meats and the flickering tiki torches along with the mellifluous sounds of familiar (to me) Hawaiian music. Or it could be that I have a hammock on the beach that I have claimed as my own and I have spent many hours there enjoying the sounds of the faint train whistle off in the distance of the Magic Kingdom across the water. Perhaps it is the aesthetically pleasing tropical decor found across the common areas of the resort and in the rooms. Backscratchers are always a compelling draw, but no, I think it must be the dole whips. 🙂

me making my dole whip
me eating my dole whip
me with dole whip
dole whip

 

Please check out my youtube video of some more pictures from the Polynesian.

 

 

 

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Rescued Manatee Gives Birth to Manatee Calf at SeaWorld Orlando

Rescued Manatee Gives Birth to Manatee Calf at SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue team traveled to Sykes Creek in Merritt Island, Fla., on June 8 to rescue the 10-foot manatee that had severe injuries to the front right flipper caused by a crab pot line.
A pregnant manatee rescued by SeaWorld’s Animal team in June has given birth to a healthy manatee calf. Born early on Wednesday morning, between 3 and 6 a.m., the newborn calf has been nursing and bonding with mom in a back area pool. SeaWorld’s Animal Care team is on 24-hour watch keeping a close eye on the pair, who are both doing well.
 
BACKGROUND:
On June 8, 2012, SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue team traveled to Sykes Creek in Merritt Island, Fla. to rescue a 10-foot manatee. She had severe injuries to her front right flipper caused by a crab pot line. Fishing line was also wrapped around both of her front flippers. 
 
The adult, weighing nearly 1,380 pounds, was transported by the Rescue Team to SeaWorld Orlando for further evaluation and care. After assessment, her front right flipper was amputated and bandaged. The manatee received antibiotics and was treated for her injuries, and her health continued to improve.
 
Based on her size, SeaWorld’s veterinary team suspected the manatee could be pregnant. After performing a sonogram procedure on the gentle giant, it was confirmed that she was pregnant and about six weeks later (Wednesday), the calf was born.
SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue team is on call 24/7 to save and care for injured, orphaned or ill animals. So far in 2012, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 12 manatees.
Approximately six weeks after her rescue, rescued manatee gives birth to a calf at SeaWorld Orlando on the morning of July 18, 2012.

All manatee rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911
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“Wreck-it Ralph” Taps Talented And Diverse Voices For Hilarious Arcade Game Hopping Adventure!

“WRECK-IT RALPH” TAPS TALENTED AND DIVERSE VOICES FOR HILARIOUS ARCADE-GAME-HOPPING ADVENTURE

 

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Reveals Key Cast Members Slated to Join

John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer and Jane Lynch

in “Wreck-It Ralph”—in Theaters November 2, 2012

Wreck-It Ralph Hits Movie Theaters November 2, 2012

Tapping stars from the big and small screens, Walt Disney Animation Studios rounds out its voice cast for “Wreck-It Ralph.” Directed by Rich Moore (TV’s “The Simpsons,” “Futurama”) and produced by Clark Spencer (“Lilo & Stitch,” “Bolt”), the hilarious arcade-game-hopping adventure adds to its current roster, which includes John C. Reilly as Wreck-It Ralph, Jack McBrayer as Fix-It Felix Jr., Jane Lynch as Sergeant Calhoun and Sarah Silverman as Vanellope von Schweetz. “Wreck-It Ralph” hits theaters November 2, 2012.

Helping to bring to life the diverse, colorful and wildly imaginative arcade-game worlds created for “Wreck-It Ralph” are the following voice cast members:

