Why I Think Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is "Worth" it

A question I'm often asked, especially around this time of year, is if shelling out the extra money for a ticket to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is worth it or not. To put it simply in my not so humble opinion...absolutely. As a cast member I don't pay to get into the Disney theme parks but that does not include the special events...so yes, I do have to pay to go to these parties and even though I'm at Disney all the time I still think it's worth it. 

For those who are unfamiliar with the holiday parties, in a nutshell, they are special ticketed events that are themed to Halloween (Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party) or Christmas (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party) and they feature things exclusive to that event. An example are the parades and fireworks which are themed to the holiday and aren't shown on normal non-party days. Mickey's "Boo to You" Halloween Parade is my all time favorite parade at Walt Disney World and I think a lot of the reason is because I can't see it all the time so it's extra special. During the party everyone can hit up the trick-or-treat spots and this year I was so happy to see that several treat spots have been added within attraction queues. 

Another benefit is during the parties many of the attractions have incredibly reduced wait times. This is huge for some people but to be honest when we go we try to take advantage of all the special entertainment, character meet and greets, and special treat offerings since we can ride the attractions anytime. 

Now that I've pleaded my case here are the facts in black and white:

• The party is from 7:00 PM-Midnight but your ticket gets you into the Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 PM with the park closing for day guests at 6:00 PM.

• There are two parade viewings and one {incredible} fireworks show each party.

• Guests can trick-or-treat throughout the park and receive complimentary trick-or-treat bags.

• You can meet some of your favorite characters decked out in their Halloween best. 

• Guests are invited to dress up in costumes. 

• There is specialty merchandise available for purchase during the party.  

Now for the massive photo drop off photos from fun times at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!

2018 

2017

2017

Not amused with the characters at all last year

Anna (Stella) and Elsa (Brynn)

The Maleficent Ice Cream (lime soft serve with chocolate horns) was a big hit 

At the end of the day you have to decide what's best for you but I hope this helps guide you to your decision. Comment below with any questions and thanks for stopping by!

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Brynn's Second Birthday Lemon Party!

We had Brynn's party the day before her actual birthday over at The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds. All week the weather was showing rain during her party but luckily it was clear and sunny (and HOT...sorry guests) during her party. We served BBQ pulled chicken sliders, grilled hot dogs, pasta salad, and veggies to our guests. I had lemonade, french berry lemonade, limeade, and water for our guest to enjoy. Instead of serving a traditional cake/cupcakes I went for mini cupcakes, mini lemon cakes, and mini cookie sandwiches which were a HUGE hit with our guests so I'll make sure to keep that in mind for years to come.

We ate, mingled, Brynn {but mostly me} opened presents, and then we let her smash her little cake. So many people raved about her cake and could not believe it when I told them at it was a vanilla mini cake from...Publix that I decorated myself! It turned out so great and the birthday girl snacked on it all day.

I originally picked a citrus theme for the party but then Target came out with the most adorable lemon/lemonade things in their dollar spot so I fully committed to lemons lol! I arranged flowers from Traders Joe's and Publix for the centerpieces and then placed fresh limes, lemons, greenery, and baby's breath in berry baskets to go on the sides of the arrangements. I also shoot for low cost items that I can reuse when entertaining so I'll make sure to provide links for the most asked about items.

We all had a great time and only had one casualty...Brynn's bestie, Nora took a tumble from the new princess carriage and got two bad skinned knees. Now I know to always have a first aid kit at kid's parties! Good news is that Nora is on the mend because she's literally the toughest toddler this side of the Mississippi! The other lesson I took away from this party is that next year I don't care how cheesy and un-Pinterest worthy it is...we're having an indoor, air conditioned...possibly Chuck-E-Cheese party! Here's the photo drop....

Party Supplies:

Tablecloths
Centerpiece Vases
Kid's Picnic Table (Early Birthday Gift from Aunt Maggie)
Entry Table
Yellow Gingham Paper Plates (Used a 40% off coupon on each pack)
2-Tier Cake Stand

Thanks for stopping by and please comment if you have any other questions about the party!

