Disney Goddess

Pursuing this Fairy Tale Life Against the Odds

2013-04-16T16:19:00.001-07:00

F. Scott Fitzgerald said, "Show me a hero, and I will write you a tragedy." It's true, you know. Those with the capability of understanding heroism often have learned through grueling lessons of their own. Take Hercules, for example. He earned his God status by learning to not be selfish and truly caring about the well being of others. Mulan discovered that the "Flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all."

©Disney

Challenges grow the human spirit.

Today is one of those reflective days. I've spent a lot of time in thought. Yesterday, our world was brutally attacked. Today, is the anniversary of the Virginia Tech Massacre that happened steps from my front door. I'm finding that it is so easy to get sucked into the whirlwind of "Why?" "How can we ever feel safe again?" And the worst thought yet, "I have no faith in humanity."

These questions come almost as naturally as breathing after our world gets rocked. If tragedy can occur just by running a marathon, or going to school, then how can we go on?

I'll tell you just how we go on.

In this life, there are the knowns and the unknowns. We don't know when tragedy may strike. We don't know what causes some people to wreak havoc on humanity. We don't know the answers to the "Ifs, hows and whys." Focusing on these is pointless and unnecessarily painful.

All we should do...all we can do is focus on the Known. We know that in times like these, there are so many more people who's instinct is to help rather than hurt. Those who fly to the scene, offering their skills, their strength, their hearts, their homes and even their own blood. We know there are those who love us. We know there are those who will protect us with all their power. In times such as these, I believe there is much more evidence in why we should have faith in humanity than the contrary.

Giving into worry of the unknowns only allows those things to steal you away sooner. It allows them to win before the battle even starts. Adversity can be damaging if you allow it to consume you. The good news is, you can choose to use it to learn and grow. Nobody said it would be easy. Tears happen. Heartache comes. Dwelling on the possibility is the only transgression. So hug your family and friends. Don't get hung up on petty disagreements. Laugh wildly, pray, share Disney magic, be grateful, be silly, forgive easily, celebrate, trust and offer grace.

Love.

Those who rise in times of trial are the ambassadors of fairy tale endings.

©Disney

XO, Ami

When "OH GOODNESS" Just Won't Cut It!

2013-04-08T08:16:00.001-07:00

©Disney

The most magical place on earth? Not all the time, for all people, I'm afraid. It boggles my mind, yet I see it often in Disney Parks. It would seem that a few get caught up in crowds and lines and misbehaving kiddos. Sometimes everyone in the party is overly tired, poisoned by their aching feet or have an excruciating emptiness in their pocketbook. No matter the reason, it causes some to be blind to the magic surrounding them. I have no idea if it's an innate characteristic or a learned one, but either way, it's a crying shame. I have a theory though, I don't think these people know about Fastpasses.

Sometimes… those who are cursed with magic-blindness….

cuss.

I know, I know. I wonder if they sell Rose-colored Glasses in that kiosk outside Epcot? Just in case another method needs to be employed…I have divulged a plan.

Muhahaha...

Oh wait...I didn't say evil plan. I just really, really like saying "muhahaha."

To quote the long lost Jungle Cruise Skipper, "Watch your head. If you don't watch your head, watch your mouth. There are children on board."

Children, as well as people who'd rather not have their escape from reality tainted. Just saying.

So, I have compiled a nice list of expletive alternatives. It's a public service, really. We should all print it out and carry with us in case of looming distress. For that matter, print two. You can give the extra to that over-heated, sunburned guy with three rambunctious children…. who rolled into the park just after extra magic hours ended.

For starters, pick a food, any food.

Food substitutions work well in almost any situation. There is a good chance that if somebody is cranky, that somebody is also hungry.

"Holy Guacamole!" Not only delicious on Tortilla chips. Serve a heaping bowl of this in pleasant company over the alternative.

"Oh Pickles!" Crunchy, yet satisfying!

"Cheese and crackers!" This is for your lower tier frustrations, I realize, but if you can get the hang of this, you are headed in the right direction!

"What the fruit?" For when you really want to juice somebody! Ba-dum-cha!

Take the hint from Disney Channel:

See, even Disney realizes that some emotions need proper wording.

"Oh Snap!" Raven from That's So Raven

"Holy Christmas nuts!" Milton from Kickin' It

"Sweet Nibblets!" Miley from Hanna Montana

"Aw nuts!" Amy from Good Luck, Charlie

"Zut Allure!" Chef from The Little Mermaid

Ok…I'm bringing out the big guns now.

The following terms are for use in emergencies only and need no further explanation.

"Got Dandruff!"

"Son of a botulism!"

"Mother Scratcher!"

Sorry I had to go there, folks. Desperate times call for desperate antidotes. I know I can't make everyone see Disney the way I do, try as I may (The up-side of that is, if I could make everyone see the joy, Disney Parks would be even MORE crowded…Yay for magic-blindness???). However, we can all do our eansy-weansy part to help clean up the noise pollution. Chances are, if one of these phrases is substituted for …something else that could have been said…everyone may end up laughing and finding the joy after all.

