January 2016 - Page 2 of 3 - On the Go in MCO

Eight Fun BB-8 Merchandise Picks

Some of you may have heard of this cute little astromech droid named BB-8 from this little indie flick called Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. I have fallen in love with BB-8 and thought I’d share some of my favorite merchandise gems I’ve found featuring this adorable new droid.

We’ve all seen the Sphero BB-8, which looks amazing by the way. There are tons of the usual merchandise offerings like pins, shirts, hats, backpacks, phone cases, MagicBands, etc. for sale in the Disney Parks and all over the internet. I’m going to share some of the more unique items I’ve come across online in particular, but not in any specific order.

For the golfing enthusiast, these BB-8 golf club head covers would make any golf bag the talk of the course.

2. I’ve been looking for some new over the ear headphones, and these BB-8 ones may be taking the lead.

3. One of the more intriguing items I discovered on Amazon was this set of The Force Awakens nesting dolls with BB-8.

4. This BB-8 mini fridge is perfect for storing cold drinks under or on your desk at work, and it is stylish too!

5. This Rey LEGO mini figure comes with a cute little BB-8 and her Jakku-wear. You can find them both in this Millennium Falcon LEGO Set.

6. I have a tendency to lose flash drives, but I have a feeling I’d be able to keep my eye on this BB-8 storage device.

7. I cannot decide if I have to have this BB-8 suitcase, or if I just need it. 😉

8. This car decal will be mine! I mean it even has my initials on it. Maybe this is part of why I love BB-8 so much. Currently this isn’t available from purchase individually on TeeFury, but only as a part of the Galactic Bundle. I guess I may just have to get more Star Wars stuff. Oh well.

And as a bonus, I have my own favorite piece of BB-8 merchandise…The BB-8 Interactive Hoodie from the Disney Store that uses the Disney Store Become App.

httpv://youtu.be/WHCEyQnm4a0

Nickelodeon Suites Resort Hosts Power Rangers Dino Super Charge Weekend

Nickelodeon Suites Resort Hosts

Power Rangers Dino Super Charge Weekend

The Power Rangers are returning to the Nickelodeon Suites Resort for a SUPER-CHARGED adventure February 13 – 15, 2016!

This action packed Power Rangers Weekend includes the following opportunities:

Meet & Greet opportunities – Join the Power Rangers Dino Super Charge for a Meet & Greet photo opportunity.
Train Like a Ranger – Join the Power Rangers Dino Super Charge as they show off their training moves and give you tips on how they stay healthy.
Episode Viewing – Watch an episode of Power Rangers Dino Super Charge. Episode is shown continuously from 9:00am to approximately 11:00am.

Saturday, February 13, 2016

9:00am – 11:00am – Episode viewing – Studio Nick
1:00pm & 3:00pm – Meet & Greet opportunity – The Mall
5:30pm – Train Like a Ranger – Oasis Pool

Sunday, February 14, 2016

9:00am – 11:00am – Episode viewing – Studio Nick
1:00pm & 3:00pm – Meet & Greet opportunity – The Mall
5:30pm – Train Like a Ranger – Oasis Pool

Monday, February 15, 2016

9:00am – 11:00am – Episode viewing – Studio Nick
1:00pm – Meet & Greet opportunity – The Mall
3:00pm – Train Like a Ranger – Oasis Pool

DAY PASSES are available for the Power Rangers Dino Super Charge Weekend!

Enjoy all day Oasis Pool Water Park Access and scheduled live entertainment. In addition to the above opportunities each guest can enjoy our daily Mass Sliming, Nick LIVE poolside shows and Double Dare LIVE!

Entertainment + Water Park Access Pass

$39.95 + tax per person
Group of 10 – $249.95 + tax and $29.95 per additional person
Children 3 and under are free
Parking for (1) car per reservation is included.
Additional cars may be subject to $17 per car additional parking fee.

Please call the hotel directly at 407-387-5438 to purchase your day pass TODAY!

Day Passes are based on hotel occupancy levels, water park capacity, certain restrictions and blackout dates. Space is limited. Reservations are recommended.

Wordless Wednesday: Wisdom On A Wednesday At Animal Kingdom

Wordless Wednesday – January 13, 2016

It does not matter who

you are or where you

are from. We are all

Children of the World.

I found this week’s Wordless Wednesday on the streets of the Harambe Market in Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World, and it’s message rings loud and true.