  • ·         Alan Tudyk (ABC’s “Suburgatory,” “Dodgeball”) as King Candy, ruler of Sugar Rush, a candy-coated cart racing game
  • ·         Ed O’Neill (ABC’s “Modern Family”) as Mr. Litwak, owner of Litwak’s Family Fun Center & Arcade
  • ·         Mindy Kaling (“The Mindy Project,” “The Office”) as Taffyta Muttonfudge, an accomplished racer and Vanellope’s nemesis
  • ·         Adam Carolla  (“The Adam Carolla Show”) as Wynchel, Sugar Rush security
  • ·         Horatio Sanz (“Saturday Night Live”) as Duncan, Sugar Rush security
  • ·         Dennis Haysbert (CBS’s “The Unit,” “24”) as General from the first-person shooter game, Hero’s Duty
  • ·         Edie McClurg (“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” TV’s “The Life & Times of Tim,” “Planes, Trains & Automobiles”) – as Mary, a Nicelander  who lives within the game Fix-It Felix, Jr.
  • ·         Roger Craig Smith (Captain Marvel from TV’s “The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes,” Ezio from game franchise “Assassin’s Creed”) as Sonic the Hedgehog
  • ·         Gerald C Rivers  (video game “Street Fighter” series) as M. Bison
  • ·         Rachael Harris (“The Hangover,” TV’s “New Girl”) as Deanna, a Nicelander who lives within the game Fix-It Felix, Jr.
  • ·         Stefanie Scott (Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm”) as Moppet Girl, a young arcade enthusiast who visits Litwak’s arcade
  • ·         Reuben Langdon (multiple “Street Fighter” video games) as Ken from Street Fighter
  • ·         Kyle Hebert (multiple “Street Fighter” video games, TV’s “The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes”) as Ryu from Street Fighter

 

ABOUT THE MOVIE

From Walt Disney Animation Studios and Emmy®-winning director Rich Moore comes “Wreck-It Ralph,” a hilarious, arcade-game-hopping adventure. For decades, Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) has been overshadowed by Fix-It Felix, Jr. (voice of Jack McBrayer), the good-guy star of their game who always gets to save the day. Tired of playing the role of a bad guy, Ralph takes matters into his own massive hands and sets off on a journey across the arcade through multiple generations of video games to prove he’s got what it takes to be a hero.

On his quest, Ralph meets tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun (voice of Jane Lynch) from the first-person action game Hero’s Duty, and feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) from the candy-coated cart racing game, Sugar Rush, who may just be his first real friend. But everything changes when a deadly enemy is unleashed, threatening the entire arcade and Vanellope herself. Ralph finally gets his chance to save the day—but can he do it in time? “Wreck-It Ralph” crashes onto the big screen on November 2, 2012, in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.

 

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Eat To The Beat Concert Series 2012 at Epcot!!!

It is almost the most WONDERFUL time of the year!!!!!! Nope… Not Christmas….. Surely you must know that I am talking about

FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL!!!!!

Anyone who knows my husband and I is well aware that you will find us out and about multiple times a week when it is time for Food and Wine Festival at Epcot! We can not get enough of the food stands and the drinks and the atmosphere! I ask my brother DAILY “Is it almost time for Food & Wine” And every day he responds “I wish”. This year it runs from September 28-November 12,2012. The weather is always cooler, the crowds are lighter and who can pass up 3 and 4 dollar yummy bits all over World Showcase!

Another thing that comes with Food and Wine every year is the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.

They bring in all sorts of acts from today and yesterday ( Mostly yesterday but that’s ok ). I personally have seen Boyz II Men for the past three years and plan on making this year 4 years in a row! And I know a certain West Virginia Girl that I blog with that will be front and center for Sugar Ray 😉 Ahem Shalon!!!! The artists always put on a fun show rain or shine! People dance and sing along and It is free with park admission!! How can you say no??? This year’s line up includes:

  • 9/28-9/30: Night Ranger
  • 10/1-10/3: Sugar Ray
  • 10/4- 10/7: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas
  • 10/8-10/10: Boyz II Men
  • 10/11-10/12: Smash Mouth
  • 10/13-10/14: Javier Colon, winner of “The Voice”
  • 10/15-10/17: Air Supply
  • 10/18-10/19: Gin Blossoms
  • 10/20-10/21: Survivor
  • 10/22-10/23: Hanson
  • 10/24-10/25: The Pointer Sisters
  • 10/26-10/28: Sister Hazel
  • 10/29-10/31: Billy Ocean
  • 11/1-11/2: 38 Special
  • 11/3-11/4: Howard Jones LIVE
  • 11/5-11/6: Blues Traveler
  • 11/7-11/8: Dennis DeYoung, original member of the group STYX
  • 11/9-11/12: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Please stay tuned to our little slice of blog for more information in the coming weeks about Food and Wine Festival! I can not wait to tell you all about the seminars and the cooking classes that are offered and maybe even preview some of the new foods they will have!!!!

