The Disney Six

Walt Disney World Tips

2023-07-25T12:52:00.005-04:00

We just returned from Walt Disney World. We dubbed ourselves, after dozens of trips, the "Disney Six."

Hence the new blog title. I'm allgoodinmommyhood at heart, but from this day forward my posts will be Disney centered.

I haven't blogged in years. Life caught up to me. Schedules were not forgiving with four children and we moved south. Covid. Work. You name it, it contributed to me sacrificing my creative space. Crazy how life works though, because I blinked and my children are self sufficient. They don't ask for much other than money and permission to go somewhere else. This has left me time.

Walt Disney World in 2023 is not an easy place. If you are not a frequent visitor, or even more frightening, you've never been there, this post is for you. I have been on many Disney World travel pages and even I get confused.

This says something because I've been to Disney World over fifty times. Yes, over fifty times and I don't live in Florida.

There are basics you need to know in order to make the most out of your very expensive trip. Gone are the days of showing up to a park, hustling to a ride or attraction and overpaying for an ice cream. Well, you will still overpay for an ice cream.

Before you leave, there are a few things you need to know. I will add posts about more specific topics (virtual queues, best advice, how to save money...) but this is the bare bones you need to plan a trip. I am not covering places to stay but I will say that I prefer to stay inside the parks and use Disney transportation. There are budget friendly hotels (which are hardly budget friendly) you can book with a package and everything will be easy to manage.

Without further ado, here are my tips for beginners:

1. Familiarize yourself with the My Disney Experience App. This is absolutely essential. I am not going to write fifteen pages on how to do this, because really the best way to learn it is just go on and start poking around. This app is our everything, from wait times to park hours. This is where you make and manage park and meal reservations. You need to know how to navigate the app before you leave in order for you to manage your trip effectively. Download it, and start to familiarize yourself with how everything works.

2. You need park reservations before you can visit a park. This was a Covid implementation and next year (2024) this is supposed to be a thing of the past. You can make your park reservation on the My Disney Experience App and most often this is never an issue.

On rare occasions a park will be at capacity. Trust me, on those days you don't want to be there anyway. Most often you just pick a day and reserve.

3. Park Hopper tickets are not necessary. One park a day is more than enough, especially if you have never been or haven't been in awhile. Save that money and explore one park a day.

4. MagicBands are not a necessity (you can use your phone for park entry) but they make life so much easier. They will open your room, serve as your park ticket and you can even charge to your room. Literally an adult in Walt Disney World needs nothing other than a phone and a MagicBand.

There are two types of MagicBands, the standard and MagicBand Plus. As you may have guessed, the MagicBand Plus is more expensive and has more features.

As exciting as a MagicBand Plus is, this is a place to save money. If you've never had one, you won't miss one. They light up and interact with statues in the park. You can play games. We bought them for the kids and they enjoyed them, but only one was necessary to see all the fun features.

If you want to see what they are about, buy one for a parent and make a point to stop and show the kids all the fun stuff they do in the parks.

5. You are best being an early bird or a night owl in Disney. Even better? Both.

There are basically three opening times for the parks. First is the actual opening time. This is for all visitors. If you stay at a Disney resort, you gain the advantage of early entry. This is a half hour before other visitors and it makes a HUGE difference if you get there early. The third is when they actually let early entry folks in the park, which is typically before early entry.

That was a lot.

We arrived at the Magic Kingdom at 8:03am for a 9am park opening. Early entry was 8:30. We were allowed to explore Main Street and they scanned MagicBands (or phones) to let early entry folks past a certain checkpoint. At 8:25, early entry officially opened. By park opening we were already done with three attractions (Winnie the Pooh, Peter Pan and Space Mountain).

See what I mean? The early bird truly catches the worm in Disney.

If you prefer to sleep in, remember midday is the warmest weather and the largest crowds. Wait times peak and depending on the month, the heat can be unbearable. Take your time, stay cool and watch the app for the shortest wait times. If you stay in a deluxe resort, Epcot and the Magic Kingdom have extended evening hours (usually two hours after park close). I highly recommend utilizing them.

To follow along on our Disney Trip, view my YouTube channel and we'll show you how we "do Disney." Spoiler alert: we don't spend on meals and fancy extras. We love the parks, we love to shop for fun souvenirs and we love the family time.

Disney's My Disney Experience App

2023-07-24T10:15:00.003-04:00

I haven't posted about Disney World in a long while. Too long if you ask me.

Since I started writing Disney posts seven years ago the parks have changed. The rooms and hotels have changed. Disney is constantly evolving and I'm sure anyone who follows Disney has a hard time keeping up.

Me included.

One of Disney's features that I find extremely helpful is the My Disney Experience App. When the whole smart phone thing started I was slow to adjust. I quickly picked up on how incredibly helpful the My Disney Experience App is while I was vacationing in Walt Disney World.

For anyone not in the know, MDE is the official Walt Disney World mobile app and it's handy as a swimming pool in the middle of summer. You can make park and dining reservations, check wait times, keep up with park hours, check in to your room and purchase Lightning Lanes and the Disney Genie+.

The Disney Genie+/Lightning Lanes will be another post. These are line skipping tools you can purchase to make the most of your time in Walt Disney World.

A few of my favorite features of the app:

Disney Genie+/Lightning Lanes

You can opt to purchase either (or both) of these services when you are in Disney. They are purchased the day of your trip, and the difference is the Disney Genie+ allows you to select several different attractions to skip the line (one at a time, every 120 minutes) and the individual Lightning Lane is for the most sought after attractions in each park (they don't include these in the Genie +). Basically, you can choose to skip one line or a few lines, and either method will save you time. Buying a Lightning Lane for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will save you an hour. At least. If you arrive when the park opens, this line opens at 45 minutes. Sometimes more.

Ride other attractions while a quarter of the park waits in line for the Mine Train.

Check Wait Times

This feature by far and away is our family's favorite. At any point in the day you can pull up the current wait times for every attraction in every park.

Even more handy if you plan on walking across the park in 90 degrees only to find Soarin' is temporarily out of service.

This has happened to us many times.

I'll find my kids at random times throughout the year checking how long the waits are in Walt Disney World.

"Mom! The wait for Tower of Terror is three hours long!"

Awesome. Now get that homework done.

Bus Arrival

The transportation system throughout WDW is a beautiful thing. But as with everything, there are flaws. We have waited well past the twenty minutes Disney advertises while trying to get to a park. The app now has the ability to give you an estimated time the bus will arrive, which will cut back on running to the bus stop every morning in case the next bus is headed to your park. You find this under the "Resort Hotel" tab

Family Sharing

Disney is often a family vacation shared with extended family or friends. If you invite someone via the app to be your "friend" you can share experiences and travel plans.

Check In

I'm a bit nostalgic, so this one still has to grow on me. I have many memories of myself waiting in the huge lobbies of the WDW resorts waiting for my dad to check us in. I also can see my kids, as toddlers, huddled around the television in the lobby of the Wilderness Lodge watching old school Mickey cartoons while I checked my family in.

But the one constant is change, and the ability to check in on the MDE app is a helpful tool for many families. You can start check in prior to your arrival, and even submit your estimated arrival time. You'll receive a notification when your room is ready, and you can even open the door with your magic bands.

I guess that's kinda cool.

Along with the above features I outlined, you can order food, use the Mobile Checkout in stores and reserve dining.

Check out more about the My Disney Experience app at mydisneyexperience.com.

Happy Planning!

5 SIMPLE Steps to Planning a Disney Vacation

2018-07-02T07:34:00.000-04:00

For over 20 informational Disney posts visit my Disney Tips n' Tricks page!

The one thing I've gathered from just about everyone who has ever tried to plan a trip to Disney World is that its overwhelming. It's a huge undertaking and by the time their vacation rolls around, they are just praying they can figure everything out when they get there.

For families who have never been, planning a trip to Disney World is intimidating. I understand it, because every time they make an update to their system even I get a little concerned I won't "get it" when I get there.

The truth is, while there are thousands of planning articles, websites and books Disney World is not as difficult as it seems. Even reading through my own posts (which I try to keep simple) I realize there is so much information it gets confusing.

Here is a step by step breakdown of how to plan a trip. I have made this as simple as possible, leaving you plenty of room to read other articles and gather more information about specific activities.

This is not a guide on all the rides, restaurants and parks. I have plenty of other posts that highlight the best and easiest ways to navigate Disney World. This post will focus 100% on planning the trip.

