Wednesday, May 30, 2012

June has a theme!

I'm going to try something new for the month of June.  All the Fun Fact Friday's will be themed.  The theme: Epcot.  As the second oldest Walt Disney World park, it will celebrate it's 30th birthday this fall, so it seems a good time to learn a little more about it.

Epcot is the park I usually take for granted.  It has a lot of things I enjoy, but it's something I usually just put on my schedule.  When I stop to think about all of the great things that Epcot actually has, it makes me wonder why I don't spend more time there.  Each trip, we find something new or different to explore.  This last time it was the World Showcase, but in passing through innoventions, I think I will spend some extra time there on our next trip.  There are tons of things to do for every age group, so don't just think of the big name attractions or restaurants and ignore the rest.  Take some time on your next trip to really explore and enjoy Epcot.

Monday, May 28, 2012

Driving in my car..

This is my brother, pretending to drive the cut out car found in Chester and Hester's Dinorama. He asked Ruby if she wanted to go for a ride.

She thought it was really funny that her Uncle Jay was driving a fake car. I had never seen this before and thought it was a great photo op. Good thing my brother was in a posing mood!

Friday, May 25, 2012

Since 1971, the total miles logged by Walt Disney World monorail trains would be equal to more than 30 round trips to the moon. One dozen new cars were put into service along the 14-mile beamway in 1990 as the original fleet received a well-deserved retirement.

The Monorail is one of my favorite things at Disney. It may be nostalgia, but when I'm on the monorail, nothing is wrong in the world. My phone ringtone is the express monorail announcement. There's probably nothing magical about the trains by themselves. However, I don't think any trip to Disney is complete without a ride on these wonderful trains.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Disney, Autism, GAC.....Oh my!

My friend Elizabeth Kaplar (and fellow disney fanatic) wrote this terrific article for me, to help you!  She's awesome!

*******
 Traveling anywhere with a special needs child, especially Disney, and especially with 3 special needs children (all on the spectrum) can seem nearly impossible.....

But Disney has become our "home" away from home. Being the parent of three special needs children, for me, Disney has almost become my lifeline. It's a place where we get to go and....Just....Be. We get to forget about schools and IEPS, therapies, extra-curricular activities, doctors, work.....Just the craziness that life tends to throw our way on a day to day basis.

Back in 2004, we took our "once in a lifetime" trip. I was the only one, at that point, who had ever been to WDW. But, once we finished that trip in 2004, we, as a family, were hooked! We've returned every 12-18 months since then. And in January 2012 we took another one of those "once in a lifetime" trips: A 7 night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Cruise Line. That trip was nothing short of amazing! Oh......And we've rebooked another cruise since. We'll be sailing DCL for our second time in March 2013.

As amazing as these trips are, they don't come without some extra help and pixie dust. The extra help comes in the form of a GAC (Guest Assistance Card). Due to my boys' disability, it makes it difficult for them in certain situations, such as standing in large, loud crowds. You are probably thinking....Well, then WHAT on earth are you thinking when planning a WDW trip? It's full of large AND loud crowds of people. This is where the GAC comes in to play. It allows the special needs child, and up to 5 family members to use an alternate entrance to the rides. This minimizes standing in the lines with 100's of people that can cause them to become so over stimulated, and then cause a meltdown. One of my boys cannot handle going in the room with the "moving walls" before boarding our doom-buggy at Haunted Mansion, however, he LOVES the ride itself. With the aide of the GAC, we are able to bypass the room, and walk through some "secret walls", as my boys call them. It doesn't necessarily get us on the ride faster, but it does help make a smoother transition for us to board and enjoy the ride as others do. A GAC can also allow you to use a stroller as a wheelchair. So if your child is not able to stand in line, or in our case, the stroller can help our child avoid some of the extra sensory overload (he can sit in the stroller, and cover his head with a small blanket) to help 'escape' his overwhelming surroundings, and allow him to regroup. Basically, any extra assistance that you feel would benefit your child, and make the day more enjoyable, not only for your child, but those around him/her.....Make sure to mention to the Cast Member assisting you in getting the proper GAC.

