My Disney Girl's Perfect Princess Tea Party

My girls are huge Aurora fans, so we decided to go to Disney's Perfect Princess Tea Party at the Grand Floridian resort. While Aurora does make an appearance, Rose Petal is the host for the party. The tea party lasts from 10:30 am until noon. Each princess receives a selection of gifts as a keepsake of her storybook morning. They also accommodate princes with a pin, Duffy bear and a Mickey pirate hat.

When we first arrived the girls received place cards with their names on them to put on their table. Then each princess or prince was announced at the entrance and received their own ribbon tiara while being sprinkled with rose petals by the host Rose Petal.


They were then escorted to their table where their next gift is waiting for them. It is a special 18-inch My Disney Girl doll dressed in a matching Princess Aurora gown with accessories(I will say that the new Princess and Me Dolls are nicer than the My Disney Girl Doll, but in my opinion, this tea party is all about the experience) and their very own princess bracelet. We enjoyed several different finger foods, tea, juice and cake. While enjoying our food, Rose Petal was told stories and sang some songs. She was also very attentive to each table.



Finally after about an hour, Princess Aurora arrived and interacted with all the guests. There was dancing and one on one interaction. At the end of the tea party, Princess Aurora escorted all her guests through the Grand Floridian towards the gift shop where the princesses received their own special princess scrapbook page and a "Best Friend" certificate.




If you are fan of tea parties and Princess Aurora then give the Perfect Princess Tea Party a try. You will need to make reservations to attend this tea party. Also, an adult must attend with their child. It can be a bit on the pricey side, but it is something that will give lasting memories. My girls still talk about it to this day. Making memories is what it's all about.

Between the Lines Goes Disney: Animal Kingdom

Today we're off to the Animal Kingdom.  The Animal Kingdom is Walt Disney World's newest and largest  park.  Opened in 1998, The Animal Kingdom offers visitors a theme park experience like no other.  The Animal Kingdom focuses entirely on animal conservation while offering visitors animal attractions, rides, shows, and Disney fun. The park is divided into 7 different areas: The Oasis, Discovery Island, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Africa, Rafiki's Planet Watch, Asia, and Dinoland, U.S.A.

Although the Oasis is the first area you enter, the Tree of Life on Discovery Island is the park's main focal point.  It is equivalent to Cinderella's Castle at the Magic Kingdom or Spaceship Earth (the EPCOT ball) at EPCOT.  The Tree of Life is 14 stories tall and 50 feet wide.  This spectacular piece of art consists of about 325 sculpted animals.  Visitors heading on their way to the Bug's Life 3-D show, have an opportunity for a close up look at the animals.  My girls love making a list of animals before we go and racing to see who can find the most animals on their list.  And don't miss a great photo-op in front of The Tree.  Disney can even add characters to your photos.  One year my daughter got a picture that looked like she was holding baby Simba and one year it looked like Tinkerbell was standing in her hand.  Discovery Island is also the home of my favorite restaurant at The Animal Kingdom.  The Flame Tree Barbecue, is a quick meal restaurant, with good food and great scenery.  It so relaxing to eat your lunch on the water while looking out towards "Asia" and  Mount Everest.

Camp Minnie-Mickey is the place to visit if you have little ones who are ready for some character interaction.  At Camp Minnie-Mickey, you will find Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Chip and Dale, Pocahontas, and many more (depending on the time you go).  And if you don't have any little ones, you still won't want to miss The Festival of the Lion King.  The Festival of the Lion King is one of Disney's most spectacular shows.  The music, costumes, stunts, and interaction are amazing.  At the end of one show my older daughter had the opportunity to go out with a "monkey" and play an instrument during the closing song.  Such a little thing made such a huge impact on her.  She loved it.  And the following year, my husband was chosen to be the head elephant for our elephant section.  By far, the funniest thing that ever happened at Disney!

The most popular attraction is located in Africa.  The Kilimanjari Safari takes you on an exciting expedition through the African Savanna where the animals roam freely.  When they say freely, they mean freely.  Our first Safari trip we were actually chased by an angry ostrich.  It was not happy that we were driving near where he was eating.  After you exit the Safari you have the option of walking the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail.  This trail has many exciting viewing areas including, gorillas and hippos.  After you explore the walking trail, hop on the Express train to Rafiki's Planet Watch to have a behind-the-scenes look at Disney's animal care facilities.  The kids can even visit the petting zoo and brush a few goats or sheep.

Asia is the home of  Animal Kingdom's only roller coaster.  Expedition Everest - The Legend of he Forbidden Mountain is a high speed roller coaster that takes you into the heart of Mount Everest...Yeti  territory. There are many hidden surprises on this roller coaster, but I won't ruin it by sharing the secrets.  Asia also has the very wet Kali River Rapids and the Maharajah Jungle Trek.  The turbulent rapids will guarantee you get wet, but you can dry off  by exploring exotic animals including giant fruit bats, birds, tapirs, Komodo dragons, and tigers.  If you like birds, don't miss the Flight of Wonders show.  It is truly a sight to see! 