Once you have the week you want to vacation, pick it up from here...

1. Hotels

Inside Disney World, there are many options as far as park passes and hotels. ALL Disney hotels are clean and kid friendly. The "value" resorts have less amenities (rooms are smaller, no restaurants on site) but they are still fabulous. Your hotel will mostly depend on what you want to spend.

An overview:

"Deluxe" resorts are closest to the theme parks, have more transportation options (monorail, boat, bus) and more restaurants. These resorts are expensive, truly five star and offer the most as far as amenities.

"Moderate" resorts have bus only to major theme parks. There are less restaurants but overall the resorts are still top notch and everything from rooms to pools will please most travelers. Cost is more affordable but will still be expensive for many families.

"Value" resorts have smaller rooms and the buses may take a little longer to get to the parks. There are no restaurants, only cafeteria style dining (which is fine with most families). Pools are still impressive and there is plenty for families to enjoy. These resorts are popular for spring break college kids because of the prices and families with young children because of the themed rooms and decor.

"Villa" resorts are the timeshare resorts. You can choose between studio, one, two and even three bedroom villas. There are full kitchens and these are fabulous for families traveling with grandma and grandpa. They are similar to the deluxe resorts as far as amenities and price.

Once you booked a reservation make an account on My Disney Experience. This website (and app!) keeps track of all your plans and gives you reminders to book dining and fast passes. More on that later.

Tip: Look for deals in the summer and fall months with free dining or free passes for families staying in certain resorts.

2. Park Passes

You can buy passes for one park a day or multiple parks a day (park hoppers). If you have young children (5 or younger) I would NOT park hop unless you have a loose budget. Small kids tire quickly and you can always visit the same park morning and night. Park hopping is suitable for older kids or families preferring to experience all four parks in less than four days.

You will get magic bands in the mail for your trip. Everyone gets a band. You can customize them on My Disney Experience. These will have your park passes on them as well as your dining plan. You use them to get into your room, the park and eat. More on dining below.

3. Dining

*You do NOT have to have a dining plan. You can bring food into the parks. Most everyone has a stroller, and food is easily stored underneath. If you have a villa or a fridge and microwave in your room you can easily eat cereal and other quick meals in your room. In the parks, buy two meals for four kids and have them share, supplementing with snacks you bring into the parks.**

Dining plans are expensive but extremely convenient. You receive a refillable resort mug for everyone ages 3 and up, which is very handy for the resorts.

Deluxe Dining - This includes so much food and is so expensive I won't even discuss it. Unless you are traveling with only adults, skip.

Disney Dining - This is the one snack (think kiosk type food), one quick service (counter like a food court) and one sit down meal (restaurant) a day for everyone in your party. You get your money's worth, but it is still pricey. More on this option here:

Disney Standard Dining Plan

Quick Service Plan - Two quick service meals a day and two snacks a day for everyone in your party. This is more than enough food, just not as fancy. You won't be dining with Cinderella, but you also will have more time to be at the pool or in the parks. More on this plan below.

Disney Quick Service Plan

For your reference a snack could be a hot pretzel or a milkshake. It could also be a banana. Use all your food credits wisely.

Your dining credits (how many meals you purchase) will be loaded onto your magic bands.

4. Book Your Meals

If you opted for quick service, you can skip this section. Unless you want to enjoy one meal in a restaurant (which I do recommend). You can book dining reservations 180 days before your trip. Book reservations on My Disney Experience and make sure you plan meals accordingly if you are NOT park hopping.

You can change reservations if you desire. If I don't get the restaurant and time I want I check several times a week to see if a time has opened up.

5. Set Your Fast Passes

This is also done on the My Disney Experience app. If you are staying inside the Disney resorts, you can make your selections up to 60 days in advance of your trip. If you are staying outside Disney this can be done 30 days before your stay (with the advance purchase of a park ticket).

My advice is to set Fast Passes starting at 10am or later. Anything before 10am is usually not worth it because lines are manageable. You may wait for 45 minutes, but lines in the afternoon and evening can be hours long for popular attractions.

To start, you get three fast passes per person. Obviously if you want to stay together you set all people with the same selections. However, when you get older kids that enjoy coasters and haunted mansions, you may want to consider splitting up. I send dad with the daring kiddos and I choose a ride nearby.

For more information on Fast Passes click here.

For more planning tips, and all my best Disney advice, visit my Disney Tips and Tricks page!

Best Tips for a Successful Walt Disney World Vacation

2017-01-29T16:12:00.002-05:00

So you're going to Disney....it's overwhelming right? I've been there over 40 times throughout my life, from my parents taking me as a kid every year to me taking my kids every year. Disney is expensive, exhausting and confusing. There are different ticket options, dining options, dining plan options, Fast Passes to set up and hotels to consider.

We didn't even talk about transportation or the Magical Express.

Overwhelming indeed.

I wrote a book about all the personal data I've collected while traveling to Disney with kids. While much of my advice will always be relevant (as long as kids need naps, snacks, routines and sunscreen we're good), Disney is always changing.

Always.

In no particular order, here are my best tips for a successful vacation. These will never expire no matter how many times Disney updates its tickets, systems or parks.

1. Go during the off season.

This can be tricky if your kids are in school. We pulled our kids out of school until work was tough enough to make the crowds and extra expense of going over a break worth it. Every year we cleared the trip as an educational absence, which is completely true. A Disney vacation can teach you much about money, budgeting, patience and time management.

There are countries to tour in Epcot and the Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom. Educational experiences are all over at the Walt Disney World resort. I promise.

I found the best months to travel to Disney (I'm considering weather here) are September, October, November (before Thanksgiving) early December, February and May.

Crowds are lighter, the sun is still shining and you won't be battling for a seat on the bus as you ride to the parks.

2. Stay inside the parks.

Yes, this is expensive. But Disney has definitely made vacations more affordable with the sales, packages and deals throughout the year. They also have pretty reasonable resorts such as Art of Animation and Pop Century. The Disney service is still there, you can get to and from the parks easily and there are usually plenty of little kids at these resorts.

As long as you don't mind cafeteria style food and corny decor you'll save a bundle using a value resort.

Staying inside the parks makes Disney feel more like a vacation. You don't have to battle with driving or parking, they send packages back to your room from the parks and you can utilize Magic Hours if you choose.

3. Use Magic Hours, or COMPLETELY avoid them.

There are two ways to go about Magic Hours (the days parks open early or stay open late for resort guests). Either you use them to your advantage or you stay away.

We use them. If a park opens at 7am, we are there at 6:50. We usually ride at least 5 rides in the first hour and we hardly wait at all. We are back at our resort by noon swimming and enjoying the pool. If you go to a park that has Magic Hours and you don't arrive early, you're looking at bigger crowds. People very often pick the park that will stay open late or they get started early and stay all day.

We don't, but many people do.

Crowds are typically more manageable extremely early in the day or at the park without Magic Hours.

If you're crazy enough to get up and get to a park by 7am, do it. You'll get more done and you can grab an afternoon siesta by the pool or in your room.

If you have an infant or toddler YOU SHOULD BE GOING BACK TO YOUR ROOM FOR A NAP ANYWAY. This is a tip in my book, and you best live by it or battle tantrums.

4. Use your Fast Passes wisely.

When you book your Fast Passes, book them for around 10am at the earliest. If you go to a park when it opens (see #3) you will ride several rides without a wait. A FastPass at 9am is a waste. Plan your Fast Passes for those times of the day the lines will get long.

5. Bring your own snacks.

Even if you opt for a meal plan (they are costly but worth it if you don't bring any of your own food) you will still need snacks. A hot pretzel is about $6 in Disney. If you're a family of four, and you need a snack, every stop will cost $25 without even getting a drink. Do yourself a favor and pack granola bars, dry cereal and other grab and go snacks in your luggage. Bring a small backpack to the park with your extra drinks and snacks. If you have a stroller this extra bag is no problem.

You'll thank me. We have never entered a Disney Park without a bag full of drinks, snacks and sunscreen in all of our forty plus trips.

Wishing everyone a wonderful trip - and peace of mind while planning! For more in-depth practical and easy to follow planning tips grab my book on Amazon. It's a well spent 99 cents!

Happy Trails!

Social Media and Kids. Tough Stuff.

2015-04-12T21:35:00.001-04:00

Lately I’ve been thinking about how crazy, weird and out of control the world seems to be. Everything moves at an intensely fast pace. News on the front page of Yahoo changes by the hour, and most of it is either bad news or garbage.

