Stars on Ice Ticket Giveaway For Orlando’s Amway Center

Stars on Ice, featuring Olympic Medal Winners Meryl Davis & Charlie White, skates into the Amway Center on April 6, 2014, and we have your chance to win a pair of tickets!

I am really excited to see Meryl Davis & Charlie White! They were amazing to watch and have returned from the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, with the United States’ first ice dancing gold medal in history!

The country’s premier figure skating production, Stars on Ice, in partnership with U.S. Figure Skating is proud to announce that for the first time ever, the U.S. Olympic Figure Skating Team will headline the annual nationwide tour!

Bringing the spirit and passion of the Winter Olympics back to home ice, the entire bronze medal-winning U.S. Figure Skating Team will highlight a truly spectacular and star-studded cast. In addition to gold medalists Davis & White, two-time U.S. Champion Ashley Wagner, 2014 U.S. Champion Gracie Gold,four-time reigning U.S. Champion Jeremy Abbot, 2014 U.S. Silver medalist Jason Brown, and two-time reigning U.S. Pairs Champions Marissa Castelli & Simon Shnapir comprise the bronze medal team joining the Stars on Ice 2014 Tour. The tour also includes two-time U.S. ice dancing silver medalists Madison Chock & Evan Bates, 2011 U.S. Champion Ryan Bradley, and 2010 Olympian and 2014 U.S.bronze medalist Mirai Nagasu.

Stars on Ice continues to be a pioneer in figure skating by offering fans the rare opportunity to witness some of America’s most creative and cherished champions performing together in both individual and ensemble routines. Founded and produced by Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton, Stars on Ice is one of the premier family entertainment events in the U.S., and the only figure skating tour in America, bringing you the gretest performances and competitors from the 2014 Winter Olympic Games. This year’s Stars on Ice production joins forces with U.S. Figure Skating, moving its traditional tour dates to the spring in order to showcase the world’s best figure skaters at the top of their form and offering special opportunities for fans across the country to celebrate the accomplishments of these historic skaters.

Tickets are still available for Stars on Ice at the Amway Center!

Tickets are $25, $45, $80 & $145 Children 12 and under $19.55 ‐ US $34.55.

Please keep in mind that all tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling, and facility fee charges.

And now for the fun part! We are giving away a pair of tickets to see Stars on Ice at the Amway center on April 6, 2014!

Our giveaway is open to Residents of the United States who are eighteen (18) years and older. Void where prohibited by law. We use Rafflecopter to choose one lucky winner at random, and each & every contest entry will be verified. The winner of our contest will be contacted by email (so be sure to double check your entry) and will have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen. The winner will be responsible for picking up their tickets on the day of the show at the Amway Center’s Will Call with a valid photo ID. Parking at the Amway Center is not included in this contest. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Through a partnership with the Amway Center,I have received tickets to see Stars on Ice in exchange for this post. All thoughts and opnions are my own.

A #DisneySide @ Home Celebration Recap

I was lucky enough to have been chosen to host a #DisneySide @ Home Celebration, and it was definitely an experience I or my guests will never forget!

The theme of our party was showing your #DisneySide every day using the ideas I shared in my #DisneySide planning video from DisneySideCelebrations.com!

httpv://youtu.be/I4dEqai9r4g

Decorations at our Celebration were themed to Mickey and Minnie, and I displayed some of my favorite Disney plush toys and the Balloon Wreaths with Hidden Mickeys that I made.

I found some great food ideas from Spoonful.com & Babble.com! Since we had vegans and vegetarians creating a menu that was inclusive was a new challenge, but thanks to our friends at Babycakes NYC we had some great treats for everyone to enjoy! We had so much fun creating some really fun desserts! It was a blast making the Minnie and Mickey Mouse themed cupcakes, pretzel snacks, and chocolate dipped pretzel rods. Our guests also really enjoyed the cotton candy we made for them!

We had an absolute blast playing the Disney Colorblock Character Game I created, and everyone had an awesome time in the Disney Princess Bounce House we rented for the day!

The highlight of the #DisneySide @ Home Celebration was the raffle for some great prizes from the hostess kit I was provided with, LeSportsac, Theme Park Connection, Wonder Forge Games, and Bands for Arms.

It was a great party, because we all got to spend time celebrating what makes our #DisneySide so special with great friends!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlLFFfrPlD4&feature=share&list=UUxhza5Nkv4ukqKmIFLE9dgA&index=3

A super huge thank you to John from BigFatPanda.com for creating the wonderful video from our Party and to all of my dear friends for all of their help pulling this all together!

Disclaimer: I was provided with a #Disneyside @ Home Celebration hostess kit by MomSelect that included some of the supplies used for the party as well as gifts for guests and a hostess gift. I was also provided gifts for my guests from Theme Park Connection, LeSportsac, Wonder Forge Games, and Bands for Arms. No monetary compensation was provided, and all other items & decorations were purchased. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own!