And FYI… the count down is 68 Days!!!!!!!

See… that is almost time…. right???

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Oz: The Great And Powerful Trailer Released

From Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures:

Oz: The Great and Powerful will be released March 8, 2013

 

Disney’s fantastical adventure “Oz The Great and Powerful,” directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved character, the Wizard of Oz. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful Wizard of Oz but into a better man as well.

 

 httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1NGnVLDPog&feature=youtu.be

 

“Oz The Great and Powerful” is produced by Joe Roth and written by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire (credit not final).Grant Curtis, Philip Steuer and Palak Patel are serving as executive producers. “Oz The Great and Powerful” opens in U.S. theaters on March 8, 2013.

When small-time magician Oscar Diggs (James Franco) pulls one flimflam too many, he finds himself hurled into the fantastical Land of Oz where he must somehow transform himself into the great and powerful Wizard—and just maybe into a better man as well.

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The Week in Review July 16 – 20, 2012

It was a super busy week at On the Go in MCO!!!

We talked about the Holidays, Giveaways, Merchandise, Miniature Golf, and more. So let’s take a look backnat all of this week’s posts!!!

Giveaway!!! Don’t forget to enter to win your very own Customized Autograph Book by July 27th!!!

The Tinkerbell Autograph Book I made!!!

Betsy took us along as she cooled off playing the Summer Course at the Winterland Summerland Miniature Golf Course.

Join us as we play the Summer Course at Winter Summerland!

This Week LEGOLAND Florida announced that they wouldn’t be raising ticket prices!

 

LEGOLAND Florida Prices Stay The Same

In Videos this week, we got see something we thought we would never do…We got to see Vanilla Ice Perform at the Gaylord Palms Christmas in July Event! We’ll be bringing you more details about what Gaylord Palms has in store for the Holidays next week, but here is some Ice, Ice Baby goodness to hold you over…

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAwYOlNPYb8

Subscribe to our YouTube Page so you don’t miss any of our fun videos, too!!!

 

On Facebook, we have added some our pictures from the Gaylord Palms Christmas in July Event to our Page. While you’re there, Like Us!!!

The Gaylord Palms will be having a Merry Madagascar Ice starting in November!

We found some great new Merchandise this week at Walt Disney World!!! First we took at look at the new Limited Edition Ear Hat Ornaments that are sure to get you in the Holiday Spirit!

WALL-E Resin Ear Hat Ornament – Front

Then we found some Halloween Trading Pins and the Halloween Lanyard out at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

2012 Halloween Pin - Duffy
2012 Halloween Pin – Duffy

In More Halloween News, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has been hard at work getting ready for Howl-O-Scream by growing some crazy pumpkins.

A member of the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Horticulture Team showing off one of their many pumpkins!

For Wordless Wednesday, we take a look at the Mickey made of Mickeys at D Street at Walt Disney World Downtown Disney West Side.

Vinylmation Mickey at D Street at Downtown Disney West Side

If you love pinning as much as we do, please make sure that you also follow us on Pinterest!

 

And if you don’t already, follow us on Twitter!

 

 

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Halloween Trading Pins Are Out At Walt Disney World!!!

It is my favorite time of year again…time for Halloween Merch at Walt Disney World!!!

I was beyond excited to find Halloween Trading Pins and Holiday Lanyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios last night!!!

I am in love with the Duffy Pin!!!

I hope you enjoy this first look at the 2012 Halloween Trading Pins and Lanyard!!!

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Creating a Tinkerbell Autograph Book and Giveaway!

I have always taken a lot of care and pride in creating Autograph Books for Zoe to use on our visits to Walt Disney World, and it was time to make a new one so I thought I would share my love of Disney Crafting with you!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bor1BRuaL0g

And now for the fun part! If you would like to win a customized Autograph Book, please enter our Giveaway by Midnight on July 27, 2012.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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