It’s frightening.

I think about my kids, and how different life is now as opposed to when I was growing up. We didn’t have cell phones or computers, so when I went home from school no one could find me and bother me.

They had to call the house or come over. That was it. Only two options.

My parents knew who was calling our house and if I wanted privacy I had to stretch the phone cord and sit in a closet. Or around the corner. My kids don’t have this issue, and I wish so badly they did. My kids can have nonstop conversations via text and I have no clue what is being discussed.

Yes I have passcodes for all their devices, but I’ll be the first to admit I don’t check them enough. If there is a problem I am all over it, but by then the damage is usually done.

Kids don’t have the tools to navigate all the social media and online options they have today. They aren’t capable of weighing decisions like we are. They are inundated with messages and without a family watching closely over them, I wonder which message kids will identify with these days. This goes for elementary school-ers, middle school-ers and high school-ers.

I know I did stuff I shouldn’t have done when I was a kid. I was rotten to classmates for a few short years. As kind as I was at home, and as good hearted as I know I was, I can remember things I did that make me shudder today. I didn’t realize how my words could be so hurtful, and truthfully if there were social media in my heyday I am pretty certain I would have made some pretty shitty decisions.

Watch your kids. Read their messages. Limit their access to social media and other online forums. They are KIDS. They don’t have the tools to swim across the choppy, online waters. We didn’t either, but we didn’t have to worry about it. There is a chance your child is writing messages that are inappropriate; there is a chance your child is receiving them. In most cases both children are good, it’s the decision making skills that are to blame. I work in a high school and over half the trouble kids get into is because of things they wrote online. Or stuff they shared. Or conversations they jumped in on.

Be a parent. Be vigilant and if you can’t be vigilant limit what your kids have access to. I find the less my kids have as far as social media the less I have to monitor. Which makes my life easier and keeps them out of trouble.

I have a friend who asks her kids, if they claim someone called them a name, "Are you? Are you what they said you are?" If they say no, she tells them not to worry about it. We can't change what other people think and say. If they say they ARE what they were called, she tells them to either change it or accept it.

Period.

We all need to teach kids responsibility for their actions and their behaviors. Those tools will be useful well into adulthood. What you teach your kids to put out into the world is what they are going to receive. This is true in everything, even online.

Have a happy, safe and wonderful week with your kids. Check messages and social media, or even better, unplug.

Cheers!

5 Tips Save Money at Disney World

2015-04-06T15:34:00.004-04:00

We just returned from a week in Disney World. Well, 6 days. We drove which really cuts into vacation time when you have to travel 16 hours in the car one way.

I have many Disney posts to write, because the parks are constantly evolving and this trip I experienced a few firsts. We used the Magic Band system and we finally rode the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. I also paid $5.50 for a Churro, which blew my mind.

I’ve watched the prices inside the parks go up every year since I was a kid. I remember when the Dining Plan was just $9.99/day for a child. Truthfully it wasn’t that long ago. I know this because I paid it for my kids on a few of our trips. I was a tad disheartened to see how expensive the food inside the parks (and the souvenirs) have become. A Disney vacation is many times a once in a lifetime trip, or at least a once every several years trip. But seeing the current cost of lodging, tickets and food I wonder how many families will ever make the trip.

We didn't do the meal plan, and we stayed in our Disney timeshare. We got a great deal on tickets through the DVC (Disney Vacation Club). We are very blessed because all of these things make our Disney trips possible. I've been there enough times (40+) to understand the system and save our family money. We are a well-oiled Disney vacationing machine.

There are many ways to vacation in Disney. Packages, staying outside the parks and driving in every day, staying inside the parks and using Disney transportation, some families just do one park and that’s it. Before I dive in, I want to add that if you are flying and staying in a Disney resort, the meal plan is really the way to go. It’s not necessary, but food in the parks is expensive. And if you don’t have a car, you’re stuck with what Disney wants to charge for a hamburger. The meal plan is best value – by far- if you need to purchase most of your food in the parks.

To maximize savings, here are a few of my best tips for families:

1. If you are staying inside Disney World (at a Disney resort), flying and doing a package with the meal plan, you still need to pack dried goods in your luggage. This is why:

The standard meal plan provides 2 meals – one quick service and one table service. You also get one snack. Families on the Disney Dining Plan should always maximize the dollar and book dinners for table service. These meals are the most expensive (as opposed to using that table service for a breakfast buffett). Let’s say you plan to eat quick service early (11am) for lunch in the parks and you book restaurant dinner for 5pm. You get one snack a day. Most likely, you or your kids will want a snack in between lunch and dinner. Or after dinner before bed. A hot pretzel, a bottle of water, a Mickey Krispy…you get the idea.

But wait, you haven’t had breakfast!

And your kids haven’t had breakfast!

Do yourself a favor and pack granola bars, oatmeal packets, dry cereal and other easy snacks in your luggage. Even if you have to pay for that extra bag and fill it with snacks and juice pouches, and it costs $30 to get it on the plane, remember ONE churro costs $5.50. If you are a family of four, and you have to stop and buy a snack or a breakfast for everyone, you will spend at least $20 every time you whip out the wallet.

Bring snack food in your luggage, and pack a small soft cooler for the parks.

If you have a stroller, hang it on the back. If you don’t have a stroller pack a backpack. Disney allows visitors to bring food in, so take advantage!

The other option – if you really don’t want to bring food along, is to book a late breakfast (table service) and eat enough to get you to your quick service dinner. Or vice versa.

Just remember that after buying that dining plan you will cringe when you have to pay for any extra food at Disney prices.

2. If you don’t do the meal plan, and you have a car, GO TO THE SUPERMARKET. Fill your room with groceries and pack a cooler every day for the parks. Budget the kids and let them each buy ONE snack a day in the parks. This is exciting enough and it won’t break the bank. But for lunches? Think peanut butter and jelly, apples, yogurts and even Lunchables. The plan is to eat from your cooler.

We have done this many times and it works. We have gone to the parks and not spent a single dollar. Pack your soft cooler before you head out in the mornings and eat dinners outside of Disney if possible.

3. The kids need to bring their own souvenir money. Mom and dad pay for the tickets and the food. But make it VERY CLEAR the kids spend their own money on stuffed animals and other souvenirs. Give the kids methods to earn spending money by assigning chores at home and saving birthday money. Make this a big deal so they understand there are NO LOANERS from mom and dad.

4. Skip the extras. Do not do the Memory Maker Picture package. Bring your camera and ask the photographers by the characters to take a photo with your camera as well. They will. No need for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, bring Disney dresses and doll your daughter up in the hotel room. I have a tutorial video HERE if you want to do a copycat boutique hairstyle.

Truthfully, you don't even need a park hopper add on for the tickets. Go to one park a day and enjoy your hotel when you are finished. The less running the better with small kids, and everyone will enjoy the downtime.

5. Buy before you go!

For families with kids who are Pin Traders, buy pins on ebay before you leave. Kids trade away the pins they have, so what they start with shouldn't be their favorite. The goal is to trade and find favorites.

Before you leave for you trip, buy small souvenirs at Walmart and Target when you see them on sale. If you see a small Mickey stuffed animal, buy it and toss it in your luggage. Leave this for your child “from Mickey Mouse” in the hotel room. Get one small surprise for every day of the trip and leave them for your kids to wake up to every morning. These will keep your little ones from salivating over every toy in the gift shops. They will love their gifts from Disney Pals and you will save tons on souvenirs. Look for shirts, sunglasses, small toys, and stuffed animals.

Lastly, bring your own sunscreen and ibuprofen. Pack hand wipes and sanitzers. The less you need to buy on site the better.

Share your saving tricks in the comments section!

Easter Treats

2015-04-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

I have Easter on the brain. I’m busy stuffing plastic eggs and looking for goodies to fill those Easter baskets. We like to celebrate holidays on a larger scale, since our kids don’t receive much throughout the year unless it is needed. Their big chances for new anythings are birthdays, Christmas and Easter.

Oh, and of course back to school time.

For us Easter involves plenty of sweet treats for the family. We buy candy, make candy and eat candy. We enjoy a delicious brunch with waffles and whipped cream. We go 100% for a full day and worry about the calories on Monday.

Recently I had the opportunity to sample Sugarbowl Bakery, a family-owned bakery that sells products through retailers nationwide. On their website you can find top quality recipes (love this!) and links with information on where to purchase their products. I was floored with how rich and chewy their brownies are, and even more floored they’re all cholesterol-free, have zero grams of trans fat, and have no preservatives.