HGTV and DIY Network Stars at 2014 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Top HGTV and DIY Network Stars to Appear

at 2014 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Superstars of HGTV and DIY Network shows will appear at the 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival presented by HGTV until May 18, 2014. Three HGTV stars will “crash” the festival for the first time: Matt Blashaw from “Yard Crashers,” Matt Muenster from “Bath Crashers” and Alison Victoria from “Kitchen Crashers.”

The popular HGTV celebrities will meet festival guests and showcase expert tips and clever tricks at noon and 3 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday on The Designers’ Stage presented by HGTV at the Festival Center. The Crashers and their crews are known for plucking regular folks out of home improvement stores to help them – in just three days – make over the family’s yard, bathroom or kitchen. Also new to this year’s festival are “Renovation Raiders” star Amy Matthews and Chip Wade, who started with John Gidding on “Curb Appeal” and now has his own hit show, “Elbow Room.”

HGTV/DIY favorites returning to this year’s festival include Vern Yip, “Design Star” judge, Florida’s own David “Color Splash” Bromstad, John Gidding of “Curb Appeal” and HGTV Star Genevieve Gorder. Here’s the lineup (subject to change):

HGTV DIY Network 2014 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival — Vern Yip

March 21-23 – Matt Blashaw, “Yard Crashers”
March 28-30 – Matt Muenster, ”Bath Crashers”
April 4-6 – Taniya Nayak, ”House Hunters on Vacation”
April 11-13 – Amy Matthews, “Renovation Raiders”
April 18-20 – John Gidding, ”Curb Appeal”
April 25-27 – David Bromstad, “Color Splash”
May 2-4 – Chip Wade, ”Elbow Room”
May 9-11 – Genevieve Gorder, HGTV Star
May 16-18 – Alison Victoria, ”Kitchen Crashers”

Presentations by HGTV and DIY Network stars and all gardening programs and exhibits are included with admission to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. For more information, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit www.EpcotinSpring.com.

Easter Happenings at Walt Disney World

If you are going to be in Walt Disney World for Easter, there are some fun offerings at the parks and resorts to enjoy this spring holiday. Guests looking for religious services can attend Protestant service at the Contemporary in the Fantasia ballroom on Easter Sunday at 9am. Catholic services will be held at 8am and 10:15am. For other holiday services, resorts can assist guests in directing them to off property sites for Hindu, Muslim, Judaism and other religious services.

Table service restaurants across property have Easter meals for booking if you are looking for a special meal. Breakfast with a character buffet is offered at Disney’s Beach Club Resort at Cape May Cafe. A special Easter dinner is also occurring at Cape May with the addition of a Roasted Lamb to the carving station at the buffet. Next door at the Yacht Club, Captain’s Grille is hosting a brunch with Roasted Strip Loin and Baked Ham with assorted sauces with the buffet. Another character meal offered is Chef Mickey’s Fun Time Easter Brunch at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Also at the Contemporary at the Wave there is a brunch with a carving station featuring New York Strip Loin and Bone-In Ham. The Walt Disney World Swan offers a character dinner buffet at Garden Grove. Kouzzina at the Boardwalk and Olivia’s at Old Key West are also providing special dinner menus in addition to their regular dinner menus.

Cupcakes for Easter will be offered in locations at the Boardwalk Bakery, in the food court at Caribbean Beach, and at Roaring Fork at the Wilderness Lodge.

Special Easter merchandise will be available for purchase at gift shops at Coronado Springs and the Yacht and Beach Club. Other resorts will have Easter baskets for purchase in addition to these at the Boardwalk, Caribbean Beach, Contemporary, Fort Wilderness, Grand Floridian, Old Key West, Polynesian and Wilderness Lodge. Some will be pre-made and others will have the opportunity to create your own Easter basket. Consult the resort directly for further questions.

At Roaring Fork at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, guests will have the ability to vote for winners of the Recycled Craft Contest in the dining room.

There will also be a chocolate Easter Egg display in the lobby of the Grand Floridian from April 5 – 22nd.

Stay tuned for more resort and theme park recreation activities to be updated in a future post in April as we get closer to Easter!

Muppets Most Wanted: A Disney Parks Blog Meet-Up

On March 8, the Disney Parks Blog held a meet-up at the AMC theater at Downtown Disney to see Muppets Most Wanted. I am definitely a Muppets fan and have always loved the movies so getting the opportunity to see this new movie before its release date was exciting!

After checking in at the theater, we were given vouchers for drinks and a bag popcorn. Soon, Thomas Smith and Jennifer Fickley-Baker from the Parks Blog started a trivia contest, giving away things like Muppet t-shirts and puzzles. Then some guests were brought up on stage who had shown their Muppets Side by coming dressed in costume. Finally, a very special guest arrived – Sweetums! We were told that after the movie, we would have the opportunity to meet Sweetums and get our picture taken with him!

