Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

Last Chance to Ride Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Announced

Last Chance to Ride Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Will Be February 1, 2015

February 1 is the last day for thrill seekers to ride Gwazi® at Busch Gardens® Tampa as the park prepares to permanently close the wooden rollercoaster.

httpv://youtu.be/Pkj3rudRDmU

Gwazi opened in 1999 as Florida’s first dueling wooden rollercoaster, providing guests with thrilling and memorable experiences for more than 15 years.

“No decisions have been made about what lies ahead for Gwazi or for the future plans of that area of Busch Gardens,” said Park President Jim Dean. “But, we are always looking for ways to enhance guests’ experiences, so stay tuned for more news.”

Plus, be the first to know about future announcements by following the park’s blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com, or “Like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page and follow @buschgardens on Twitter and Instagram.

A Morning At Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus Xtreme

David Caran joins us to share his experience at Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Present Circus Xtreme at the Amway Center.

Once again it was time for the Greatest Show on Earth to come back to the Amway Center. I remember see Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus when I was a kid, and I always love reconnecting with that part of my childhood. Although many elements remind me of the circuses I used to go to, this is was not the same.

Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey definitely brought it to a new level with their Circus Xtreme. With updated technology and special effects they have taken many classic circus acts and reinvented them for the next generations.

It was hard to narrow down my favorite part, but it has to be the high flying acts. The skill and precision needed to perform on a high wire or trapeze amazes me today every bit as much as they did when I was eight.

It’s hard not to get excited going to the circus with the exotic animals, the crazy clowns, the amazing acrobats, and who doesn’t love someone getting shot out of a cannon.

The Circus Xtreme show runs about 2 hours with a 15 minute intermission, and the flow of the show is very good. They do a great job of adding spectacle, great production value, and fun in-between acts which helps hold the interest of the younger viewers.

And if all that fails, you can always get a snow cone or a variety of souvenirs that are sold outside. I know that always takes care of my little one.

One piece of advice that I can give to parents is that there are often protestors outside the circus who are very vocal about their feeling of the circus. They are generally peaceful, but carry signs depicting the abuse of animals and are very vocal about their protest of the circus. It is something that you should be aware of in case you need to explain things to your children as you make your way to the venue.

Overall there is not a much more perfect family experience than going to the circus. It’s exciting, it’s fun, and it’s always full of surprises. Definitely check out the new Circus Xtreme from Ringling Brothers the next time the come through your town. It will definitely be a great experience for young and old alike.

Orlando Museum Of Art To Host Antiques Vintage & Garden Show

The Antiques Vintage & Garden Show Opens February 20 at the Orlando Museum of Art

Renowned author and garden designer Jon Carloftis named as show’s guest speaker

The 2015 Antiques Vintage & Garden Show “The Art of Living” begins Friday, Feb. 20

Jon Carloftis

through Sunday, Feb. 22 at the Orlando Museum of Art. This three-day show presented by the Council of 101, is a favorite among new and seasoned collectors and features premier dealers from across the United States. This is your chance to gain access to a wide array of vintage and unique collectibles art, jewelry, oriental rugs, silver, porcelains, fine antiquities, garden and decorative table-top accessories.

Don’t miss this chance to discover unique, one of a kind items that

will distinguish your style from the average and unoriginal. This year you can truly experience The Art of Living with interactive lectures that capture your imagination and enhance your lifestyle. Learn the art of urban gardening, eclectic décor, vintage fashion and entertaining from experts in their field.

This year’s event includes several exciting highlights:

Opening Night Preview Party

Thursday, February 19 – An exclusive preview of show merchandise accompanied by cocktails, delectable cuisine and entertainment.

Guest Speaker & Book Signing by Jon Carloftis, Beautiful Gardens of Kentucky

Friday, February 20 – Kentucky native, Jon Carloftis, is an award-winning garden designer, garden writer, television guest and author. Get a chance to meet one of America’s pioneers in rooftop and small space gardening and add a signed edition of his book to your personal style library.