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To My Sweet Two Year Old

Another year has gone by and I wonder if I'll not feel that it was just yesterday that you were born. Looking back at your newborn photos and videos is a recipe for tears but I can't help myself because I need to always remember that time is fleeting and I need to soak up every second because it's so true when I hear people say the days are long but the years are short.

This has been a year of growth for all of us. We have a year under our belt as Floridians and are finally getting into the swing of our life here. We've spent countless days at Disney and you absolutely LOVE meeting the characters. You cry and throw a fit until it's your turn to meet them...but I do need to mention it's only love for fur characters because the face characters give you a big case of stranger danger. 

You are talking more and more every day. Your favorite words include: momma, daddy, Google, RuPaul, Poppa, yes, no, and saying that you are TWO! You are so agile and as much as I'd love for you to be a prissy ballerina I honestly think you're going to be a stellar athlete.You can shoot baskets, run super fast, climb, jump, and swim like a fish. You seriously have zero fear of the water which dad loves and I have crazy anxiety about. 

You still like MMCH but it's definitely on the back burner compared to your love of Peppa Pig, Word Party, Moana, and still Boss Baby. You love to color and draw on you chalkboard table and easel. You are so incredibly sweet...and far more maternal than I ever was...with your Bitty Baby named Vanjie from the Brankamps and mini Cabbage Patch kid doll from Mim. You are totally your mother's daughter when it comes to your sweet tooth...you beg for popsicles every evening. You could be in the worst mood but the second something is present you smile ear to ear...I'm trying my best to teach you moderation with sweets but am failing miserably. 

You are so sweet 90% of the time but man do you have a raging temper the other 10%...I have no idea where that comes from lol! My favorite part of my day is when I get home from work and you bolt to the door to greet me with the biggest hug, kiss, and pat on the back. Two years ago I was scared and felt so unready for you but that's the great thing about life...it gives you exactly what you need exactly when you need it. Thank you for making me a mom and for teaching every day how to be a better person. I'm so glad you entered my life exactly when I needed you. Happy Birthday Mouse, I love you. 

All photos courtesy of Faison Anne Photography

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WDW Tips and Tricks: Q&A Round 2

I took to good ole Facebook for the next round of Q&A and I'll try to cover as many as I can so here it goes...

Photo courtesy of Faison Anne Photography

Q: If you have flexibility with your travel dates when is the best time to go for lower crowds?

A: Honestly the best times for low crowds are when kids are in school. In my years of living here the second week of January until President's Day is super slow followed by September after Labor Day until Halloween.

Q: What are you favorite toddler friendly table service locations?

A: We dine at Disney a lot and nearly everywhere is what I consider kid friendly but we LOVE the following places: Ale & Compass at the Yacht Club, Nine Dragons in Epcot, Hollywood & Vine at DHS, Trail's End at Fort Wilderness, 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian, Rainforest Cafe at DAK and Disney Springs, and lastly the most relaxing meal you'll have...Sci-Fi Drive-in at DHS. The drive-in theater screen entrances kids and they don't talk, fight, or bother anymore...it's the true hidden gem of Disney.

Q: What are some, in your opinion, overrated things that people hype up but aren't really worth it if you're only visiting for a few days?

A: I get this question a lot and all I can only speak on behalf of myself...with that being said I think the Fireworks Dessert Parties are overrated and too rich for my blood. I'd much rather get a treat and watch them among other guests instead of shelling out $80+ per person. Also don't hate me y'all but I'm not a fan of Cinderella's Royal Table. I personally like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall's food and experience better. I'm not saying CRT isn't great I just think it's a bit overrated compared to some of the other fantastic dining options.

Q: What are your favorite spots for parades and fireworks?

A: Magic Kingdom fireworks=train station, Magic Kingdom Festival of Fantasy Parade= across from The Hall of Presidents under the tree for shade or anywhere in along the Liberty Square area and get there early, Epcot fireworks=the space between the Canada and UK pavilions, and my advice for Fantasmic and Rivers of Light is get there about 30-40 minutes before the show so you're higher up in the arenas so you can see better.

Q: Is it worth it to go to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party?

A: People always ask about this and my answer is always YESSSSSSSSS! They are my favorite thing at Disney and I will do posts on each party later on this year!