Oh Snap!

XO, Ami

Expletive Alternative Cheat Sheet:

"Holy Guacamole!"

"Oh Pickles!"

"Cheese and crackers!"

"What the fruit?"

"Oh Snap!"

"Holy Christmas nuts!"

"Sweet Nibblets!"

"Aw nuts!"

"Got Dandruff!"

"Son of a botulism!"

"Mother Scratcher!"

Exhibit featuring African-American Art and Artifacts Opens at Epcot

2013-04-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

©Disney

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. March 11, 2013 -Walt Disney World Resort recently opened “Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection,” an exhibit representing more than 400 years of African-American achievement and contribution.

The exhibit at the American Adventure pavilion at Epcot features rare art, books and documents from the private collection of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, who have amassed the collection over 30 years. Themed to hope, belief, courage, imagination and heritage, the exhibit’s rare art, books and documents pay homage to the untold stories of African-Americans who helped build and transform a nation. Their stories of determination and courage, as well as their struggles for equality and civil rights, are at the heart of this exhibit.

Community and business leaders from Central Florida helped celebrate the opening, along with musical talent from Orlando’s Jones High School Master Singers.

“The exhibit is an inspiring reminder of how diverse our nation is and how many stories there are beyond the pages of history books,” said Dr. Robert Spooney, president of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, who attended the event.

“Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection” is another example of Disney’s commitment to offering experiences that reflect diverse cultures.

“We always wanted to extend the reach of the collection to a larger, more international and diverse audience,” explained Bernard Kinsey. “So we are delighted to be collaborating with Disney to share the stories of our remarkable ancestors.”

Walt Disney Imagineers added interactive displays placed throughout the exhibit to further explore the art, artifacts and history. Guest-activated lanterns will help bring the history to life, with narration provided by celebrities, including actors Chandra Wilson and James Pickens, Jr. (“Grey’s Anatomy”) who both attended the grand opening.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Slideshow

2013-03-12T08:19:00.001-07:00

Just a few snippets from Epcot's 20th Anniversary Flower and Garden Festival 2013.

Enjoy!

Thanks to Deb at Focused on the Magic for hosting this Wordless Wednesday Bloghop! Follow the link for more great photos!

Also, be sure to check out my latest giveaway! XO, Ami

It's Giveaway Time!

2013-03-09T18:44:00.002-08:00

We are pleased to announce a wonderful giveaway!

I was visiting one of my favorite little spots in Walt Disney World-- Writers Stop! It's a great place to peruse the latest reading material while sipping a cuppa. Something caught my eye! A beautiful book. I sat in there and enjoyed it from cover to cover! It now sits proudly in my family room, a beacon for dreamers, artists and Disney lovers alike!

It just so happens, I have an extra copy!

Some of the artwork inside:

Qualifying for this giveaway is simple! The winner will be randomly chosen by Rafflecopter on March 20, 2013.

Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Beautiful Bravery

2013-02-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

I am reposting this in honor of Brave's Oscar win last night!

I'm taking this Wordless Wednesday post and veering off course to a place where I am led. My mind and my heart still hold onto the amazing new Pixar Movie, Brave. For the first time, perhaps in my life, I have experienced a story directed to young girls that celebrates their innate character and not what society deems important enough for celebrations. As a mother of growing daughters, I have always taught the importance of being true to yourself. This, unfortunately, has seemed like such an uphill battle do to the competition with today's media and the various social interactions girls face everyday. I have a note, written in love and punctuated with pictures, for all the confused girls out there who are receiving mixed messages. It is about beauty, and I hope they take it to heart.

©Disney

Beauty lives in the element of surprise!

The most beautiful, is the girl who follows her heart and lives fully in her own element, shining her kind and happy light that only grows pure when she truthfully embraces her God-given place in this world.

	This girl is brave. Brave is beautiful. Truth is beautiful. She wins.
	XO, Ami

Allergy Free in Disney

2013-02-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just one example...©Disney Goddess

Want to go out for dinner?

Like so many food allergy sufferers, it is a tough choice. Yes, I'd love the night off...no cooking, no cleaning up afterwards. However, there is danger lurking in those restaurants! So many times, I have spoken to the server at a restaurant about my allergy to gluten (wheat) only to receive food that has been breaded! Clearly, there is a disconnect here. It is scary to think about the hidden dangers...the ones I could miss by just looking at the food. Sometimes it comes down to...cook at home and be safe, or eat out and risk becoming violently ill.

No place is 100% safe. However, I feel just as at ease eating out in Walt Disney World as I do my own kitchen. Yes, the risk is still there, but I know they take every precaution and take my health very seriously.

So what do you do if you have a food allergy and eat in Disney? It's simple really. You speak to the chef. Don't be afraid to speak up and voice your concerns. They are used to this and would much rather take a few moments to explain to you what is safe, than to have you spend your vacation sick...or even hospitalized! Don't risk it!