What’s it Worth? Appraisal Days

Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22 – Do you have a family heirloom or interesting yard sale “find”? Antiques expert and show manager, Charlie Miller, will give you a professional verbal appraisal of your treasure. $10 per item/limit two items per person.

Antiques Vintage and Garden Show 2013

The Art of Living (NEW Event)

Saturday, February 21 – Living a stylish life does not happen by accident. Good taste is cultivated and great style is curated. Get a crash course in how to elevate the finer things in your life with interactive lectures that will inspire you to take your personal style, home décor and entertaining to the next level.

Mystery Home Tour

Sunday, February 22 – This popular tour allows guests to get inspired by one of Orlando’s most stylish homes. Feast your senses on a home filled with flawless design and exceptional taste at every turn. The location of this special home will remain a mystery until your arrival, but rest assured that it is a tour you will never forget.

For information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Council of 101 at 407-896-4231, Ext. 254 or visit omart.org/programs/antiques-vintage-garden-show.

Downtown Food & Wine Fest At Lake Eola Returns In February

Downtown Food & Wine Fest at Lake Eola Set for February 21 and 22, 2015

Produced by MIX 105.1, 1059 SUNNY FM, and 101.9 AMP Radio in partnership with the

Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association

The Seventh Annual Downtown Food & Wine Fest is set for Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22, 2015 for more than 30,000 foodies and wine lovers to experience unique local cuisine paired with wines from around the globe.

Downtown Food & Wine Fest at Lake Eola Set for February 21 and 22, 2015 Downntown Food and Wine Fest

Date / Time: Saturday, February 21 (noon to 9 p.m.) and Sunday, February 22, 2015 (noon to 7 p.m.)

Location: Located in the heart of downtown Orlando at Lake Eola along Robinson Street

Tickets: Admission is $15 per person, per day with advance online purchase. Admission at the door is $20 per person, per day. Admission for children under age 12 is free.

For all-weekend Fest fans, a two-day ticket is available for $20 per person with advance online purchase.

Food and beverage tickets are available at the Fest for $2 each; food and beverage offerings range from one to four tickets.

The Fest is presented and produced by CBS RADIO Orlando, led by Orlando favorites MIX 105.1, 1059 SUNNY FM, and 101.9 AMP Radio in partnership with the Central Florida Chapter of the FRLA. Located in the heart of downtown Orlando at Lake Eola on Robinson Street, the two-day Fest features mouth-watering dishes from 30 of Orlando’s premier restaurants, domestic and international wines, and live entertainment. A portion of the proceeds benefit the FRLA Educational Foundation.

Wine Tasters Club

A limited number of Wine Tasters Club passes will be available for purchase for $15 per person at the Fest. Club members will enjoy up to five 2 oz. pours of their choice throughout the Fest and a souvenir lanyard.

“The Downtown Food & Wine Fest is one of our Downtown’s signature cultural events, showcasing the best of Orlando’s culinary scene. Events like this continue to expand Downtown’s offerings and bring more and more people to our urban core to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and vibrancy of our community,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Dave Robbins, senior vice president and market manager, CBS RADIO Orlando commented, “Through the power of radio and the strength of our FRLA restaurants, foodies and fans come together to celebrate an event that truly brings our community together to indulge in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Orlando.”

“Now in its seventh year, the Fest is the perfect combination of divine food, unique wines, and entertainment,” said Leigh Doyle, president-elect, Central Florida Chapter of the FRLA. “Orlando has emerged onto the national culinary stage with award-winning restaurants and memorable events to showcase the spirit of the City Beautiful.”

Thirty top restaurants are scheduled to present culinary tastings including the return of the 2014 Foodie Award winners as honored by a panel of Orlando elected officials, food writers and reporters, and celebrity chefs.