Q: What are your must-do attractions for a one year old?

A: First of all I definitely recommend always going to Magic Kingdom with one year olds because it's the park with the most baby friendly attractions. Here are our favorites at MK: Dumbo, It's a Small World, Peter Pan's Flight, The Carousel, and The Peoplemover. At Epcot we love The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Spaceship Earth, Journey in the Imagination, and Frozen Ever After for the littles and recoomend meeting Mickey Mouse at the Epcot Character Spot over the meet and greet and Magic Kingdom and here's why...Mickey at Town Square Theater at MK talks and honestly it's a recipe for disaster for little ones because it's a sensory overload. If you've seen my social media you know that Brynn LOVESSS meeting characters but even she was scared of Mickey at Magic Kingdom.

Q: Best photo spots around WDW property

A: This is an excellent question and I'm currently working on a post for this very topic so stay tuned!

Q: How should we reveal to our kids that we're going to Disney

A: I gave this idea to a friend years ago and it was a huge hit! Get three boxes for When-How-Where...in the first box (when) wrap a calendar with the date you get there circled. In the second box (how) wrap a toy of how you're getting there...a little plane or car that looks like your's. In the last box (where) wrap something like a Disney shirt, Mickey Mouse plush, autograph, or even a picture of Cinderella Castle. Oh and no matter how you reveal it make sure you video it!

Q: What are your favorite grown up attractions?

A: In no particular order...Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, Soarin', Mission Space, Tower of Terror, Rockin' Rollercoaster, Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest. Also I love going to the videos at the pavilions in Epcot's World Showcase...to a kid they're boring but as an adult they are so inspiring and make you want to travel, Travel, TRAVEL!!!

Q: What shoes should I wear?

A: Comfort over style 100% for the entire family! I recommend something with support that will help your feet because you're going to be walking a ton! The quickest way to spot a local is the shoes...we don't stay in the park as long so we wear more stylish shoes usually lol! Also take the advice of Lt. Dan from Forest Gump and bring a spare pair of socks for everyone because nothing is worse than wet socks.

Q: Is Bippity Boppity Boutique worth it?

A; I haven't had the joy of taking Brynn there yet because the minimum age is three but I'll put it this way...as a grown woman how do you feel after getting your hair and makeup professionally done? Imagine that feeling but times a hundred because it's pure joy from a little girl...so in my humble opinion...YES! It's totally worth it!

Q: What are your can't miss snacks?

A: This is a loaded question because I love so many snacks but here are my top five...Dole Whip Swirl (pineapple and vanilla), Zebra Domes from The Mara at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, The School Bread from the Norway pavilion, The Brioche Ice Cream Sandwich from the France pavilion, and the ever classic Mickey Pretzel and cheese.

Q: If we're going to "splurge" on something what do you suggest?

A: If I've said it once I'll say it a thousand times...A PHOTO SESSION in the parks. It's my favorite souvenir and I'm blessed to call one of the best photographers in Orlando my friend and highly suggest booking her...you can find out more info about Faison HERE.

That's all for this round folks! More questions? Comment below and I'll put it in the next round of Q&A. Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more Disney posts about photo spots and seasonal holiday offerings and guides!

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Brynn's First Haircut: Harmony Barber Shop

One of my favorite things about having Walt Disney World as our backyard is making Brynn's milestones well MAGICAL! Years ago when I started at Disney I learned about the First Haircut Package at the Harmony Barbershop in Magic Kingdom. I knew when the time came for my little one to have their haircut that is where it had to be. So with Brynn's bangs obstructing her vision I finally made her big appointment. While the barbershop can occasionally accommodate walk-up appointments I highly suggest making a reservation by calling 407-939-PLAY.

An occasion like this calls for all the bells and whistles aka a squad and some paparazzi...enter Brynn's godmother Katie, Uncle Mario, and Photographer of the Disney Instagram Stars Faison. I still can't believe how great of a support system we have here in Florida. They always take time out of  their days for little moments like this and I couldn't be more grateful. We got to the Magic Kingdom, checked in for the appointment, and stood outside of the barbershop and watch the Festival of Fantasy Parade go by. Brynn's name was called and we all ventured inside the {very small} shop.