Gluten free Quinoa and cream puff from Be Our Guest Restaurant

Every food establishment, from sit down restaurants to food courts, will have someone on hand to take care of you, walk you through the menu or the buffet, and assure you what is safe. They will even custom make your meal if that is necessary.

Gluten free scallops from Flying Fish (my favorite!)

If you are making a reservation ahead of time, either by phone or online, make sure your allergy is noted on the reservation. A chef will come to your table almost as soon as you are seated. If you don't note it in advance or you are dining at a counter service restaurant, just let your server know up front. No hassles!

Saved the best for last! Gluten free cupcake from Be Our Guest

Then relax, enjoy your meal and have a magical vacation!

XO, Ami

Warning Signs that your Fiance is a Neurotic Disney Person

2013-02-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

photo credit: Ami Brundick-Eller

As seen on The Disney Driven Life

Before the “I do’s” are said, there are clues to this neurosis just begging to be recognized. It is best to face them now, afterward it may be too late….

She has a collection of Disney movies that would ignite jealousy in an 8-year-old.
You hear him humming “The Clean Up Song” from Enchanted while washing the dishes.
She knows how to make the Mickey sign on the computer. ºOº
Everywhere you go, he finds at least one hidden Mickey.

photo credit: Ami Brundick-Eller
She named her dog Pluto, her cat Dinah and her fish Cleo.
His car is named Yensid and there’s a bumper sticker claiming that his other car is a monorail.
Anytime the two of you are about to get off a bus, she says, “por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas”–which is perplexing to you because you know she doesn’t speak Spanish.
The soundtrack to Wishes is on his ipod….as well as the music from the Haunted Mansion, Soarin’, Illuminations, etc, etc, etc
When she went to Paris, she was disappointed that it wasn’t smaller….like the pavilion in Epcot.

photo credit: Meija Eller
His voicemail tells you to “Have a Magical Day!”
She tells you that your 3 freckles make the cutest hidden Mickey.
His MacBook has a sticker of Snow White eating the poison apple.

photocredit: Ami Brundick-Eller
Her ringtone is the conductor saying “All Aboard the E.P. Ripley for a trip around Disney’s Magic Kingdom.”
He knows that Donald Duck’s middle name is Fauntleroy.
She feels that a visit to Epcot far surpasses the educational value of a week in a college classroom.
He always takes off from work on November 18.

And the top clue:

The words “wedding,” “honeymoon,” and “Disney World” have been uttered in the same sentence.

If you have found yourself in this situation, there is no fighting it. Your significant other will not change as there is no cure. Your choices are: accepting, embracing or setting free. Choosing to embrace this Disney Lifestyle will give you both years of joy!

XO, Ami

Memoir of a Guest of the Beast (Be Our Guest Restaurant Review)

2013-01-07T06:38:00.000-08:00

©Disney

The castle sits atop a great rocky cliff. The only way inside is to traverse a long bridge, guarded by gargoyles all along the way. The master of this castle is a beast and chilling evidence of his flaring temper can be seen inside.

Still, the sign out front says “Be Our Guest.” The mystery of it beckons, so you step one foot in front of the other, taking in the glistening woods of a French land nearly forgotten, all the while listening for the howl of the wolves you know must be lurking.

©Disney

Upon entering the castle you are faced with elegance and beauty that could only have come at the hands of royal designers!

This is where I decided to spend my birthday. I was a guest of the beast, and here is my story.

For the last few years, word of the new Be Our Guest Restaurant has piqued my curiosity. I carefully studied the Artist renderings as if they were works of Monet and I was an aspiring painter. I knew the menu before the doors opened and, most importantly, I knew the date reservations would begin being accepted. I wanted to celebrate my birthday there.

Our reservation time was 8:10. This is important because Wishes was scheduled for 8pm this evening. We checked in shortly before 8, received our pager and waited on the bridge…the one with the gargoyles. The music began and what proceeded was an experience very unique to this particular spot. Situated directly in between Cinderella’s and Beast’s castles, it became a magical “dueling” fireworks show. Many would shoot off in view of Beast’s Castle; others surrounded Cinderella’s. It enclosed us in glittering glory! For the record, yes- you can even see Tinkerbell fly from this spot!

©Disney-Goddess

The fireworks ended at 8:12 and our pager went off at 8:13. Perfect.

Upon entering the castle, you will feel as if you have entered Beauty and the Beast via a movie screen. The entrance, the ballroom, will all take your breath away! The chandeliers are magnificent! The cherubs on the ceiling…wait, those cherubs have a curious quality about them! Look carefully at their faces, you may just see an imagineer you recognize! The windows out back show a cobalt night sky and gently falling snow. It beckons you to sit and make yourself comfortable…much like Belle’s father must have felt after getting lost in the woods! Good ol’ Maurice, he was the beast’s first guest. Lucky for us, Beast has improved his hospitality skills since then!