As a parent I love knowing I can read all the ingredients on a box. It definitely helps me sleep better at night.

Another favorite Easter treat? The bunny cake. We make one every year, and I’ve blogged about the cake before. It’s a great family tradition that the kids absolutely love.

Happy Almost Easter!

Check out my other Easter posts:

Easter Basket Ideas

Easter Cupcakes

Easter Egg Hunt: What to Stuff in All those Eggs!

"Garbage Time"

2015-03-23T21:59:00.004-04:00

Garbage time. It’s a term I’d never heard before my kids were involved in sports on a competitive level. Garbage time is the playing time at the very end of a losing game; the thirty seconds before the half, the last quarter of a football game if your team is winning by three touchdowns.

Garbage time. The time that really doesn’t make any difference at all in the game. The time reserved for kids who aren’t as athletic, talented or maybe they are just younger and need better skills. The time reserved the players that stand on the sidelines waiting their turn to get in the game, with their uniform still clean from last night’s wash.

The time that truthfully, isn’t garbage at all. It’s the game time that many parents wait for; the time that builds confidence and makes many kids feel like they’re part of a team. It’s the time that some kids never have to wait for, while other kids pray their team scores just one more time so they can be assured a few minutes on that field.

I’ve been on all sides of the “garbage time” fence. My kids have played it and my coaching husband has managed it. My kids have also played entire games and entire seasons and only come off the field for the other kids to get their “garbage time.”

It’s such a horrible term. I loathe it. I have sat so many times in the cold huddled under a blanket, waiting to see my son run onto the field. In the heat, sweltering, waiting for an at bat. I’ve driven over an hour to games just to watch that three minutes of “garbage time,” and it’s made my entire week.

That time is essential to so many athletes. Kids who have yearned to be a part of a team and kids who have practiced just as hard (sometimes harder) than the athletes who have more natural ability. When kids decide to go out for a team, they are putting themselves out there. They are chancing ridicule and embarrassment, but they are also hoping to gain teammates and the bragging rights to say they are part of that team. I sincerely feel that every kid who goes out for a team, on any level, deserves a place. Whether it be a scorekeeper, waterboy, equipment manager or the kid who gets that precious “garbage time.”

In the days of youth sports, I can only pray that there are more coaches that will share that mentality. We need more coaches that give a shout out at practice to the kids that continue to show up without basking in the glory of winning touchdowns and grand slam homeruns. Coaches need to remember to stress the value of every player, because a team couldn’t scrimmage against themselves if every player didn’t show up to practice.

Every player has a value. Every. Single. One.

I must admit that I'm thankful over the years I have been on both ends of this spectrum, because I have gained so much perspective seeing the field from both sets of eyes. I've watched with eyes so competitive and hungry for the team's success, and I've watched with eyes on my son, waiting patiently for his turn to take the field.

I’m not saying teams shouldn’t aim for a winning record. I’m not saying every kid deserves equal time. I’m urging parents and coaches and players to view that “garbage time” differently. It’s the stuff that kids need to learn to be proud of. They earned it, and even if they are just trying a new sport or the most unathletic on the team, their parents are up there smiling in the stands. Those three minutes at the end of the game can make a child’s day, and considering 99.9% of kids in Little League, Midget Football, Tee Ball, Elementary Soccer, Junior High Basketball and even many high school teams will never go pro, let’s keep things in perspective.

Success isn't just a winning record. It's how you send those players into the world.

Give the players their time. If you’re winning by a decent margin rotate them in. Most of all, teach the more skilled players to cheer them on and encourage them. Good teammates are the ones that recognize every player on the team. They see them every day sweating through practice even though they barely see the field, and they pat them on the shoulders even when they make a mistake.

That’s what being a team is all about. Along with building records and legacies, let’s build something that kids can really take with them.

Character.

Easy Irish Soda Bread

2015-03-16T22:03:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!! The Leprechauns were here and the house is in disarray. Chairs upside down, green stick figures on playroom artwork and even a few gold coins for the kids.

In the kitchen is a fresh loaf of soda bread. I have a deep sincere love for Irish Soda Bread. I try to feed the bread to my kids to ensure I don't eat the whole loaf. But I end up eating the whole loaf.

Every time.

Thank Heavens St. Patrick's Day is only once a year. My pants couldn't take any more than that.

Mommyhood's EASY Irish Soda Bread

1/2 c. white sugar
4 c. all purpose flour (plus a tbsp for dusting)
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3 c. raisins
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/4 c. buttermilk
1 c. sour cream

Preheat oven to 350. Grease a 9 inch cake pan.

In medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and raisins.

In small bowl, lightly beat eggs and add buttermilk and sour cream.

Stir the liquid mixture into the dry mixture until flour is moistened. Knead dough in bowl with additional 15-20 strokes. Dough will be sticky.

Turn dough into pan and pat down. Make a 4"x1" slice in middle and dust with flour.

Bake 55-65 minutes or until center is just done when toothpick is inserted. I like to remove bread when center is a tad moist and minimal dough is on pick when center is pierced.

I don't do dry baked goods. This includes my bread.

Remove from pan and cool on wire rack.

While bread is still hot from oven cut yourself a slice and slather it with butter. Eat it.

Then even out the bread because you know you cut it sloppy.

Do your best to stop yourself there.

Have a fabulous Tuesday!

**Recipe adapted from www.allrecipes.com**

10 Household Uses for Baking Soda

2015-03-10T21:58:00.001-04:00

This past year I’ve been writing blogs about simple household stuff that can be used in a variety of ways. I’ve written about different uses for toothpaste, Hydrogen Peroxide, Borox and Distilled White Vinegar. Today I’m hittin’ up Baking Soda.

There are many reasons I like to use basic household supplies in a variety of ways. I save money and I expose my kids to less toxins. I’m not a cynic, but I do think that the crazy world of marketing has us believing we need a lot more than we actually do.

Today, I’m looking at the amazing world of Baking Soda, and all it’s fabulous possibilities…

Deodorize Carpets

Aside from baking, this is my favorite use for Baking Soda. Sprinkle on your carpets and let sit for at least fifteen minutes. Vacuum up for a fresh scent.

Car Cleaner

Use Baking Soda on chrome, vinyl, tires and windows without the worry of scratch marks.

Back of the Fridge

This one is no surprise but I had to include it. An open box of Baking Soda in the back of the fridge neutralizes odors.

Deodorant

Baking Soda can be used underarm to neutralize odors. This is a great solution when you are out of deodorant. I may or may not have been there.

Mouthwash

Add one teaspoon to half a glass of water and swish. Using baking soda gets rid of odors, it won’t just mask them.

Face Wash

Mix three teaspoons baking soda with one teaspoon water and rub in circular motion. Rinse. This is a gentle wash that can be used daily.

Clean Brushes and Combs

Fill a large bowl with warm water and add a teaspoon baking soda. Soak your brushes and combs to remove residue.

Laundry

Add ½ cup baking soda to your laundry detergent to boost cleaning.

Deodorize Sports Bags and Shoes

Sprinkle baking soda in smelly gym bags and shoes and let sit overnight. Shake out the next day and enjoy the freshness.

Clean the Sink

Sprinkle baking soda in the sink and scrub with a sponge. Pour a ½ cup down the drain and run the warm water to deodorize the drain.

Do you have any Baking Soda tricks? Share them in the comments!

Dinner on the Run

2015-03-09T06:31:00.000-04:00

I’ll be honest. We eat fast food. I’ve long held on to the belief that moderation is key, and with the chaotic schedule my family keeps, there are nights a drive thru is the best option. Between working until 4pm and running my kids to practices until 8pm (sometimes later) I need to be very prepared if I’m going to have a dinner ready in advance.

This doesn’t happen often.

On the nights we need a quick dinner, I do try to make the best choice when it comes to the almighty drive thru. To save money I have the kids share meals, and we skip buying everyone a beverage. We take the food home and we have drinks from our fridge, add sliced apples and get to the homework and lunch packing for the next day.

It's a rare evening we are home from after school until bedtime. With four kids all involved in sports, we usually have somewhere to be or someone to pick up.

Since I'm always looking for easy meals on the run, I’m thrilled to announce KFC (a family favorite over here) debuted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets. These nuggets aren’t molded and shaped. They are made from 100% white meat and they actually resemble chicken. They taste like chicken. And my kids LOVE them. I do too.

