Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores Spring Festival And $50 Giveaway

Disclosure: I received a promotional item from Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores in exchange for this post and giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Spring is here! I’m ready to freshen up my/my family’s wardrobe for seasonal holidays, beach outings and other warmer weather activities. And, I’m always looking for great deals to stretch my budget. That’s why I plan to head to Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, where shopping is hassle-free and you can find factory-direct premium quality merchandise at savings up to 75% off (and sometimes more). Plus, there’s easy store front parking.

Join in on the fun at the mall’s upcoming 17^th Annual Spring Festival on Saturday, April 12^th. It’s a FREE festival for the entire family, including character appearances by Mayor Clayton and Ms. Merry, rabbits from Give Kids the World Village; and superheroes from Heroes Alliance. You’ll also enjoy a farmers market, crafts, face painting, balloon sculpting, games and an awesome sidewalk sale.

Plus, the center is selling raffle tickets for a chance to win more than $6,000 in great prizes including attraction tickets, hotels stays, store gifts and gift cards. One hundred percent of raffle ticket sales benefit Give Kids the World.

Here’s your chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, where you can select merchandise at over 50 spacious outlet shops and get great deals at the area’s only Old Navy outlet store, newcomers U.S. Polo Assn. and Lindt Chocolate, newly renovated Nike, OshKosh B’Gosh and Tommy Hilfiger Stores, plus other well-known outlets including G by GUESS, Justice, Carter’s, Crocs, Calvin Klein, Levi’s®, Aeropostale, Converse, Famous Footwear Outlet, Fossil, Gap, Izod, Rack Room Shoes, and many more.

We are giving away one (1) $50 gift certificate to the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. This offer is only valid for one winner, one time, through 2014. No duplicate entries at multiple blogger websites, please.This contest is open to US residents 18 and older. You will be contacted by email about winning, and will have 48 hours to respond. pick up your gift certificate in the mall office any week day between 10am-5pm. Please be prepared to show a photo ID.Also, please note that gift certificates MUST be picked up between April 15 and May 15, 2014. Sorry, we are unable to mail gift certificates.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Even if you don’t win, you can get in on the savings by downloading a coupon from the Center’s website, then bringing it to Travelpro at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores to receive a coupon booklet valued up to $400 in savings. Many stores offer additional savings from 20-40% off to “Friends & Family.” Savvy discount shoppers can learn about these discounts, as well as specific stores and their hours by following the center on Facebook and Twitter, as well as visiting www.lbvfs.com. Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores is located just one mile from Walt Disney World at 15657 S. Apopka Vineland Road (State Road 535), Orlando, FL 32821-6316, and two miles south of I-4, Exit 68. Stores are open Monday-Saturday, 10am-9pm, and 10am-7pm on Sunday.

Good Luck and Happy shopping!

2014 runDisney Princess Half Marathon Recap

Kelly Christine Delaney wraps up our runDisney Princess Half Marathon recap day with the last leg of the Glass Slipper Challenge, the runDisney Princess Half Marathon! We cannot thank her enough for her guest posts!!!

The second part of the Glass Slipper Challenge was the Princess half marathon. This was my third half marathon and my second RunDisney race challenge and I was excited to have a great race and receive my two medals to complete my set of four from the weekend. My excitement continued as I rode with my race roommates and RunDisney newbies Tricia and Lauren.It accelerated as I met up with other running friends for a pre-race picture and headed off to the corrals.

I didn’t have to wait too long for the race to start with the new corral/start system thankfully, and we were off pretty quickly. Less than a mile in, my excitement declined quickly as the weather was a bit brutal. I am used to running in the heat, especially for RunDisney races, but I wasn’t completely ready for the 100% humidity that came along with it. I quickly became overheated which slowed down my pace and frustrated me as it felt like my training was going down the tubes. At the water stops I was drinking one cup of water and pouring another on my head to cool down and it helped significantly.

Soon enough I hit the TTC and ran into an awesome friend Joanne who I stopped for a hug and a quick drink. From there I picked up my pace and was feeling pretty great. I ran into Todd in the Magic Kingdom for another hug and high five and enjoyed the trip down Main Street USA. The remainder of the time in Magic Kingdom went far too fast and I definitely enjoyed seeing the characters out in force. I always think I’m going to stop for a character while on the course and never end up doing so. The appeal of the picture never seems as high as the appeal to keep running and finish strong.

As I left Magic Kingdom I started to hear something absolutely beautiful down the road. Idina Menzel’s version of “Let It Go” was blasting through the speakers at the halfway point and I quickly became overwhelmed with emotion. For every RunDisney race I hadn’t been alone on the course, I always had someone with me. This race I was with friends for the first mile but then from there I was by myself. Hearing the song after just seeing Frozen for the first time brought the back the excitement I had lost due to the heat. I sent a voice message to my running buddy Shelley letting her know I was ok and we cried a bit together via voice messages. It’s good to know that despite being out there by myself, I was never really alone out there.