©Disney-Goddess

The Host who welcomed us was personable and gracious, offering us tips and advice. Our server, Chris (aka Skippy) was equally gracious and fun, making us laugh, including us on some “secrets” and even joining us at our table at the end of the evening. We could not have asked for better attention. Having a server who clearly loves his job is a bonus I sincerely appreciate!

Of course, you really want to know about the food. It was delicious. Yep, everything we had, from soups to fish to potatoes to veggies to steak was delicious. The wine pairings were excellent. Hold up! Wait…wine in Magic Kingdom? Is that allowed? Is it breaking some moral code? Well….I don’t know. Did I drink wine?

I did.

And I liked it.

The piece de resistance, however, was the excellent service by Chef Amy. I have a gluten allergy, so I have come accustomed to the excellent care and consideration that Disney Chefs provide every day. This was my birthday. Chef Amy went out of her way to make me gluten (and lactose) free ice cream, and a cupcake topped with a gluten free version of “The Grey Stuff!”

Gluten Free Grey Stuff avec birthday candle ©Disney-Goddess

"Regular" Gluten loaded Grey Stuff! ©Disney-Goddess

It was a celebration indeed!

XO, Ami

HUGE Week in the Disney Timeline!

2012-12-11T05:02:00.002-08:00

©Disney

Ever feel like so much comes at you at once that your head spins? That is exactly how I am feeling right now! This past week was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any Disney-goer. So much brand new, so many places to explore! Until now, I could have walked Fantasyland blindfolded. I have to admit, I’m more than a little excited to have new nooks and crannies to memorize!

Let’s take a look at what is now up and running, shall we?

As the story goes, half of Fantasyland has been hidden by a curse. Click to reveal the story!

©Disney

New Fantasyland features attractions, dining, shopping, character interactions, recreation and more – laid out fairy tale-style amid waterfalls, grottoes, arched bridges, forests and circus big tops. A multiyear expansion project that doubles the size of the existing Fantasyland, the sprawling new area lies just beyond the existing Fantasyland in the shadows of Cinderella Castle.

New Fantasyland consists of the Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus areas. Walt Disney Imagineers brought to life beloved Disney stories and magical places, putting guests in the middle of Disney classics and new favorites – and making memories to last a lifetime. Here’s just a sampling of the new enchanted areas now open in New Fantasyland:

• Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid. Guests riding in clamshells travel with Ariel and her friends through their exciting adventures above and below the waves – all against the musical backdrop of beloved songs from the film. Before the experience, the fun is whimsical and interactive in the queue area under Prince Eric’s Castle. After the attraction and below the seaside cliffs, guests can meet the princess herself in Ariel’s Grotto.

• Enchanted Tales with Belle. In a faroff French village, an enchanted mirror becomes the gateway to a new kind of storytelling experience. Through props, costumes and other interaction, guests step right into the story of “Beauty and the Beast” – meeting Belle and Lumiere and sharing in a lively re-telling of the “tale as old as time.”

• Be Our Guest Restaurant features a lavish dining experience in the elegant ballroom, delicate Rose Gallery and mysterious “West Wing” of the Beast’s Castle. The magnificent space offers “great food fast” lunch service by day and full-service table dining at night. Both experiences — fittingly for the story of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” — feature French-inspired cuisine.

• Gaston’s Tavern welcomes guests to a comfy French lodge done in homage to — Gaston himself. The menu of this casual restaurant includes LeFou’s Brew, named for Gaston’s sidekick and a cooling concoction sure to satisfy any thirst.

• Dumbo, the Flying Elephant - a Fantasyland icon - has doubled in size. Two Dumbos – one going clockwise and other counterclockwise – take guests circling above Storybook Circus in ride vehicles they maneuver themselves. The two Dumbos are connected to an indoor “big top” allowing guests to enjoy circus-themed activities while awaiting their ride time with the lovable pachyderm.

• Aboard The Barnstormer Featuring the Great Goofini, it’s family-style coaster fun as guests dip and soar daredevil-style above the circus grounds. Ride vehicles follow the twisting, turning coaster “flight” of stuntman Goofy.

• Beloved Disney characters as aspiring circus stars are on hand to meet their adoring fans in Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Donald Duck are decked out in their big top finest to await their big break – and pose for photos with Magic Kingdom guests in the process.

There’s even more in store as the expansion of New Fantasyland continues:

• Princess Fairytale Hall (2013) will be the new home for Disney princesses to meet their loyal subjects in the Magic Kingdom. To open in the Castle Courtyard in the center of Fantasyland, the regal space will provide the perfect setting for meeting Cinderella, Aurora, Tiana and the other Disney princesses.

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (2014) will take Magic Kingdom guests on a rollicking, musical ride into the mine “where a million diamonds shine.” The family-style coaster will feature a first-of-its-kind ride system with a train of vehicles that swing back and forth.

©Disney

As exciting as all this is, Fantasyland is not the only new addition to Disney World this past week. You’re starting to get that head whirling effect now, huh?