People often think that, in order to get a GAC, one must get a note from their doctor, or bring a copy of their child's IEP to WDW. This is just not the case. On your day of arrival, at your first park.....Go to Guest Services. Bring your child with you (the person requiring the GAC must be present). Explain to the Cast Member your child's needs, how many people are in your party, and how long your visit to the World is. You only have to do this once during your stay. The GAC will be dated for your specific visit, and will be good in all 4 parks.

Now, for the pixie dust.....I'm not sure how true this is, but I've been told that Disney Cast Members have been trained to identify autism. Like I said, I'm not 100% sure this is true, but I wouldn't be surprised. The CM's have always been wonderful with my boys. I truly believe they are able to distinguish autism. We've had many CM's approach us throughout the years, and just happen to sprinkle a bit of pixie dust our way. It could be something simple, from just talking to our family and making my kids feel special, to them receiving some kind of special token....Just because. There was this one specific CM who stopped to talk to my husband and middle child (age 10 at the time). She was carrying on a conversation with them as they were waiting to board Space Mountain. Nothing big, just "How has your day been? Are you enjoying the park? Have you seen Mickey yet today?" Then as they were getting off the Space Mountain, the same CM approached them again to see how Jeremy, our son, enjoyed his ride. He said he liked it. The CM then asked my husband if she could get her "New Space Ranger friend a slushie from a nearby kiosk. My husband told her that was fine. They ordered the slushie, and while waiting for the slushie to be made, the CM asked my husband if she could ask a personal question. My husband told her "Sure". She then asked "Does Jeremy have autism?" He said yes. At that point the drink came up. She handed the drink to my husband to give to Jeremy. And as she did, she said "I understand how challenging living with autism can be, I hope this slushie makes his day at the Magic Kingdom just a little more special. Have a magical day"....And then she was off......

This is a very common theme while at Disney for our family. We don't expect this extra pixie dust....But when it comes our way, it just makes it all the more special for our entire family.

While cruising, we found the same level of care....Actually a bit higher, if you can imagine that! On our fist day on the ship, we went to the Kids' Clubs so we could meet the staff and introduce them to our boys, and to see if the Clubs were even an option for them. The CM we spoke to had two questions for us (one being that the boys had to toilet independently, which they do)...After getting that out of the way, the CM asked "What can we do to make this the most memorable vacation ever for you and your family?" They were amazing with our boys! And even though we cruised almost 5 months ago, our boys still talk about it as if we just got off the ship yesterday.

When all is said and done, I think the biggest thing I would say to other special needs family is: Don't think a vacation to Disney (World, Land, or Cruise) is impossible. We once thought it was too, and wow would we be missing out! And one other thing.....Don't be afraid to ask for a GAC if you have a child with special needs.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Traveling with Autism.

My friend Elizabeth is an extraordinary person.  She has adopted 4 children, 3 of them on the autism spectrum.  She is a Disney fanatic, and her family regularly travels to Disney.  She was kind enough to write an article for me about how her family utilizes the Guest Assistance Card, and how her children are all treated with special care when they travel to Disney.  Tomorrow, I'm going to feature that article, in hopes that it helps other families make the most of their Disney experiences. 

Stay tuned... see you tomorrow!

Monday, May 21, 2012

Jaylene turned 16 on Saturday.  She's a pretty cool girl...in her honor, i'm sharing a terrific picture of her and Scott.  During our February 2011 trip there was a blizzard back home in Chicago. Closing schools and stopping traffic for hours. Places were closed 2-3 days, there were power outages, and it was, I imagine, pretty cold. We came across this snowman at Hollywood studios and thought we should get a picture and send it back to all our friends snowed in at home. They didn't think it was as funny as we did, but that's okay. Do you have any stories about weather at home or at Disney during your vacation?

Friday, May 18, 2012

According to long-time Lost and Found staffers, the most unusual items turned in have been a glass eye, a prosthetic leg and a potty trainer. Each, incidentally, was claimed (but not by the same person).