The next four miles were solid, especially after the Clif shot (I always recommend mocha as it tastes similar to chocolate frosting to me.) The humidity had cut down and I was enjoying the sights and sounds on the course. ….and then the sun came out and turned up the heat. I saw people around me were slowing down a bit except for one person. This runner and I had been passing each other back and forth while doing our intervals for awhile and finally ended up next to each other. We laughed a bit together that we were each other’s pace keeper and decided to make it official for the remainder of the race. It was nice to spend the last few miles laughing with a stranger who quickly became a friend.

At mile 12 I ran into Joanne again for another hug and drink. I shared it with my new friend and she enjoyed having something that wasn’t water or a sports drink. Just before hitting the thirteen mile marker a song came on in my ears that made my day. “22” by Taylor Swift started playing and it hit me: I just ran 22.4 miles this weekend over the course of three days. I set a challenge for myself and I was doing it. This time two years ago I never thought I could do it and yet here I was. My joy led me to stop for my first and last picture on the course with my new friend at the gospel choir at mile 13. At this point she turned to me and said “you made this race for me, I wasn’t sure about myself due to the weather but you kept me going, especially after the heat hit.” Hearing this from a stranger was such an awesome experience, especially after having Deanna make my Tower Ten Miler bearable. We hugged just after crossing the finish line and went our separate ways to get our medals and meet our friends/families.

Getting my runDisney Princess Half Marathon and Gold Slipper Challenge medals was such an awesome experience, especially after feeling like I earned them more being out there by myself. I look forward to continuing to challenge myself out on the course, maybe even with a full marathon one day.

runDisney Enchanted 10K Race Recap With Kelly Christine

Kelly Christine Delaney joins us in this second post of our runDisney Princess Half Marathon recap day!!! A huge thanks to Kelly Christine for this great post about a really great race!!!

A few weeks ago I participated in the runDisney Glass Slipper Challenge as part of the Princess Half Marathon Weekend. The first portion of this challenge was the Enchanted 10K on February 22. I had participated in the 5K the day before with friends so thankfully the 3:30am wake up call wasn’t too painful. I stayed at my favorite Disney Vacation Club resort, Old Key West, for this race weekend so it was a short trip to the course. I met my friends for our regular pre-race catchup and warmup before heading to the corrals.

Thankfully in my corral were some awesome people and we decided to make this race less of a run and more of a quick walk to save our energy and pace for the next day. I had three awesome friends for my 6.2 stroll: Diana, Deanna, and the lovely Shelley (yes, that friend Shelley who retired from running after running 19.3 miles last September.)

It was a really humid morning which made it tough to get a solid pace going, but with the surprise of Elsa from Frozen in the first mile the excitement increased, as did our pace. After seeing Elsa, there wasn’t too much on the course until we hit the 5K mark at the entrance to Epcot. We passed Mushu and Mulan in China, Snow White in Germany, Jiminy Cricket in Italy, Jasmine in Morocco, and Mary Poppins in the UK.

After crossing the bridge from France to the UK, we made a left and headed out of the parks for a stroll past the Epcot resorts. We waved to Diana’s husband at the Boardwalk (while running past baseball Goofy) and saw a bunch of friends cheering us on outside of the Beach Club. From there we headed back into the parks and weaved our way through the remainder of World Showcase and Future World. The temperature was steadily increasing during those last two miles and it was getting a bit uncomfortable. I was remarking to my friends that a little bit of rain (that was expected that afternoon) would be nice…within 2 minutes my wish was granted and a light refreshing sprinkle started. A few minutes later we crossed the finish line and got straight to hydrating and refueling while congratulating each other on a fun race.

I went into the Enchanted 10K race hoping for unique and fun pictures with some friends and it ended up being something different, yet still rewarding. RunDisney races are never a PR for me but they’re always an amazing opportunity to accomplish things I never believed I would do while making memories with awesome friends.

Wordless Wednesday – A Fountain Of Nations View

Wordless Wednesday – March 26, 2014

Sea Of Surprises Celebrates SeaWorld’s 50th Anniversary

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has launched a Sea of Surprises for guests of all of their parks to commemorate the opening of the original SeaWorld® in March 1964 on Mission Bay in San Diego, California.

And while SeaWorld Orlando opened nine years later, on December 15, 1973, we still to get to celebrate with them!

For the next 18 months the Sea of Surprises, SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration,will be highlighting the most memorable SeaWorld experiences in San Diego, Orlando, and San Antonio Parks.

For nearly five decades, SeaWorld has surprised and amazed guests with unique entertainment, thrilling rides and up-close encounters with animals. During SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration visitors will be invited to take part in the excitement through new interactive experiences, shows and pathway performances, even more up-close animal encounters throughout the park and “The SeaWorld Surprise Squad” treating guests with prizes every day.

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SeaWorld Sea of Surprises Highlights

Park pathways come to life with spontaneous entertainment. “Bubble Blowout” is sure to be a guest favorite with a fantastical vehicle creating bubbles of all sizes and shapes throughout Shamu’s Happy Harbor. Engaging performances with sea-inspired costumes and props will pop up at unexpected moments to surprise guests throughout the day, like “Splash Dance,” near Nautilus Theater.

