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Tale as Old as Time

One year ago today, on February 23, 2016, my husband Kelly and I renewed our marriage vows. We celebrated our over 20 years together and our 15 years of marriage in the most magical way we knew how: with a vow renewal ceremony at Walt Disney World!

Although our life is no fairy tale, our commitment to each other could be a classic Disney love story. It’s “certain as the sun, rising in the east.” And sometimes, right in the middle of ordinary life, God gives you your very own fairy tale!

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We already had the trip planned… We would be visiting Walt Disney World from February 19-23, 2016 for the Princess Half Marathon Weekend. So one day back in October 2015 we were just driving down the road to a football game (of course!) and the idea came to me! Let’s renew our vows at Disney!

I immediately made the call to Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings and Honeymoons before Kelly had time to change his mind! From the moment of first contact with my Disney wedding consultant I knew that this would be an easy process. Disney Weddings offer three different wedding collections from which to choose. We didn’t need anything too extravagant so the Memories Collection was perfect for us. (I mean, I didn’t REALLY need it in front of the castle at night… Would have been awesome though!)

The Memories Collection included:

  • The ceremony venue
  • An on-site ceremony coordinator
  • A fresh flower bouquet for the bride
  • A violinist for the ceremony
  • A three hour limousine charter to and from the ceremony
  • The services of a professional Disney photographer for up to one hour

We were able to add our own personal touches to the package such as adding a boutonniere for Kelly, having red rose petals sprinkled on the sand, and customizing the violinist’s selections. If we could dream it, they could do it!

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Pre-Vow Renewal selfie in the limo

The ceremony would take place on Luau Beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort at 9:00 AM. The limousine picked us up at the Kidani Village lobby at 8:00 AM. We went straight to the Polynesian where our wedding coordinator greeted us at the door. We met with our officiant and had a few minutes to get ready for the ceremony. (And by “get ready” I mean grab the tissues.)

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We had a white limousine at our wedding as well so this made it extra magical. 

The officiant took Kelly out to the beach area while the photographer and wedding coordinator stayed back with me. At promptly 9:00 AM the violinist started playing “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” as Kelly made his way out onto the beach. Then (and here is where you can cue my tears) the violinist played “When You Wish Upon a Star” as I joined Kelly on the beach.

Just picture it. On the beach with my love, with the Magic Kingdom right there, Cinderella Castle in the background, monorails looping by in the distance and random strangers stopping to watch the ceremony. Yep, there were tears, lots of happy tears! The violinist concluded with the score from “Beauty and the Beast.” It was beautiful.

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Following the ceremony we spent the remainder of our hour with the photographer. He took a wide variety of pictures all over the Polynesian property. Sweet pictures, funny pictures, you name it! We have a hard cover book with 20 pictures that we selected from the day. Our package also included 20 5 X 7 prints which were mailed to us from Disney’s Fine Arts Photography.

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I LOVE the little hidden mickeys that were included in our floral arrangements. Disney touches are the BEST! 

The limousine then took us back to Kidani Village. Everything about the morning went perfectly! Our wedding coordinator made sure that everything was in place and that all our needs were met. It was a beautiful morning, and I’m so thankful to have had this experience with my husband in our favorite place.

About a week after the ceremony we received an unexpected package in the mail! Thank you, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings for the thoughtful gift! It was a sweet surprise!

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Another magical Disney vacation came to a close. All of our Disney trips are special, but I have a feeling that THIS one will be hard to beat! Maybe one (or all three!) of our children will want a Disney wedding!!! A mom can dream, right?!?

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“Be Our Guest!” A Look Back at the Agent Education Program (Part 2)

Let’s pick up where we left off, shall we?!?

Disney training and general Disney awesomeness on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Thursday, February 9th 

We boarded an early bus to Disney’s Boardwalk Inn conference center to get the day started. Another breakfast buffet? A girl could really get used to this! Wait, where are those cheddar grits? Oh well, they have vegetable quiche so I’m good!

On to the meetings:

  • Ticket packages? Check!
  • Theme park and resort updates? Check!
  • Who’s ready to eat again? Woohoo!