Truthfully, ever since trying them I'm staging a "nugget-vention." No more molded nuggets. No more processed chicken that never goes bad. I'll take KFC's Popcorn Chicken with a biscuit any day of the week. One container will satisfy my hungry kids, and it's perfect for nibbling in the car. These nuggets are freshly prepared and crispy and there is no comparison to other nuggets we've tried over the years.

It makes me wonder what the heck my kids have really been eating.

From now on, if you see someone you love eating nuggets that don't even look like actual chicken, step in. Suggest an alternative. Get to your nearest KFC because once you've tried their Popcorn Chicken nuggets you will never go back.

True story.

When have you or a friend needed a nugget-vention?

This is a KFC-sponsored post for BlogHer. All opinions are 100% my own.

KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., is the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain. KFC specializes in Original Recipe®, Extra Crispy™, Kentucky Grilled Chicken® and Extra Crispy™ Tenders, Hot Wings™, Go Cup®, KFC Famous Bowls®, Pot Pies, freshly prepared chicken sandwiches, biscuits and home-style side items. There are more 4,300 KFC outlets in the United States. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, Ky. (NYSE: YUM.) For more information, visit www.kfc.com. Follow KFC on Facebook and Twitter.

Be sure to visit the KFC brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!

Small Achievements, Big Wins

2015-03-01T12:17:00.000-05:00

Holy smokes I haven't blogged in awhile. Life gets in the way. Always the case.

This weekend, my daughter competed in a Unite for Her gymnastics meet. The Pink Invitational raises money and awareness for breast cancer research and education. The meet is in Philadelphia, and it is the biggest meets we compete in. Gymnasts come from different states, and there are several sessions. Thousands of gymnasts walk the streets of Philadelphia and its safe to say if you are near where you need to be you'll find the meet.

Follow the hot pink scrunchies and gymnastics bags.

This year, like last year, my daughter is in a tough age group. This is obviously going to follow her until she decides gymnastics isn't her cup of tea. These girls will grow and compete alongside her every season. My daughter's reality is that a score that could win the age group higher than hers probably will only get you 3rd or 4th in her age division. The upside is you learn to train harder and expect more of yourself, the downside is seeing teammates win more often than you see yourself win.

At the Pink Invitational, my daughter didn't have any stand out scores. She performed well on every event. Strong routines but not enough for the big numbers that are guaranteed to hit the podium. We went into awards expecting just about nothing.

And then she caught a 9th place on bars. Many meets will medal the top 50%, which is nice when girls come from all over and perform their little hearts out.

In the All Around, which is the most coveted award, a stand out score won't help if you tank another event. All Around medals are meant to award the girls who perform well on all four events, which is a difficult task. All Around placements are always last, and by now we were ready to hit the food market because we were starving.

We were gathering our bags, getting ready to run, when my daughter's name was called.

I about crapped my pants.

My daughter usually places in the AA at meets, but this was a BIG meet. The scores that won 1st, 2nd and 3rd places on each individual event were high. We were not expecting any type of placement, let alone the AA.

On our three hour trek home I realized that while everyone loves a standout score, a killer routine or an obvious win, there is something to be said for little achievements that add up to something big. I look at my daughter, who has always been a good competitor, and I feel this is her mantra. She very rarely tanks anything. She puts up good routines, and every so often she'll blow it out of the park. We haven't seen that yet this year, so she usually catches a placement in the top third. Which is good. It's solid.

But it isn't anything that screams achievement.

But on Friday, it was apparent that little achievements add up to big things. One person might be incredibly talented at something, so much so that their success is almost blinding.

But on something else, they are weak.

There is something to be said for working hard and looking at the bigger picture. One pound weight loss a week isn't much. But 52 pounds a year is. One clean closet one weekend might not make a big difference. But an organized house a month later feels pretty dang good.

I'm guilty of looking for the big win, the almighty #1. We all are. Especially with our kids.

But let's not overlook how amazing the All Around is. The kid who can perform in school, life and sports. I'm focusing on the whole package these days, because those little wins add to phenomenal things.

Every time.

Walt Disney World FastPass+ Tips

2015-02-19T22:27:00.003-05:00

This year Walt Disney World rolled out the new FastPass+ system. They also rolled out the MagicBand system, which replaces the paper and plastic tickets for families staying on Disney properties. It's alot to absorb and truthfully I was a fan of the old system, which gave families more freedom in the parks and required less pre-park planning.

This post is going to focus on the FastPass+ system. Along with setting reservations months in advance for restaurants, you now can set FastPasses as well. You can change your FastPass+ selections as much as you like, even the day you are in the park. But if you travel during a Peak season (Christmas vacation, Spring Break) you need to get on the ball. Popular attractions fill up and Fast Passes for certain days may become unavailable.

The days of running to an attraction when the park opens to grab a FastPass for later in the day are long gone. Disney has required us to think and plan really hard. It's not terrible, but it takes some getting used to.

Once you've planned a trip to Disney, you need to set up a "My Disney Experience" account. This site is actually one of my favorites, and I recommended having one even before FastPass+ was born. It's a great resource for your trip and links all your confirmation and reservations numbers.

Now it also sets your FastPass+ selections.

Once you are set up and linked up with all your confirmation numbers you can make an Itinerary. You can go through each day and set your FastPasses. This gets tricky because you'll need to think about what park you will be in every day. Remember to consider all restaurant reservations and other plans.

If you are eating dinner in Epcot, and you are without a Park Hopper pass that allows you more than one park a day, you need to be in Epcot that day.

When you add a FP+ for a park, the screen will prompt you to pick three attractions. Each person in your party gets three FastPasses/day. THESE CAN BE FOR DIFFERENT ATTRACTIONS! I have kids that don't ride coasters, and I set FastPasses for me to take them on Winnie the Pooh while their dad takes the "big kids" on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

When you choose your three attractions, Disney will set up a few suggested itineraries. Select whichever you like best. YOU CAN MODIFY THESE IMMEDIATELY.

I don't like to be in the parks in the afternoons. We like to swim at the hotel. I like my FastPasses to be for either when we go back at night or late morning. I modify all my selections to fit my schedule.

Things to remember:

1. You need to make an itinerary. Look at park schedules (when they open, what events are in each park) and get an idea of where you want to be each day. Flying by the seat of your vacation pants will cause a headache unless you are so laid back you really don't care about lines and itineraries.

God bless you if you can handle that.

2. You can modify FastPass times as much as you like; you can cancel FastPasses and change parks. By downloading the "My Disney Experience" app on your phone you can manage your vacation easily.

I recommend making your FastPass+ selections as far in advance as possible to ensure you have a FP for the rides you are interested in the most. FastPasses for some attractions "sell out" for an entire day. They also may have minimal times available which will limit you if you have specific plans and reservations.

3. Avoid setting FastPasses within the first hour of park opening. Lines are minimal and this is just wasting a FP. Save those beauties for midday and evening, when the parks are filled up and the wait times are lengthy.

4. Do some research as to where rides are in the parks. If you aren't familiar with the parks, you can view maps on Disney's website.

5. Don't be afraid of splitting up. If you have a few people who want to ride a coaster, and a few who can't or don't want to, look for rides nearby and set different FastPasses for the same window of time.

There is much to know and learn when I comes to Disney. I learn something new every time I go because the parks are always changing. Share any tips below - I'd love to hear them!

Happy Trails!

Yesterday, My Blessings Smacked Me in the Face

2015-02-13T09:03:00.002-05:00

I honor of Valentine's Day, I'm going to share a very special story.

Yesterday I had a wake up call. I was smacked in the face with how blessed I am.

Ever since I started working full time I've had moments I feel disappointed. I'm grateful for my job, and as a mom, to be working in a school, there is no better schedule. But even with how much I love being a school secretary I have my moments. I'm not home to style my daughter's hair weekday mornings or to drop off my three younger kids at school. I also lost the job of school pick up to my husband.

I admit there was some resentment.

Three days of the week, my daughter leaves for gymnastics practice before I even see her face for the day. I don't get my school updates or cuddles before 9pm.

Que a tad more resentment.

It's easy to miss being home to bring them to school and pick them up, bake and clean and do all the stuff I did before I worked full time. I should pause here and say I get snow days, delays and every school holiday. So I kind of feel like I shouldn't even say I work full time. I work 3/4 time. That's more the truth.