2014 Foodie Award (based on one food item for taste, unique flavor and culinary excellence)

Smiling Bison – Pretzel Bread Pudding

2014 Best Overall Menu (based on overall menu creativity, depth of offerings, and quality)

Kasa Tapas & Raw Bar

2014 Best of Show (based on fun factor, overall energy, and crowd vibe)

Siro at Orlando World Center Marriott – winner in 2013 and 2014

Stay Connected

For more information on the Downtown Food & Wine Fest:

Visit www.DowntownFoodAndWineFest.com
Like Downtown Food & Wine Fest on Facebook
Follow @DTFoodWineFest on Twitter
Use #DTFoodWineFest
Call the events hotline at 407-919-1048 or eMail DowntownFoodandWineFest@cbsradio.com

Busch Gardens Tampa Food & Wine Festival News

Busch Gardens Tampa is introducing some flavor to its entertainment lineup in spring 2015 with the Food & Wine Festival, offering a variety of food, wine, and entertainment. Saturdays and Sundays, March 7 through April 26.

As part of the entertainment during the festival, Busch Gardens Tampa will keep the hits coming with concerts for every taste. In addition to music superstars Pentatonix, Gavin DeGraw and Fifth Harmony, the live concerts include the following artists:

Saturday, March 7

Gavin DeGraw

Sunday, March 8

Fifth Harmony

NEW! Saturday, March 14

Kool & The Gang

NEW! Sunday, March 15

Boys Like Girls

NEW! Saturday, March 21

Kenny Rogers

Sunday, March 22

Pentatonix

NEW! Saturday, March 28

Steven Curtis Chapman

NEW! Sunday, March 29

El Gran Combo

The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival is included with any Pass, Fun Card or daily admission.

Food and beverage is not included with park admission and is available for an extra fee. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. For more information, visit buschgardens.com.

Be the first to know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following the park’s blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com, or “Like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page, and follow @buschgardens on Twitter and Instagram.

Wordless Wednesday: The Vault Where It All Started

Wordless Wednesday – January 14, 2015

Pick Six: Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Concert Planning

It is almost my most favorite time of the year at the Universal Orlando Resort…Mardi Gras!

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando takes place on select nights February 7 to April 18, and is included in admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Mardi Gras features a kicking parade and event food that is beyond delicious, but the 16 concerts taking place at the Universal Music Plaza Stage, located between Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Twister…Ride It Out, in Universal Studios Florida are always the shining star for me and how I plan what nights I am going to be partaking in the festivities.

With the 2015 Mardi Gras Concert schedule out, it is time to get planning!

Pick Six: Universal Studios Mardi Gras Concert Planning

1. The Schedule

The 2015 Mardi Gras concert schedule is AWESOME!!!

This year’s exhilarating concert lineup features an array of talent with something for everyone to enjoy. Headliners include English pop sensationJessie J, who’s known for her hits “Price Tag” and “Bang Bang,” “American Idol” winner Kelly Clarkson, who has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide, and reggaeton superstar Yandel, who has had three songs reach the Top 10 Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs Chart and a No. 1 album on the Top Latin Albums chart. Also performing is R&B artist Trey Songz, award-winning American country group The Band Perry, and the rock group American Authors, whose single “Best Day of My Life” was named the No.1 most played song in 2014 on Adult Pop Radio.

I can’t decide who I am the most excited to see!!!

It’s important to remember that these concerts happen rain or shine and are subject to change.

Each event night you can also enjoy authentic Zydeco bands direct from Louisiana to amp up the Mardi Gras experience.

2. Florida Resident Annual Pass Deal

Florida Residents have the opportunity to earn up to 3 months free on any annual pass when you enter the UPC Code from specially marked 20 and 24 packages of Coca-Cola.

If enter the UPC Code to purchase a ‘Power Pass’ (with blackout dates and admission to Mardi Gras after 5:00 pm), you will receive 1 month free.

If you enter the UPC Code to purchase a ‘Premium Pass’ or a ‘Premier Pass’, you will receive 3 months free.

You can find out more about this and other Hot Deals to the Universal Orlando Resort here.

3. The best kept secret for Universal Orlando Resort Premier Pass Holders

Universal Orlando Premier Pass Holders receive complimentary Valet parking as part of their pass benefits, however on Mardi Gras nights you will not be able to use this benefit.

Hope is not all lost though, because you are able to use the Red Carpet Valet Parking at a reduced cost, last year it was $15. The main perk of using the Red Carpet Valet Parking is that you receive your car quickly.