Amway Center Concert News: Florence + The Machine How Beautiful Tour Date Announced

Amway Center Concert News:

Florence + The Machine How Beautiful Tour Date Announced

Following a hugely successful 2015, which saw the release of their first U.S. number one album, “How Big How Blue How Beautiful” (Republic Records), Florence + The Machine will embark on their How Beautiful North America Tour this spring. The tour kicks off on May 13 and visits Orlando’s Amway Center on Saturday, May 14. Tickets go on sale to the public on Saturday, January 16 at 10 a.m.

Florence + The Machine are currently nominated for five Grammy Awards in the categories of Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Ship to Wreck,” Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance for “What Kind Of Man” and Best Pop Vocal Album for “How Big How Blue How Beautiful.” “How Big How Blue How Beautiful” is also nominated for Best Recording Packaging. The 2016 Grammy Awards take place on February 15.

httpv://youtu.be/lMyYPIgAXaY

Released to extensive critical acclaim and named to best of lists from Rolling Stone, NPR Music, SPIN, American Songwriter, Consequence of Sound and more, the album landed Florence Welch bookings on “Saturday Night Live,” “Good Morning America,” “Ellen,” “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.”

With three albums to her name, Welch continues to reach new heights — “How Big How Blue How Beautiful” reached number one in the U.K. (her third number one album in the country), Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Switzerland and Canada after reaching the top spot on iTunes charts in 24 countries worldwide. “How Big How Blue How Beautiful” was written and recorded over the course of 2014. Produced by Markus Dravs (Björk, Arcade Fire, Coldplay) with contributions from Kid Harpoon, Paul Epworth, John Hill and James Ford, the album follows Welch’s globally acclaimed “Lungs” (2009) and “Ceremonials” (2011).

Florence + The Machine | How Beautiful Tour Info At-A-Glance

WHAT:

Florence + The Machine } How Beautiful North America Tour

WHEN:

Saturday, May 14, 2016 | 7:30 pm

WHERE:

Amway Center | Orlando, Florida
The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

ON SALE:

Saturday, January 16, 2016 | 10:00 am

TICKETS:

$28.50, $38.50 $48.50 & $78.50.
Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com.
All dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.
All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges.
For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office).

#OntheGo Around the Parks: Taking It Easy In The Magic Kingdom

#OntheGo Around the Parks:

Taking It Easy In The Magic Kingdom

An awesome perk of living so close to Walt Disney World is being able to pop over for a quick visit, check out my last visit to Epcot, but it also means that when the Parks are busier you tend to steer clear of the crowds.

However on Monday I decided to venture to the Magic Kingdom for some time with my friend John for an easy, breezy day.

Now I say breezy, because it was definitely ‘Florida Cold’! We moved from Virginia and I went to school at Virginia Tech in the Blue Ridge Mountains (Go Hokies!), so I know it’s not cold-cold…but my blood has thinned considerably!

It was a beautiful day with a super blue sky! It was gorgeous.

It was the perfect morning to take a leisurely stroll to Cinderella Castle where we caught part of Dream Along with Mickey (which I hadn’t seen in awhile).

We are both trying to get 10,000 steps a day, so we decided to take a walk through Fantasyland. The area was busy but not crazy. I had to stop to take a picture of Zoe’s favorite Princess’ Tower.

And we also made a new friend. This little guy was so adorable!

The wait for Haunted Mansion wasn’t awful (25 minutes), so we decided to see if there was room for 2 more…

Afterwards we decided to set sail on the ‘Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed’, and I had a lot of fun trying to catch some of the reflections. I’m going to go back with my DSLR to see if I can catch some better shots, but it was a fun photo adventure!

We caught a quick bite to eat at Pecos Bill…but I forgot to take a picture of my burrito…I was hungry! However, I will say that I really wish they’d bring back some of the BBQ options.

When we were done with lunch we flew over to Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room for a sing-along with some of our favorite feathered friends.

Our last ride of the day was on Pirates of the Caribbean, and while we were splashed quite a bit we had a great time.

It was a great day with a great friend (Check out John’s Big Fat Panda site for his antics), and I can’t wait to take you along #OntheGo Around the Parks soon!

Don’t forget to follow @onthegoinmco on Twitter & Instagram for all of our adventures!

Celebrating Florida Arbor Day with the Trees for Wildlife Program

Florida Wildlife Federation Arbor Day

Celebrating Florida Arbor Day with the Trees for Wildlife Program

Florida Arbor Day is Friday, January 15^th, and the Florida Wildlife Federation is pleased to announce its partnership with the National Wildlife Federation to bring more tree planting events to Florida. Our first event is this Saturday in Crawfordville, a small town south of Tallahassee.

