Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

Week In Review And News – January 3, 2014

With the start of a new year and with so much going on after the holidays, I thought it would be a great time to restart our Week in Review and play a little catch up on this week’s highlights and news from the Orlando and Central Florida Attractions and Venues!

Week in Review – December 30, 2013 to January 3, 2014

Walt Disney World Resort

The Disney Parks Blog announced a new contest where you can win a 5-day/4-night vacation for four to either the Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort.

We’ve just launched disney.com/resolutions where Disney celebrities are sharing how they plan to resolve to spend more time with family in 2014. A new video will be uploaded everyday in January.

On disney.com/resolutions, we are also awarding a vacation-a-day from December 31, 2013 through January 31, 2014! So enter every day for your chance to win because this is the year to spend more quality time with the people you love most. Good luck!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open only to individuals, who are, as of Entry, legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 U.S., D.C., Puerto Rico or Canada (excluding Quebec) and who are not Minors. Sweepstakes starts 12:01 AM (EST) on 12/31/13 and ends 11:59:59 PM (EST) on 1/31/14. Click here for Official Rules.

runDisney

With Walt Disney World Marathon weekend right around the corner, runDisney was everywhere when they released details about the Limited Edition runDisney 2014 New Balance shoes!

httpv://youtu.be/C8YXAZu9kCE

You can find out more about these shoes here.

Universal Orlando Resort

With construction on Diagon Alley ramping up, A Celebration of Harry Potter drawing close, Cabana Bay opening reservations being taken, and CityWalk undergoing a HUGE transformation, the Universal Orlando Resort is buzzing with energy!

Diagon Alley Construction on December 29, 2013. Week in Review — Diagon Alley Construction on December 29, 2013.

I don’t know about you, but I am so excited for everything that is coming to the Universal Orlando Resort!!!

SeaWorld Orlando

January is Passholder appreciation month at SeaWorld Orlando, and they are offering some great deals!

Bring a friend for FREE! SeaWorld® Orlando Pass Members receive a friend for free ticket*. Online registration is required. Valid for one single-day admission by January 31, 2014. Register Now.

Double Your Discount**

Save 20% on dining in all of our cafeteria-style restaurants

Save 20% on merchandise in our gift shops

*Pass Member must be present for guest to gain admittance. Free ticket offer valid for active SeaWorld Orlando 1-Year, 2-Year and FL Platinum Pass Members. Not valid for Fun Cards, Teacher’s Study Passes or Friends & Family Passes. Free ticket is non-transferable, not for resale and may be revoked for misuse.

**Offer only valid between Jan. 1-31, 2014. Must present active SeaWorld Orlando 1-Year, 2-Year, or FL Platinum Pass to receive savings. Not valid with any other discounts or offers. Not valid on All-Day Dining offers. Merchandise offer valid for in-park purchases only.

Amway Center

The Circus is coming to town!

Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus LEGENDS is coming to the Amway Center January 9-12, but Monday the circus train rolls into Orlando. Fantastic photo opportunities will be available as the Ringling Bros. pachyderm performers parade to the Amway Center.

The Ringling Bros.animal performers will unload at 8:00 p.m. and walk beginning at 8:30 p.m. Animals will unload at railroad tracks near 1035 W. Amelia, then travel east on Amelia, south on North Hughey Ave., then west on West South St. and enter the GEICO Garage behind Amway Center. (Note: route and time are subject to change without notice.)

Tickets are still available and start at $16. Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees not included. All seats are reserved. Tickets are available atwww.ringling.com or www.ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone:407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740.

LEGOLAND Florida

If your house is anything like mine, you have watched the trailer for ‘The LEGO Movie’ four times daily and I was excited to see that they are going to be having a weekend of activities in February!

httpv://youtu.be/fZ_JOBCLF-I

February 8 & 9, 2014 Enjoy fun for all with activities to celebrate “The LEGO Movie”, the first-ever, full-length theatrical LEGO adventure featuring an all-star cast and set to open in theaters February 7. Guests will enjoy a special movie-themed building activity, movie-themed scavenger hunt in Miniland USA and meet and greet sessions with costume characters Emmet and Wyldstyle, who play leading roles in this epic movie.

Busch Gardens Tampa

January is also Passholder appreciation month at Busch Gardens Tampa!

Double the Fun – Bring a Friend for FREE

During January, Pass Members can bring a friend for free! Online registration required. Limit one free ticket per active Pass Member. Offer valid between January 1-31, 2014. Other Restrictions Apply. Log in now to register your friend’s ticket and learn more about this limited time offer.

Triple the Savings – 30% off merchandise, food, and beverages

All month long, Pass Members get 30% off merchandise, food and beverages when you visit the park! Offer valid between January 1-31, 2014. Other Restrictions Apply.

Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex

A Falcon 9 rocket is targeted to lift-off during a dramatic SpaceX launch scheduled for January 3, launch time is subject to change but the launch window of 5:05 p.m. to 7:17 p.m. EST. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex guests may view the launch from the Apollo/Saturn V Center, the closest possible public viewing area, or special areas at the Visitor Complex.

Launch viewing from the Apollo/Saturn V Center, located in Kennedy Space Center, includes live mission control commentary and is available for Visitor Complex guests for $20 plus the cost of admission. Admission to the Visitor Complex is $50 plus tax for adults and $40 plus tax for children 3-11. Bus boarding for the Apollo/Saturn V Center begins at 3:15 p.m.

Launch viewing, featuring live mission control commentary, also is available from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is included in regular admission.

Week in Review- Posts from On the Go in MCO

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Staycation

New Year’s Eve at the Walt Disney World Resort

Wordless Wednesday – Happy New Year

Merchandise Spotlight – Walt Disney World Resort

Thanks for joining us for this Week in Review, and if this is indication of how jam packed 2014 is going to be I am really excited!

Merchandise Spotlight – Walt Disney World January 2, 2014

For this week’s merchandise spotlight, I take a peek at some of the new women’s shirts, jackets, and accessories that can be found at Walt Disney World.

I thought that I would start off this merchandise spotlight with my favorite merchandise…purses!

I am always up for a great tote, and there were a few new park and character totes that I really love.

While I wasn’t a huge fan of the bowler bags that came out earlier this year that were made in a shiny red vinyl, I really like these new black matte designs!

I also like how they tweaked the black and white design of this bag.

And finally, these structured purses are a great new option!

There were some new jewelry pieces, but I especially loved this simple broach and this ‘gold’ necklace.

This new windbreaker/rain coat is a really high quality jacket with great pockets that is the perfect weight for both a summer rain that is sticky and layering when it is cooler.

There were a ton of new Mickey pajamas, but these were my favorites!

I found a few great shirts while I was in the park, too.

What park merchandise are you looking forward to in 2014? I’m excited to find more great purses and accessories, and maybe even trying my hand at Disney Bounding!

Our Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Staycation

We had the opportunity to have a really fun ‘staycation’ the weekend before Christmas together experiencing all great amenities and food that the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has to offer, and it was an amazing visit.

Located in the Lake Buena Vista area, the newly renovated Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is one mile away from the Walt Disney World Resort, however as the centerpiece of the 1,500-acre Grand Cypress Resort you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.

When you first walk into the 18-story atrium lobby and are greeted by Merlot, the resident macaw, you know that you are in a really special place.

The rooms at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress are spacious at 360 square feet, and feature comfortable Hyatt Grand Beds, great amenities, and views you will love waking up to every morning!

We had a Pool View which was absolutely beautiful, and by night we were able to watch to fireworks at both Epcot and the Magic Kingdom every night without having to leave our room!

Here’s a detailed look at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Room Amenities:

Separate work desk
Hairdryer
Iron / ironing board
Coffee maker (Featuring Starbucks Coffee)
Cable / satellite TV channels
iHome™ alarm clock radio

Jack pack adaptor panel for multimedia plug n’ play
Voicemail
High-speed Internet access
Large, flat-screen television
Individual air conditioning control
Ceiling fans
Video checkout

In-room safe
Safety deposit box behind front desk
Mini-Fridge
Crib upon request
Maximum guests per room: 4
Chaise lounge
Spa toiletries

If you are looking for great food, you will definitely find it at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress!

We had an a wonderful dinner at Cascade American Bistro!

The restaurant setting is beautiful, the food was delicious, and the service was outstanding.

I cannot recommend Cascade highly enough, especially their signature S’mores dessert! It was heaven in a Mason Jar!

When we were relaxing by the gorgeous pool, we also took advantage of the pool-side service from the On the Rocks Poolside Lounge.

My margarita was perfect and the Tri-Color Tortilla Chip trio was tasty with generous portions of each dip. The queso and guacamole were amazing!

And in the lobby, Perks was a great place to grab a cup of Starbucks and pastry in the morning and as it transformed to Trellises Lounge in the evening it was a great place to grab a quick bite!

We even ordered in-room dining one night, and it was a great way to relax after a busy day at the resort! With so many (even vegetarian) menu options, we found that we had a hard time deciding what we wanted to order! The in-room menu is extremely affordable and convenient, and something that we would definitely experience again!

However, the star for us during our stay at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress was the outdoor amenities and recreation options we were able to enjoy as a family!

There is an affordable extra Resort Services Program charge at the resort, and with that guests get access to

Health Club Open 24 Hours
Rock Climbing Walls
9 Hole, Par 3 Pitch N’ Putt
Water sports: Canoe, Paddle Boat, Hydro Bike, Aquacycle, Sailboat, and Kayak
Bikes: Adult’s, Children’s, and Surreys
Golf Driving Range
Court Time at the Tennis Racquet Club
Daily Scheduled Shuttle Transportation to Walt Disney World Theme Parks,
Universal Studios/ Islands of Adventure and SeaWorld-Be sure to pick up your
boarding pass from our Lobby Concierge.
Wired and Wireless Internet
Free Local and Toll Free Telephone Service

Zoe wanted to do something on her own, so she participated in Camp Hyatt for the day and had a blast!