The final area of Animal Kingdom is Dinoland, U.S.A.  Dinoland has rides, carnival games, a Boneyard playgroud, and the amazing Finding Nemo Musical.  The Finding Nemo Musical is a stage show created by combining live performances with outstanding puppetry.  This is a show that is a must-see for anyone who visits Disney World.  The entire show is phenomenal.  Disney spared no expense while creating life-like puppets and underwater scenery.  The music and visuals will keep any age viewer memorized.

Have you ever been to the Animal Kingdom?  What was your favorite part?  What attraction is on your must-see list?  Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

Boost Your Buzz $1,000 Giveaway

Enter the Boost Your Buzz $1,000 HOLIDAY Giveaway! One lucky person is going to win $1000 USD paid via Paypal!

Gain entries in this giveaway by following Between the Lines on Google Friend Connect

The giveaway starts December 1st 12 am EST  and will run until December 15th 11:59 pm EST and is open worldwide. 

$1,000 CASH prize will be delivered via Paypal after the winner has confirmed. The winner has 48 hours to confirm their winning notification.  If the winner does not respond within 48 hours of receipt of the winning email a new winner will them be drawn and so on and so forth.

Boost Your Buzz $1,000 HOLIDAY Giveaway can be entered on Social Media Junkie & Simply Stacie (you only have to enter on one of the sites as the forms will be the same on each).

Between the Lines Goes Dinsey: The Magic Kingdom

Today we are visiting the Magic Kingdom!  For those who don't know what the Magic Kingdom is, it is the main park at Disney World.  The Magic Kingdom is such a...well..Magical place.  From the moment you cross under the train depot and step onto Main Street, U.S.A, you are immersed into the Disney Magic.  If you go to the park right when it opens, you are greeted by a character filled welcome song, friendly cast members waving their huge Mickey's hands, and meet and greets with some of your favorite characters.  I think everyone has to stop and stare for just a moment when Cinderella's Castle first comes into view.  It is absolutely breathtaking, and even more so as you get closer.  I wish I had the time to explain to you all the Magic you will find on Main Street, but I don't have time to write 30 pages.

The Magic Kingdom is broken into seven different areas: Fantasyland, Tommorowland, Frontierland, Adventureland, Liberty Square, Mickey's Toon Town Fair (although this is closing), and Main Street, U.S.A.  My daughters' favorite section is Fantasyland.  My youngest is in love with It's a Small World.  She could sit on the slow boat ride all day if we let her.  Towards the end of our last vacation she would point at different dolls dancing in the ride and tell me which country they were from.  Fantasyland is also home of the very popular Dumbo ride.  This ride usually has a very long line, so we are glad they are adding a second Dumbo ride within the next few years.  And no child should leave Fantasyland without riding the Carousel, Peter Pan's Flight, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, the Mad Tea Party, or watching Mickey's PhilharMagic 3D Spectacular (even the parents love this show).  Fantasyland is currently under construction, but if you visit in a few years you will be able visit the new Little Mermaid ride, The Beast Castle, and the princesses.

Moving on to Tomorrowland, you will my husband's all time favorite ride,  Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. This picture is not from the ride, but it had my girls in it and they are cuter! :)  The Buzz Lightyear is interactive.  Each rider has a lazer gun to shoot at the "Z's".  My husband went online to find the target that would give him the most points and he ended up maxing at the points at 999,999.  A little better than my 200,000, but who's counting (besides him:).  While you are in Tomorrowland, don't miss out on the Monster Inc. Laugh Floor.  This is an interactive comedy show hosted by Mike Wazowski.  Fun for the whole family!  You can even text in your own jokes that may use during the show.  Tomorrowland is also the home of the fast-flying Space Mountain and Astro Orbiter (for the younger astronauts).   And be on the lookout for a meet and greet with Buzz, Stitch, and a trashcan names PUSH.

While visiting the Magic Kingdom, you definitely do not want to miss out on Adventureland.  Adventureland has something for everyone.  You'll find pirates, flying carpets, a jungle cruise, and even spitting camels! Want to explore a little?  Take a leisurely stroll through the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House and discover how they survived out on their own.  Want to meet some characters?  Don't miss a chance to see Jasmine, Aladdin, Genie, Captain Hook, Smee, or Captain Jack Sparrow (and no, Johnny Depp will not be there).  And if you are ready for a cool snack, Adventureland is the home of the infamous Dole Whip!!!

The last major "land" in the park is Frontierland.  Frontierland has two of the three Magic Kingdom mountain rides.  This year my four-year is so excited to be allowed to ride Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain.  I'll have to let you know how it goes.  Frontierland is also the home of Woody and Jesse from Toy Story.  My girls were so excited to meet Woody last year.  They also enjoyed visiting Tom Sawyer's Island.  After a little boat ride, you arrive on a fun little island full of tunnels, obstacles, and many places to explore.  If you have little ones, make sure to hold on tight to them so they don't wander off into the dark caves alone.  After your adventure, why not stop in at the Country Bear's Jamboree for a snack and show.  How often do you get to see a band of bears perform?