This investment was well worth it, because the Valet lines can get incredibly long on Special Event nights!

4. When to arrive

The decision of how early to arrive to Universal Orlando Mardi Gras on concert night largely depends on how close you would like to be to the stage and how long you are willing to stand in the Universal Music Stage Plaza.

While there are benefits to being close to the bands, there are also large screens that will be broadcasting the concert on either side of the stage so everyone is able to see.

Another thing to keep in mind when planning your arrival is the Spring Break Schedule, because that will also have an affect on how many people will be attending Mardi Gras.

Chairs/Seats are not allowed at the Music Plaza Stage, so while earlier in your wait you may be able to sit on the “grass” as the concert draws closer you will be asked to stand.

Also if it is necessary for you or someone in your party, there is an ADA viewing area is located at the far right side of the stage, near the restrooms adjacent to Twister…Ride It Out.

5. Eating & Drinking

Universal Studios Florida is full of great options for catching a bite to eat or a drink, but on Mardi Gras nights you have to visit the French Quarter for Cajun and Creole foods that are only available during this special event.

Also, the French Quarter is located directly across from the Universal Music Plaza Stage so it is very convenient if watching the concert is your priority for the night.

6. Parade Viewing

If being close to the stage is your focus, catching the Mardi Gras parade will be a challenge on most nights.

However if you are interested in catching the parade and seeing the concert, there parade route goes by the Universal Music Plaza Stage so you will be able to catch both in one night.

So those are the six things that I keep in mind when I am planning a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort to see a concert during Mardi Gras.

What is your best tip for visiting Universal Orlando during Mardi Gras?

A New Avengers Trailer Is Here!!!

A new Avengers: Age of Ultron trailer is here, and all I can say is good gravy this is going to be amazing!

httpv://youtu.be/MZoO8QVMxkk

Marvel Studios presents “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” the epic follow-up to the biggest Super Hero movie of all time. When Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance. As the villainous Ultron emerges, it is up to The Avengers to stop him from enacting his terrible plans, and soon uneasy alliances and unexpected action pave the way for an epic and unique global adventure.

Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” stars Robert Downey Jr., who returns as Iron Man, along with Chris Evans as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Mark Ruffalo as The Hulk. Together with Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, and with the additional support of Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Don Cheadle as James Rhodes/War Machine, Cobie Smulders as Agent Maria Hill and Stellan Skarsgård as Erik Selvig, the team must reassemble to defeat James Spader as Ultron, a terrifying technological villain hell-bent on human extinction. Along the way, they confront two mysterious and powerful newcomers, Wanda Maximoff, played by Elizabeth Olsen, and Pietro Maximoff, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and meet an old friend in a new form when Paul Bettany becomes Vision. Written and directed by Joss Whedon and produced by Kevin Feige, Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” is based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series “The Avengers,” first published in 1963. Get set for an action-packed thrill ride when The Avengers return in Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” on May 1, 2015.

2015 D23 Member Discounts

D23 Brings Members Exclusive Savings with Discounts and Offers from Disney and Beyond

Members of The Official Disney Fan Club Can Save with Disney Store, Disney On Ice, Disney Magazines, Walt Disney Records, the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, and More!

Whether they’re headed to a Disney Park or staying close to home, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can save on shopping, entertainment, and their next Disney adventure when they present a D23 Membership Card or use special member-only online codes.

D23 Members can enjoy these savings in 2015:

D23 Disney on Ice Presents Frozen — Disney on Ice – Disney Frozen

Savings of 20% on select Disney On Ice and Disney Live! touring productions
An exclusive 10% discount and a special portfolio of art when purchasing the entire Walt Disney Records The Legacy Collection.
A discount on tickets to see Cinderella opening weekend at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. You can find more information here.
Up to 53% off Disney magazines including the new Disney Frozen

Plus, D23 will be featuring a “special offer of the month,” highlighting exclusive opportunities for members. For January, D23 Members can enjoy 15% off purchases of $75 or more at Disney Store or online at DisneyStore.com.