Anyone notice a theme here? Whether you travel to Walt Disney World for business or pleasure you will find plenty of good stuff to eat! And for lunch today dined at Whispering Canyon Cafe located at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort. Whispering Canyon is anything BUT! See the definition –

“For a rowdy, rootin’ tootin’ good time, round up the whole family for hearty western fare and antics aplenty.”

I would have to agree that the western fare and antics were aplenty! Take a look at lunch!

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This is the All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Skillet: Slow-smoked pork ribs, barbecued pulled pork, roasted glazed chicken, and Western-style sausage served with mashed Yukon potatoes, corn on the cob, and cowboy-style baked beans.
 No rootin’ tootin’ cowboy should drink tea or coke with this feast. At Whispering Canyon Cafe you simply MUST try a milkshake with your meal!
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All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Milkshake: Choose from chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or caramel. 

I won’t spoil all the fun for those of you who have not yet dined at Whispering Canyon. Just be prepared to let loose and have a great time with the servers. And don’t forget to ask for ketchup!

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After lunch we spent some time at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort. I love everything about this resort. In fact, our Disney Vacation Club “Home” is at the Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. We toured the Concierge Lounge, and we were also able to sneak a peek at the construction on the new cabins! Can’t wait to see the finished product!

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New construction of the cabins being added at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Notice the Magic Kingdom in the background? We love taking the boat to the Magic Kingdom. So convenient! 

Next we headed over to The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Wow. This place is HUGE! Like, loop after loop after loop of cabins and campsites! The Cabins were so cute, though! They have been recently refurbished and sleep up to six adults. Great deal! I would only recommend staying here if you have your own vehicle. The bus transportation looks like it could take a while.

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Look how adorable! Nestled far away from the rest of the World. 
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The only way you will find me camping – “Glamping!”

I gotta admit, by this point in the trip I was feeling the exhaustion. From the early flight on Tuesday morning, to the late night at the Magic Kingdom on Wednesday, I was seriously exhausted by Thursday afternoon. The last thing I wanted to do was walk around Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside. However, when I stepped off the bus and I saw how beautiful the property is I changed my mind. It was gorgeous! And the weather was gorgeous too! Lots of Southern charm going on around here, and I absolutely loved it.

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Magnolia Bend
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Alligator Bayou

I had plans to go to Hollywood Studios this evening, but I decided it was best to stay in and rest. I took a “nap” from about 5 PM to 8 PM, woke up long enough to go down to the quick service restaurant to grab a hamburger and went back to the room to eat. I remind clients all the time to slow down and enjoy their trip! There’s no need to wear yourself out! I needed the sleep and, as much as I wanted to ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, I knew it was better in the long run to stay in the room, eat some Zebra Domes in bed, and call it an early night!

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Tomorrow will be another full day. Early (and I mean EARLY) morning breakfast at Cape May Cafe followed by a tour of the Disney Dream. We will pick up there next time. See ya real soon!

“Be Our Guest!” A Look Back at the Agent Education Program (Part 1)

Talk about a fun week on the “job!”

Recently I was invited along with approximately 40 other travel agents to attend an Agent Education Program at Walt Disney World from February 7 – 11, 2017. Although I feel as if I am exceptionally knowledgeable of Disney and the products and services they provide I have only been in the “travel industry” for two months now. I was so excited to learn from the Disney professionals and experience some new offerings first hand.

Tuesday, February 7th 

After an early flight out of New Orleans I landed in Orlando around 10:30 AM. I had preregistered with Disney’s Magical Express in order to take advantage of the complimentary motorcoach transportation and luggage delivery service between the Orlando International Airport and my Walt Disney World Resort. It’s such an easy process, and I was quickly on my way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

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Hurry Mickey! Take me Home!

Check-in at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge went smoothly and thankfully my room was ready early! Disney magic right there! This was my first stay in Jambo House. Last year I stayed in a Savanna View one bedroom villa in Kidani Village so I was kinda nervous as to what a “standard view” room would be. I was pleasantly surprised! It was a great room and the view, although partially blocked by a tree, overlooked the pool area.