Have you been to the Magic Kingdom?  What were your family's favorite attractions? Characters? Sights?  I obviously wrote this post before I left, but I will be reading your comments after the kids are in bed each night.  I look forward to hearing all your thoughts and opinions.  Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

Between the Lines Goes Disney!

It is finally my family's favorite time of year!!!!  We are heading to Disney World.  This year is going to be extra special because we are bringing along some extra special people and we are going to end our vacation with a Disney Cruise! 

My husband's parents and his sister's family will all be joining us this year for four days at the parks and four days at sea.  My girls are beyond excited to show their cousins all their favorite places to explore.  For the next two weeks, I will be sharing some of our favorite things about Disney and when we get back I will share some of our favorite pictures and our experience on the Disney Dream.  Have a Magical Day!

Dreams Can Come True

 

Have you ever felt that "Life just isn't fair"?  Or that "things will never go my way"?  Most of us have probably felt like that once or twice in our life.  Things may have just seemed impossible and with it our moods and outlook on life took a turn downward as well.  Max and Caroline, the two main characters on the new comedy 2 Broke Girls, remind us that in a situation like that laughter is the key to opening our hearts back up to our dreams.  Max and Caroline, two very different friends, have a dream to open their own cupcake shop.  Max makes the city's best cupcakes and Caroline has the skills to run a successful business.  The only thing standing between them and their dream is money!

I've never dreamed of opening my own business before, but I do have a dream of becoming a published author.  And like the Max and Caroline, sometimes I feel that the dream will dead-end.  But then with the support of my friends and family (and a little perseverance on my part), I start to believe that the dream could come true one day.  Although money is not an obstacle for me, TIME is.  It is extremely hard to find enough time in the day to write uninterrupted.  After being a Mom, Wife, Teacher, and blogger the time in the day seems to just disappear.  But with a few good laughs and a positive attitude, I believe that one day my dream will come true.

Did you know that The People have nominated 2 Broke Girls for TV's best New Comedy at the upcoming People's Choice Awards.  The great thing about The People's Choice award is that YOUR VOICE gets to be heard!  So head on over today and get your votes in.  And don't forget to tune in on January 11 for CBS's presentation of The People's Choice Awards.

“I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote WBTV shows nominated in the People's Choice Awards."

Sweet 'n Tots Review and Giveaway

Sweet'n Tots are custom illustrated images of your children that are designed by you. You pick all of the features and they do all of the illustration.

Bonnie Sweeten is the owner of Sweet 'n Treats. Sweet'n Treats has been a huge success for her. However, she wanted to get back into truly designing custom artwork. She has had numerous requests asking if she could "draw" children. So, she decided to create a second website dedicated to designing custom artwork, Sweet'n Tots. Sweet'n Tots is a fun and easy way to design your own illustrated child. Once you have selected all of your choices, Bonnie will then digitally draw your child using the options you select.

My youngest daughter and I had so much fun creating her illustration. It was so easy to do! We first went to the Sweet 'n Tots website and went to the Build your Sweet'n tot. There are many different options: skin color, eye color, eye shape, hair color, expressions, and glasses. For an additional cost you can add accessories, a border, a name or a message. There are several different products you can purchase with the custom image. Within a week, we received the edible cupcake toppers to review. They arrived packaged neatly with all the instructions on how to use store and use them on the cupcakes.

My youngest has a birthday coming up(we always celebrate early, to separate from the holidays) The cupcakes were a hit for her birthday celebration!

There are different products to choose from: Printables, Stationary, Art Prints and Edible cake and cupcake toppers. These would be so much fun for birthdays, baby showers, gifts, etc.

Unlike other stores, they keep your Sweet'n Tot on record. If you want to purchase any other products in the future, simply order them and let them know you already built your Sweet'n Tot !

Why not check out Sweet 'n Tots website or visit them on Facebook or Twitter.  One lucky reader of Between the Lines is going to win a $25 credit to Sweet'N Tots.  If you are interested in creating some adorable products, why not enter below!

Pink Dandy Sunday Blog Hop

Welcome to the Pink Dandy Sunday Blog Hop!

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This blog hop will be available the entire Sunday and will end at 11:59pm on Sunday night

A new blog hop will start again every Sunday at 12:01am CST.

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How does this blog hop work?


1. Make sure to follow your hosts and leave us a comment (on each of our blogs) with your blog link, so that we can follow you back:
Pink Dandy Chatter
Between The Lines
OutnumberedMama
Sweeping The USA 


2. Add your blog name and the URL to one of your favorite posts on the Linky below.


3. Please follow at-least 2 blogs on the list that appeal to you


4. Your blog must be family friendly ONLY. Explicit sites will be removed from the list.