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Mary Poppins — I love this Mary Poppins ornament that was available this Christmas from the Disney Store.

D23 is bringing back its most popular opportunities for savings on hotels, restaurants, and stores in and around Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, including:

Discounted rates at Howard Johnson Anaheim, Carousel Inn & Suites, and the Anabella Hotel located near Disneyland Resort; as well as at Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, B Resort & Spa, and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista, located near Walt Disney World Resort
10% savings on activities at Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre and on merchandise at CURL^® by Sammy Duvall at Walt Disney World Resort
Savings on sweets at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, either online or in its two Disney Parks shops, as well as at the El Capitan Theatre
Discounts at all Mandara Spa locations—including Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts—across the United States, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean
Dining discounts in and around Disneyland Resort, including House of Blues Anaheim, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Catal, Uva Bar, Naples, Tortilla Joe’s, Earl of Sandwich, ESPN Zone, and Tangerine Grill.

In addition, D23 Members can take advantage of a host of ongoing offers online and around the country developed exclusively for them, including savings on tickets to the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco; a merchandise discount at the Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, Mo.; plus savings of 20% on specialty skin care products from H2O Plus and 10% off all purchases online and at all RIDEMAKERZ^®locations.

Complete details on all D23 Member discounts and offers, as well as a full list of all the latest specials, can be found online at http://D23.com/Discounts.

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; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($74.99) and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.comand at DisneyStore.com/D23.

Elton John Bringing All Hits Tour To Orlando

Elton John and his band – All Hits Tour

Saturday, March 7, 2015 – 8:00 pm

Amway Center – Orlando, FL

Tickets on Sale: Friday, January 16, 2015 – 10:00 am

Elton John announced today that he and his band will be touring as part of his All Hits Tour. The tour features iconic hits and classic album tracks from throughout his extraordinary career spanning five decades. He will also perform a selection of songs from his highly-acclaimed, remastered album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. John and his band play the Amway Center in Orlando on Saturday, March 7. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 16 at 10 a.m.

John’s band includes Davey Johnstone on guitar, Matt Bissonette on bass, John Mahon on percussion, Nigel Olsson on drums, and Kim Bullard on keyboards.

“We are thrilled to welcome Elton John back to the Amway Center,” said Orlando Venues Executive Director Allen Johnson. “Elton is one of the few true superstars that puts on a one-of-a-kind concert experience.”

John currently has two albums entering the Billboard Hot 100, his latest studio album, “The Diving Board,” and features 12 new songs written by John and his longtime lyricist, Bernie Taupin. The album returns John to the piano, bass and drums lineup that marked the artist’s introduction to worldwide audiences more than 40 years ago. As he explains, “I’m incredibly excited about every aspect of this album: the performances, T Bone Burnett’s production, Bernie’s lyrics and the songs we’ve created. “The Diving Board” is the album I’ve been waiting to make for decades.”

“The Diving Board” and the 40th Anniversary re-release of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” are available on EltonJohn.com and at record outlets everywhere, including Amazon.com and iTunes.

John is winner of six Grammy Awards, five BRIT (British Record Industry Trust) awards and is one of the top-selling solo artists of all time, with 35 gold and 25 platinum albums, 29 consecutive Top 40 hits, and has sold more than 250 million records worldwide. John holds the record for the biggest-selling single of all time, “Candle in the Wind ’97,” which sold 37 million copies. He also holds the record for most appearances on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart, with his newest single, “Home Again,” marking his 69th entry. Since his career began in 1969, he has played almost 3,000 concerts across the globe. John has recently been named the first recipient of the BRITs Icon Award, which recognizes the very highest level of British music achievement, presented only to iconic artists whose writing, recording and performances set them apart as having made a lasting impact on the nation’s culture.

Elton John and his Band – All Hits Tour – Ticket Information

Prices TBA. Eight (8) ticket limit. 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, act(s) 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). 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.

About Amway Center:

The Orlando Magic served as the developer of the Amway Center, which hosts major national events, concerts and family shows. Opened in the fall of 2010, the facility is owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. The 875,000 square foot, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, including 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Amway Center was recently honored with TheStadiumBusiness Awards’ 2013 Customer Experience Award and named SportsBusiness Journal’s 2012 Sports Facility of the Year. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com.