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge lobby. Gorgeous and full of original cultural art pieces.
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Beautifully appointed room. Queen bed (super comfy) and bunk beds. Other rooms in this category could offer two queen beds OR a king bed with a daybed.
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Standard View. Other views in this category could offer views of a rooftop or the parking lot.

I had originally planned to take a short nap BUT I was at WALT DISNEY WORLD and the excitement took over! I decided instead to take a stroll around the resort, unpack my suitcase, and head on over to EPCOT!

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This little guy came over to say “Welcome Home!”
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I was the only guest on the bus. Ask me again why I love to visit Walt Disney World in February?!?!

The weather was perfect and guess what?!?! No lines at bag-check! Score! There was also a separate line at the entrance for Annual Passholders, which I found to be a nice touch. However, it wasn’t necessary as the crowds were so low.

I arrived at EPCOT around 3:00 PM and had approximately two hours until my first meeting…. Hmmmmm, what to do?!?!? I think I can find something to do…. Spaceship Earth, The Seas with Nemo and Friends, and Soarin’. Still had an hour to spare…. What else can I do…. Orange Slush at Les Vins des Chefs de France. Score again!

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Orange Slush – Grand Marnier, Rum and Grey Goose Orange and Orange Juice. Yum, yum, yum!

The park was so empty (well, as empty as Disney gets, anyway) and I STILL had 30 minutes to spare so I walked around World Showcase and just enjoyed some Disney people-watching. I ran into several others who looked like they were waiting on our group to meet up so I introduced myself and chatted for a bit.

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After getting acquainted with our trainers and fellow travel agents dinner was served in a private dining room in the American Adventure Pavilion upstairs above the theater. The second story windows overlooked the World Showcase Lagoon and directly across the water was Spaceship Earth. Gorgeous view!

We then made our way to the Italy Isola West Plaza for a private Illuminations: Reflections of Earth Dessert Party. I have twice previously attended a Wishes! Dessert Party in the Magic Kingdom. It’s so nice to have a private spot to watch the fireworks, and the delicious desserts are a treat as well! (There’s no picture of the desserts because, well, I was too busy eating them.)

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Can’t beat this view of Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.

EPCOT had Extra Magic Hours tonight, but I was simply too tired to stay. We walked backstage and found a private motorcoach waiting to take us back to our resort. I’m sure I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. Long but fun day!

Wednesday, February 8th 

More food? I am still full from last night, but we had a full breakfast buffet waiting on us at the Boardwalk Inn conference center. (Can I just say that these were the BEST cheddar grits that I have ever eaten!?! You may now carry on.) After several hours of training we toured the Boardwalk Inn and Villas. I have not spent much time on the Boardwalk so I was excited to explore a bit.

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Fun way to explore the Boardwalk!

Our full day continued with lunch at the Landscape of Flavors, which is the quick service restaurant option located at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. We also spent time touring each themed area and inspected the standard rooms as well as the Family Suites. I now know firsthand why this is such a popular Value Resort! I highly recommend it for families!

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Lobby of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. There is a separate are for kids to play and watch TV while a parents check-in. Love these Disney touches! 
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This zero-entry pool is the largest in all of Walt Disney World! You can even listen to your favorite Disney songs via underwater speakers – a first for a Disney Resort hotel!

The resort tours continued at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows. We practiced our hula dancing in the lobby of the Great Ceremonial House and ate Dole Whips. Whatg a memorable Disney experience. We concluded our day’s training with a visit to both the Beach and Yacht Clubs.

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Hula dancing with Auntie Kau’i and friends. Only at Walt Disney World can you get these types of magical experiences!

I made it to the Magic Kingdom just in time for Once Upon a Time and Wishes! As a single traveler it was super easy to just weave in and out of the crowds on Main Street. I decided to head to Frontierland and try out the new menu at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe. The beef nachos (with some help from the “fixens bar”) were so good!

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At this point it was around 8:30 PM and the Magic Kingdom had Extra Magic Hours until 10:00 PM.  Now, understand this, when I say an attraction is a “walk on” you gotta know what that means. I literally just WALKED ON these attractions with absolutely no wait time except the time it took to walk through the queue: Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, and it’s a small world. All of that within an hour and a half!