The movie started at 3:00 PM and opened with a hilarious Monsters University short. I heard several people say that this short would be worth the price of admission alone. It’s about the brothers of Oozma Kappa throwing a party. I liked Monsters University, but I think this short was funnier than anything that was in the movie.

Finally it was time for the main event: Muppets Most Wanted. I’ll put my review a little further down in the post. No spoilers other than basic plot points. After the movie, we waited for our turn to meet Sweetums and got our goody bag, which was a mixture of St. Patrick’s Day and Muppets with green beads and trading cards.

And now for my review…I’d probably give Muppets Most Wanted a B. As I mentioned, I’m a big Muppets fan. I grew up watching the movies and reruns of The Muppet Show. I loved when they returned with The Muppets in 2011. I didn’t think this movie had as much as the emotional pull , which might be preferable to some movie-goers. It reminded me more of The Great Muppet Caper.

If you’ve seen the previews of Muppets Most Wanted, you know that in this movie we are introduced to Constantine – The World’s Most Dangerous Frog – who escapes from prison. He also happens to look a lot like Kermit. The Muppets are heading out on a world tour to capitalize on their new popularity, but they soon find themselves in the middle of an international crime caper. This is of course thanks to Constantine and his sidekick Dominick Badguy (Ricky Gervais).

There are some great laugh-out-loud moments, usually involving one of the many surprise cameos and just general silliness. Some of my favorite moments were between Ty Burrell’s Interpol agent character and Sam Eagle’s CIA agent. The Siberian prison scenes were also a highlight for me. The soundtrack isn’t as memorable as the last, but I did enjoy the opening number called “We’re Doing a Sequel” as well as Constantine’s crazy “I’ll Get You Want You Want (Cockatoo in Malibu).”

httpv://youtu.be/DQiGyBiNjLI

Overall, I definitely recommend seeing Muppets Most Wanted, especially if you are a Muppets fan. It’s a fun movie that the whole family can enjoy together. Oh and make sure to stay through the credits!

March Madness basketball at Walt Disney World

If you are at all a college basketball fan, like I am, your brackets for the NCAA basketball tournaments are already filled out and ready to go. This year there is a new offering at the ESPN Club at Disney’s Boardwalk for VIP seating during March Madness. Beginning March 20th guests have the ability to book reserved seating area. Prices vary based on the portion of the tournament they are attending. For the elimination rounds (March 20 – 23) adult prices are $50 and children are $25. The Sweet 16 Round is $65 and Final Four is $75 for adults and both are $25 for children. During the basketball tournament there will be two sets of seating times, one from 12 – 4:30pm and the other from 5 – 11pm. ESPN Club’s hours of regular operation are from 11:30am – 1am, but are subject to change during March Madness.

From the ESPN Club website: “ESPN Club VIP Premium Club Seats are available for $50 per adult and $25 per child, and include all food and beverage orders up to those amounts; additional charges will apply for orders exceeding the cost of each individual Guest’s admission. Tax and gratuity are not included.”

If playing is more your style, Walt Disney World has several locations on property where you can shoot hoops. At the Walt Disney World Dolphin you can find an outdoor court near the lap pool. Equipment can be checked out at either the Swan or Dolphin health clubs. The court and equipment rental are exclusive to guests staying at the Swan or Dolphin. The Campgrounds at Fort Wilderness also have six quarter quarts located in different loops throughout the resort. Balls are typically available in a box located adjacent to each court. In addition to these, a few deluxe villas properties have courts at Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Balls are usually available at Community Hall. When it opens in August, the new Four Seasons Orlando will also offer a basketball court in their recreation area Explorer Island.

For those looking to be completely immersed in a basketball theme, you may want to check out Disney’s All Star Sports Resort and check in to the Hoops Hotel section. This value resort is one where you can surround yourself in all things basketball with larger than life icons outside the buildings and the theme carries over to the room decor. Pennants decorate the outside of the building featuring college basketball teams from around the country. Basketballs also adorn the exterior of the resort buildings that are more than five feet in diameter and number more than 70. The megaphone giant icon is 45 feet tall and the whistles are 60 feet long and 20 feet tall. If you, or any family members, are fans of basketball, this is a fun resort to enjoy great sports theming in the rooms and throughout the lobby area.

Are you all geared up for March Madness or are you just a basketball fan in general? If so, I hope you’ll check out these resorts to live, eat, sleep and breathe basketball at Walt Disney World. Shout out to your favorite teams you’re routing for in the NCAA tournament in the comments. Go Vols!

Orlando City SC Triple Signing Adds Depth for 2014 Season

Lions Sign Justin Clark, Rafael Diaz and Aodhan Quinn

New additions will provide depth for Orlando City in 2014

With the 2014 USL PRO Season starting soon, Orlando City SC has a pending triple signing that could mean depth for the team roster.