I'm a little obsessive about my stuff. I check and double check for my camera probably three times an hour. I remember getting frustrated with my brother when he forgot his wallet in the room--WITH HIS PARK TICKET IN IT! I couldn't imagine losing a prosthetic leg during a day in the park. My brother on the other hand would probably be checking lost and found by noon. What is the most unusual thing you've ever lost on vacation?

Monday, May 14, 2012

Happy Mothers Day!

Here's my mom, taking a break while shopping at Downtown Disney. My mom is awesome, and one of the first people to help me see that Disney really did hold magic for families. She spent hours planning our vacations when I was growing up, focusing on the things that each of us would enjoy so that all of us had a special experience. She worked full time, took care of us, and made the whole thing look easy. She's basically one of the coolest people I know, and so this magical monday is just for her!

Friday, May 11, 2012

There are enough Disney character T-shirts sold to put Mickey Mouse’s smiling face on the chest of every resident of Montana.

Need a few ideas to make your t-shirt into a timeless treasure? Purchase a t-shirt with the year of your stay on it and grab a permanent marker. Use the t-shirt all week and gather up character autographs. Once the shirt is outgrown, you can turn it into a pillow case or put it in a frame. Right now, my favorite Disney shirt is a white 2011 zip up sweatshirt. Do you have a favorite disney shirt?

See the May 2 post for current offers--remember free dining for September must be booked by May 18th!  Happy friday!

Monday, May 7, 2012

First Haircut!

Harmony Barber shop specializes in making even haircuts magical. Little ones getting their first haircut receive a certificate and mouse ears. They'll even wrap up that lock of hair to save for the baby book. With little extras like bubbles and stickers, a hair cut becomes a favorite activity. Pixie dust and colored gels are also a feature of this tucked away treasure.

Harmony isn't just for kids though. Adults are also welcome to stop in for a trim in this little corner of main street magic. Prices for all cuts from the smallest to the tallest range from $14-$22

Call 407-WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529) for a reservation up to 180 days in advance. Harmony Barber Shop reservations requires payment or a credit card guarantee, and there is a one-day $10 cancellation policy. No same-day reservations can be made but walk-up appointments, if available, are accepted.

A note about tipping: Please be aware that tips are accepted at Harmony Barber Shop, but can not currently be processed with Disney’s credit and charge system. Guests should carry some cash if they want to offer a gratuity.

Friday, May 4, 2012

When laid end to end, there are enough of the famous “Mouse Ear” hats sold each year to stretch 175 miles or cover the head of every man, woman and child in Orange County, Florida

Could you imagine driving down 175 miles of Mouse Ear road? Thats 3 straight hours of mickey hats.

Not a traditional Mickey Ear fan? No problem. Mickey ears come in a variety of colors and patterns. You can get specialty ears to celebrate your special event or holiday experience. My favorite ears are the ones my daughter got during her first haircut at the Harmony Barber shop on Main Street. You can see my favorite ears and learn more about Harmony's hair cuts on Magical Monday! Do you have favorite ears?

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

News and Notes May 2, 2012

April Showers bring MAY...discounts! In today's newsletter, I'm going to make you aware of all the upcoming discounts being offered at Disney through September 29th, and I've also included information for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!

If you haven't booked a trip yet, feel free to email me or give me a call at 815-214-9832.  Oh hey--or there is a link to the right that you can submit a request.  :)  I'm easy to reach!
I do all the work, so you can relax and enjoy your family and make magical memories. Services are free, and I can do as much or little as you need to make your experience truly one of a kind. Reservations, dining and customized touring plans are just a little of what I can do. I also monitor trips to make sure you get the best value possible. If you've already booked (through Disney) and want to transfer your reservation, let me know.

So,lets get started! First--the discounts!
Free dining is offered Aug. 25-Sept 29 but must be booked by May 18th!

Summer discounts: 15-30% off rooms June 15-Aug 15, booked by June 14.

Late Summer also offers discounts: 10-30% off rooms Aug. 15-Sept 29 (cannot be combined with free dining offers)

Next: Let's talk about the parties!
If you would like to purchase tickets for these events--shoot me an email or give me a call!