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Anyone up for some Disney magic?!? I’ll help you plan and book your next trip! 

Two days down, three more to go! I’ll pick up with Part Two soon! Thanks for reading!

“There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow…”

On January 15, 1975, Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland witnessed the opening of two new attractions: Space Mountain and Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress. Now don’t get me wrong, I love Space Mountain, but if I had to pick between these two attractions I would always choose the Carousel of Progress. It’s a true Disney Classic. In fact, it is one of the only attractions in all of Walt Disney World to have been touched by Walt himself.

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So why do I have such strong feelings for this attraction?

1.  This attraction has Walt Disney written all over it! One reason I love this attraction so much is because I know Walt envisioned, designed and created it. Carousel of Progress, originally called Progressland, debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. It also was included in the new Tomorrowland at Disneyland in California before it eventually closed and moved to Florida. Walt loved the idea of progress and in making the future a better place for all.

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2. It’s actually a great history lesson! The show follows your typical American family through four generations over the past 100 years. From the gas lamps in the pre-electric era, to the present day voice activated appliances, the show explains how inventions and technological advances add more comfort and convenience to our lives. Sure, some of the jokes are corny, but I still laugh, because, well, Disney.

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3. There’s rarely ever (almost NEVER) a wait! Just walk right up and within approximately five minutes or less the door will open. It’s also important to note that it is AIR CONDITIONED! So if visiting in the summer (well, year round, we are talking about Florida here) the Carousel of Progress is a great place to get out of the heat and enjoy a few minutes of rest. It is also rather dark so it’s the perfect spot for a nap!

4. There’s a really catchy theme song. Can we all just sing it together now, please? Written by Disney legendary songwriters, the Sherman Brothers, they believe that Walt claimed “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” as his personal theme song. Walt was always optimistic and excited about where the future was taking us. 470908_1

So next time you are in Tomorrowland, don’t just rush past the Carousel of Progress on your way to ride Space Mountain. Stop by, visit with John, Rover, Patty, Uncle Orville, and the whole family. They would be happy to tell you all about the progress that we have made over the years. You might just learn a thing or two, and chances are, you will leave there singing. “Just a dream away!”

See you in the Future!

Katie

 

Wait, What? You go to Walt Disney World WITHOUT Your Kids?!?!

I can hear y’all already…  “How can you go to Walt Disney World and not take your children?” And… “Walt Disney World is only for kids. What fun is there for adults?” My husband and I have actually taken three trips to the World, just us, and each trip has been absolutely AMAZING! Maybe I can begin to explain it.

Let me just start off by saying how much I love my kids. They are awesome, and we totally LOVE taking them to Walt Disney World. They have all visited Walt Disney World multiple times throughout their young lives, even making a trip to Walt’s original dream, Disneyland in California. They have certainly NOT lived a Disney-deprived childhood. But as much as we love them, we need “couple time” together as well. Where better to celebrate together than at Walt Disney World!

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Our first “kid-free” adventure was in January 2012 when we celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary. We spent seven nights at Port Orleans – French Quarter. On our first night we arrived at the Magic Kingdom just as Wishes began. We watched it from the train station  balcony. Of course, I cried those Disney happy tears, and it was the beginning of a wonderful week!

Somehow we had “magically” scored a free Disney Deluxe Dining Package. What does that mean? It means free food, and LOTS of it. Like, I gained seven pounds worth of free food that week. (Yeah, that part was not so magical!) But we enjoyed lobster at Narcoossee’s, filet mignon at The Hollywood Brown Derby, sushi at California Grill, and creme brulee at le Cellier. You get the picture. We ate well.

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We rode our favorite attractions. We met our favorite characters. We went where we wanted, when we wanted.  We could zip all around the parks very quickly. We did NOT have to take potty breaks every 30 minutes. BUT, yes we took naps in the afternoon. We know how to work those naps into the touring plan. Naps are a MUST, even for the big kids!

