Brave

Have you heard of Disney/Pixar's new film Brave?  We have just seen the new trailer and my kids are already asking to head to the theaters.  Unfortunately, they will have to wait a few months.   Brave hits theaters June 22! 

Synopsis:

"Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland. In “Brave,” a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronts tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts."

Frankenweenie

Have you all heard of the new Tim Burton movie coming out in October?   This new Walt Disney movie will hit the theaters October 5th!  

"From creative genius Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” The Nightmare Before Christmas”) comes “Frankenweenie,” a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life—with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor’s fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new “leash on life” can be monstrous.

A stop-motion animated film, “Frankenweenie” will be filmed in black and white and rendered in 3D, which will elevate the classic style to a whole new experience."

The Avengers Are Coming!

Are you a fan of Iron Man?  The Hulk?  Thor?  Captain America?  Well now you can see them all come together in the newly released trailer of the upcoming movie, The Avengers.

My husband and I are so excited for May 4th to role around so that we finally see it on the big screen.  We have seen all the characters in their individual films and can't wait to see how they all come together as a team.

I think I still like Iron Man and his sarcastic nature the best.  But Thor isn't so bad to watch up there on the big screen either. ;)  Who is your favorite Avenger??   Grab a Latte, Put Up Your Feet, and Join the Discussion!

Lion King Broadway Musical Tour

My family and I are huge Disney fans. Anything and everything Disney takes me to a happy place! One of my favorite movies is The Lion King and both of my daughters also love the movie. In trying to expand my daughters love for art, I have longed to take them to see the Lion King on Broadway. A trip to New York City with my young daughters is something I am not quite brave enough to do....yet.

When I found out the musical toured the US, I was just waiting for it to come to our area. I was very excited when our homeschool group planned a field trip to the tour in a nearby city. So, last week we made the 2 1/2 hour drive to the theater. My girls were very excited.



We arrived early on the very rainy day and made our way into the theater. Yes, they have merchandise for sale: shirts, programs, stuffed animals, etc. Of course, we can not pass by the merchandise area without making a purchase, since my girls love souvenirs. They always say they need something to remember the trip by...although I do keep ticket stubs and programs (just not their idea of a souvenir). They both ended up with a stuffed doll of Nala.

We made our way into the theater and found our seats. I was a little worried that my youngest would be looking for the cartoon characters, but that would not be the case. She was mesmerized with the entire show. The costumes and sets were breathtaking. The actors/actresses were phenomenal. Of course, the music is beautiful. We had to download the album when we got home and they continuously listen and sing along to it. I wish we could have taken pictures, although I doubt the pictures would have done it justice.

Maybe you have already seen the musical, if not, I highly recommend it. It was a bit on the pricey side, but we went to a mid-week matinee, so that did help cut the cost. It was well worth the trip and I would definitely go see it again. Does anyone have suggestions for other Broadway plays on tour that are a must see?

Disney's Beach Club

The first step of planning a Disney Vacation is to book your accommodations. Whether you are planning to stay on Disney property or off, vacancies fill up fast, so plan accordingly.   My family's favorite on-property resort is Disney's Beach Club.  If you have not had the opportunity to tour this amazing resort, you should definitely stop by on your next trip to WDW.  There are so many wonderful things about the Beach Club, but I have narrowed it down to the top 3 reasons we will keep going back.   

1) Location:  The Beach Club is a Disney Vacation Club Resort located next door to EPCOT.  And when I say next door, I mean next door.  With two young children in tow, it usually takes us about 5-10 minutes to walk there. And rather than enter through the front entrance, you get to enter through the World Showcase just past England. This is amazing in the morning because the World Showcase doesn't actually open until 11:00am and the streets of England and Canada are completely empty.  This makes for great photo opportunities.  The Beach Club is also located right across the "lake" from the Boardwalk.  Another 5-10 minute walk and we are immersed in the Boardwalk experience, including great smells, amazing food, and fun street performers.  The Beach Club is also only a short boat to Disney's Hollywood Studios and a short monorail trip to the Magic Kingdom.  I am not big on crowded bus rides, so this is perfect for me.