Disney Crafting: It’s A Small Tree After All

Every year as part of my New Years Resolutions I sneak in a crafting goal, and usually I end up Disney Crafting.

Disney Crafting

Dizz-nee ˈkraftiNG/

noun

the activity or hobby of making decorative articles by hand that are influenced by a Disney obsession

My 2014 crafting resolution was to create a wreath I would be proud of, and I actually created two great wreaths I was super proud to hang on my door! I learned to make a balloon wreath complete with Hidden Mickeys for my #DisneySide @ Home party and a Deco-mesh wreath for my front door.

This year I wanted to step it up a notch, because as a classic over achiever what else would I do?

When I was younger, my Best Friend Denise had a Christmas Tree that was filled with felt ornaments that were made by her Mother. I loved these ornaments, and as a High School graduation present she gave me a turtle ornament that she had made for me to remember my adopted family while I was away at college.

That felt turtle is one of my most prized possessions, and every year when I look at our Christmas Tree I wish that I actually had taken the time to create my own ornaments.

Well, this year my Disney Crafting resolution is to create an entire tree inspired by It’s a Small World and the art of Mary Blair.

My goals are EXTREMELY lofty for this project…

* Tree Topper based on the clock face on the It’s a Small World Facade

* 50 unique felt ornaments based on the children and animals in the It’s a Small World Attraction (I want to hide a Hidden Mickey in each one)

* Painted Ornaments inspired by Mary Blair’s smallest details

* Felt Chain for the tree as garland

* Pom Poms strung together as another garland for the tree

* Tree Skirt to match the It’s a Small World Theme

Here are some of my doodles for the project.

I am going to give updates and tutorials all this year on my progress, and I would love for you to join me on my Disney Crafting Journey as well as share some of your own Disney Crafts!

If you would like to share your Disney Crafts, drop me a line shelley@onthegoinmco.com!!!

Orlando City SC 2015 MLS Schedule Released

Marquee Home Matches Highlight Orlando City SC 2015 MLS Schedule

Orlando City Soccer Club Lions’ 2015 inaugural schedule includes 16 nationally televised matches

Orlando City Soccer Club released the 34-game regular season schedule today for its historic 2015 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, featuring home matches against five-time MLS Cup Champions LA Galaxy, 2014 Eastern Conference Champions New England Revolution, and 2013 MLS Cup Champions Sporting Kansas City. Click here to view the 2015 schedule.

Season tickets for the Orlando City SC inaugural MLS campaign are available for as low as $18.50 per game until January 16, 2015, and can be purchased by visiting www.OrlandoCitySC.com or by calling 855-ORL-CITY.

Ticket packages include 20 matches – 17 MLS home games and three additional fixtures (friendlies, Open Cup matches, etc.) – with members also receiving priority renewal status for the brand new soccer stadium in 2016.

Orlando City SC will begin its opening season at home on March 8, 2015, against fellow expansion club New York City FC (NYCFC), featuring the first-ever MLS matches for the league’s newest stars – Kaká and David Villa. Less than one week later, City will kick-start its away schedule – visiting BBVA Compass Stadium to challenge the Houston Dynamo on Friday, March 13.

Additionally, the Lions’ regular season schedule is highlighted by 16 matches that will be broadcast live on FOX, ESPN and Univision as part of MLS’ recent television deal. The nationally televised games include noteworthy contests against NYCFC, the Houston Dynamo, Portland Timbers, Toronto FC, DC United, LA Galaxy, San Jose, New York Red Bulls, Seattle Sounders and Sporting Kansas City.

The matches that are not scheduled to broadcast nationally will air on local television network WOFL FOX 35/WRBW MY65 through a recently announced multi-year agreement.

“We’re thrilled that the schedule has been released and we can’t wait to get started,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “The nation’s eyes will be upon us in our first season, and we couldn’t be happier with how the schedule has turned out.”