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Our catchphrase of the week was “Those aren’t OUR kids!” Kids crying… “Those aren’t OUR kids!” Kids screaming about getting in the stroller… “Those aren’t OUR kids!” Kids throwing food in the restaurant… “Those aren’t OUR kids!” It was nice to just relax, not stress about losing a kid in the crowd, and enjoy being together.

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After several other family vacations to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland my husband and I took another adult-only trip in February 2016. We spent one night in Jambo House and four nights in a one bedroom villa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village. We enjoyed a Savanna View room, and watching the animals off our balcony was simply amazing. While on this trip I participated in the Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Glass Slipper Challenge. I ran the races early in the mornings so we still had the whole day and night to play in the parks and enjoy our trip together. Once again, we ate at some of the best restaurants on property.

Also, as a way to celebrate 20 years together, we renewed our vows on Luau Beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.  Kelly and I planned the vow renewal ceremony with the help of a Disney Fairytale Wedding coordinator. We told them what we wanted and they arranged everything for us! A limo picked us up at our resort and transported us to the Polynesian. There we met our wedding coordinator and the officiant. The flowers, the violinist, the view, the special meaning of ceremony…. it was nothing short of Disney Magic!

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We also took a spur-of-the-moment trip together in November 2016. Some friends were getting married at Disney’s Shades of Green during the week of Thanksgiving. We were able to sneak away from the kids for a few days. We left after work one afternoon and drove straight through to Orlando, a twelve hour trip. We spent two nights on property, one night at Disney’s Pop Century and one night at Disney’s All-Star Music, and then three nights off property about 10 miles away.

So what does a typical Disney Day look like for the two of us? It looks just like a day with the kids!

 

We ride our favorite attractions…

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We meet our favorite characters… 

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We Drink Around the World Showcase…

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We eat at our favorite restaurants… 

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We kiss in front of the castle…

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We have FUN!!!!

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It never fails. Although we are have a fabulous time without them, we spend most of our time at Walt Disney World talking about what we can do WITH the kids on their next trip! All five of us are currently looking forward to our trip in May 2017. We will be staying in a Lake View studio for eight nights at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Villas. We can’t wait to take the kids back to our favorite place WITH us!

Planning a trip with or without the kids!?!? I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime! I’d love to hear from you!

Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust,

Katie (and Kelly!)

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Traveling to the “Park Which Must Not Be Named?”

So I’m a Disney girl through and through. Spend just five minutes with me and you’ll most likely hear me quote a Disney movie, sing a Disney song, or mention a favorite Disney Parks memory. Seriously, Walt Disney’s motto is even tattooed on my foot!  (And for those of you who don’t know,  it’s “Dream, Believe, Dare, Do.”)

Disney Parks are my Happy Place! But I know there is that other “Park Which Must Not Be Named” just down the road from Walt Disney World. Honestly, up to this point, I’ve never really even had a desire to visit Universal Orlando Resort. Okay, there. I said it. Universal Orlando Resort. (Forgive me, Walt.)

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However, I understand that all families are different. Not all families vacation like mine, and actually, as my family grows up, the way WE vacation continues to evolve as well. Therefore, as a part of my recent training as an independent travel agent it is necessary that I learn as much as I can about as many different vacation destinations as possible. First on that list was Universal Orlando Resort!

I know many families like to add a few days at Universal Orlando in conjunction with their Walt Disney World vacation. I never EVER would have thought I would say this, but I’m now looking at how MY family can add a day or two at Universal while in Orlando this May.

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The Universal Orlando Resort consists of Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s CityWalk, and opening this summer, Universal’s Volcano Bay. Rides, attractions, shows, entertainment and restaurants galore!

Being the Harry Potter nerd that I am, I am most interested in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The theme and attention detail look incredible! Walk through Diagon Alley or take a ride on the Hogwarts Express? Yes, please! I can’t wait to experience it with the kids.