2) Pool:  Don't let the word pool fool you.  The Beach Club's Stormalong Bay is not your ordinary Disney pool.  Stormalong Bay is 3 acres of fun in the sun (plus how many pools do you know of that have sand on the bottom?).   The pool is broken off into several different sections. So if you get a chance to stay at the Beach Club or Yacht Club, make sure to try them all.  My kids love the shallow water with the sandy beach to build their castles on.  It is like a beach for kids who are afraid of the ocean. My favorite part is the Lazy Susan type area.  The water is deep, so grab a inner tube, relax, and let the jets push you gently around.  My hubbies favorite part is the Shripwreck Water Slide.  Both of my kids loved it too, but if yours are a little hesitant, there is a smaller slide near the same entrance. 

3) Food: One of my favorite parts of going on vacation is that I get to eat great food (and I don't have to cook). The Beach Club is the home of two of my favorite buffets and my absolute favorite ice cream.  Cape May Cafe offers a delicious character breakfast that is not usually crowded.  When it comes to character meals, this is a definite plus because the characters spend more time at your table.  On our last visit, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Chip and Dale all visited our table twice.  They had fun playing around with the kids and it wasn't the same old, hug the character, take a picture, and say goodbye.   Cape May also offers a delicious seafood buffet for dinner.  I can not say enough good things about this meal.  There was something for everyone, including my favorite snow crab legs and my husbands favorite BBQ ribs.  For dinner the tables were covered in white paper and the kids were encouraged to doodle on the "tablecloth".  Everyone had a great time.  Beaches and Cream is a 50's type ice cream parlor.  Not only do they serve amazing hamburgers, but the ice cream is out of this world.  We never leave WDW without stopping in for a creamy ice cream cone or milkshake.   If for some reason, none of the meals interest you, you are short walk away from the Yacht Club and their famous steaks or EPCOT and the World Showcase.

Have you traveled to Disney World?  Where did you stay?  Would you stay there again?  Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

Finding Nemo in 3-D

Finding Nemo is returning to the big screen for the first time in 3-D on September 14, 2012! 

Disney Pin Trading

Pins, Pins, Pins.  No matter where you visit in Walt Disney World, you will be exposed to the whirlwind that is Pin Trading.  What is Pin Trading, you ask?   Pin Trading is one of the biggest crazes down in Disney World.  It is fun, interactive, and great for finding unique souvenirs.    By purchasing some Disney Pins and displaying them on a lanyard, you will opened yourself up to meeting new people and discovering a new hobby that you never knew you needed.  Trade with Cast Members or fellow visitors, like yourself.  And don’t forget to have fun!

Saving Money - Unfortunately, Pin Trading can get pretty expensive.   At Walt Disney World, most pins can be purchase for about $10-$15.  Some are more and a few are less.  You can also purchase sets for around $30-$40.  To make Pin Trading easier on the wallet, purchase your pins and lanyard from eBay prior to your trip.  Many bulk sellers list pins for as low as $1 each.  You don’t get to choose the pins you receive, but that just makes Pin Trading more fun.  Now you and your family can hunt the World for your favorite Character and Park pins.  We also purchased our lanyards on eBay for $1.50 each and we didn’t even pay shipping!

Following the Rules – As with everything in life, Pin Trading has a few easy rules to follow.  Only metal Disney pins with the ©Disney mark can be traded.  These pins also need to have a rubber Mickey Mouse back.  However, I have seen several exceptions to that rule at Disney Restaurants and stores.  In that case, you keep your back to use with your new pin and the cast member keeps your old pin minus the back.  Remember that you may only trade with each cast member twice, so make a good trade.  And watch out for those sharp points.  If not traded carefully, those cute pins might just get you.  It is always a good idea to put the back on your pin before handing it over.