The majority of City’s fixtures will occur during the weekend, with the Lions only scheduled for three midweek matches. Two of those contests will take place on the road against DC United and Toronto FC.

The last day of the 2015 regular season will see MLS unveil a new, exciting scheduling format – dubbed “Decision Day” – which will be one final flurry of action to settle the standings and determine who is in, and who is out, of the MLS Cup Playoffs.

For more information on Orlando City SC or to purchase 2015 MLS Season Tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY. Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Recently ranked 14^th among all professional teams in North America, Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team set to debut in 2015. The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 league matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. 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.

Wordless Wednesday: Our First Hat Picture

Wordless Wednesday – January 7, 2015

It was a gloomy day when this picture was taken, but this was Zoe and my parent’s first visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios so of course we had to have our picture taken in front of “Bi Hattttttt” as Zoe said.

I am excited to see this sucker go, but I can’t help but smile as I see everyone posting pictures!

I know this is supposed to be Wordless Wednesday…but I couldn’t help myself!

Bindi Irwin And Jack Hanna Coming To Busch Gardens Tampa

Join Bindi Irwin and Jack Hanna this Spring at Busch Gardens Tampa

Guests this spring can join globally recognized animal conservationist Bindi Irwin and “Jungle Jack” Hanna at Busch Gardens Tampa for exciting animal encounters.

Generation Nature LIVE in Stanleyville Theatre

Irwin will host “Generation Nature LIVE” at Busch Gardens Feb. 7 and Feb. 8. Bringing GenerationNature.com, the kid-centric website, to life, families will enjoy a high-energy, fun-filled show, designed to inspire kids to become “Game Changers for Nature.”

Families can play interactive games to uncover their “Nature IQ,” enjoy special appearances by some of Busch Gardens’ favorite animal ambassadors, and learn how to make a difference for wildlife. Shows are 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the Stanleyville Theater and are included with any Annual Pass, Fun Card or daily admission.

Guests can also take advantage of a special dining opportunity with Bindi Irwin. The Bindi Irwin VIP Experience includes a meet-n-greet with Bindi, followed by breakfast, a signed autograph and priority access to the 11 a.m. show in the Stanleyville Theater. The Bindi Irwin VIP Experience can be purchased at buschgardens.com in the coming days and takes place in the Crown Colony Restaurant. The cost is $20 for adults and $14 for children ages 3-9; Busch Gardens Pass Members receive a discount.

Wild Days with Jack Hanna

Join “Jungle Jack” Hanna for two days of animal shows, autograph signing and special meet-and-greets when he visits Busch Gardens April 18 and 19. The internationally known animal expert will share animal facts and his travel tales during shows, which are scheduled for 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the Stanleyville Theater. The shows are included with any Annual Pass, Fun Card or daily admission.

Experience “Generation Nature LIVE” with Bindi Irwin and Wild Days with “Jungle Jack” Hanna, along with exciting new events and more with a 2015 Fun Card, which lets you Pay for a Day and Play All Year. It’s the best value for again-and-again access to all of the amazing thrillsBusch Gardens has to offer.

Fun Cards, annual passes and single-day tickets are available online at buschgardens.com, by calling (888) 800-5447 or at the Busch Gardens’ front gate.

AAA Offering Free Car Seats To Help Florida Families

With new car seat laws taking effect January 1, 2015, Florida AAA offices are helping Florida families out by giving out a limited number of new car seats as a way to increase the awareness of a new law that requires children under age six to be in a car seat or booster seat.

AAA Florida will be giving out the free booster seats members and non-members every Friday in January, and to qualify for this offer the seat has to be for a child who is at least four years old between the height of 50-57 inches who weighs 40-60 pounds.

You will need to make an appointment by calling your local AAA office (you can click here to find a location). It is also important to note that your child must be present at your appointment, because they will be weighed and measured prior to you receiving the car seat.

This offer is only open as long as the car seats at each location last, so make sure that you call in as soon as you can!

I checked with the Orlando Office on Sand Lake Road earlier this morning, and they have 60 car seats that are available.

I absolutely applaud AAA for having such a commitment to the safety of children in Florida!!!