The Iris Garden Club of Wakulla County has recently partnered with the National Wildlife Federation, and the Florida Wildlife Federation, to increase the quantity and variety of trees in its annual tree giveaway, thereby increasing the number of adults and children in Wakulla County who receive, plant, and care for native Florida trees in their yards.

The garden club has been awarded 800 bare-root tree seedlings –100 each of eight tree species – from the National Wildlife Federation’s Trees for Wildlife Program, half to be given away in 2016 and the other half in the winter of 2017. All eight species are indigenous to Wakulla County. NWF and FWF are new partners to Crawfordville’s Arbor Day Celebration and annual tree-giveaway scheduled this Saturday. The organizations are providing a mix of 400 Red bud, River birch, Southern red oak, and Bald cypress.

Pamela and Sarah Moss plant a River birch tree seedling on December 8th at the Wakulla County Library in preparation for the Iris Garden Club of Wakulla County’s Arbor Day Celebration & Tree Giveaway, January 16, at Hudson Park in Crawfordville.

On January 16, from 10 am until noon, Wakulla County families are invited to the club’s 12th Annual Crawfordville Arbor Day Celebration & Tree Giveaway at Hudson Park. Every person, including each child, will choose their own tree to take home and plant. “How to Plant” cards will be given to each recipient. Tree experts, experienced gardeners, and UF-IFAS Master Gardeners will be on hand to provide information and help people select suitable trees for their yards. There also will be photographs and written information about each type of tree, and how to plant and care for one’s new tree.

In addition, trees in pots will be provided to pre-schools and schools in the county that want to conduct their own Florida Arbor Day planting events in January. Leftover trees will be planted by Iris Garden Club members at various community sites, including county schools.

In preparation for the tree-giveaway, during the month of December, children from C.O.A.S T. Charter School helped IGC members put selected bare-root seedlings into 1-gallon pots with potting soil. Each student received a tree to take home.

Arbor Day events encourage people to plant and nurture trees. “Florida’s Arbor Day is in January which is the perfect month to plant trees in Florida,” said Jeannie Brodhead, Acting President of the Iris Garden Club. “Our goal is to replace native trees lost to development, storms, and old age so as to beautify the county, benefit wildlife, and protect our environment. Trees also provide cooling shade, reduce electric bills, and help to lower carbon emissions,” added Lynn Artz, one of the event’s coordinators.

“Replacing trees is necessary to protect wildlife. Trees provide shelter, berries and seeds for nourishment, places to hide, and nesting sites to raise young,” said Manley Fuller, President of the Florida Wildlife Federation. By planting trees, children and their families can help to ensure that wildlife thrive for years to come.

“NWF’s Trees for Wildlife Program aspires to educate youth about the role of trees in our environment, how individuals can take action to plant trees and provides stewardship for sustaining trees locally, across Florida, and across the nation,” explained Luisa Grant, Community Programs Senior Coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation. Trees for Wildlife also explores the unique connection wildlife have with trees. It’s a great opportunity to have youth learn about how to improve their environmental footprint and serves to provide schools an opportunity to “green their school, green their grounds and green the students”.

The Florida Wildlife Federation is partnering with the Iris Garden Club on NWF’s Trees for Wildlife grant. FWF made the club aware of the grant opportunity and encouraged the group to apply. Additionally, FWF is assisting with implementation and publicity for the grant and participating in the January 16, 2016 tree giveaway.

The Iris Garden Club of Wakulla County has organized an annual Arbor Day celebration and tree giveaway since 2004. The festival will be held rain or shine. For more information contact Lynn Artz, 850-320-2158, lynn_artz@hotmail.com; or Jeannie Brodhead,jeannieb9345@gmail.com.

The Florida Wildlife Federation plans to expand this partnership with NWF across Florida. If your garden club or school is interested in the Trees for Wildlife Program please contact the Florida Wildlife Federation at (850) 656-7113; cafarren@comcast.net.

About Florida Wildlife Federation:

The Florida Wildlife Federation is a statewide citizens’ conservation and education organization working for the protection, enjoyment and wise use of Florida’s fish, wildlife and other natural resources. The Florida Wildlife Federation encourages the public’s appreciation of Florida’s environment through sustainable, resource-based outdoor recreation.

www.fwfonline.org

Disney Vacation Club News: 25th Anniversary Member Special Offers & Experiences

Disney Vacation Club News:

25th Anniversary Member Special Offers & Experiences

This year the Disney Vacation Club, DVC, will be celebrating their 25^th Anniversary with a ton of member-exclusive events, offers, enhancements, cards, and more!