On June 21, a new nighttime Shamu show, “Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night”, debuts. The high energy show will include new, original music and production elements, as well as new killer whale behaviors.

The “SeaWorld® Surprise Squad” will roam SeaWorld Orlando on a daily basis giving away, at random, prizes and special gifts, including exclusive access to rides, behind-the-scenes experiences, Shamu-themed merchandise, reserved show seating and more.*

SeaWorld guests are often greeted by an animal ambassador, many of whom were orphaned or injured in the wild and given a second chance thanks to the SeaWorld Animal Rescue Team. As part ofSeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration, there will be more surprise encounters with animal ambassadors throughout the day.

Share the wonder of close-up encounters with amazing animal friends and learn how SeaWorld cares for the natural world at the all-new SEA Garden. Completely re-designed, the SEA Garden is where guests can learn more about SeaWorld’s animals, many of them rescued, including eagles, spoonbills, opossums, and more.

To showcase SeaWorld’s commitment to the environment and passion for protecting the ocean, four giant sea life sculptures will be displayed at the SEA Garden. SeaWorld commissioned environmental art group The Washed Ashore Project for a collection of larger-than-life sea-themed sculptures – many weighing more than half a ton. The material used to create these pieces comes from the billions of pounds of garbage – mostly plastics – that wind up in our oceans. These amazing works of art point to the urgent need to protect marine animals from such dangers and preserve their ocean habitats. On display at SeaWorld Orlando are a parrot fish, sea horse, sea anemone reef and octopus.

As part of its continuing commitment to new technology that enhances the guest experience, SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration will include new ways for fans to connect to the parks and each other though digital devices. The parks will be launching a variety of enhancements, from interactive apps that provide fun new ways to experience the park to new games and video content.

We had an absolute blast at Sea of Surprises, and we can’t wait to go back to SeaWorld Orlando for even more fun!!!

Universal Orlando Resort And Give Kids The World Village Partnership Extended

Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations Will Continue to Donate $100 to

Give Kids The World for Every Package Booked

Due to its popularity among visiting families, Universal Orlando Resort has announced that it will continue through 2014 to offer a one-of-a-kind vacation package allowing guests to spend cherished family time in its theme parks and then to create unforgettable memories for children at Give Kids The World Village.

Give Kids The World Village (GKTW) is a 70-acre, nonprofit “storybook” resort that immerses children with life-threatening illnesses and their families in joy, hope, laughter and non-stop fun at Central Florida’s world-class attractions.

“Give Kids The World Village is truly a special place and is our favorite charity to be a part of,” said Dr. Brian Lahmann who recently volunteered at GKTW with his family during their Universal Orlando Resort vacation. “As a previous ‘wish family’…it holds a special place in our hearts, as we visited there just after our Nolan finished chemotherapy for leukemia.”

With this vacation offer, guests spend two days enjoying unparalleled thrills at the Universal Orlando theme parks and one day making the dreams of children with life-threatening illnesses come true as they come face-to-face with their favorite storybook characters, get their faces painted, receive makeovers and more. Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations will also continue to donate $100 to Give Kids The World for every package booked.

The package details are below:

OFFER

DETAILS

Give Kids The World Volunteer Vacation Package for
Universal Partner Hotels

**Pricing starts at $359 per adult, tax inclusive. No additional fees to volunteer.

**Pricing for Universal Orlando’s On-Site Hotels starts at $625 per adult, tax inclusive. No additional fees to volunteer.

Package includes the following benefits:

· Three nights of hotel accommodations
2-day Park-to-Park tickets with 3^rd day FREE – one theme park, per day (Must be used by May 22, 2014)
A four-hour volunteer opportunity at Give Kids The World Village
FREE scheduled roundtrip transportation to and from Give Kids The World Village
Early Park Admission to Universal’s Islands of Adventure to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter before the rest of the general public

Vacation package must be booked by December 12, 2014, for travel through December 17, 2014.

Families have the opportunity to add a whole new experience to their vacations with numerous volunteer opportunities at Give Kids The World Village, including:

Character Photos – Volunteers will share the special moment when children come face-to-face with their favorite storybook characters.
La-Ti-Da-Spa – Volunteers assist with makeovers, including face-painting, nails, makeup, hand massage and airbrush tattoos. Volunteers 16 and older.
Gingerbread House – Volunteers engage in high interaction with special guests by serving breakfast, running food, refilling drinks, bussing tables and clean-up.
Express Breakfast – Volunteers serve breakfast food to-go and are responsible for greeting guests, taking orders and packaging food.

Volunteers must be a minimum of 8-years-old to participate and those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Interested participants must complete an online application and waiver. Volunteers 18 and older are required to complete a background check.

For more information on this Give Kids The World vacation and volunteer package or other Universal Orlando Resort vacation packages, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And coming this summer: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, opening March 31; and Universal CityWalk – a nighttime entertainment complex featuring a collection of nightclubs, restaurants and shops. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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!

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.

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.

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.