The stylists are beyond amazing at making the little ones comfortable and more importantly entertained during the haircut. Our stylist had stickers, toys, and light-up spinners to keep Brynn occupied. She was quick yet precise with trimming her bangs and helped me get her hair into pigtails after her bangs were finished. The Baby's First Haircut Package included the haircut, a little keepsake bag with a lock of their hair, a certificate, and a pair of "my first haircut" mouse ears all for a only $25!                                         

 I literally can't even with this cuteness

After a quick outfit change (because someone got cookie icing all over herself) we hopped over to Main Street for a much anticipated...world famous...balloon picture by Faison! Y'all she got these shots in a matter of seconds and I absolutely LOVE them! Her parents were in town and she came all the way over to Magic Kingdom to take these beyond precious photos. If you make a trip to Disney YOU MUST book a park session with her! She is the best of the best!

I'm so glad we did Brynn's first haircut here and I would highly recommend it if you're thinking about it. If you're looking for more tips and tricks for your trip to WDW head over to Instagram and follow DisneyMomSquad! Until next time...have a magical day!

All photos courtesy of Faison Anne Photography

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Lessons Learned from the Half Marathon I Didn't Finish

May 2017 I had the brilliant idea to sign up for the 2018 Disney Princess Half Marathon. I was still battling post pardum depression and so badly needed something that made me feel superhuman, something to work towards. I felt like I was failing as a wife, mother, daughter, sister...the list went on and on. I wanted something to feel proud of and more than anything I wanted to set the example for Brynn that it’s okay to try something out of your comfort zone. I wanted her to know that as long as she tried she was braver than most. So with good intentions, persuasion, and a $200 entry fee...my sister and I were signed up for our first half marathon.

My sweet husband got himself and Brynn up at the crack of dawn to cheer me on at MK

Nine months seemed like such a long time to train...but then life got in the way. If you follow along with my life you know that in July 2017 we made the decision to move {back} to Orlando. I took time getting adjusted to my new role at work, our new house, and having a social life again. Then before I knew it the holidays snuck up on me. All the fun parties and celebrations further more clouded the reality of training for the race. I had printed off the Galloway training schedule and it stayed pinned to the bulletin board. Before I could come to my senses it was already February and I was weeks away from the race.

My sister had started training and everyone else I knew that was running had trained and was in great shape. I began to start doubting myself and rightfully so. A part of me wanted to not even attempt it but then I remember that I shelled out $200 for this damn thing so I might as well give it a try.

Race week was upon me and the nerves fell to the wayside because I was so excited to see my sister and everyone else who was coming to visit. In our calls leading up to the race she was truly dreading it and had no problem voicing that...I couldn’t get too sensitive because I’m the same way when it comes to things but I started to feel incredible guilt for pretty much making her do this race with me knowing that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with her. Brynn’s race and the expo were a great distractions but when the time came to go to sleep I was restless. I eventually, with the help of some sleeping aides, fell asleep.

The morning of the race was filled with nerves and self doubt. I had talked with Brian the day before and had set the realistic goal to make it to the castle (about 5.5 miles) and he decided to get up early to be there in Magic Kingdom to see me run through. My sister and I got to our corral and got closer and closer to the starting line and as soon as we started running I felt like I was a lost cause. Around mile 1 I told her to go ahead with my friend Alexis because I couldn’t keep up and didn’t want to slow her down. She tried to stay but after I assured her it was okay she went on. At that moment I realized that I was the only person that was going to get me through this race. It was both terrifying and empowering. I called Brian as I got closer to Magic Kingdom and he kept saying “we” are almost there. Looking back I thought it was weird because there was no way that he woke up Brynn early to get there. In Fantasyland I met up with my friend Faison and took some pics before we made our way through the castle. I knew where to look for Brian and as I ran down the castle walkway I saw the greatest thing...the man I love holding our daughter who was absolutely beaming when she saw me. I know it was probably the fact that she hadn’t seen me in a few hours but the look on her face looked like pure excitement and pride. I ran through the crowd and hugged them both. We took pictures and talked quickly. I had every intention to stop there but decided to keep going. The second half of the course is rough filled with congested roadways and my own false sense of pace. I decided to walk with the crowd wihich completely killed my pace and before I knew it I was behind pace. As the dreaded balloon ladies passed me I called Brian and let him know that I would be swept soon. I thought just saying it out loud would make me cry but I was so damn proud of pushing myself. I wanted to make it to the castle (about 5.5 miles in) and I made it just shy of mile 10. I know I’m going to go the race again and I will cross the finish line. Even though I still got a medal the true prize was seeing my husband and daughter so proud of me and my sister thanking me for pushing her  to do this because she would have never done it on her own. This was her first race ever and she finished in under 3 hours! I’m so proud of her and am glad she wants to do another race so we can cross the finish line together. At the end of the day I made it 10 miles with no training at the heaviest I’ve been in my life and that’s something to be proud of and it truly has been a jumping point to get back to a healthy lifestyle.