In my last DVC 25^th Anniversary and Beyond post I looked at the special events and how to register for them, and this time I will be sharing some of the special offers and experiences members can take advantage of this year!

Disney Vacation Club

Multi-Day Ticket Offer:

Celebrate 25 years and Beyond with a special offer on Magic Your Way tickets—exclusively for Disney Vacation Club Members!

Disney Vacation Club Members can purchase a 4-day or higher theme park ticket from now until March 31, 2016, and receive an additional day for free!

Plus, enjoy the Water Park, Fun & More option for free when you add the Park Hopper option to any multi-day theme park ticket purchase.

This special offer is for Disney Vacation Club Members only, and you can check out the specific details below:

Offer available for purchase from January 4, 2016 – March 31, 2016.

Multi-day tickets are valid for admission to any one of the 4 theme parks per day.

Tickets and any options purchased may be activated at any time and must be used within 14 days of first use.

All tickets and options are nontransferable and nonrefundable and exclude activities/events separately priced.

Water Parks subject to rehabilitation, seasonal, and weather closures.

To receive this offer, you must present your Disney Vacation Club Membership Card, along with a corresponding photo ID(s) to show proof of Membership.

Limit of 8 tickets per Member household.

Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge:

DVC Members will be able to relax in an all-new Member Lounge that will be opening in late spring 2016 inside of the Imagination! Pavilion at Epcot.

Enjoy the benefits and comforts of a pleasant lounge you can call your own.

Make yourself at home in the Member Lounge that features:

Comfortable seating
Complimentary soft drinks
Wi-Fi
Charging stations
Computers with printers
Member Services Advisors

More details about the Member Lounge at Epcot will be coming soon!

Disney Vacation Club

Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes

Disney Vacation Club has been bringing value to Members’ vacations for 25 years, and now Members have the chance to enter to win one of 25 unforgettable vacations through quarterly drawings in the Disney Vacation Club Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes.

Winners can experience dazzling Disney destinations—and beyond. Prizes may include:

Dream vacations at Disney Vacation Club Resorts, including stays in a Bungalow or 3-Bedroom Grand Villa
Stays in Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom park
A stay in the Disneyland Dream Suite at Disneyland Park
Disney Cruise Line sailings
Adventures by Disney vacations
Domestic or international travel through the RCI® Registry Collection

Here are the Eligibility & Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes Rules:

The Disney Vacation Club Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes (“Sweepstakes”) is open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States, the District of Columbia, Canada (excluding the Province of Quebec), the United Kingdom, and Japan (“Territory”), who are: (i) at least 18 years of age, or the age of majority in his/her jurisdiction of residence, whichever is older, as of date of entry, and (ii) Disney Vacation Club Members prior to January 4, 2016.
Officers, directors, and employees, and members of their household or immediate family (i.e., parents, children, spouse, siblings, grandparents, step-parents, step-children, and step-siblings of each), and persons residing in such immediate family members’ household, of Sponsor, Administrator, their respective parent, related, affiliated and subsidiary companies, all other entities involved in the creation, administration, or fulfillment of the Sweepstakes and their respective successors and assigns, are not eligible to enter or win.
Participation constitutes full and unconditional agreement to these official rules (“Rules”).
Sponsor’s and Administrator’s decisions are final and binding in all matters related to the Sweepstakes.
Winning is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein.
Void in Puerto Rico, all United States Territories and Possessions, Quebec, and where prohibited or restricted by law
The sweepstakes consists of four separate entry periods, notated as follows:
- Period 1: January 4, 2016 – March 31, 2016
- Period 2: April 1, 2016 – June 30, 2016
- Period 3: July 1, 2016 – September 30, 2016
- Period 4: October 1, 2016 – December 31, 2016
View official rules and eligibility requirements.

Visit the official sweepstakes website for complete details.

In our next Disney Vacation Club 25th Anniversary and Beyond Post we’ll be taking a closer look at the ways you’ll be able to show your Member Pride!