Check out the signing information below and #GoCity!

Orlando City SC announced on Wednesday the signing of Defender Justin Clark, Goalkeeper Rafael Diaz and Midfielder Aodhan Quinn for the 2014 USL PRO season, pending USSF approval. The three new additions will provide depth for Head Coach Adrian Heath’s roster.

Clark is set to rejoin the Lions after playing for Orlando last season, making 5 appearances during the 2013 campaign. With a year of professional experience under his belt, the athletic center-back will provide reassurance for veterans Rob Valentino and Brad Rusin.

Prior to joining Orlando City, Clark had a prolific career at local university, Rollins College. During his time as a Tar, the Atlanta, Ga. native was awarded the 2011 SSC of the Year award, named to the All-Sunshine State Conference team, named to the NSCAA All-South Region team, and also earned Third-Team All-America honors all during his senior year.

Both Diaz and Quinn are joining the Lions fresh off their college careers.

Diaz was a four-year starter at St. Johns University and has a tremendous wingspan that allows him to make difficult saves. While playing for the Red Storm Diaz set the all-time school-record with 32 shutouts, while being a three-time All-BIG EAST selection and a two-time NSCAA All-Northeast Region honoree. Diaz is also a former member of the U18 U.S. Men’s National team.

Quinn joins the Lions after capping off a stellar career at the University of Akron. Earlier this year, Quinn was selected by the Philadelphia Union in the third round (52^nd overall) of the MLS SuperDraft. Known as a crafty midfielder, Quinn recorded 14 goals and 14 assists during his three years at Akron.

Transaction: Orlando City SC signs Defender Justin Clark, Goalkeeper Rafael Diaz, and Midfielder Aodhan Quinn

Name: Justin Clark | Rafael Diaz | Aodhan Quinn

Position: Defense | Goalkeeper | Midfielder

Height: 6’1 | 6’0 | 6’0

Weight: 170 | 160 | 155

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team. The club will begin play in MLS in 2015, becoming the league’s 21^st club. The Lions’ first team has won two USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships and will continue play in USL PRO in 2014 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Central Florida Home & Garden Show Returns to Orlando

The Central Florida Home & Garden Show

Springs Into Action In Orlando April 4-6, 2014

Featuring Celebrity Landscaper Ahmed Hassan, DIY Experts, Top Local Chefs and

Home + Garden Solutions

Every year the Central Florida Home & Garden Show brings new trends, project ideas for any budget, and fun to the Orange Country Convention Center in Orlando!

Along with a hall full of great products, there are celebrity and expert presentations and demonstrations offered to help spark your imagination for indoor and outdoor projects.

Read more about what you can find at this year’s Central Florida Home!

With springtime’s arrival to Florida, there’s no better time for homeowners to get started on projects to maintain their number one investment. Luckily, inspiration is just around the corner: the 2014 Central Florida Home & Garden Show, returning April 4-6 to Hall North B in the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse facing Universal Blvd. The home improvement extravaganza is the premier place to find innovative products, new ideas, practical advice and great deals in remodeling, home improvement and gardening with hundreds of experts all under one roof. From windows and flooring to cabinets and landscaping, consumers can shop, compare and save on a wide variety of products and services to renew, refresh and restore their homes.

Show highlights include appearances by celebrity landscaper and green expert Ahmed Hassan of DIY Network’s Yard Crashers; demonstrations by some of the area’s favorite chefs on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage; daily how-to presentations by Chris Tice, the DIY Guy; a Pet Pavilion with cash and carry items; designer rooms with instant ideas to refresh and restyle; a food truck rally on Sunday; and hundreds of DIY, landscaping and home improvement experts offering a range of new products and services, including exhibitors new to the market or making their Central Florida Home + Garden Show debut.

“There’s something for everyone at our shows,” said Cristian Moore, show manager for Marketplace Events, North America’s largest producer of home shows, including the Central Florida Home + Garden Show and fall Orlando Home Show. “Whether they have a specific project in mind or simply want to enjoy a fun day out, local residents and visitors will find inspiration to refresh their space, reinvent their décor and restyle their lives, plus competitive pricing and promotions that even the savviest shopper might not find elsewhere.”

Ahmed Hassan of DIY Network’s Yard Crashers shares his passion for “getting down and dirty in the garden,” along with tips, advice and behind-the-scenes stories during his appearances on the Fresh Ideas Stage on Saturday at 12 noon and 4 p.m., and Sunday at 12 noon and 3 p.m. (Subject to change without notice).