After months of gutting and reconstruction, Test Track is now re-envisioned, re-imagined and reopened!

©Disney

Amid upbeat music, eye-popping lighting effects and a collection of Chevrolet concept and new vehicles, guests themselves become automotive designers – and peer into the future of personal transportation in the process.

Car designer wannabes get to shape their own virtual car, truck or crossover and learn how their choices perform against four important performance attributes that guide Chevrolet designers:

• Capability – design your car to handle the roughest roads or most extreme weather conditions

• Efficiency – create a car that saves on fuel, reduces your environmental footprint, cuts down on emissions or even uses recycled parts

• Responsiveness – choose elements that will give you easy maneuverability through the tightest of turns

Power – choose the gear you need to make your car a racer or a hauler

©Disney

Oh but that’s not all!

©Disney

Downtown Disney had it’s own Grand Opening! Splitsville at Downtown Disney is the bowling brand’s only two-level location with 30 lanes and more than 50,000 square feet of entertainment space – twice the size of any other Splitsville – featuring billiards, live entertainment, a balcony bar with sweeping views and upscale dining options that cater to the entire family. This is not your father’s bowling alley. Although Splitsville isn’t open-open until December 19^th, it was still celebrated in style!

©Disney

If you’ve been waiting on something new before returning to Disney World, I'd say the time has come in like a head spinning storm!

XO, Ami

PixiGlow

2012-09-20T08:06:00.001-07:00

To explore the products, click the picture!

I have long been a fan of the Pix! line of cosmetics found in Target stores, but it thrilled me to pieces when I noticed that they came out with a line specific to Tinkerbell and the Disney Fairies! Naturally, I couldn't wait to try them out. The colors are soft and shimmery and, most importantly, fun! In fact, they are so fun, that I had to get duplicates of most of the products because my 16 year old daughter loves them as much as I do! They look gorgeous on her blue eyed, blond haired pixie-faced self (imagine that!) but I also love it with my red-haired, grey-eyed complexion. I would enjoy hearing feedback from those who are darker complected! With all the options, I have a feeling it could work on many different people!

So fly on over and get your pixie dust on! Yes, they have that!

XO, Ami

Other items from Pixi

Dole Whip- Wordless Wednesday

2012-09-19T05:06:00.001-07:00

This weeks Wordless Wednesday is all about food in Disney. So why have I posted an outfit of clothing? I have been playing lately with clothes in an artful way to express some of my favorite Disney places, characters, feelings, and yes-- even food! The Dole Whip is almost as iconic as Mickey himself when it comes to Disney (ok...not really almost, but you get my drift- The Dole Whip has a following)! So take a gander and tell me what you think! I believe it looks nearly good enough to eat!

Dole Whip by ami-brundick-eller featuring metal jewelry

Thanks to Deb at Focused on the Magic for hosting this blog hop every Wednesday! Click the button below to follow along!

XO, Ami

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The Social Media Mom- Always on the Go!

2012-09-18T06:11:00.001-07:00

The Social Media Mom by ami-brundick-eller featuring ahnu shoes

This past week I attended Disney's Social Media Moms Celebration "On the Road" in Charlotte North Carolina. For the last few years, Disney has been hosting a large social media event in Orlando. This year, they decided to take their team of knowledgeable and inspirational speakers on the road to either reach those who may not be able to make it to Orlando in the spring, or to give a bit of an autumn boost to those needing it NOW!

The entire conference was amazingly empowering! They get you right off the get-go, knowing full well that you made it a priority to be there and sacrificed something else to make it happen. Hostess Maria Bailey, creator of Mom Talk Radio, makes sure you realize that you made the right choice! As a woman and as a mom, I am so familiar with feelings of being pulled in too many directions and feelings of needing to be all things to all people and, most unfortunately, of putting my own needs and passions last on the list. This conference spelled out the fact that women have much more worth and much more power than we have ever allowed our eyes to see or the will to harness. It is time for us to own our power and value. It is time to help our sisters own theirs. It is time to ask ourselves: How have we helped one woman today?

Laura Spencer, Disney, gave an inspirational speech involving choosing beautiful words. This quote reminds me of her sentiment.

With @LauraSpencerOne @Sherryboswell & @EarsToAdventure

Still, at the end of the day, it is difficult to see our family and our friends, especially our children, and wonder if we did enough for them. This conference taught that the best gift a mother can give her children is a mom who follows her passions. I do believe that. You have to show your children that there are things in this world that are worth believing in and worth chasing.

With @DisneyFaith

I have pretty much always been a stay-at-home-mom. When I started blogging, I could tell it gave my kids another reason to look up to me. Suddenly my youngest daughter started playing on her pretend Barbie computer. She had piles of scribbled on papers by her side that she referred to as "very important work about Justin Bieber." These days, all three of my daughters have their own real blogs. I couldn't be more proud.