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!
2012 Dates: 7:00 p.m. - Midnight

September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 & 30
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31
November 2

Halloween at the Magic Kingdom is one of the most unique parties hosted by Disney. Come out for an evening of fun and see all your favorite Characters dressed up in their costumes. Watch for Cast Members from the Haunted Mansion. They are roaming the park, looking for new tenants perhaps...? Eek!

Returning this year is a spectacular Halloween-themed fireworks display -- “Happy HalloWishes” -- featuring spooky music from family-friendly Disney attractions and movies including Haunted Mansion and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” as well as the voices of memorable Disney characters such as Madame Leota, Ursula, Jafar, Maleficent and Oogie Boogie.
The one and only Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Parade will make it's way down Main Street USA, past all those ghostly shadows flying along the buildings. (Watch for the Headless Horseman.) The parade is shown twice. Unique floats include a Villains Float, Haunted Mansion Float, and Hades Float. The fog is thick, so watch your step. The decor of the evening is hay bales, cornstalks, balloons, and jack o lanterns... everywhere! Upon arriving guests receive a Trick-or-Treat bag with a few goodies, and can go to designated locations throughout the Magic Kingdom for even more treats.

Tickets: September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28


Advance Purchase: $55.95 for adults 10 and older, $50.94 for ages 3-9

Day of Event: $62.95 for adults, $57.95 ages 3-9

October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
November 2
(No discounts are available for Friday nights, October 5,12,26, 31)
Advance Purchase: $58.95 for adults 10 and older, $53.95 for ages 3-9

Day of Event: $64.95 for adults, $59.95 ages 3-9

Military Dates:
Sept.11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
$37.77/$36.77 plus tax
Up to 5 additional tickets for family and friends. Id requirements same as Mil Promotion tickets.

October 31$69.95for adults 10 and older, $64.95 for ages 3-9


This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Halloween Night always sells out in advance, so get your tickets early. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.

Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
Boo! What? Where? & When?

Trick-or-Treating Goodies for your ghouls all evenings. Consult park map for locations. 7PM-12AM
Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade    8:15 & 10:30 PM
Halloween Dance Parties  Stitch's Cosmic Dance Party - Tomorrowland and Get Up & Boo-gie - Fantasyland
“Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks  9:30 PM
Villain's Mix and Mingle Your favorite Disney Villains take center stage in this Halloween production - stick around, you don't know who you may meet after the show.

Transportation to resorts will continue through the end of the party.
 
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!
7 p.m. - Midnight
2012 Dates:
November 9, 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30;
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21.
Pricing Advance-- 58.95/$53.95 plus tax

Same Day --$64.95 plus tax/$59.95

Premium Date - December 21 --$67.95/$62.95 plus tax
On an ordinary day during this season, Christmas in the Magic Kingdom is very festive in every way. A towering Christmas tree decorates Town Square and the whole place is decked out in Disney fashion, with garlands, wreaths, decorations and lights everywhere.  On select evenings during the Holiday season you can purchase tickets for the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party event, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, a complimentary family photo and button, and even SNOW... Don't miss the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Parade held twice during the evening. Also see a Special Holiday Wishes Fireworks.

Tickets/Dates: Military Dates
Nov.9, 12, 15, 25,27, 29
$41.27 plus tax/$37.77 plus tax
This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Walt Disney World limits the number of tickets sold in order to keep the crowds down and many dates sell out in advance
Event tickets are valid only during specific dates and hours. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.
What? Where? & When?
Cinderella's Holiday Wish --Castle Forecourt Stage
Mickey's Once upon a Christmastime Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Holiday Wishes
9:30 PM
A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland
See Santa Next to City Hall in Town Square
Character Dance Parties Join us in Fantasyland and Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland for our Holiday Disney Character Dance parties.
Save 40% on Disney PhotoPass
Exclusively for the event. See any Disney PhotoPass Photographer for Details. Special Event Merchandise is also available in select locations throughout the park be sure to check your map for exact locations.