Kids Only – In the Pin Trading world there are many cast members that will on trade with children ages 3-12.  At Walt Disney World, these cast members can be see with a green hip or neck lanyard.    I have also encountered a few cast members that push Disney Strollers covered in pins.  They also will only trade with children.  If you are a parent of young children, keep your eyes open for these cast members.  They usually have really cute pins!

Make Some Memories -   Once you get into Pin Trading you may realize that some pins are rarer than others.  You may feel the need to only trade for the more “valuable” pins, but in my opinion it is better to trade for what you love.  Disney pins are great reminders of what you and/or your children were most interested in that year.   Whether it is Fairies or Pirates, find your favorites and keep them as memories for years to come.

Dining With Royalty

So many of us have dreamed of dining with Her Royal Highness, Cinderella, but were hesitant because of the price of the meal.  I mean, who would ever dream of paying $45 for breakfast?!?  However, after breaking down and using a few Dining Credits on it, I now know that you are paying for the experience, not the food.  And I must say...It is one very Magical experience. 

Cinderella's Royal Table, despite the menu price, is one Disney World's most popular character meals.  It is one of those meals that need to be booked months in advance.  From trying to book a reservation in the past, I have the feeling that most people are interested in dinner dining, but our family chose breakfast.  Our Magical day began by being allowed to enter the Magic Kingdom before it had even opened.  I can't even tell you how breathtaking the park is without all the extra people there.  We were able to take amazing pictures and we were even able to watch Cinderella arrive in her carriage!

The Magic continued as we entered the Castle!!! When I was little, I always dreamed of seeing the inside of the Castle and it didn't disappoint.  As with everything Disney, the details were extraordinary.  It was hard to take in the beauty of the tapestries, stained glass windows, and various other artwork.  Then when we turned the corner and saw Cinderella herself, waiting to greet us, my girls just shrieked in delight.  She was very personable and spent a lot of time talking to the girls, taking a few pictures, and giving them a quick twirl.   

After leaving Cinderella to greet her other guests, we walked up the Royal staircase to the dining room, where we were seated.  The girls were each given a magical wand and a wishing star, while we were given a menu full of tasty breakfast foods. The French Toast was my absolute favorite. After placing our order, the other princesses were introduced and began mingling with the guests.  We were able to meet Aurora, Snow White, Ariel, and Jasmine.  The girls were in absolute heaven.  Each princess talked to them individually and asked them questions about themselves.  Aurora even complimented my oldest on her fingernail polish.

Towards the end of the meal, the lights began to twinkle and flicker and the guests were ask to make a wish on their wishing star.  The girls absolutely loved it and still play with their stars at home.  I loved that they had a great time and we left the castle with full bellies, great "complimentary" photographs, and priceless memories.  

Tangled Ever After

BLOCKBUSTER TANGLED DIRECTORS TO PREMIERE THEIR SHORT FILM, TANGLED EVER AFTER, IN FRONT OF DISNEY’S CLASSIC BEAUTY AND THE BEAST IN 3D

Rising animation stars Byron Howard and Nathan Greno bring their latest hilarious, hair-raising installment of Rapunzel and Flynn’s story to the big screen!

I don't know of a single person that didn't love Tangled or Beauty and the Beast. So when Disney announced that they were re-releasing Beauty and the Beast in Disney Digital 3D on January 13th and pairing it up with the second installment of Tangled, I was thrilled beyond words.

Tangled Ever After will pick up right where Tangled left off and we are invited to witness the wedding of Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) and Eugene "Flynn" Rider (Zachary Levi).  That is, if Pascal and Maximus can find the rings they lost.

Don't miss Beauty and the Beast and Tangled Ever After in theaters January 13, 2012!

Between the Lines Goes Disney: Tangled

**This Post Was Written By My Seven Year Old.**

Last year at Disney World, we saw Flynn Rider and Rapunzel! Rapunzel  hid  from  Flynn. We helped her hide.

After he found her we danced with them.  I got to hold Flynn's hand! 

We got to draw a picture of Flynn and Rapunzel. 

We also got to meet Pascal. Pascal is Rapunzel's Chameleon friend.