Camp Hyatt is an interactive program exclusively for our guests ages 3-12. Our activities focus on the flora, fauna and culture of this unique part of the Sunshine State and includes a Fish Feeding Frenzy, Arcade Challenges, Boats and Bikes, Rock Climbing, Kids Crafts, Marshmallow Roasts, Scavenger Hunts, Short Chef Creations, Video Games and Pool and Beach Games.

Zoe wants to go back to the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress JUST to go back to Camp Hyatt!!!

We had such an awesome time exploring the resort as a family! We took our first family bike ride after Dave’s knee replacement surgery, played games, and played on the beach together.

We had so much fun, that we never left the resort!

Here are some of our favorite Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Outdoor Activities:

Boating

A white sandy beach runs along Lake Windsong where you will find canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, sailboats, a volleyball court, and much more.

Boating Hours: 8:00am – return by 5:30pm

Boating Rules: 18 & older for sailboats. 13 & older to be alone on the water in all other craft.

Anyone under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at least 18 years of age.

Pool, Water Slides, and More

Pool Water Slide Hours: 9:00 am– 5:30pm

Rules: There is a minimum 44 inch height requirement for the pool water slide. Life jacket required for children between 44-48 in.

Water Jet Pad Hours: 8:00am – 10:00pm

Poolside Recreation Desk and Pool Towel Service

You can stop here for daily activity information, slide wristbands, pool towels, floats, sunscreen that you may have forgotten, and more!

Daily Hours: 8:00am – 5:30pm

Pool Towels are available outside of the On The Rocks bar after operating hours with your resort room key.

Biking

Bicycles for all ages are available including family bikes, bikes with training wheels and adult bikes with child seats. Enjoy 9.2 miles of jogging and biking trails throughout the Grand Cypress Resort.

Hours: 8:00am – return by 5:30 pm

Rules: 13 & older to go biking alone. At least 18 years of age to drive a Surrey Bike. Anyone under 13 must

be accompanied by a parent or guardian at least 18 years of age. Anyone younger than 16 must wear a helmet.

Pitch N’ Putt

Visit our scenic par 3 executive course on Lake Windsong. Complimentary club rentals are available.

Hours: 8:00am– return by 5:30pm

Rules: 13 & younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at least 18 years of age.

Rock Climbing Challenge

Come climb the towers at the Grand Cypress! Lanes are available for all skill levels.

Hours: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Rules: Minimum/Maximum height and weight requirements vary. See attendant for more

information. Closed toe/heel shoes are required.

Fire Pit

Located on the beach! S’mores Kits are available for purchase in the Palm Cafe, Trellises, or through Room Service for $10.

Available Thursday thru Sunday at Dusk. Weather permitting.

You will also find tons of great ways to have some quiet time while you are enjoying the great outdoors!

At the pool there is a large grotto area full of super comfy chairs.

Then on the beach there are designated quiet areas and hammocks that you won’t ever want to leave!

The grounds of the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress are lush, and full of amazing sculptures and statues. I had a really relaxing walk around the resort. It was so nice to steal a few moments for myself!

We had an absolutely amazing and wonderful staycation at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, and if you are looking for a family experience to plus your visit to the Orlando Theme Parks I would absolutely recommend staying at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress!

Disclaimer: Through a partnership with the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, I received accommodations and a meal at the Resort. All opinions are my own.

Reading With Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Ambassadors of Laughter to

CLOWN AROUND CENTRAL FLORIDA ON JANUARY 7

Free Reading with Ringling Day for the Public

Get ready to giggle, Central Florida: on Tuesday, January 7, clowns from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey will make special appearances in the region to entertain and interact with the public. The Ambassadors of Laughter will ignite attendees’ funny bones with lighthearted antics that offer a sneak preview of LEGENDS!, the all-new 144^th Edition of The Greatest Show On Earth^® playing the Amway Center this January.

On Tuesday, January 7, clowns will blend the magic of the circus with the importance of reading during Reading with Ringling Day, special presentations at two libraries in Orange County. After a lively rendition of a circus-themed book, they’ll engage the audience with juggling, plate spinning and other silly and dynamic demonstrations previewing The Greatest Show On Earth. The clowns will give away stickers and clown noses (while supplies last).

The Clown Around Central Florida library events are free and everyone is invited.

The locations and appearance times for Reading with Ringling Day are:

Orange County Library System

10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Downtown Branch – 101 East Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801

For more information, call 407-835-7481, or visit www.ocls.info.

Maitland Public Library

11:30 a.m. – 12 noon

501 S. Maitland Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

For more information, call 407-647-7700, or visit http://www.maitlandpubliclibrary.org/.

Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey brings the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages in an all-new show – – Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDS^SM. Experience unimaginable family fun, as amazing performers from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination and now materialize before your eyes: the Unicorn, Pegasus and a Woolly Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDS! The all-new show is coming is coming January 9-12, 2014 to the Amway Center in Orlando. For tickets and more information, visit www.ringling.com

Wordless Wednesday – Christmas in Orlando

Wordless Wednesday – December 25, 2013

We want to wish everyone celebrating today a very Merry Christmas!

We hope that you all have a day full of family, fun, and love!

Merry Christmas from Orlando!!!

Wordless Wednesday Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Details

Harry Potter Stars James Phelps, Oliver Phelps, and Evanna Lynch

to Appear at A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort

3-Day Event to Feature a Harry Potter Tribute, Cast Member Q&A’s,
Wand Combat Masterclass, Pottermore Demonstrations and More

Harry Potter film stars James Phelps, Oliver Phelps and Evanna Lynch are slated to appear at “A Celebration of Harry Potter” – a special event hosted by Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Entertainment that will celebrate all of Harry’s adventures, from the beloved books to the feature films. Creative talent also set to appear includes KazuKibuishi, the award-winning artist who recently re-imagined the Harry Potter book covers, and Eduardo Lima and Miraphora Mina ofMinaLima, who established the visual graphic style of the Harry Potter films.

From January 24 – 26, 2014 at Universal Orlando, fans will enjoy unforgettable experiences – including a Harry Potter Tribute on Friday night, a Harry Potter Expo, panel discussions with film talent and crew, and more. Additional details about “A Celebration of Harry Potter” will be released early next year.

Access to “A Celebration of Harry Potter” is included with regular theme park admission or with an annual pass. Those without an annual pass can experience the full offering with a 3-day park-to-park ticket. Admission into panel events will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Event Details

A CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER PANEL DISCUSSIONS

The panels will be held in a theater-style setting and will include discussions and Q&A’s with Harry Potter film talent and crew. Admission into the theaters will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific panel times will be released at a later date.

A Harry Potter Tribute

“A Celebration of Harry Potter” will kick off with a special evening event starring several cast members of the Harry Potter film series and award-winning artist Kazu Kibuishi, who recently re-imagined the Harry Potter book covers for Scholastic and beautifully captured pivotal scenes from the enchanting Harry Potter stories. Guests will enjoy film clips, Q&A sessions with cast members, and get a glimpse of new details about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, opening summer 2014.

My Life on the Harry Potter Film Set: Talent Q&A’s

Actors from the Harry Potter films share what it’s like to work on a major motion picture and be part of film history.

Duelling Demonstration & Wand Combat Masterclass with Paul Harris

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will present a spellbinding masterclass with the world’s only Wand Combat Choreographer, Paul Harris. Paul choreographed the epic battle scene in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and will be on hand to teach you the technique behind wielding a wand.

Graphic Design for the Harry Potter Films with MinaLima

Graphic designers Eduardo Lima and Miraphora Mina from the studio MinaLima will discuss their ten-year involvement in establishing the visual graphic style on the film productions of Harry Potter and present some of the iconic props they created for the films, including the Marauder’s Map, the Daily Prophet and The Quibbler.

Bringing the Harry Potter Films to the Theme Park – Set and Prop Design of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Harry Potter film and theme park Set Designer Alan Gilmore and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Prop Master Eric Baker will present a look at how ideas move from the books to screen, and then become real-life theme park experiences.

Go Behind the Scenes of Pottermore.com from J.K. Rowling

Pottermore’s Creative Director gives an exclusive insight into the creation of Moment artwork for Pottermore.com, and a look at the next installment of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Plus, get ready for an exclusive reveal as he shares his favorite upcoming new entry from J.K. Rowling.

A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Expo Booths

The Harry Potter Expo will be held inside a Universal Orlando soundstage and will be open to guests throughout the weekend. The expo will include booths and exhibits that will give guests deeper insight into the various manifestations of the Harry Potter series.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Guests will get an up-close look at the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating the iconic costumes that have appeared throughout the Harry Potter film series. They will also have the opportunity to get sorted into Hogwarts houses during a Sorting Hat experience.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

This interactive experience will feature a duelling presentation by the world’s only Wand Combat Choreographer, Paul Harris.

MinaLima

Limited edition artworks and reproductions based on original prop designs will be on display, including iconic pieces, such as the Marauder’s Map and the Daily Prophet. A selection of original graphic props from the films will also be on display, and on-hand to meet guests will be Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima.

Pottermore from J.K. Rowling

Go behind the scenes of Pottermore.com from J.K. Rowling. Find out how Moments from Harry’s story are created from the first sketch to the final splash of color, get an exclusive look at artwork that has not yet been released, and experience Pottermore.com for yourself – defeat your opponent in a wizard’s duel or try your hand at brewing magical draughts and potions.