Yesterday I had a lengthy conversation with one of our school aides. I've spoken with her before, notably on black Friday at 4am in the bookstore. She was working the register.

Obviously this took me a tad by surprise although I know many people work two jobs. And in retail, you work Black Friday. I've done it. I figured she wasn't married because she told me how she works the second job for her benefits since she doesn't get them through the school.

She continued to tell me about how many hours she works, how she lives 30 minutes from the bookstore but she needs the second job until the school gives her a position that offers insurance. I'm going to admit I make assumptions about people, and my assumption was that she was single, never married and working two jobs to support herself. Not easy.
Last week, this aide came into my office and asked if I wanted to buy a hoagie to support her son's boy scout troop.

Huh?

My mind began spinning. My assumptions were all wrong and suddenly I felt a deep sadness because I know with her schedule she had it a lot tougher than I ever thought a few weeks prior. After more conversation she told me about her son, who is seven. About how they live with her parents since her husband left two years ago. How she went from working three jobs to the two she has, and she sees her son 45 minutes a day during the week. Forty-five minutes. That was a lot to swallow. She picks him up from school, does his homework with him and leaves for the bookstore. She gets home at 10:30pm after he is in bed. She does this Monday through Friday.

And she works a full day Saturday.

All of this had me thanking my lucky stars that my worries are styling hair before school. I can't even begin to imagine, as a mother, missing my son the way I know she does. Missing all the time with him and the milestones and the special, small moments. She feels blessed to live with her parents because her son is never left with a sitter. But I could see the tears swelling in her eyes when I asked how hard it was to have that kind of schedule.

We never know someone else's story. As mothers, we need to support each other and build each other up because we are all doing the best we can. We're all trudging through each day praying our kids are safe and we're not screwing them up. I work with a mother who works two jobs and doesn't put her son to bed five nights a week. She doesn't give him his before bed kisses, and she doesn't even get to make his weekday dinners.

Yet every day she comes to work, smiling and working one on one with an autistic child in our system. She follows him, eats with him and calls for help when he runs through the halls.

Knowing her has humbled me and made me count my blessings. As I sit here blogging because I'm on a two hour cold delay, I realize how lucky I am. I styled hair this morning. I even made cinnamon rolls. And all I can think is how she got to spend two extra hours with her son this Friday, which makes me smile ear to ear.

Mamas, we're a team. Today put away the judgements because that mom that is never at school parties or pickups? She may be living a similar existence to the one I just told you about. And more than anything, these special moms deserve our love and support. Spread love. Be supportive. Hold your snappy comebacks and glares. Make today, and every day, about playing as a team.

Find a mama and tell her how awesome she is. You'll make her day.

Cheers!

10 Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide

2015-02-10T11:19:00.000-05:00

I have always kept a bottle of Hydrgen Peroxide in the house. It resides in our upstairs bathroom, with the nighttime cough medicines and cotton balls. Over the years I have dabbed and poured Hydrogen Peroxide on many cuts and scrapes. But I have also used it to clean ears (my favorite use), whiten clothes, and disinfect toothbrushes. It is non toxic, inexpensive and the world's safest all natural sanitizer! What's not to love?

Below are 10 uses for Hydrogen Peroxide.

1. Ear Cleaner

One of my children (who shall remain nameless) could make a candle a day with his/her ears. Sticking a QTIP down the ear only pushes the wax in and makes everything more uncomfortable. Ever since being told by our pediatrician about Hydrogen Peroxide, I have used it to clean all my kids' ears. Just have your child lay flat, on their side, and pour half a capful into the ear. After a few seconds, the Hydrogen Peroxide will start to bubble and fizz and loosen the wax. Let sit for a few minutes while it does it's work. A few minutes later, stick a cotton ball over the ear and have your child turn to the other side dumping the Peroxide.

Your cotton ball will be yellow and the ear will be clean!

2. Laundry

Add a cup of Hydrogen Peroxide to the wash to whiten clothes. It is also great for removing blood stains. Just pour some Peroxide right on the spot and let sit for a few minutes. Wash as usual.

3. Mouthwash

Hydrogen Peroxide is fantastic for tooth whitening and even lessens the chances you'll have canker sores.

4. Toothbrush Disinfectant

Soak toothbrushes in Hydrogen Peroxide to rid them of germs and all that toothbrushing skank.

5. Carpet Cleaner

Try Hydrogen Peroxide on your carpets, it works great for blood/red stains. Pour, let sit a minute two and dab with a clean cloth. (watch those dark carpets, it may lighten them up)

6. Sanitize

Hydrogen Peroxide is great for sanitizing your cutting boards, bathrooms and kitchen surfaces. DO not dilute it, and it's best to use it straight from the bottle. My favorite sanitizing secret? Put a spray nozzle on your Peroxide bottle and use it to disinfect the inside of the lunch boxes.

7. Mold

If you ever had a mold problem, Hydrogen Peroxide is the perfect cleaning solution.

8. Wound Care

This is an obvious one...but Hydrogen Peroxide is so amazing I almost forgot it!

9. Sinus Infections/Nasal Spray

A tablespoon of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide and one cup non-chlorinated water can be used as an effective and safe nasal spray.

10. Hair Lightener

Dilute 3% Hydrogen Peroxide with water, spray on your hair and comb it through for natural highlights. The change is gradual and you won't get that "bleached out" look.

Do you have any Hydrogen Peroxide tricks I missed? Share them!

*Disclaimer* I am not a doctor or offering advice on using Hydrogen Peroxide. I'm just sharing what I know!

Lifebank USA (and a Baby Monitor giveaway!)

2015-01-29T22:39:00.002-05:00

LifeBank USA contacted me to help them promote their Uniden Lullaboo Video Baby Monitor giveaway, and more importantly inform parents all about cord blood banking and how valuable it can be to your child and other loved ones. LifebankUSA is giving away THREE top rated, Uniden Video Baby Monitors, valued at $105 each. To enter this contest,and read more about LifeBankUSA visit LifeBankUSA on Facebook.

With every one of my pregnancies, I considered cord blood banking. It felt like an insurance policy, something I may never need but would offer peace of mind. And if I ever did need it, I would be eternally grateful to have it. I still, to this day, regret not having cord blood stored away in case (heaven forbid) we would ever need it.

Maybe it's time for another baby. Just kidding, kind of.

Mothers want their babies to be safe. We child proof just about everything and read food labels. We take them to the doctor and watch them sleep. Cord blood goes well beyond baby proofing, it can be a valuable resource if your child is in an accident or gets sick. Cord blood has been proven to save lives.

Cord blood banking enables you to collect and preserve potentially lifesaving stem cells, which could one day save the life of your child or another blood relative. You can bank even more stem cells by collecting them from two usable sources of stem cell-rich blood; the umbilical cord and the placenta. This is called Placental and Cord Blood Banking, and LifebankUSA is the only company to offer this service. Whether you choose Placental and Cord Blood Banking or Cord Blood Banking alone, there are many important reasons to choose LifeBankUSA.

Don't forget to share this giveaway with moms you know, and good luck!!

The 2015 Disney Dining Guide

2015-01-29T22:05:00.000-05:00

Dining at Disney World can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With this 2015 Disney Dining Guide, you can learn what's new at the parks, the best places to eat, and even the best times to dine. Ready to get the inside scoop?

New Eats at Disney World Resort

Trader Sam's Grog Grotto
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
At Trader Sam's you are invited to explore a mysterious yet inviting tropical oasis. The lounge, modeled after the themed lounge at Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, California, serves tiki-style cocktails and food with a Polynesian flair. Set to open spring 2015.

Harambe Marketplace
Animal Kingdom
African dishes with a street-inspired spin are the hallmark of Harambe Marketplace, a quick-service food option with walk-up windows. Shady spaces to eat, coveted on those hot Orlando days, surround the marketplace – a definite bonus. Opening spring 2015.

Starbucks
Disney's Hollywood Studios
You may think Starbucks isn't a big addition, but this is Disney – so think again. The new coffee hotspot, named the Trolley Car Café, lets you sip your favorite Starbucks latte all while immersed in a throwback trolley-car-themed atmosphere along Hollywood Boulevard. For coffee lovers in need of caffeine, it's a must-stop. Open February 2015.

STK, The Boathouse, Morimoto Asia
Downtown Disney
Three new restaurants open at Downtown Disney in 2015 as it continues its transformation into Disney Springs. All will be located at The Landing, the first phase of the project. STK, a modern steakhouse with a chic vibe, does not have an opening date yet. However, The Boathouse, an extravagant lakeside eatery, will open spring 2015. Then, this summer, look forward to the fusion creations of Chef Morimoto at Morimoto Asia.