So glad I stopped at every mile marker!

My sister crossing the finish line!

A photo with all our medals and Donald

So here is what I learned from my first Disney half marathon:

• Really break in your shoes. I thought I had broken mine in but my blood blisters proved otherwise.

• Do a trial run or two in the outfit (down to the undergarments lol) you plan on wearing. I'm so glad I did because I saw so many uncomfortable people on the course. 

• Skin Glide is gold...don't skip putting it everywhere you think you might chaff. 

• Getting to your corral early really does help. I had a 10 minute head start from my friend who was at the back of the same corral.

• Get water/Gatorade at every station and use the Biofreeze at the medical tents.

• Make sure your race bib is visible on the front for race photos...we learned the hard way with the kids races...no bib, no pictures.

• No matter what stop for a photo in front of Cinderella Castle...I had cast members and spectators take photos for me to save time. 

• The course route back to Epcot is the damn devil (and was my demise) keep running even though everyone else is walking so you don’t fall behind pace like I did.

• Take a picture with each mile marker. It’s a great way to document your race!

• Bring sandals or flips flops in your post race bag and if you want to hit the parks right after a change of clothes. It took us over an hour to get out of the Epcot parking lot so not having to run home to change would have been great. 

• If you get swept it's okay. You did 100% better than all the people who never tried.

If you're wondering if I'm going to try again know that I am! I'm going to train and learn from my failures to make sure I cross the finish line next year! And yes...my sister is doing it again too...but on her own accord this time :)

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1.5

You're halfway to your second birthday (brb crying) so it's time to document how life is right now...

You start each day by dancing to the MMCH theme song usually followed by Let It Go.

I taught you how to shake your hips side to side and when I say "I'm Brynn. I'm Brynn" you do it along with your classic "yasss girl" arm wave that you learned from RuPaul's Drag Race.

You wake up your Mim every morning by running to her room and knocking on the door...even if it's early it makes her day.

You are completely obsessed with Moana and Boss Baby. You watch them almost everyday which is a nice break from your other favorite the Mickey's Campout singalong.

You are getting over your first ear infection and boy did that stink. The doctor said it was probably from your two days of back up care. We thought it was just a cold but after a week of you not getting better and crankier by the day daddy suggested a trip to the doctor.

You absolutely love your Uncle Mario and Uncle Jason's dog Lilly. You pet and hug her so much when we are at their house.

Your favorite foods are: puffs, blueberries, bananas, strawberries, grilled chicken, and popcorn.

You love your slide, Minnie Mouse bus, and Minnie Mouse ballpit.

You can say Mama, Dad, Jay, yes...and are trying your hardest to say water and Disney.

You listen to instructions very well and are very tactile. When MMCH ends on the DVR you run and find the remote and give it to one of us to put it on another episode...you also bring us our phones if they're ringing.

You make the funniest little face where you scrunch up your nose and breathe through it like you're a mad bull or something...regardless it's hilarious and you know it always makes us laugh.

You can tell us when you want more milk and when you're finished eating with sign language.

You love when we take walks with you in your trike and when we play in the back yard.

You can throw and catch a ball which makes your daddy incredibly happy.

You are above the curve for height for you age...how in the world did that happen?!

You are becoming so independent which is bittersweet but fills my heart with pride.

Here's to more memories made and fun times together! Love you Mouse!

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