Scholastic

Celebrate the 15^th anniversary of the U.S. publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and share your message about what Harry Potter means to you. Award-winning artist Kazu Kibuishi, who recently reimagined the Harry Potter book covers, will be signing posters at limited times throughout the weekend.

United States Postal Service

Guests can check out the limited-edition Harry Potter collection of 20 new Forever stamps, featuring images of Harry Potter, the extraordinary boy wizard, and the adventures he encounters with the friends, heroes, villains and creatures that make up his world. Also, see collectible products featuring the stamps, meet the stamp art director, and get special cancellation postmarks commemorating this celebration.

For more information about the event and tickets, visit www.universalorlando.com/celebration.

Saving Mr. Banks Free Behind-The-Scenes iBook

Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks iBook gives fans

a behind-the-scenes look

at the making of the timeless classic Mary Poppins

Featuring Rare and Exclusive Archival Treasures, Recording Sessions from the Academy Award®–Winning Composers, an Interactive Timeline of Historic Walt Disney Studios Milestones, Storyboards, Video and More

Walt Disney Studios announces the release of SAVING MR. BANKS: The Official Multi-touch Book, based on Disney’s highly anticipated film “Saving Mr. Banks,” in theaters December 20, 2013. Exploring the previously untold story of how Walt Disney worked his magic on author P.L. Travers to secure the rights to her book, “Mary Poppins,” the book includes a foreword by Academy Award®-winning composer Richard Sherman; never-before-seen correspondence between Walt Disney and P.L. Travers; rare storyboards and scripts from the Disney archives; an interactive timeline of historic Walt Disney Studios milestones; original recordings of the Sherman Brothers, performing their “Mary Poppins” hit songs; facts and profiles on the key characters in “Saving Mr. Banks”—all created by Apple’s digital book creation app, iBooks Author.

httpv://youtu.be/uOkXTPg1Yoc

The Saving Mr. Banks book is available for free, exclusively on iBooks at www.iTunes.com/SavingMrBanks.

Using Apple’s iBooks Author, the UK digital agency, Brandwidth was able to include video, audio and multi-touch interaction to create a robust storytelling experience. Readers can watch interviews featuring the cast and filmmakers, browse extensive photo galleries and explore the original storyboards and concept art—all in full retina detail. ‘Mary Popovers’ deliver fascinating facts throughout the book.

Two-time Academy Award®–winner Emma Thompson and fellow double Oscar®-winner Tom Hanks topline Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks, inspired by the extraordinary, untold backstory of how Disney’s classic “Mary Poppins” made it to the screen.

When Walt Disney’s daughters begged him to make a movie of their favorite book, P.L. Travers’ Mary Poppins, he made them a promise—one that he didn’t realize would take 20 years to keep. In his quest to obtain the rights, Walt comes up against a curmudgeonly, uncompromising writer who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine. But, as the books stop selling and money grows short, Travers reluctantly agrees to go to Los Angeles to hear Disney’s plans for the adaptation.

For those two short weeks in 1961, Walt Disney pulls out all the stops. Armed with imaginative storyboards and chirpy songs from the talented Sherman brothers, Walt launches an all-out onslaught on P.L. Travers, but the prickly author doesn’t budge. He soon begins to watch helplessly as Travers becomes increasingly immovable and the rights begin to move further away from his grasp.

It is only when he reaches into his own childhood that Walt discovers the truth about the ghosts that haunt her, and together they set Mary Poppins free to ultimately make one of the most endearing films in cinematic history.

Disney presents Saving Mr. Banks, directed by John Lee Hancock, produced by Alison Owen, Ian Collie and Philip Steuer, and written by Kelly Marcel and Sue Smith. Executive producers are Paul Trijbits, Christine Langan, Andrew Mason and Troy Lum.

Download book here:

www.iTunes.com/SavingMrBanks

On the Go Gift Guide – Oakley Reducer Tank

If you are anything like me you have two things on your mind as Christmas is less than a week away, how am I going to find the best gift for everyone left on my shopping list and how am I going to work off all these cookies!

Today for our On the Go Gift Guide we look at a product that helps answer both of those questions, the Oakley Reducer Tank.

I know that I feel awkward going to the gym or out on a run when I don’t feel comfortable and confident in what I am wearing, and the Oakley Reducer Tank is designed with a little extra room to help you focus on your workout.

The O-form fabric is comfortable to wear, because it stretches four ways for complete mobility. The tank maintains its shape and is supportive for every step, bend, and jump without riding up or shifting. It was so great to have a tank that I wasn’t constantly tugging at!

The Oakley Reducer Tank also has a generous built in bra and crossback design that is flattering to any shape.

All of these great details combined with super reflective logo details, UV protection built into the tank’s fabric, a mesh overlay for ventilation, anti-bacterial action fabric, and more make the Oakley Reducer Tank my new go-to workout favorite!

If you are looking for a great last minute gift, you can order the Oakley Reducer Tank online or you can head to their store to pick one up!