Best Places to Eat at Disney World

Princess Pick: Cinderella's Royal Table
Magic Kingdom
Reservations: 407-939-3463
Price: $$$ ($30-59 per adult)
When to Go: Breakfast
Raise your hand if you want to explore Cinderella's Castle. (I do! I do!) With reservations at Cinderella's Royal Table you can not only dine with the princess and her friends, but be surrounded by a fairytale setting straight out of a storybook. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available, but breakfast is the best time to go. Why? Because you start your day at the heart of the park with a true pinch-me moment. Reservations are required and can be made 180 days in advance. Make yours as soon as you have your vacation dates set to ensure an invite.

“Edited to add: Cinderella’s Royal Table is closed for renovations as of the first week of February, but according to Walt Disney World, they expect to re-open it in early spring."

Character Choice: Crystal Palace Buffet
Magic Kingdom
Reservations: Phone: (407) 939-3463
Price: $$$ ($36 to $59.99 per person)
When to Go: Lunch
You can't beat Chef Mickey's Breakfast at Disney's Contemporary Resort. But, if you are inside the Magic Kingdom a nice second choice is the Crystal Palace Buffet. Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore and friends will greet you during your meal. It's a memorable character meet-and-greet meal with easy-to-get reservations and much less hassle than Chef Mickey's Breakfast. Reservations are not required but are recommended.

Best Kept Secret: Tusker House Restaurant
Animal Kingdom
Reservations: (407) 939-3463
Price: $$$ ($30 to $59.99 per adult)
When to Go: Lunch (characters do not appear during dinner)
Many visitors have no idea you can have lunch with Safari Donald Duck and friends at the Animal Kingdom. The interactive lunch, set in an open-air market, combines laughs and photos with Disney characters with an all-you-can-eat buffet. The above-average buffet food is made better by unique African dishes. Reservations are not required but are recommended.

Most Wanted Reservation: Be Our Guest Restaurant
Magic Kingdom
Reservations: (407) 939-3463
Price: $ ($14.99 and under per adult – Lunch), $$ ($15 to $29.99 per adult – Dinner)
When to Go: Lunch and Dinner
Dinner reservations for Be Our Guest Restaurant are currently the hardest to acquire, and for good reason. Stunning in its recreation of Beast's Castle (from Beauty and the Beast), snow falls on the Alps outside three movie-scene themed dining rooms. It's a transportive experience, especially if you're a super fan of the movie like I am. Make reservations as far as 180 days in advance. If you can't score dinner reservations, opt for the quick-service lunch. There will be lines for the French fare, but they are worth it.

Kid-Friendly Seafood Selection: Coral Reef
Epcot
Reservations: (407) 560-7864
Price: $$ ($15 to $29.99 per adult)
When to Go: Dinner
Kids can turn their nose up at seafood, but at Coral Reef everyone will be happy. The menu lets the little ones order their favorites like mac ‘n cheese, while parents can dine on seared Mahi Mahi. The wrap-around aquariums are as attention-keeping as they are scenic, so fidgety kids will keep busy. Reservations are accepted, I recommend booking at least one week in advance.
I hope this takes some of the work out of planning the culinary side of your next Walt Disney World trip. Happy eating!

Ashley Dickey is Reserve Orlando's travel expert, visiting Orlando to find the best travel tips, money-saving deals and insider information. With over 10 years of experience in first-hand-travel adventures, she shares her stories, advice, and current events to help you stay in the know.

Target Cartwheel

2015-01-27T21:38:00.001-05:00

Years ago, I discovered an app called "Target Cartwheel." I stumbled upon it somehow, like everything else in life.

This year, Target combined the Cartwheel app with its Target mobile app. Truthfully, while it was frustrating master a new app, it made sense. The app is fairly simple, although it did take me a good few minutes to get going. Okay a few good days.

Basically, the Cartwheel app is just a place chock full of mobile coupons. You can browse the categories, which are fairly descriptive, and select offers such as 5% off bagged apples, or 15% off Cherokee tops for boys.

When you choose an offer it goes into your "Cartwheel." Think of a cart full of offers. There us a "scanner" in the app, and if you scan a barcode it will tell you if there is an offer available. This includes coupons. These offers are added to your cart, or "wallet."

You get so many "slots" to put your offers in, and as you continue to use Cartwheel you can open up more slots to save. The more you save the more offers you can choose. When you go to the check out, the cashier scans the "wallet" on your phone to apply your savings and discounts to whatever you bought.

When you download the app, the only areas you need to pay attention to are the scanner, the Cartwheel option and the Wallet.

The scanner will scan items and look for deals, they will be added to your Cartwheel if there are any. The Cartwheel option will enable you to browse categories for deals, and the wallet on the bottom is where you find your barcode to scan at checkout.

Cartwheel offers aren't going to save you hundreds in a month, but a few dollars every time you shop will add up. I promise. I saved over $170 in my first five months of using the app. There are great offers if you pay attention - I scored Halloween costumes at 50% off last year. BEFORE Halloween. Cartwheel had a two day offer running and I took major advantage. The app has become a "see how much I can save with Cartwheel" game. To date? Three years after download? Over $1200!

For the record Target has no idea who I am. Well, the local Target does because I'm there every day. I'm just saying that I shared this because I love to save.

And I know you do too. Try the Cartwheel app and let me know what you think!

Check out my post "Save BIG at Target" for even more moneysaving tips!

Finding the Magic in Winter

2015-01-19T15:46:00.000-05:00

January is crawling along. Every year, Christmas ends and January arrives and by March 1st I feel like I might go insane. I yearn for warm sunshine and fresh air. I start to get such bad cabin fever I'm willing to charge vacations I can't afford just to remedy the situation.

Don't worry I always cave. I plan the whole vacation and then something inside of me is still smart enough not to pull the trigger.

This year I'm trying something new. I'm making every effort to embrace the winter season. It's a time to slow down and recharge. There is no other time of year pajamas are quite as useful. Snuggling with my kids to keep warm is a nightly occurrence. Comfort foods and crock pots become essential to my well-being.

I've decided these are all good things. It's not so bad spending time inside and setting the DVR. There is something magical about snow falling and an early sunset. Little things like getting in a warm car become big things. And this winter rather than bitch and want to claw my eyes out I'm realizing there are bits and pieces of this season that aren't so bad.

I'm learning to love the sweatpants and appreciate the early nights. My feet adore warm boots and there is nothing like a soft oversized sweater. When the sun is out and the air is warm we run all day long. This time of year? We run much less. When the weather is bad we're forced to stop and stay home. All of us.

And that's when memories are made.

Before we know it we'll be firing up the barbecue with friends around us celebrating the start of summer. And maybe, just maybe enduring these long, cold months will make that first barbecue so much sweeter.

Stay warm. Snuggle. Call it a night early. That's what gets us through until the warmth returns. Having an excuse to stay home isn't such a bad thing. We need it every once in awhile.

It's all about attitude.

Cheers and have a blessed week!

3 Ingredient Turkey Meatballs

2015-01-15T23:07:00.003-05:00

One of the very few bonuses to winter in my house is that my family actually gets home cooked meals. Every year, from June through September, I go on a cooking hiatus. I do this for two very good reasons:

1. I refuse to stand in front of a hot stove without central air-conditioning.
2. I love, love, LOVE to eat out in the summer. I love to be out. I love the sunshine and warmth and not having to put my kids in coats and armor to survive the sub-zero temperatures.

It's called "everyone get on your flip flops and get in the car." Ah, heaven.

This week, because it's winter and the house is freezing, I cooked up a house favorite. These Turkey Meatballs make the cut because everyone eats them. I have two kids who dip the plain meatballs in either barbeque or ketchup, and I have two kids who eat them jazzed up with sauce and mozzerella cheese. All munchkins eat the warm rolls I add on the side.

And hubby? He eats them as meatball subs.

Win-win-win.

And me? I love them because they have only three ingredients. Simple, easy and delicious.

1 lb ground turkey
Squeeze ketchup (about 2 tablespoons)
3/4 cup plain (or Italian) bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 400. Spray baking dish with nonstick spray or drizzle olive oil on bottom and set aside. Using hands, mix all three ingredients in a large bowl. Shape turkey into 2" balls, and line in a baking dish. Bake at 400 for 40 minutes until center is done.