The popular Edible Orlando Cooking Stage will heat up with mouth-watering cooking demos by Central Florida’s top chefs throughout the weekend. The best part? Samples! Scheduled to appear are Chef Larry Eels of Hyatt Regency Orlando; Orlando Sentinel Food Editor Heather McPherson; Katie Farmand and Pam Brandon of Edible Orlando; Andres Montoya of The Wine Barn; Chef Camilo Velasco of Barnie’s CoffeeKitchen; Chef Jose Gonzalez of Cuba Libre Restaurant; Chef Jerry Helminski of ‘Kesh; Chef Laurent Hollaender of Grand Bohemian Hotel; Shantell Williams of Shantell’s Café; and chefs and experts from Whole Foods Market and Feeding Children Everywhere. Gloria B, the bi-lingual host of KQ103 FM’s afternoon drive show, spices up the stage on Saturday at 1:30 p.m.

The show will also host a food truck rally on Sunday only from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some of Central Florida’s favorite mobile food purveyors, including The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck, The Crepe Company, Sweet City Gelato and Gourmet Desserts, London Fish and Chippy and Magic4urPalate will serve delicious fare for purchase at the entrance to the Convention Center.

After fueling up at the stage or truck rally, “Stay Calm and DIY” with Chris Tice, our DIY Guy. Tice will demonstrate four projects each day in Booth #844: a wine bottle chandelier; a silverware wall clock; a handy space saving knife/spice/iPad stand; and especially for tailgaters, a cooler converted into a portable a/c unit!

Get answers to important DIY and home improvement, landscaping, home décor and lifestyle questions from hundreds of experts around the show floor and on the Fresh Ideas Stage throughout the weekend. Learn how to save 90 percent on your groceries without spending 90 percent of your time clipping coupons from savings guru Mary Edwards of Couponers United. Manage your clutter and master the sacred art of de-accumulation from Sue Marie Bowling of ThatOrganizer.com. Ditch the frustrating search for photos and other content and make life easier in Digital Organizing 101 by Diana Uricchio of OXO Digital. Create a beautiful home with design secrets from Jacqui Hutchinson of Jacqui’s Elegant Interiors. Nate, the Garden Guru, seen weekly on FOX 35 “Good Day Sunday,” appears at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. with irrigation tips to make your garden grow. (Visit www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com for a complete listing of presentations and times.)

Other experts can help show-goers make their gardens a beautiful retreat. Pondtastic Water Gardens, Lanai Hardscape, Hoffner Nursery and Landscape Supply, Infinity Landscape, Artistic Stone, JLC Outdoors Lawn Maintenance, The Rose Gardener, GS Plant Foods, Under The Coconuts and Garden Marketplace will be on site with ideas, tips and cash-and-carry items.

Speaking of items for sale, don’t bark up the wrong tree and miss the Pet Pavilion sponsored by Urban Pet Magazine and Greenbrier. This “woof-worthy” pavilion features training, boarding, treats, food, emergency services, fashion and much more for furry friends. Stop by Harbor House’s booth and save $5 off registration fees to the 4th Annual Paws for Peace Walk on April 26. Meet some of Central Florida’s top dogs and cool cats and their celebrity owners appearing throughout the weekend on the Pet Pavilion Stage, courtesy of Harbor House, including WKMG Local 6 Anchor Jessica Sanchez, Orlando Sentinel Senior Sports Columnist George Diaz, and OPD Officer Tim Stanley with K9 Dog CB.

Another can’t-miss feature at the show are a cluster of four designer rooms created by students from The International Academy of Design and Technology featuring repurposed and recycled items styled into shabby chic, urban upcycle, tropical and modern spaces. New and interesting products making their debut at the show will be noted by a “featured product” floor tile, making it easy for guests to find them. Giveaways, enter-to-win contests and prize drawings round out the winning line-up for guests.

Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m, and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, and are $10 for adults 13+, $5 for seniors (60+, at the box office only), $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages five and under. Advance tickets can be purchased online for a $3 discount off full-price $10 admission at www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com. Convenient on-site parking is available in the adjacent lot and is $9 per car per day.

For more information, visit www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com , or call 877-871-SHOW (7469). Connect on Facebook, Twitter(@FloridaHomeShow), Pinterest (pinterest.com/homeshows/) for up-to-the-minute show details, discounts and fabulous home improvement tips. Visit the show’s blog at www.HomeAndGardenBlog.com.

The Central Florida Home + Garden Show and its fall sister show, the Orlando Home Show (October 24-26, 2014) are both produced by Marketplace Events.

Wordless Wednesday: Donald Topiary

Wordless Wednesday – March 19, 2014

: Wordless Wednesday

2015 D23 Expo Dates Announced

D23 Expo – The Ultimate Disney Fan Event –

Brings all of the Wonderful Worlds of Disney Together

August 14 – 16, 2015 in Anaheim, California

Advance Tickets on Sale August 14, 2014 for the Biggest Disney Fan Event Event

Last year I attended my first D23 Expo in Anaheim, and it was such an amazing experience! After having such a great time, I am really excited to share the announcement of D23 Expo dates for 2015. I can’t recommend making the trip to California enough, because it is truly an event that is beyond amazing and full of great information about the past, present, and future!