If you are headed to the Florida Mall Oakley Store, which is my favorite, you are in luck because they have some great deals for last minute gifts for your list or for yourself to help kick off your New Year’s resolutions!

O–Form fabric maintains your shape and stretches four ways for superb mobility

Built–in bra with molded cups supports and controls bounce

Mesh overlay in back provides excellent ventilation

O Hydrolix^™ fabric reduces the effects of sweat

Anti–bacterial action reduces odor–causing microbes

Reflective features stand out during early morning and night regimens
86% Nylon, 14% Lycra

^{Disclosure: I received a Oakley Reducer Tank courtesy of the Oakley Store at the Florida Mall. All opinions, thoughts, and enthusiasm are my own.}

Animal Kingdom Character Christmas Trees

Some of my favorite Christmas trees in all of Walt Disney World are the Animal Kingdom Character Christmas Trees that can be found in Animal Kingdom’s Camp Minnie-Mickey, and with Christmas less than a week away and the closing of this area coming up quickly I wanted to make sure I shared these Character Christmas Trees with you!

Scattered around the Camp Minnie-Mickey, these Character Christmas Trees are designed to include iconic details and ‘personal’ touches from characters that meet (or have met) in the Camp Minnie-Mickey area of Animal Kingdom.

What I especially love about these trees is that they aren’t as polished and perfect as most Christmas trees you will find around Walt Disney World! They really make you feel like the characters chose these decorations personally and on purpose to represent them and their story.

The Animal Kingdom Character Christmas Trees ‘homemade’ feel and attention to detail make them feel authentic and genuine instead of staged and perfect. I always feel like I find new details, a new favorite ornament, and even a new favorite tree every year.

I love how Pluto’s tree is full of ornaments made of dog bones, his collar, some of his favorite toys, and even his dog house!

Goofy’s tree is sure to warm your heart with memories from some of his iconic shorts and special ornaments from Max, This tree is adorable!

Mickey’s tree is full of some of his favorite things about Christmas! You will even find his Santa Ears!

Minnie’s tree is topped with her polka dot bow and full of red and white details and her iconic white daisies. I’m absolutely biased when I say that this is my favorite tree!!!

The Lion King inspired Christmas Tree is full of masks from the story and details that make The Lion King show at Animal Kingdom so fabulous!

Meeko’s Christmas Tree is full of his favorite treats and a portrait of him. It’s a cute tree!!

Timon and Pumbaa’s tree is a definite mix of their personalities! You’ll find portraits of them on ornaments throughout the tree and some of their favorite grubs and insects crawling on the tree’s bows and branches.

The Brother Bear tree is full of bears, paw prints, and their favorite foods and details. It’s a great tree!

Lilo’s tree is full of records, her dolls, and a Hawaiian flower garlands. This tree is definitely the most colorful!!!

Chip and Dale’s tree is full of acorns and details from the shorts that have made them so lovable! These mischievous chipmunks really outdid themselves!

You’ll find all sorts of great details from the 100 Acre Wood on this Tiggerrific Christmas Tree!

Baloo and King Louie share a tree that is sure to make any Jungle Book fan smile!

The Country Bear’s tree is full of moonshine, portraits of performers from Country Bear Hall, and music notes.

Pocahontas has decorated her tree with her favorite flower, mocsasins, and more of her favorite things!

There’s no doubt as to who this Character Christmas Tree belongs to!!!

Animal Kingdom’s Camp Minnie-Mickey will be closing in January to make way for construction to continue for Avatarland, and I can only hope that is not the last time that we see these Character Christmas Trees!

For some of my other favorite things about Animal Kingdom, make sure you check out the video we made earlier this year for the park’s 15th Anniversary!

httpv://youtu.be/C5dW5GkTMlw

On the Go Gift Guide: Jake And The Neverland Pirates Game

And closing out the selection of Disney games for our On the Go Gift Guide is Jake and the Neverland Pirates Shipwreck Beach Treasure Hunt from Wonder Forge!

Jake and the Neverland Pirates Shipwreck Beach Treasure Hunt is a really interactive and fun game that takes your normal ‘matching’ game to the next level!

Yo ho, let’s go! Captain Hook has buried pirate booty all over Shipwreck Beach. Flip over the gold doubloons and use Jake’s spyglass to decode the secret clues. When you get a match, get up and go! Snag the correct treasure with the foam sword and hurry back to score!

Jake and the Neverland Pirates Shipwreck Beach Treasure Hunt At A Glance

Players:

2 or more players ages 3+

Promotes:

Matching
Memory
Physical Dexterity

Product Contents

5 Treasures
5 Treasure Bases
12 Doubloons
1 Treasure Map Storage Bag
1 Foam Sword
1 Spyglass Decoder
1 Sand Timer
1 Game Rules Manual

A really cool feature of Jake and the Neverland Pirates Shipwreck Beach Treasure Hunt is that the game board is actually the bag where you store all of the pieces for the game!