You must set the example for your children in this life. I do believe in balance. When I'm home, I will kiss my daughters goodnight. I will always listen when they want to speak, no matter the topic, and I won't cut them off. I will make certain that if it's important to them...then it is important to me. I can't always be home for them. I can't always be there for my husband, for my church, for my blog, or for any other thing that needs me. That's ok. Don't feel guilty. Guilt is fiction! Is doesn't exist so stop believing in it and stop believing when others try to make you feel guilty. Just stop. Instead, focus on the positive and look for all the inspiration that can come from the most unlikely of places!

For a wonderful recap of the entire conference, please check out my friend Jackie's Blog at Jackie's Magical Moments!

And my daughter's blogs, for those who are interested, are:

Faeryality

Weeping Angels and Daleks: Doctor Who Fan Site

Totes Adorable

Yes! They are all three THAT different!

XO, Ami

Blogging on the Go

2012-09-10T03:24:00.001-07:00

I love my Tink "Mornings aren't Magical" mug. I have to admit, it describes me pretty well most days. But come on, Pixies! Is this the right attitude to set out on a brand new day? We make choices. This morning, I put back my grumpy fairy mug and chose another Disney one that reminds me of my greatest blessings. It simply says "mom."

I can already feel the tingle of pixie dust!

Xo, Ami

1989-Community of Tomorrow…

2012-09-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

Today I am guest blogging over at DIStherapy all about EPCOT Center in 1989! Here is a preview, but for the full story, be sure to follow the link over to the great site and read this brilliant series counting down the days to Epcot's big 30th birthday!

Progress City as planned by Walt Disney ©Disney

EPCOT Center 1989. Were these the glory days?

We often gripe when our favorite things change. We get all cozy-comfy and fall in love with our Communicores and SMRT-1’s and our hearts ache when they go away. We bury our feet in the ground, staunchly trying to not like the "Innoventions" of the world as much as they deserve. Despite the fact that in order to truly appreciate Epcot, {and when I say Epcot of course what I really mean is Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow Center} then change has to be not only expected but also wholeheartedly embraced. Now, before you grumble and groan and go off to read a different blog that won't tout the inevitability of change, give me just a teensy moment of your precious time. After all, you must love EPCOT Center as much as I do! You see, of all Walt Disney’s dreams and aspirations, this was the summation of what he visualized for our future! This is progress: Progress City…or at least a theme park version of it, because quite frankly, nobody since Walt himself has had the courage to pursue his dreams. In the end, we find that we do love Innoventions but we still recall fondly the bygone days of Communicore. With a little faith, trust and pixie dust, we keep moving forward.....

And for you to keep moving forward - click on the map!

1989 EPCOT Center Map

XO, Ami

Pixie Hollow and the Disney Fairies

2012-09-04T12:56:00.001-07:00

I am finding myself thinking a lot about Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. I know I'd like to dress up in some "Fairy" way. I am crazy about Pixie Hollow. I'm partial to Rosetta- it's a redhead thing, but I am having trouble making that work. So maybe I'll just be Pixie Hollow in general. Crazier things have happened.

Pixie Hollow and the Disney Fairies by ami-brundick-eller featuring badgley mischka dresses

Badgley mischka dress
$420 - theoutnet.com

BCBG Max Azria ballet flat
bcbg.com

GAP straw handbag
gap.com

Cécile Boccara wedding jewelry
swarovski-elements.com

Kenneth jay lane jewelry
net-a-porter.com

Flower hair accessory
evanity.com

Tarina Tarantino beauty product
sephora.com

Art of Animation Resort Clothing Creation

2012-08-14T13:38:00.001-07:00

Trying my hand at this Polyvore.com/ cosplay/ outfits that represt cool stuff....STUFF! It's fun! This is my very first creation. I hope you like it!

Art of Animation Resort by ami-brundick-eller featuring a chain necklace

Cropped blazer
ln-cc.com

True Religion skinny pants
sidestreetboutique.com

Toms shoes
$63 - blueberries-online.com

Vintage earrings
breakdownbettie.com

Vintage style jewelry
rubylane.com

Chain necklace
modcloth.com

Juicy couture jewelry
$86 - jades24.com

Hakuna Matata at Lion King Family Suites

2012-08-10T06:32:00.002-07:00

©Disney

Opening Friday, August 10, at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -The Pride Lands of Africa is the scenic setting for the “Lion King,” the third phase of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort opening Friday at Walt Disney World Resort. The new Lion King wing celebrates the journey of Simba, with landscapes and theming that reflect playful and poignant scenes from the Academy Award-winning Walt Disney Pictures animated film “The Lion King.”

In the new Lion King wing, guests embark on a journey through Africa with encounters with characters and scenic moments from the film classic at every turn. King Mufasa towers atop Pride Rock while his evil brother Scar slinks in the shadows beyond the elephant graveyard. There’s Pumbaa and Timon with a young Simba dancing across a log bridge in true carefree “hakuna matata” fashion. Scar’s crazed and comical hyenas “guard” the elephant graveyard, a fun area sure to delight youngsters.