If planning for August 2015 seems too far away, don’t forget that D23 enthusiasts will also have the chance to come together this November at Walt Disney World for Destination D!

Here is more information about the Disney D23 Expo!

All the magic and excitement of the past, present, and future of Disney entertainment will come together once again under one roof when D23: The Official Disney Fan Club presents the D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center the weekend of Aug. 14–16, 2015. Each of Disney’s wonderful worlds will unite to celebrate what’s new and what’s on the horizon from theme parks, television, music, games, and films, including Pixar, the Muppets, Star Wars, and Marvel.

“The D23 Expo is the ultimate Disney fan event, created to honor and celebrate your love of all things Disney,” Disney Chairman and CEO Robert A. Iger told shareholders and D23 Members at the Company’s Annual Meeting today in Portland, Oregon. “And we hope to see you there.”

The fourth event promises to be the biggest ever, following the success of D23 Expo 2013, which drew more than 65,000 Disney fans for three star-studded days and nights. Fans were treated to appearances by such superstars as Angelina Jolie, Chris Evans, Billy Crystal, Natalie Portman, and Tom Hiddleston; watched performances by Idina Menzel, and R5 featuring Ross Lynch; enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime concert from Disney Legends Alan Menken and Richard M. Sherman; explored the inner workings of Walt Disney Imagineering; looked back at Disney’s rich history through extraordinary panels, presentations, and exhibits; and discovered the newest entertainment, technology, and products from The Walt Disney Company.

Highlights planned for D23 Expo 2015 include the 2015 Disney Legends Ceremony, which honors the talented men and women who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy; Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, a collection of one-of-a-kind assets, props, and costumes curated by the Walt Disney Archives; and the Collectors Forum, where Disney fans can buy, sell, and trade Disney collectibles, memorabilia, and merchandise. Once again the event will feature a massive show floor full of special opportunities to see what’s on the horizon for Disney around the world—and guests may run into their favorite Disney stars, characters, Imagineers, animators, and filmmakers. Plus, the event will once again feature StagePass, the popular ticket distribution system that allows attendees to obtain a guaranteed seat for some of the Expo’s most popular presentations.

Advance tickets for D23 Expo 2015 will go on sale at D23Expo.com beginning August 14, 2014. D23 Members will receive special pricing on both one- and three-day tickets to the event, which is open to the general public. D23 Gold and Silver Members will also be entitled to early admission to the Expo show floor. D23 Charter Members will enjoy access to the Expo’s Charter Member Lounge. Members will also have an opportunity to purchase the Sorcerer Package, which provides a host of special benefits and amenities.

About D23 Expo 2015

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2015 news, visit D23Expo.com. To join the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 on Twitter and use #D23Expo.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three and a rich website at D23.com. D23 Members enjoy exclusive discounts and special events, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California,August 14–16, 2015.

Best Damn Race Orlando 2014

Earlier this month, March 1st, myself and fellow On The Go’er Betsy participated in the Best Damn Race Orlando 2014. I was interested in doing another 5K race and was looking for my next challenge, when a coworker mentioned this race to me. I had not heard of it before, but when she informed me that it featured free food, beer and massages at the end….well, it would have been rude for me not to attend really!

The way you sign up for this race is different to ones I had done or heard of in the past, it worked on more of a first come first serve basis, with the prices being tiered. The first 10 people to sign up only paid $1, the first 20 $5, the first 30 $10, and so on. I signed up with the first 500 people so ended up paying $25, a great deal for what you were promised at the end! You could sign up for the 5K, the 10K or the half marathon, all taking place on the same day but at different start times.

The race for the 5K was to start at 9am. Parking was pretty easy to find downtown, as the race started at Lake Eola and went through Downtown Orlando.

Once we arrived we signed in and picked up our shirts, unfortunately ours had already ran out, and as we had paid for them in our ticket we thought that was very odd. I have since contacted them and been told that they should be able to mail me the shirts, which would be nice as we were quite disappointed we didn’t have them as a memory.

Once we had our bibs we headed over to the start. Since we were walking most of it we decided to start half way back so we didn’t get in the way of any of the runners. After singing the national anthem we were all set to go. The course was very beautiful, as it was downtown they were a lot of bricked roads we walked over, my favorite part was going by the historic homes along the route, so pretty!

Every now and then our paths crossed with the people finishing the 10K and the Half marathon, I was looking on at them going by hoping that will be me one day!

At each mile they handed out water and gatorade which featured members of the Autism Society Of Greater Orlando, so we were encouraged to be as animated as possible and show our gratitude to these volunteers as we went by and accepted the refreshments.

It was great to see members of the public out supporting the runners along the route too, encouraging us on and letting us know that it wasn’t far now!