Zoe really loved using the Spyglass decoder to help her make pairs! It was such a fun twist on matching that kept her involved in the game.

We found that the timer included with the game provides more than enough time to pick up the treasures of Shipwreck Beach!

As a family, we really enjoyed playing Jake and the Neverland Pirates Shipwreck Beach Treasure Hunt and Zoe can’t wait to play with her friends over their holiday break!

Disclosure: Through a partnership with Wonder Forge Games, I have received a promotional item in exchange for this post. All opinions and thoughts are my own!

On the Go Gift Guide: Doc McStuffins All Better Game

Next up for the On the Go Gift Guide is Doc McStuffins All Better Game from Wonder Forge Games!

Doc McStuffins All Better Game is a really adorable game starring all of your favorite characters from the extremely popular Doc McStuffins show on Disney Junior.

Make the boo boos go away like Doc McStuffins! Each slap bracelet bandage is a different mystery ouchie. Take turns trying to figure out which doctor tool will make things all better! It’s a fun game of pretending and playful problem-solving!

Doc McStuffins All Better Game at a Glance

Players:

2 or more players ages 3 and up

Promotes:

Matching
Memory skills
Turn-taking and playing together

Product Contents

1 Storage Bag
6 Slap Bracelet Bandages
6 Foam Tools
8 Scoring Tiles
1 Spinner
1 Game Rules Manual

Zoe is a HUGE Doc McStuffins fan, so we had a ton of fun playing this game!!! She really loved the slap bracelets and feeling like she was really helping her friends!

What I really love about this game is that all of the game pieces fit neatly into Doc McStuffins’ bag making for clean up that even the youngest players will find easy!

We really had fun playing the Doc McStuffins All Better Game, and if you are a fan of the show you will, too!!!

Disclosure: Through a partnership with Wonder Forge Games, I have received a promotional item in exchange for this post. All opinions and thoughts are my own!

Wordless Wednesday – I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas

Wordless Wednesday – December 18, 2013

On the Go Gift Guide: LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie

When the Disney It’s a Small World collaboration ended with its final collection this Fall, I was beyond sad because I adored the line! However LeSportsac hasonce again teamed up with Disney again to take a look back at Minnie Mouse through the decades with the Celebrate Minnie print.

Minnie has been reinventing her look for close to 90 years, and now you can witness her transformation (and ever so glamorous wardrobe) through the years in one fun print! In the 1920′s Minnie was classically chic in black and white, while the 30′s introduced a more colorful look when she first started sporting her iconic polka-dot outfits. The 40′s brought her signature bow, and she stayed on trend throughout the fashion revolutions of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s – including a flower-power mini-dress with platform shoes! In the 80′s she was working out in her sneakers and sweatshirt, during the 90′s she rocked a ruffled skirt and denim jacket, and the new millennium brought her back to her polka-dot roots. Today Minnie is an inspiration and muse for fashionistas around the world!

Minnie Mouse is my favorite character, so I can’t wait to get my hands on one of these bags!!!

The LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie print is offered in 18 Classic styles (listed below), and is currently available online.

6506 Lily 6511 Rectangular Cosmetic 7184 Medium Weekender

7185 Large Weekender 7315 Travel Cosmetic 7418 Mini Basic Backpack

7470 Small EveryGirl Tote 7507 Deluxe Everyday Bag 7519 Deluxe Shoulder Satchel

7520 Classic Hobo 7532 Ryan Baby Bag 7562 Small Cleo Crossbody Hobo

7627 Kasey 7812 Basic Backpack 7891 EveryGirl Tote

8070 Ziptop Rollup 8148 Melanie 8170 Medium Dome Cosmetic

I love carrying my Disney LeSportsac purses in and out of the park, because they are lightweight, easy to clean, and are absolutely adorable!

If you’re looking for a great gift for the Disney purse collector on your list, take a look at the LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie print!

On the Go Gift Guide: Disney Eye Found It

I thought that we would start our On the Go Gift Guide with a really fun board game from Wonder Forge, Disney Eye Found It!

Disney Eye Found It features a jumbo game board that is filled to brim with whimsical artwork and starring your favorite Disney characters.

Join Mickey Mouse and friends on an exciting race through 12 exquisitely illustrated Disney realms, from Radiator Springs and Alice’s Wonderland to Peter Pan’s Never Land and Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood. Throughout the race, everyone searches for iconic Disney objects…and gets a chance to say, “I found it!”

Disney Eye Found It at a Glance

Players:

Game is for 2-6 players ages 5 and up

Promotes:

Cooperation and teamwork
Observation skills and attention to detail
Reinforces object identification and matching skills

Product Contents:

1 Six-foot Game Board in three sections
6 Movers
6 Mover Bases
1 Spinner
12 Mickey Mouse Ear Tokens
30 Search Cards
1 Sand Timer
1 Game Rules Manual

When you are setting up Disney Eye Found It, make sure that you have a LOT of space! When they say Jumbo, they totally mean Jumbo! We set the game up on our dining room table, which was the perfect place to play the game since everyone had a seat and it was a flat surface for the board to fit together.