©Disney

The storytelling comes to life inside the 320 family suites. Zazu takes center stage on the headboards while Pumbaa and Timon decorate the shower curtain. Youngsters can rest on a leaf-shaped chair or sleep alongside Simba who slumbers at the head of one of the beds.

©Disney

The Lion King wing marks the third in the four-phase opening of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Earlier this summer, 320 “Finding Nemo” family suites and 480 “Cars” family suites opened. Each of four distinctly designed wings of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort celebrates rich storytelling, spirited characters, original sketches and playfulness with colorful icons and whimsical theming inspired by classic Disney and Disney•Pixar films.

The whimsical property, situated adjacent to Disney’s Pop Century Resort, offers rates from $248 per night. The 1,120 family suites include two bathrooms, a kitchenette and three separate sleeping areas that can sleep up to six. The 864 standard rooms at the “Little Mermaid” wing, opening in September, will sleep up to four, with rates as low as $94.

Wordless Wednesday: Disney Transportation

2012-07-11T05:20:00.000-07:00

I am usually in awe of the transportation system that the Disney Company manages to pull off with finesse in all its parks. You can travel miles without ever setting foot in your own car! Then there is also transportation within the resorts, if size permits. Take Fort Wilderness, for example. Golf carts, bikes, canoes...once upon a time there was even a train!

Some modes of transportation are long gone...only memories and photos remain. I still have lots of fond memories of gliding over Fantasyland, getting a bird's eye view from the Skyway. Oh I wish it was still in operation so I could spy on the Fantasyland expansion now!

Transportation experiences took on a whole new meaning with the introduction of the Exotic Driving Experience at the Speedway! Guests have an opportunity to drive a very fast, very expensive high performance automobile!

Walt Disney must have been a bigger fan of transportation than most. This post hardly scratches the surface! Just like The Disney Company started with a mouse...Disney transportation started with a limo!

Well...started is a pretty big claim! Still, this is the car that Walt Disney rode to the premier of Snow White in! Yes, even then, he understood the value of getting there in style!

Ok, this isn't exactly transportation...but it WILL whisk you away to a place most peaceful....like the Scottish Highlands! This is my daughter's most recent a cappella arrangement. The song is called Learn me Right, by Mumford and Sons and is part of the Brave Soundtrack. My 15 year old is singing all three parts. As a proud mama, I'd love for you to take a listen!

I'd like to thank Deb at Focused on the Magic for hosting this Wordless Wednesday! If you didn't get here from over there, please click the link below to see all the great posts about Disney Transportation!

XO, Ami

Be Brave and SING!

2012-07-10T16:56:00.000-07:00

I am going to brag on my daughter! Today, just playing around, she wrote an a cappella version of a song from the Brave Soundtrack. Here she is, singing all THREE parts!

Yep! She's talented ;-)

XO, Ami

Part 2: Themed Weekend Adventures: The Disney Princess

2012-07-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Here ye, Here ye!

Last week I discussed all the ways to give your favorite pirate a swashbuckling adventure! This week, it’s time to crown those princesses!

Before you set off on your journey to the Walt Disney World Resort, what fun it would be to fashion an invitation, reminiscent of Prince Charming’s request to appear at his ball, stating that the Princess is requested to attend royal obligations in Disney World. {Princesses love to feel important!}

In your carriage you go, to check into the newest Princess rooms at Port Orleans Riverside. Tiana and her royal friends have had a lovely time there and hope you will too!

Feel free to walk about the courtyard, converse with the birds and even the trees (they have faces!)! Oh, and if you require anything, your royal subjects are more than happy to help keep a Princess happy!

I hope you’re hungry! Princesses often need to attend banquet after banquet! This weekend will sure be a busy one! From Port Orleans Riverside, take a boat to Downtown Disney and then a bus to the Grand Floridian (or a bus to Magic Kingdom and then the monorail to the Grand Floridian) to attend the dinner ball at 1900 Park Fare! Meet Cinderella, the Prince and more! They will be expecting you!

After a most magical sleep under an enchanting sky, wake refreshed and ready to explore your kingdom! A Princess must look her most regal, so be sure to make an appointment at the Bibbidi, Bobbidi Boutique inside Cinderella’s Castle! Then, perform your first regal duty by saving Magic Kingdom from a villain in the Disney’s Family Magic Tour! A lunch at Cinderella’s Royal Table will be a welcome rest and an opportunity to discuss royal responsibilities with other Princesses like Jasmine and Belle! After, Fantasyland is yours for the taking!

Be sure to stay for the show that is put on with the princesses in mind! First the parade, full of lights, music and even Disney princesses! Then, the castle show, The Magic, The Memories and You, will remind her of all the wonderful experiences she had that day! The grand finale is Wishes, the most amazing fireworks show you will ever see!

Sleep tight, little Princess!