And that was one of my favorite parts of my trip to Disney World.

Between the Lines Goes Disney: Disney Vacation Club

 **This post was previously posted a year ago**
My husband and I first took our two little girls to Disney four years ago. It was a last minute decision, literally, and we didn’t know what to expect. My husband is a hard working man and we don’t see him as often as we’d like. So our impromptu week at Disney was like finding Heaven on Earth. Not only did the kids get to experience Disney magic for the first time, but they also got their daddy’s undivided attention for an entire week! We stayed on Disney property at a moderate resort and we instantly fell in love with the idea of more Disney vacations. As we traveled the World, we realized that although our resort was great, Disney property could be even greater. But as we longed to experience an even grander Disney resort, we knew that the price was a bit (or a lot) too steep. Thanks to Disney’s Vacation Club, or the DVC, my family now gets to experience the magic of Disney every year! With this experience, we now stay only at the top of the line resorts and get treated like Disney royalty.

The DVC is a timeshare, but run Disney style. With this timeshare you can pick anytime and anywhere you want to take your vacation. Since you buy points, rather than weeks, you can even divide your points up to take several vacations a year. They don't even have to be vacations to Disney locations.  Your Disney points are good towards Disney Resorts, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and most RCI timeshare properties.  You are also able to bank points you would like to save, or borrow from a different year if you are planning an extra long vacation. The DVC has a costly buy in, but after doing the math, we will have spent the equivalent in about  6 ½ vacations. Last year we stayed at the Beach Club Resort.  A one night cash stay in a one bedroom villa runs about $670 per night!  If we were not DVC members, our week stay would cost us  $4690 for just the room.  We didn't even spend that much on our last two trips to Disney put together (and that's including airfare!)  Instead, we spent 211 points for the week.  Last year our annual dues were $650. That means that we stayed at this fabulous resort for one week for $20 less than a single night. It doesn’t get better than that! 

As a DVC member, you also receive great discounts good for Disney dining, shopping, shows, and all night parties (including Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party). If you love Disney and are interested in the DVC go to http://dvc.disney.go.com/dvc/index  or feel free to email me any questions you may have at betweenthelines-kam@hotmail.com . I can refer you to a great sales rep who never calls or bothers you at home (unless of course you ask her to).   As they say in Disney World, Have a Magical Day!

Between theLines Goes Disney: Pictures

Between the Lines Goes Disney: Top 5 Rides for Dads

I'm not sure if any of you moms out there have noticed, but sometimes the Dads walking around the Disney Parks aren't that excited about going on It's A Small World or Prince Charming's Carousel.  Of course they go on them because their kids love it, but the excitement factor just isn't there.  They may be longing to ride Space Mountain or Expedition Everest over and over again, but it may be hard to enjoy without the kiddos by your side.  But never fear Disney Dads!  There are some awesome, must-not-be-missed rides that you can enjoy with your little ones. 

5. Mad Tea Party:  There is just something about spinning your child around until the laughter overtakes them that appeals to most Dads.   If your stomach can stand it, twirl it faster and faster until you can't see the cute little door mouse anymore.  If your stomach is a little weaker than your munchkin, spin it a little slower.  They'll never know it can really go faster.  And if you want to add a little more excited to your child's ride, head over to the tea cups first thing in the morning to take a spin with the Mad Hatter himself!  If you are lucky, Alice will be riding with him too.

4. Toy Story Mania:  What Dad could turn down a chance to play a life size video game?  This 4D interactive attraction combines good ole' fashion gaming with some addictive midway fun.  Parents and kids alike will enjoy joining their favorite Toy Story characters on this fast pace, fun ride.  Will you be able to beat your child's score?  Will you have the high score of the day?

3. Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin:  Much like Toy Story Mania, Buzz Lightyear's fast paced ride will thrill Dads and kids alike.  Jump aboard a space cruiser and help Buzz defeat the evil Zurg by zapping all the Z targets.  Be warned, this is a very addictive game/ride.   My husband rides it no less than 20 times per WDW visit.  He has mastered the game and has repeatedly received the highest possible score (unlike me who barely registers as a Space Cadet).

from allears.net

2. Sorin':  There is nothing that can compare to the feeling you get the first time you go on Sorin' except maybe the squeals of delight coming from your children sitting next to you.  I don't want to give too much away, but Sorin' is so real with its panoramic views and multisensory effects, that you really feel like you are flying. Both my husband and my kids absolutely love it and must ride on it multiple times.  All I can say it, thank goodness for Fast Passes.

1. Test Track:  Test Track is one of Disney's fastest attractions and is enjoyed by kids and dads (and moms) alike.  Our youngest daughter was finally able to ride this at 40 inches last year and I've never seen her happier on a ride.  She loved the bumps and curves and like her Daddy, the wind in her face.  Test Track is a ride that will keep both dads and kids laughing and cheering for more.

   While the coasters may be more your speed, they are not really a family affair. What rides are your favorite to go on repeatedly with your kids? Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

Between the Lines Goes Disney: EPCOT

Today we are heading to EPCOT.  Technically, we will be visiting EPCOT everyday, but this is our full day at the park.  Although many families with small children steer away from EPCOT, we love it.  Last year (and this year), we stayed at the Beach Club Resort in order to be a short walk away from EPCOT.  But I will talk more about that in a different post.   EPCOT is one of Disney's most fascinating parks.  Its main focus is on cultural and technological innovation.  EPCOT covers over 300 acres, twice the size of the Magic Kingdom, and it split into two separate areas, Future World and The World Showcase.

Future World is definitely my kids favorite part of EPCOT.  They enjoy visiting the Nemo and Friends ride the most.  Not only do they enjoy riding in a shell while exploring Nemo's world, but they love that after the ride they can visit the aquarium, play at the shark playground, and watch Turtle Talk with Crush.  If you've seen Finding Nemo, then you know that Crush is the "totally awesome" sea turtle that helps Nemo's dad find his way through the EAC.  Turtle Talk with Crush is an interactive show where the animated Crush actually talks to the kids in the audience and answered their questions.  It is very entertaining for kids and adults alike. 

Future World has some faster pace rides for those a little older.  Mission Space is my husband's favorite.  This ride simulates a space flight to Mars.  I honestly have not been brave enough to try this one, but they do have a milder version that you can try.  My favorite ride in Future World has to be Soarin'.   Soarin', located in The Land Pavilion, is a "multi-sensory attraction ... that simulates a peaceful hang-gliding flight over the Golden State of California".  With a huge IMAX theater in front of you, you really feel like you are flying .   While you are in Future World, make sure to stop by Test Track.  My 6-year old is convinced that it is the greatest "big kid" ride.  Future World is also the home of the famous EPCOT "ball", Spaceship Earth.  If you haven't been to EPCOT within the last year, you will be surprised at the changes made in Spaceship Earth.  As always, added interaction makes a slow ride more fun.  The real fun, however, starts when you exit your ride.  There a many hands-on activities that are fun and challenging for all.  And don't forget to meet Mickey and the gang at the Character Spot  and to visit Innoventions, both located in Future World.

Visiting The World Showcase is like taking a mini trip around the world.  There are 11 different countries represented in The World Showcase:  Mexico, China, Norway, Germany, Morocco, Japan, Italy, France, England, Canada, and the United States.  There is also a small African Outpost that offers authentic African refreshments and souvenirs.  There is no way that I could even begin to explain the wonder that is The World Showcase, but each country is fabulous.  They are run by people from the actual countries that they represent and they serve food and drink that are authentic to that country.  Many of the countries provide live music and entertainment.  There are little shops to browse, rides to explore, and fantastic shows to watch.  There is so much to do and experience at The World Showcase.  If you are actually planning a trip and would like to know more, I'd be more than happy to chat.  Just shoot me an email!

Have you been to EPCOT?  What it your favorite  part?  What things could you do without?  Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!