The last part of the route brought you back to Lake Eola for a photo finish!

The medal we received was very cool as it featured a bottle opener in the middle!

Once we had our medals we headed over to the buffet, there wasn’t much left so we decided to instead head to the beer tent! They ID’d you on the way in, and gave you a bracelet, then you could go get your beer. It looked like it was Michelob Ultra, either way it was very tasty and very refreshing, even if it was only 10 in the morning, it was 5 o’clock somewhere I’m sure!

After our beer we headed over to check out some of the sponsors stalls, my husband testing out a Therapuetix machine that massaged your muscles and promises to even heal sciatic pain!

We wanted to go take advantage of the free massages but there was only a few tables, and when we enquired about it, the wait was at 45 minutes, which I’m sure others didn’t mind waiting, but we didn’t want to hang around that long.

For the price the Best Damn Race Orlando was a great deal, especially with the free beer at the end, plus it was a lovely route through some really scenic neighborhoods. I will be looking out for when they come back next year for sure!

SeaWorld Orlando Just For Kids Festival Returns

SEAWORLD ORLANDO’S JUST FOR KIDS FESTIVAL IS BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER

Featuring a Rockin’ Rockhopper Party, Up-close Animal Interactions and More

Shamu & Crew invites families to experience SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration through the eyes of a child. Sing, dance and play the day away Saturdays at SeaWorld Orlando’s “Just for Kids” Festival starting March 22.

This kid-centric festival brings families together to enjoy fun rides, adorable animals and an all-new party zone. “Just for Kids” is included with park admission and takes place Saturdays from March 22 – April 12.

During “Just for Kids”, SeaWorld’s year-long 50^thCelebration will be in full swing. Park pathways will come to life with oceans of spontaneous entertainment. Guests will enjoy a Sea of Surprises featuring new interactive experiences and shows, even more up-close animal encounters and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating park guests with prizes and special experiences every day.

At “Just for Kids”, families can experience warm-hearted whimsical fun and make lasting memories as they dance along to jammin’ DJ’s at the NEW Rockin’ Rockhopper Party in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin®, get up close with adorable animal friends at the all-new “SEA Garden,” and meet some of their children’s favorite television stars. With SeaWorld’s awesome shows and attractions as part of the mix, “Just for Kids” is a full-day’s excitement that’s sure to inspire the child in everyone!

And there’s more! Kids can go on an educational treasure hunt as they look for the Sea Star icons throughout the park where they’ll discover fun, educational activities. At each location they will collect a stamp and a limited edition Explorer’s card. After visiting all four locations, they’ll receive a coupon to redeem for a special SeaWorld prize at select gift shops.

Then end the night with Shamu & Crew at the Shamu Dance Party at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins one hour prior to park closing with a stilt walker emcee who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. The Shamu Dance Party continues until 30 minutes after park closing. Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for complete details.

The best way to experience all of the fun, music and treats at “Just for Kids” and SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration is with an Annual Pass, starting atjust $13 per month for Florida Residents. Pass Members can enjoy all four Saturdays of “Just for Kids” fun and all of the amazing special events throughout the year, plus the unforgettable animal encounters, world-class thrill rides and family fun found only at SeaWorld.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest details about SeaWorld Orlando’s “Just for Kids” Festival. Join the conversation by using the hashtag #JustForKids.

SeaWorld Orlando Just For Kids Festival Highlights

ALL-NEW! Rockin’ Rockhopper Party

Starting at 11 a.m., families can experience warm-hearted whimsical fun and make lasting memories as they dance along to family-friendly DJ’s at the Rockin’ Rock Hopper Party in Antarctica – Empire of The Penguin®, play games, such as Rock Hopper Ring Toss and Penguin Plunge, enjoy live penguin appearances, snow moments, snacks, face painting, caricatures and meet the one and only Puck, star of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin.

ALL-NEW! SEA Garden

Share the wonder of close-up encounters with amazing animal friends and learn how we care for our natural world at our all-new SEA Garden.

Shamu Dance Party

Dance the night away with Shamu & crew at the Shamu Dance Party at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins one hour prior to park closing with a stilt walker emcee who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. The Shamu Dance Party continues until 30 minutes after park closing.

Ocean Adventures Kids Program

Kids can go on an educational, card collecting program, also included with admission, starting at 11 a.m. Children will look for the Sea Star icons inside the park, where they’ll discover fun, educational activities. At each location they will collect a stamp and a limited edition Explorer’s card. Once they visit all four locations, they’ll receive a coupon to redeem at select gift shops for a special SeaWorld prize. Limit one prize per participating child.

Orlando City SC Signs Thomas Redding

Orlando City SC Signs Thomas Redding as First MLS Homegrown Player

17-year-old U.S. Youth National Team Member hails from Oviedo, Fla.