2016 Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras Concert Line-Up #UniversalMardiGras

2016 Universal Orlando Resort’s

Mardi Gras Concert Line-Up

Florida’s Biggest Party to Also Feature Authentic Cajun Cuisine, a Dazzling Mardi Gras Parade

and More Than 1.7 Million Beads

Celebrating Mardi Gras at the Universal Orlando Resort is something that I look forward to every year, and this year’s concert line-up looks AWESOME!

On select nights February 6 through April 16, guests can top off their day in the theme parks with a family-friendly version of the famed “N’awlins” celebration at Universal Studios Florida – featuring delicious Cajun cuisine, a dazzling parade and 14 nights of exhilarating concerts from some of the biggest names in music.

This year’s star-studded concert lineup features a diverse array of talent with something for everyone to enjoy. Headliners include rock band Fall Out Boy, teen pop sensation Shawn Mendes, GRAMMY-nominated recording artist Adam Lambert, country singer-songwriter Hunter Hayes and legendary entertainer Diana Ross.

2016 Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras Concert Line-Up
Mardi Gras Event Dates	Headliners (performing in the Music Plaza)	New Orleans Bands (performing in the French Quarter)
February 6	Hunter Hayes	Rockin’ Jake
February 13	Diana Ross	Mississippi Rail Company
February 14	Barenaked Ladies	Mississippi Rail Company
February 20	Nate Ruess	Naughty Professor
February 27	Fall Out Boy	Cha Wa
March 5	Kool & the Gang	Beth McKee & the Sliders
March 12	The Fray	Soul Project
March 13	Adam Lambert	Soul Project
March 19	Shawn Mendes	The Big Easy Playboys
March 20	3 Doors Down	The Big Easy Playboys
March 26	REO Speedwagon	Gravy
April 2	T-Pain	Dirty Bourbon River Show
April 9	Jessie J	Daddy Mack Blues Band
April 16	Yandel	Big Al and The Heavyweights

This year’s Mardi Gras parade features 12 vibrant floats, including four new additions that celebrate different cultures and festivals from around the world – Venetian Carnival, Oktoberfest, 4^th of July and Rio de Janeiro Carnival. All of the exquisitely detailed Mardi Gras floats are engineered by Blaine Kern Artists, the same company that has been hand-crafting floats for the iconic New Orleans celebration since 1947. Plus, guests can visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.

The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida. Florida Residents get up to three months free on any 2-park Annual Pass with a Coca-Cola UPC code or promo code on specially marked cups from participating Wendy’s restaurants. For more information on this special offer and Mardi Gras, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

About Universal Orlando Resort
For 25 years, Universal Orlando Resort has been creating epic vacations for the entire family – incredible experiences that place guests in the heart of powerful stories and adventures. Guests can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, grab a Krusty burger in Springfield, join the ranks of the Minions and so much more.

Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, are home to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative attractions. Its on-site resort hotels, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort are destinations unto themselves. Its entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, offers dining and entertainment for every member of the family. And just minutes away is Wet ‘n Wild, a family water park.

Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled 18 new guest experiences in the past five years – powerful attractions, incredible dining opportunities and a dramatically themed hotel. And more is on the way. Coming in 2016 is Universal Orlando’s fifth on-site hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort; and Skull Island: Reign of Kong, a groundbreaking attraction in Islands of Adventure. And in 2017 will come Universal’s Volcano Bay, an entirely new water theme park experience.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

New Ticket Options At SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Parks

NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW VALUES AT FOUR FLORIDA PARKS

With New “Choose Your Adventure” Ticket, More Park Visits = More Savings

Visitors and Florida residents can now choose from a variety of new admission products for the Busch Gardens and SeaWorld family of parks that provide more value and flexibility.

For tourists visiting Florida, the NEW “Choose Your Adventure” ticket option simplifies vacation planning so guests can enjoy multiple visits to four of the Sunshine State’s most popular theme parks.

The program allows guests to customize their ideal itinerary AND receive substantial savings for each additional park or visit — the more they visit, the more they save.

Guests can create their own favorite theme park adventure across the following four parks: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,SeaWorld Orlando, Adventure Island Tampa Bay and Aquatica Orlando.

For example, when tickets are purchased in advance, online, special prices are as low as:

One visit to any park – $79
Two visits to any of the parks – $99
Three visits to any of the parks – $109
For the ultimate adventure deal — the new Length-of-Stay ticket provides 14 consecutive days of unlimited adventure to all four of the popular Florida theme parks, along with free parking at each, for one low price of $139.