The next morning, head to Epcot. Beginning with Canada, explore all the countries and meet their royal advisors. Aurora and Belle are in France, Jasmine is in Morocco, Snow White is in Germany, Mulan in China, etc. Explore the countries themselves too! A royal dignitary must be well informed of all their neighbors!

By dinnertime, another banquet awaits! Akershus in Norway will fill your bellies and allow you to socialize with all the Princesses! Close out the evening with a visit to the Mexico Pavilion. Inside you will find a store called “La Princesa de Cristal” which houses all sorts of beautiful creations, including some magnificent tiaras! You can present your Princess with one of these beauties and then take her out to view Illuminations. It will be a memory that will last a lifetime!

This Tiara belongs to my daughter, Princess Annalise

I wrote this weekend adventure with young Princesses in mind, but it could easily be altered for a grown-up Princess as well (Maybe change out Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for the Ivy Trellis Salon and exchange some character meals for Signature dining). What girl wouldn’t wish for this?

Other Princess experiences include The Princess Half Marathon Weekend in late February and soon-to-be plenty more when the Fantasyland expansion is complete!

Be sure to RSVP (make reservations) 180 days ahead of time to ensure the Royal Subjects are prepared for the Princess’s arrival!

XO, Ami

Happy Birthday America

2012-07-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

This weeks Wordless Wednesday is a patriotic salute to our nation's birth! I am straying a bit from the general idea of a wordless Wednesday post. There are, in fact, words. But only in song form by the amazing Voices of Liberty.

Enjoy!

Thanks to Deb at Focused on the Magic for hosting this Wordless Wednesday! Check out the other Patriotic Posts by clicking this button:

XOXO, Ami

Fess Parker Wine

2012-07-03T06:41:00.001-07:00

I am trying something new...
Blogging from my phone since recent storms have displaced me from my home...
...and my INTERNET! Still, Disney magic continues and I am going to deliver!

Have you heard of Fess Parker? Whether you know his name or not, I bet you know the character who made him famous! Davy Crockett! Kids still don those coonskin caps to this day as they pretend to be a mountain man, larger than life, full of decency, but bent on not trusting authority. Walt Disney hand picked Fess for this role that still lives on in Magic Kingdom and other Disney places such as Crocketts Tavern at the Fort Wilderness Resort and the Davy Crockett Ranch in Disneyland Paris!

Fess Parker had other ventures in television until he settled in California and started his own winery. Today, it is a beautiful estate complete with resort and spa! My personal favorite is his Riesling. I first tried it at the Wave restaurant inside Disney's Contemporary Resort.

Fess Parker passed away in 2010, but his legacy lives on in Disney Parks as well as in the Fess Parker Winery now run by his son.

Davy, Davy Crockett - king of the wild frontier!

XOXO, Ami

Fireworks Light the Sky on the 4th of July!

2012-06-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

©Disney

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World Resort will pixie dust the night skies July 4 with special pyrotechnic shows, including a patriotic display at Magic Kingdom, a rock’n'roll spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a classic sky show at Epcot infused with an Independence Day finale. Here’s how you can celebrate America’s birthday – Disney-style:

Magic Kingdom will present “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This patriotic fireworks spectacular, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. July 4 – and for guests who would like to begin the Independence Day celebration early, the show also will be presented July 3 at 9 p.m.

©Disney

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, traditional Fourth of July fireworks take on a different spin when Mulch, Sweat, and Shears perform for the all-new “Rockin’ 4^th of July Celebration.” These resident landscapers – with serious rock and roll ambitions – take Disney guests on a musical road trip across America that will highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll. Fireworks, lighting and special effects – backed by the driving live rock and roll of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears – combine to bring a new twist to celebrating Independence Day. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m. Before the show, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can catch Disney’s Fantasmic!, performing July 4 at 9 p.m.
At Epcot, sky-watchers can check out “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” bursting high above World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations is a 14-minute spectacular during which pyrotechnics, lasers, water and music are all used to tell a story about the past, present and future of our planet. On the Fourth of July, the show will be enhanced with “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m.

©Disney

In addition, Epcot guests may lend their ears to “Voices of Liberty 4^th of July Concert” and meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.

Theme park hours on July 4 (subject to change without notice): Magic Kingdom, 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Epcot, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-06-27T05:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the weekly Wordless Wednesday Bloghop hosted by Focused on the Magic! This weeks theme is "B" and it has us traveling down the Maharajah Jungle Trek!

Step lightly...

That sign is your last warning!

Will you turn back or face your fears?

These suckers (pun intended) are huge!

Creeped out yet? Honestly they are fascinating. After I got over the fact that I was not going to be bitten and turned into a vampire, I watched them for quite awhile. No wonder there is so much folklore surrounding bats!

Batcrobatics

If you enjoyed this Wordless Wednesday Stop ~and I sincerely hope you did~ please click below to hop on over to the other great sites! Thanks to Deb at Focused on the Magic for religiously hosting this wonderful trip through Disney pictures every week!

XO, Ami