Serve with red sauce, plain or make subs. Add mozzerella cheese and warm rolls. If you have salad mix serve with a salad. The possibilities are endless.

Stay warm and remember...it's almost the weekend!

*a much loved repost*

Progress

2015-01-08T08:41:00.002-05:00

Progress. It’s a word I never thought much of until recently.

While sitting at a gymnastics private lesson, I was listening to my daughter’s coach work her through her vault. Vault is her worst event, and I say that because she hasn’t really improved her score in two years. She is good for a solid 8.5 every meet, maybe a little more, maybe a little less. She saw an 8.9 at one meet and I almost fell off my seat. She's kind of "stood still" with her technique. Nothing better, nothing worse.

After one of her many vaults that session, her coach pulled her aside and told her he saw progress. Truthfully I didn’t see too much of a difference in that particular vault, there was a smidge but not much.

But to him, that’s all that mattered.

He praised her for the progress, no matter how small. He reminded her that’s all he cares about. Progress. That’s it.

Lately I’ve been thinking about that concept. I realize how hard we all are on ourselves. We set these gigantic goals and we ride our kids hard about doing better. Imagine how much more fulfilled we’d be if we focused on the progress instead of the big picture? Leave the big picture for long run and let every day be about the progress.

It’s important to look at the journey, and I know I get too caught up in the end result. This week I started drinking that Detox Water. I eat like garbage, I know I do. And I decided that drinking a few liters of this water a day couldn’t hurt.

Here I am, four days in and I see so much progress. It all stemmed from deciding to drink Detox Water. I stuck with it and in one week I drank about 5 less cans of soda because of that dang water. One small change leads to another. And before you know it you’re accomplishing things.

The key is constantly stepping forward. If you step back twice, step forward three times. We may not see much of a difference, and some people may see nothing.

Remember the vault. I sat there, and my thoughts were “Eh, that was a little better…”

But my daughter’s coach? He pulled her aside and what I heard was, “NOW THAT’S PROGRESS! That’s what I’m looking for! That’s all I care about.”

Progress people. We don’t need to ban sugar and promise to exercise an hour a day til the end of time. We don't need to reorganize and restructure our houses and fight our kids about every little thing they aren't doing.

How overwhelming.

We need one less cookie every afternoon and a walk around the block every night. And when that’s natural? Take away another cookie and add another loop around the block. If your kids are struggling in something? Praise the smallest of accomplishments. If they left fifteen juice pouches in the living room last week focus on the five they cleaned up this week.

When you add up tons of small accomplishments over a stretch of time you see big changes. Focus on the progress, no matter how tiny and small and unnoticeable. Every night, let's hit the pillow and think about the small changes we made. Instead of thinking of what a miserable failure you were at something, think of what a kick ass job you did of turning down that cupcake.

Progress. It's a pretty cool concept.

Skinny Mom Detox Water

2015-01-04T21:40:00.002-05:00

I'm not big on resolutions. Every day I go to bed and reevaluate how I did as a mom, friend, daughter and wife. I'm constantly reminding myself when I can better, which is often. My radar isn't off 364 days of the year and then on New Year's Eve it turns on and scans through all the improvements I need to make.

Not how I roll. Too much pressure.

Even though I'm not a resolution gal, I do find myself exhausted and ready for healthier food in January. The holidays take their toll and post Christmas I take a good hard look at myself and I know it's time to crack down. The pants are tight, the skin is dull. I haven't exercised in months and I start to look ahead to Spring.

Isn't that what winter is all about? Magic and lights and wonderfulness all December and then January through April stinks worse than monkey farts. True story.

I found this detox water on Skinny Mom, and I decided it was just what I needed. I know I don't have the willpower to detox on raw food or juice for days. But a water to cleanse the system and flush some of the December toxins? Sign me up.

I whipped up a gallon of this today, and it was pleasantly refreshing. I drank only this water from the time I woke up to late afternoon. When I drank my first glass my rings were snug on my ring finger...you know that feeling? A few hours later I had peed about 6 times and my rings could have slid off they were so loose.

Even better? I'm actually laying in bed craving more - which makes me excited to get up and detox again tomorrow.

When I find something I love I always share...I don't know Skinny Mom (although she seems pretty snazzy) or have any incentive to post this recipe. I recommend discarding leftover and making fresh every morning. Skinny Mom has nifty pitchers with fruit on one side...I just make it all together and drink away.

½ gallon spring water
½ grapefruit, sliced
½ cucumber, sliced
2-3 mint leaves
½ lemon, sliced
½ lime, sliced

Cheers!

New Year Recipe: 10 Minute Healthy Flatbread Pizza

2015-01-02T22:10:00.000-05:00

A few years ago I stumbled upon Flatout Flatbreads. They make a killer pizza. They are jam packed with protein and fiber, and they are Best Life Bob Green Approved.

Bob Green takes the work out of the healthy food scavenger hunt that is the grocery store. He's a great man.

Before I go any further, I need to stipulate that I don't eat well. I am in no way offering nutritional advice with these pizzas. I'm about as qualified to offer nutritional advice as I am to fly a plane. Which is not qualified at all.

I don't eat much, and 70% of what does pass my lips is sugar.

That being said, I do make an effort to make the other 30% of food I eat healthy. And to help with any other nutrient deficits I toss back a few Flintstones.

And since I plan on posting Valentine cookies and candies in the next few days, I felt it necessary to arm you with an easy, healthy, low cal menu option. I eat low cal healthy meals and snacks and then sit down with eight servings of ice cream at 11pm.

Makes no sense. I know this. But in my Mommybrain it works.

I make these flatbread pizzas for Hubby with a salad and he makes no complaints. He loves these little guys. Which makes them ideal for a quick and easy dinner. Which makes them ideal for a day I'd rather go to Target than to the grocery store.

I am providing approximate nutritional information below. Read it an weep happy tears. You can look forward to a killer flatbread that is easy on the waist.

Flatbread Pizza

1 Lite Italian Flatout Flatbread
2 tbsp Prego Healthy Heart Traditional Sauce (or similar)
1/4 cup finely shredded pizza cheese

Toppings:
1 tbsp bacon bits (other ideas: chopped turkey pepperoni, diced onions, cubed ham)

Heat oven to 350.

Place flatbread in oven for 2 minutes to crisp crust and then remove.

Lay flatbread on tinfoil and spread sauce, sprinkle cheese. Add topping(s).

Place flatbread back in oven and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until cheese is completely melted and bubbling.

Remove and enjoy immediately. I beg you. Don't answer the phone and ruin your chance to eat these hot out of the oven. I grab a soda and dive right in. No fork or knife or class.

You won't be disappointed with my calorie saving lunch/dinner menu option. I promise.

**This is NOT a sponsored post. I like what I like and I wanted to share.**

Nutritional information (approx) for 1 Flatbread Pizza:
19 grams protein
8 grams fiber
225 calories

The Week Between Christmas and New Year's

2014-12-29T22:55:00.000-05:00

This just may be one of my favorite weeks of the year. The slow, recharge the batteries week in between Christmas and New Year's. The gifts have been opened, there are leftovers in the fridge and the kids can sleep in.

Which means I can sleep in.

Christmas was a blessed day. We stayed home, cleaned some mess and left some mess. We ate, rested and opened toys. I watched A Christmas Story at least ten times. Maybe more. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy our stay-at-home Christmas Day. This is the second year we've stayed home all day on Christmas and it's marvelous.

This week, it's much of the same. I've cleaned out closets, made bags for the Salvation Army and ate fifteen tons of chocolate. My big kids are decked out in new clothes and trying new video games. My youngest was in her pajamas all day. She even wore them to drop my oldest off at basketball. Her jacket was her Doc McStuffins robe.

All part of the magic of the week between Christmas and New Year's. It's all about rest and enjoying family and friends. There is no better way to end a year.

And next week? I'll be focusing on getting my schedule back on track. But for now? It's all about having no schedule and no where to be.

Heaven. Wishing you much of the same.

Happy almost New Year!

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

2014-12-24T01:19:00.001-05:00

This Christmas, I wish you all noting but happiness. Take time to be grateful for the gifts money cannot buy...because that is the true measure of wealth. Once you grasp how precious the little things are, you realize they are the big things.

Don't sweat the small stuff. Have faith, lean on the right people and don't get caught up in drama that isn't yours.

Life is too short.

Love every minute.

And most importantly, have a very, merry Christmas! Make it magical!