FLORDA RESIDENTS

There also are new values for Florida residents who are looking to visit all year long, with incentives for purchasing early in the year.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island “BOGO Fun Card”: Now through February 29, guests who buy a Fun Card to Busch Gardens also will receive a FREE Fun Card to Adventure Island.

SeaWorld Orlando “Preschool Card”: For a limited time, SeaWorld Orlando will offer kids ages five and younger a FREE Preschool Card valid for unlimited admission through December 31, 2016. Cards must be registered online and redeemed in the park by May 27, 2016.

Annual Pass: The best value at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the Annual Pass with unlimited admission all year, free parking, no blockout dates and special benefits. NEW this year for Pass Members are enhanced Instant Rewards – a 12-month calendar of exclusive offerings each month such as discounts, ticket offers and free gifts. With a new reward each month, there is incentive to purchase early and enjoy the full year of offers. With EZ Pay, Annual Passes start at just $14 per month for one park, and $18 per month for both parks.

#OnTheGo Around the Parks: An Afternoon at Epcot

#OnTheGo Around the Parks:

An Afternoon at Epcot

One thing that I really love doing is walking around the Parks, and while I usually tweet and Instagram my day I thought it would be a nice change to share my afternoon and my thoughts here.

It was a chilly (by Orlando standards) and slightly overcast afternoon at Epcot, but it was great to get out of the house for a few hours before I picked Zoe up from her after-school activity.

Onthego In the Parks Epcot

I didn’t have any plans or FastPass+ return times, and I wasn’t in a rush so I decided to take an easy stroll around Future World.

My first stop was to see Baymax in his new Meet and Greet area in Innoventions West.

This was my first time seeing the area, and it was great to see I wasn’t alone! He had a large line, and while his workshop background may seem sparse it fits right in with all of the construction that is going on inside of Innoventions.

After a quick picture, I decided to head over to The Seas with Nemo & Friends.

This is one of Zoe’s favorite rides, and when we ride it’s often filled with a lot of pointing and chatting about what is going on around us so it was weird to ride it in silence.

There was a lot of activity in the tanks as people were snorkeling. I would love to try that one day!

I also had to find one of my all time favorite Hidden Mickeys…

And Nemo!

Heading over to The Land Pavilion I decided to keep up my Hidden Mickey Hunting, and found this little guy.

While Soarin’ is closed until later this year, it was nice to see that the Pavilion was still chocked full of people!

Living with the Land has always been one of my favorite rides!

I found a ton of Mickeys and got to see a Florida Snowman.

Before I leave, I always take a moment to say goodbye to the balloons.

The latest addition to Epcot is the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival.

The Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival is a 3D experience that begins with a short film where you hear from John Lasseter and Ed Catmull talk about the beginnings of Pixar by showing the progression of their work.

The Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival features 3 shorts in ways that you have never seen them before.

‘Get a Horse’ is the first short that pops off the screen (literally) bringing this classic short to life in a whole new way. While the 3 and 4D effects were really well done, what really was amazing was to hear Walt Disney voicing Mickey ringing through the theater. I won’t lie…it gave me chills.

‘La Luna’ really sparkled in the 3D format, and it was really nice to revisit a short that is one of my favorites.

And finally, ‘For the Birds’ is a really quirky and fun short that ends the experience on a solid laugh.

We’ll miss you Captain EO, but I have to say that I really enjoyed watching the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival. I can’t wait to bring Zoe back with me next time!

Then it was off to Innoventions East to visit Colortopia Presented by Glidden.

If you haven’t had the chance to stop by and experience the newest spot in Innoventions…what are you waiting for?

I really love all of the the different interactive areas and activities, and it is a really great way to spend some time out of the Florida elements.

Seriously, what are you waiting for? I promise that you will really enjoy Colortopia…so go!

Walking out of Innoventions East I ran into the Jamminators. And while these guys have several identities throughout the year, I always like to stop for a second to watch them perform. They are a really fun group.

And I was in luck, because today was ‘Junior Jamminator Day’ and I am now an honorary Jamminator!

I haven’t ridden Test Track in awhile, so I decided to head over to the single rider line. It was a 25 minute wait, not too shabby, but it was nice to just relax and go with the flow!

When you go through the single rider line you don’t get the full design experience, but the car I chose placed 2nd which is much better than when I do the designing so I will call it a win!!!

And it wouldn’t be a trip to Epcot without riding my absolute favorite ride in the world…Spaceship Earth.

All in all it was a lovely afternoon at Epcot, and I hope that you enjoyed tagging along with me on my trip!