Orlando City SC announced on Wednesday afternoon the signing of Oviedo, Fla., native Thomas Redding to a multi-year deal. At only 17 years old, Redding is the club’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) homegrown signing and is the youngest player on the roster.

“From the beginning, we’ve made no secret that the youth development aspect of our club is very important to us,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath on Redding’s signing. “Tommy has a lot of upside and is highly regarded by many in the soccer world, so we’re very pleased that he’s decided to begin his professional career with us.”

MLS’ homegrown player initiative was implemented in 2008 to allow young future professional players, located in MLS markets, to represent their hometown team. Despite being courted in the last year by premier professional clubs in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and England, Redding ultimately decided to start his professional career by representing the city in which he grew up playing youth soccer.

With the completion of the signing, the youngster is now eligible to play for the first team during the 2014 USL PRO campaign prior to the club entering MLS in 2015.

“I’m not surprised that the interest was there because he ticks a lot of the boxes that you look for in a modern-day central defender,” stated Heath. “He has a lot of potential and upside, and we’re very pleased that he has committed to us.”

Known as a quick and athletic defender, Redding is one of the elite players in the country for his age and has the ability to play multiple positions, according to Heath. The 6-foot-2 center-back is a current member of the U18 U.S. Men’s National Team, along with Orlando’s previous signing Tyler Turner, and made headlines after several impressive performances last year during FIFA U17 World Cup qualifying matches.

“We believe in our youth program and we believe in giving youngsters a chance,” added Heath. “We have two young players in our first team squad now, and hopefully they’re they first of many more.”

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Finnegan’s Bar & Grill At Universal Studios Florida

Inside of Universal Studios Florida at the Universal Orlando Resort you can find Finnegan’s Bar & Grill which is one of my favorite places to grab a great meal in the parks!

Nestled among the park’s New York streets you will find this fun-filled Irish-American pub and full-service restaurant that specializes in pairing traditional Irish foods with great beers!

The restaurant décor is cozy, and while it is distinctly that of an Irish-American pub there are touches of Universal Studios Florida all around.

Each meal starts off with Irish soda bread with apple butter that is served on a shamrock board for an extra special touch!

While Finnegan’s offers authentic Irish dishes such as Potato and Leek Soup, Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Guinness Beef Stew, and Fish ‘n Chips. You can also find salads, sandwiches, burgers, fish, steak, and more with an Irish twist.

You can take a peek at the Finnegan’s menu here.

My favorite meal starts off with the Potato Leek Soup, which is creamy and flavorful.

As a main entre the Shepherd’s Pie is a savory and filling dish which has changed the way that I make my own at home! The cheese on top of the mashed potatoesmixed with the savory meat and the slightly sweet root vegetables pair nicely together.

In the restaurant and pub you can enjoy a wide range of imported and domestic draft beers, bottled beers, cocktails, and specialty drinks.

Finnegan’s has a 5-beer samplers, which includes a souvenir glass, which is a fan favorite.

The pub also frequently features live music so you can sing along to all your favorite pub songs – or learn some new ones.

Finnegan’s Bar & Grill at a Glance…

Service Type: Full Service

Location: Streets of New York in Universal Studios Florida

Dining Hours: Lunch and Dinner daily

Price Range: From $10 to $18

Food: Irish-American dishes with familiar favorites

Menu: Check here

Reservations accepted: Call Universal Studios Reservations at 407-224-3613 or make your reservations online.

We love heading into Finnegan’s Bar & Grill for a great meal and nice break from the hustle and bustle of the park.

LEGOLAND Florida Goes Green

LEGOLAND Florida was “going green” Sunday night as all 219,000 gallons in The Quest for CHI turned bright green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

Cragger the Crocodile from The LEGO® World of Chima™, presented by Cartoon Network, turned the water from the Quest for CHI ride the staple holiday color after sneaking past his rival Laval the Lion to dump green coloring into the signature ride, The Quest for CHI. By the end of the night, Mount Cavora, which stands 55 feet from the ground and rushes 1,000 gallons of water every minute, flowed green, giving park guests a unique St. Patrick’s Day photo opportunity.

The LEGO World of Chima, presented by Cartoon Network, is a highly-themed area with a thrilling interactive ride and attractions for visitors of all ages, adding to the park’s already exciting line up of more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. Opened to guests last July, the centerpiece attraction, The Quest for CHI, features an interactive water ride where guests will set on an otherworldly adventure, firing water cannons to help save the CHI.

Cragger and Laval are main characters in the LEGO Legends of Chima™ product line and on the popular TV series of the same name on Cartoon Network. The two characters can regularly be found in the park greeting guests.

The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida is with LEGOLAND Florida Annual Passes, starting at $99 each. The LEGOLAND Florida annual pass includes 12 months of admission and free parking. For the most current information on special events, daily operating hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.LEGOLAND.com.