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When the kids were younger the LAST thing I wanted to do on a vacation was go to a water park. That did not sound relaxing at all. The thought of all those people made me nervous! But now that I know my children are excellent swimmers and are pretty responsible I can begin to consider the idea of a water park with them. This makes me excited to visit Universal’s Volcano Bay. This new themed water park boasts 18 different attractions for all ages and levels of thrill seekers. With new technology (think of it like a Disney Magic Band) you can join a virtual queue so there is no need to stand in line! That’s awesome, right!?! We might have to try it out one day this summer!

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Of course, I still have TONS more to learn about Universal Orlando Resort, but for now I have completed the Universal and U training program, making me a Universal Orlando Resort Specialist. So, if you are looking to travel to Orlando this summer, or anytime in future, I’d love to see if a visit to Universal Orlando Resort is a great fit for YOUR family as well!

Have YOU ever visited Universal Orlando Resort? I’d love to hear about it!

My Surprise Christmas Trip to Walt Disney World

One of my favorite gifts I received this Christmas was a surprise trip to Walt Disney World. No, it wasn’t an actual trip down Main Street USA, but it was a wonderful trip down Memory Lane.

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Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom, 1985

A few weeks ago I asked my Mom to see if she could find any old pictures from my childhood trip to Walt Disney World. She said she would try, and at that point I forgot all about it. So imagine my surprise when I reached inside my Christmas stocking and found an envelope full of these old pictures! It was such a sweet and thoughtful gift, and the whole family enjoyed looking at the pictures. (And it’s CRAZY how much my daughter looks like me… Like scary crazy!)

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Me and my brother Jay

 

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Gosh, this looks so much like Lainey Kate! Even got the hand on the hip going on here! 

To the best of our memory we visited the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT during the summer of 1985 when I was seven years old. I wish that I remembered more about that trip. We stayed right off property, and I can remember just crashing into that hotel bed each night, exhausted from a full day of fun. I remember that Cinderella Castle seemed HUGE, and I really thought that Cinderella lived there. I remember the parade in the Magic Kingdom and meeting the Dream Finder and Figment in EPCOT.

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With my Mom and brother. Yep, it looks a little different but I know exactly where this little walkway is. 

 

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Friar Tuck has me in a nice little choke hold.

 

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Check out how the shape of Mickey’s ears have evolved over the years. 

 

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Remember this view from Dumbo the Flying Elephant?

 

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Waiting for the parade. And honestly, my Dad hasn’t aged a bit in the past 30 years. 

 

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Ummmm, seriously, looks just like Lainey Kate! 

Although my true Disney obsession didn’t begin until I first took my own son to Walt Disney World in 2009, I can still remember the great times and wonderful memories that were made with my family way back then.

Do YOU remember your first trip to Walt Disney World? I’d love to hear about it! Or, if you have not yet visited Walt Disney World I’d love to help you plan the perfect trip!

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with wonderful memories with the special people in your life!

Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust,

Katie

What in the Walt Disney World is a “Kindermoon” and Why Should We Take One?

We’ve all heard of honeymoons and babymoons. But now Walt Disney World would like to introduce you to the “Kindermoon”—a family getaway to Walt Disney World Resort during that precious time right before your little one becomes a “big kid” and goes off to kindergarten.

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Back in 2009 we took our four year old son, Thomas, on a Kindermoon, although back then we just called it a vacation. (Boring, huh?!?) We were able to spend PRECIOUS time with him, all by his lonesome. He had us all to himself, no brother or sister to share us with. It was during this time that he grew as a young boy, no longer the baby of the family. That time together was PRICELESS!

“We believed in our idea – a family park where parents and children could have fun- together.” Walt Disney

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And just today, Walt Disney World released a new package just for these extra special vacations! With this offer, you can enjoy a 3-night stay in a standard room at a Disney’s All-Star Resort and 2-day Magic Your Way base tickets for as low as $987. (Price based on 2 adults and 1 child ages 3-9.) Sample package price is valid for a family of 3 for stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from February 26 through March 9, and from April 23 through May 25, 2017.