See ya real soon!

-Shelley

New Zootopia Trailer

I have been pumped to see Zootopia since the D23 Expo, and the newest trailer really gives us a good look at the world and story that we’ll see on March 4, 2016!

httpv://youtu.be/jWM0ct-OLsM

The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything.

But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy.

Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootopia,” a comedy-adventure directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”), opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.

For more information about Zootopia check out their website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Wordless Wednesday: One Last Thank You

Wordless Wednesday – January 6, 2015

This week’s Wordless Wednesday is one final thank you to the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.

Thank you for the memories, and I hope that this isn’t goodbye but instead see you real soon (in some way, shape, or form).

2016 D23 Gold Member Gift Comes “From The Office Of Walt Disney”

D23 Gold Member Gift for 2016 Offers a Rare Glimpse into Disney’s Rich Legacy

Members will receive a collection of 23 items reproduced “From the Office of Walt Disney.”

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club didn’t have to look far for inspiration for its 2016 Gold Member gift, “From the Office of Walt Disney.” To celebrate the restoration of Walt Disney’s office suite on the Studios’ Burbank lot, the Walt Disney Archives worked with D23 to meticulously reproduce 23 unique pieces from Walt’s career that trace his path from America’s heartland to the world stage.

Included in the assortment are items from Walt’s early years in business such as his 1923 Laugh-O-gram Films Inc. business card and the famous 1928 “Everything OK” telegram, which Walt cryptically wired his brother Roy when he lost the rights to Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Also in the collection are the 1955 Disneyland invitational press preview pass and Walt’s notes on pages from the “EPCOT Film” script from 1966. Pieces representing animation, live action, television, and theme parks—as well as Walt’s own personal life—make up this one-of-a-kind set.

The gift comes in a “book” designed specifically to hold all the items and will be sent to all D23 Gold and Gold Family Members who join or renew from January 1 through December 31, 2016. Guests can see images from the gift—and learn more about the 23 rare items—at D23.com/OfficeOfWaltDisney. As previously announced, D23 Gold Members will have the opportunity to tour Walt Disney’s restored office during tours and select special events throughout 2016.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($74.99), Gold Family Membership ($99.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com and at DisneyStore.com/D23. D23 Members save when renewing their membership and may renew up to 90 days prior to their membership expiration.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It 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; a rich website at D23.com; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.

To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube.

Disney Vacation Club News: 25th Anniversary Events

This year the Disney Vacation Club, DVC, will be celebrating their 25^th Anniversary with a ton of member-exclusive events, offers, enhancements, cards, and more!

With so many announcements surrounding the 25^th Anniversary, we will be breaking down our coverage of the special events and how to register for them in this post.

Throughout the year, DVC members will have the opportunity to attend exclusive parties around Walt Disney World.

Disney Vacation Club 25 and Beyond Bash

Enjoy an evening of enchantment, entertainment and more as the Magic Kingdom becomes your playground on February 25 and March 3, 2016.

Event highlights include:

Access to select attractions in Tomorrowland and Fantasyland—as well as the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square
A DJ dance party in Tomorrowland
Light refreshments

Event Details

Event Location: Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Check-In Location: Magic Kingdom park and Disney Vacation Club Resorts at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Dates: February 25 and March 3, 2016
Time: Event is from 9:30 PM to midnight; Members and their guests can enter the park as early as 7:00 PM
Price: Complimentary
Transportation
Complimentary transportation is available before, during and after the event between Magic Kingdom park and Disney Vacation Club Resorts at Walt Disney World Resort.
How to Book
A reservation is required. Bookings will begin on Tuesday, January 12, 2016. Call Member Services
at (800) 800-9800† to make reservations.
Important Details

– Membership Card and photo ID required at check-in.

– Complimentary admission to the after-hours event at Magic Kingdom park is valid for the duration of the event, which begins at 9:30 PM. If you wish to enter Magic Kingdom park before 7:00 PM, valid theme park admission is required.

– Offer is non-transferable.

– Party size limits apply:

– For Members with a reservation at a Disney Resort hotel, party size is limited to the Member and up to the number of guests listed on their Disney Resort hotel reservation

– For Members without a reservation at a Disney Resort hotel, party size is limited to the Member and up to 5 guests.

– Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian.

– This is an open-air facility; experience is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.

– Unfortunately, walk-ins will not be permitted.