The board is chocked full of detail that is beyond perfect for any Disney fan, and it is really easy to get lost in the details! We ended up giving the younger ones playing a little more time and hints since the board is so gigantic!

Here are some of my favorite Disney realms features in Disney Eye Found It!

We all had a really great time playing Disney Eye Found It, and it is definitely a game we will pull out again to play for our Family Game Nights!

Disclosure: Through a partnership with Wonder Forge Games, I have received a promotional item in exchange for this post. All opinions and thoughts are my own!

Pick Six: Universal Orlando CityWalk Announcements

While I am still putting together a lot of my final ideas for a larger post on icFlorida about yesterday’s Universal Orlando CityWalk Announcements (You can find the Press Release here), I wanted to take a moment to look at my initial reactions to what we were shown.

1. Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

I had a lot of A-ha moments during The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley presentation! Originally I looked at how close the construction of Diagon Alley was to Universal Studios Florida, and I always wondered why it had to be so close to the existing park. And yesterday, when they spoke about how Diagon Alley was wedged into London everything clicked for me! And while I am positively giddy about riding on the Hogwarts Express, given the detail that is going into the streets of Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron (especially the ceiling) I want to camp out now! The current Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of my most favorite places in any theme park, and I am beyond hopeful about Diagon Alley!

2. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is going to be everything that you wish a Walt Disney World ‘Value’ Resort would be! The resort will have 900 Rooms and 900 Family Suites at opening with a fun 60’s retro feel. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort will also boast several large pools for each section of the resort, dining options, high-energy bowling alleys, and more at a manageable walking distance to the parks. I love fun resorts, and with the proximity to the park this ‘Value’ resort really has value.

3. The Cowfish / The Hot Dog Hall of Fame

The Cowfish and The Hot Dog Hall of Fame that will be coming to Universal CityWalk are fun and quirky! The Cowfish is a mix of sushi and burgers in a fun environment (there will be tablets in the Sushi Bar for people to surf as they sit under Pop Art), and the result is ‘Burgushi’ which include sushi rolls created using burger components and sandwiches created using sushi elements. The Hot Dog Hall of Fame boasts signature Hot Dogs from around the country and a Mustard Bar with custom mustards created from a partnership from the National Mustard Museum. If you love Hot Dogs, how can you not be excited about this restaurant coming to Universal Orlando CityWalk? Amid Bars and themed restaurants, I am looking forward to the fun options and atmosphere that these two locations will bring to the mix of CityWalk!

4. Starbucks / Menchies / Cold Stone Creamery

While I would have loved to see all original offerings at the Universal Orlando CityWalk announcement, I have to say that choosing to expand the Starbucks presence and adding Menchies and Cold Stone Creamery to CityWalk make more sense and go with the ‘best in class’ mind-set that is going into the renovation of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk. Starbucks moving downstairs and into a larger space that will be filled with seating (Yay!) and innovative touches is a win for everyone, because it is more accessible and adds another location to grab a quick breakfast at the parks which has always been an issue with my family. Menchies and Cold Stone Creamery are solid yogurt and ice cream places that are family favorites, which is important when you have a little (or big) kid who needs a treat after a long day in the theme parks!!!

5. Antojitos / The Red Oven / Bread Box / Pranzo

And now we come to the unique restaurants that are coming to Universal Orlando CityWalk! Antojitos is a going to be more of a culinary journey than passive restaurant experience. The themed facade of Anotjitos is where you start your trip to cantinas, street carts, and markets of Mexico for tapas-style dining with authentic Mexican food.The Red Oven is open now, and amid an modern Italian atmosphere you can find a huge variety of brick oven pizzas and salads. The Bread Box will feature hand made breads and sandwiches with fresh ingredients to capture the feel of the Deli of your childhood or movies! Pranzo will feature modern Italian foods and hand made pastas. The common thread between the variety of restaurants is that there will be a focus on using only fresh ingredients, that are hand-made, and sometimes even created as you watch. While I am a HUGE Mythos fan (aren’t we all though…Universal butter, bread that you can’t stop eating, and delicious dishes), I always find myself wanting more of a fresh feel to my meal. So beyond beautiful decor, I am excited to find these kinds of foods offered in a Theme Park Area.

6. Shopping!

I will admit that the shop-a-holic in me really wished there was more on this front, I am excited to see what the new Universal Studios Store will offer! The design will also boast more interactivity and fresh design elements. It is a great place to catch those souvenirs that you said you would go back to pick up that you might have forgotten.

With all these locations opening as the first phase of a Universal Orlando CityWalk revitalization by June of 2014, it makes me really excited to see what phase 2 is going to bring besides me spending more time there!