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Plus, you will receive 2 FastPass+ vouchers with this package in addition to the standard FastPass+ selection allotment. The FastPass+ vouchers can be used at the following preschool-friendly attractions (valid park admission required):

  • 1 voucher valid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Disney Junior – Live on Stage!
  • 1 voucher valid at Magic Kingdom Park for your choice of one of the following attractions: Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor, or Mickey’s PhilharMagic

The same FastPass+ vouchers are also included in Walt Disney Travel Company packages at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel with a minimum 2-day Magic Your Way ticket for stays February 20 -June 10, 2017.

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As with the other offers you must act fast! Book by Feb. 26, 2017 for stays most Sunday-Thursday nights February 26 through March 9, and April 23 through May 25, 2017. Book by March 30, 2017 for stays most Sunday-Thursday nights April 23 through May 25, 2017. The number of packages available at this rate is limited.

Have you ever heard of a Kindermoon? Or have you taken a trip like this with your family? I would love to hear you thoughts!

Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust,

Katie

Soak Up the Fun and Sun and SAVE at Walt Disney World Resort this Summer

Walt Disney World. It can be fun! It can be magical! It can be expensive….

I get asked all the time -“How much money is it gonna cost me to take my family to Walt Disney World?” My general reply – “As little or as much as you want it to. There is a place for everyone at Walt Disney World!”

When Walt Disney dreamed up his idea for Disneyland he envisioned a place for families to enjoy spending time together. Not just an amusement park for kids to play, but a place where the whole family could enjoy being together, to relax, and to escape the realities of the world, even if just for a bit. These new discounted packages and offerings from the Walt Disney World resort can allow ALL families an opportunity to do just that!

Let’s take a quick look at some of the new discounts and promotions.

1. Soak Up the Fun and Sun with this Great Offer: Save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for stays most nights February 20-June 10, 2017. Book by February 26, 2017 for stays most nights February 20 – June 10, 2017. Book by March 30, 2017 for stays most nights April 9-June 10, 2017. Plus, you can get one more day added to your ticket when you upgrade to a Magic Your Way room and ticket package with a minimum 4-day ticket.

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2. Savor Quick-Service Meals this Summer with a 5-Night/6-Day Disney Value Resort Hotel Package: Enjoy one meal per person, per night at select Walt Disney World Resort quick-service dining locations when you buy a non-discounted 5-night/6-day room and ticket package at a select Disney Value Resort hotel for arrivals most nights May 30 – August 24, 2017. Act fast! You must book by February 12, 2017 for this promotion.

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3. Take 50% Off Required Disney Cruise Line Deposit: Set sail with this great Disney Cruise Line offer! When you book a magical voyage by February 15, 2017 you can enjoy 50% off your deposit due at the time of booking any 7-night or longer cruise departing June 17 – December 30, 2017. Whether you choose a Caribbean, Bahamian, European, or Alaskan sailing, you will discover something for every member of your crew!

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So maybe you’ve been telling yourself for ages that it’s time to plan that trip, or maybe you surprised your family with a Disney trip for Christmas, one of these new offers could be just perfect for you! Contact me today for a free quote. I’d love to hear from you!

Hey Katie! Stop Talking, and Start Doing!

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My passion for “all things Disney” began in February 2009. Although I had previously visited Walt Disney World three times it wasn’t until I saw it through the eyes of my then four year old son, Thomas, that I truly experienced the magic. Before we had even boarded the flight home we were planning our next trip. Over the years I have purchased countless travel guide books, scoured numerous websites, and listened to hundreds of trip planning podcasts. I quickly learned that I had a knack for planning vacations for my family and friends. I was good at it, and it made me HAPPY!

About a year ago I began to wonder exactly what I had to do to become one of those Disney travel agent people… And that’s about as far as I got. I wondered. And along the way I planned more trips, visited more parks, gained more knowledge, and just wondered some more. Eventually I began to talk about it. I’d ask friends how they got started in the business. I’d say that I would love to learn more. I’d claim that I was going to start a blog… Ha, yeah right…

And then one day all the pixie dust aligned. One text led to one phone call.  And that phone call was basically Walt Disney himself telling me to quit talking about it and begin doing it. So, okay Walt! Here I am!

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” Walt Disney 

Have you ever experienced a “stop talking, start doing” moment? I’d love to hear about it!

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