– Members are requested to cancel at least 48 hours in advance. Event may be canceled at the discretion of Disney Vacation Club due to inclement weather and Guests will be notified via resort communication.

Disney Vacation Club Neighborhood Beach Bash

Enjoy an evening of fun, games, dancing and more with exclusive after-hours access to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.

Event highlights include:

Access to select attractions
A DJ dance party
Beach activities and games
Light refreshments

Event Details

Location: Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Dates: June 23, June 29, July 6 and July 13, 2016
Time: Party is from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM; Members and their guests can enter the as early as 7:00 PM
Price: Complimentary
How to Book
A reservation is required, and bookings will begin on Friday, April 8, 2016.
Important Details:

– Membership Card required at check-in

– Must be staying at a Disney Resort hotel during the event to book

– For early admission, use regular bus location to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.

– Offer is non-transferable

– Party size limit: Member and up to the number of Guests staying in their Disney Resort hotel accommodations.

– Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian.

– This is an open-air facility; experience is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.

– Unfortunately, walk-ins will not be permitted.

– Members are requested to cancel at least 48 hours in advance. Event may be canceled at the discretion of Disney Vacation Club due to inclement weather and Guests will be notified via resort communication.

– Membership should not be purchased based on Member benefits featured, as they can change or end without notice.

Disney Vacation Club Safari Spectacular

Members and their guests can take a walk on the wild side at the Disney Vacation Club Safari Spectacular at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park!

Event Details

Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
Dates

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Time: 9:30 PM to midnight
Price: Complimentary
How to Book

A reservation is required, and bookings will begin on July 6, 2016.

Important Details

– Membership Card and photo ID are required at check-in.

– Offer is non-transferable

– Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian.

– This is an open-air facility; experience is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.

– Unfortunately, walk-ins will not be permitted.

– Members are requested to cancel at least 48 hours in advance. Event may be canceled at the discretion of Disney Vacation Club due to inclement weather and Guests will be notified via resort communication.

– Members visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park prior to the special event will need valid theme park admission.

Disney Vacation Club Merry Member Mixers

It wouldn’t be the holidays without the DVC Merry Member Mixers!

Members can bring guests to mingle with fellow Members to celebrate the holidays in style.

The experience highlights include:

Meet and greets with some popular Disney Characters dressed in holiday attire
A jolly DJ and spirited dancing
Complimentary treats

More event details, dates, and location will be posted on DisneyVacationClub.com later in the year.

We are really excited to share more about how the Disney Vacation Club will be celebrating their 25th Anniversary!

Triple Chocolate Doughnuts Are Back At Krispy Kreme

A CHOCOLATE LOVER’S DREAM:

Triple Chocolate Doughnuts Are Back At Krispy Kreme

Triple Chocolate Doughnut and Caramel Mocha Latte Available Through January 24 at Krispy Kreme® Doughnut Shops in Orlando

Three decadent chocolates, one delicious doughnut! Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc., (NSYE:KKD), has combined scrumptious layers of chocolate to create the perfect sweet treat. The #TripleChocolate Doughnut and Caramel Mocha Latte are available for a limited time through January 24 at the following Central Florida locations:

Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours, 1031 S. Orlando Avenue (17-92), Winter Park, FL 32789

Open 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday–Thursday) and 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Krispy Kreme Millenia – Open 24 hours, 4080 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL 32939

Krispy Kreme Kissimmee – Open 24 hours, 5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, (192 / Mile Marker 11.5), Kissimmee, FL 34746

“The Triple Chocolate Doughnut was first introduced last year and the response was overwhelming,” said Tony Thompson, president and CEO of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.

Inside the Triple Chocolate Doughnut, there is a decadent dark chocolate filling, topped off with milk chocolate icing, mini chocolate chips and a delectable drizzle of white chocolate ganache.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts’ Caramel Mocha Latte, exclusively available at Krispy Kreme Millenia, is a high-quality espresso blended with caramel and chocolate. It is topped off with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. Fans can enjoy this treat hot, iced or frozen.

About Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc., is a global retailer of premium-quality sweet treats, including its signature Original Glazed® doughnut. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., the Company has offered the highest-quality doughnuts and great-tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is proud of its Fundraising program, which for decades has helped non-profit organizations raise millions of dollars in needed funds. The Company has more than 1,000 retail shops in 25 countries. Connect with Krispy Kreme Doughnuts at www.KrispyKreme.com, or on one its many social media channels, includingwww.Facebook.com/KrispyKreme, and www.Twitter.com/KrispyKreme.