Don't Judge a Book by its Cover Photo

For several years, John refused to take pictures. He wouldn't get in a Christmas photo. He didn't want you to even aim a camera at him. The auto reflex of a hand flying up to block his face from the camera was almost instantaneous. One of my favorite family pics was us at Disney, but he was in his wheelchair. When I put it on a Christmas photo card collage, he refused for me to send them out. He was embarrassed.

Then, one day, something clicked. He was ok with photos. He was ok with trips.  Wheelchair or on his two legs. Why? Because, he said, "I want my boys to remember that I tried to have fun with them."

John's memory started declining after his last deployment.  It was on that deployment that he received his Purple Heart for wounds from an IED blast that decommissioned his Bradley Fighting Vehicle.  He told me this week, that his vehicle was subjected to 113 IED/Explosions prior to that final one that took it out and left him with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Trip to Universal

Not only did John want the boys to remember the times that he attempted to go places, but he also wanted photos to show him that he had been places, done things, and got the photo to prove it.  Not a bad idea, considering two years ago, he and I took a weekend getaway that he still has no recollection of.

MRIs have shown that his brain is loosing mass and volume as a result of the brain injury.  It is basically shrinking. Therefore, he experiences dementia like symptoms at times.  Sometimes he doesn't remember that he's eaten, sometimes he can't recall facts.

New research is focusing on younger veterans and their caregivers and many of those caregivers have been reluctant to discuss their life with others.  They hide it well.  PTSD/TBI are thought of as invisible illnesses and many like John, can look and function "normal" for limited times when passerby's would not think they have severe disabilities.

Posing for a crazy picture
Sleep vs. Picking noses!
Oh my!

So while caregivers are gaining recognition by congress, non-profits, the Veteran's Administration, and perhaps other family and friends, there may be more scrutiny towards these invisible disabilities.  For example, private groups on Facebook or other social media are available for vets and caregivers and many non-profits are reaching out to this generation of wounded and caregivers.  Yet, some of those among them and in society are ridiculing and making judgments based on appearances or a moment's interactions, or based on their Facebook feed or photos.

Look at my photos on Facebook and you'll find a combination of me, my husband, my kids, trips we've taken, and so forth.  Now, John will agree to put his arm around me and smile, usually.  But what you don't see is the before, after, and in between.  

EPCOT 2014 - John asked for a photo and
waited for the PhotoPass Photog to take it.

When you look at my photo from last week's one day trip to EPCOT, you see we appear normal and smiling. What you don't see is that after only 15 minutes of being in the park, he was profusely sweating from physical pain and discomfort of being around people, in closer proximity than was comfortable. What you don't see is that immediately after lunch, we went back to the room to take pain meds and to rest. Sleep. Sleep for two hours with a bathroom break and a seizure in between while he was sitting on the toilet. What got my attention was the nose bleed from his right nostril, as characteristic of his seizures, splattering on the floor.

We made it back to the park but we couldn't take the complimentary bus transportation because he didn't feel like he could wait for a bus to run if he needed to come back sooner. At dinner, we had to be selective in where to sit in relation to his back towards the least amount of people or so that he could see the door or windows.  He couldn't focus on the menu. He couldn't see it. Headache commenced.  I ordered his food for him. A waiter dropped dishes at dinner, he jumped. Where do we sit in the American Pavilion for the show? Luckily there were only 6 others in the last showing of the evening and that was comfortable, as none looked like a stereotypical terrorist.  All clear. Relax for a few minutes.

Then sleep for almost the entirety of the next three days as the two nights away was too mentally and physically exhausting.

Great Photo but you missed the
before and after. Thanks for
your perseverance 

In other events, my current profile photo where John is wearing his Purple Heart hat, was taken after we attended two consecutive MOPH events. Before the first one, he had a seizure before even getting out of bed that morning.  Trouble walking, trouble moving, dizzy, and in severe pain from the muscle contractions from the seizures. Before the first presentation, he stood for some time, walked without ambulation assistance, and with sweat dripping by the handkerchief fulls, he persevered.  He refused to quit, refused to sit for the longest time, and presented his awards.  Only a couple people were cognizant enough to see that despite his nice jacket, hat adorned with medals, and freshly shaven face (around the goatee, of course) that he was in severe pain.  Then again, he crashed for about two days from the pain and exhaustion of the events. I had to assist him in sitting up, had to help him steady himself out of the floor when he fell, and had to assist with other things as he was mostly confined to bed for the remainder of the week.

So before you are quick to judge about someone else's injuries or their need for disability or compensation…I'd urge you to think hard about all that you might not be seeing.  These vets like to look like they are doing good when people see them.  They really, in most cases, don't want sympathy. They just want to be treated like anyone else.  Hopefully, you will never hear me passing judgment on someone because of their illness or injury and I'd urge you to do the same. If you had to walk a mile in their shoes…you would likely be very surprised.

Thank a solder, honor a hero.

What to Pack!?

As you can see we like to go and travel is our therapy.  Like many packing and unpacking can be the
most aggravating parts of travel and vacations.  I typically try to pack in ways that will help me out and be efficient for packing and traveling.

Right now, we are packing for a trip to a week long conference in Orlando for wounded veterans and their families.  We are fortunate to have this experience and I'm so excited that I can hardly contain myself!

Here are a few of my tips:

• Start packing a few days early for some items that you won't need until travel.
• I pack underwear, pajamas, socks, and bathing suits first (yes, I'm packing swimwear for a December trip to Florida because it is 80 degrees and pools are heated)
• Next, I pack non perishable food items in a separate bag that is easily accessible in the vehicle.
• I pack things like peanut butter and bread, gummy snacks, dried fruit, bottled water and drinks, applesauce, and perhaps oatmeal, cereal, and other easy snacks.
• Then, I pack meds in a container that I can easily get to.  I typically keep meds together in a clear box with lid so they travel well.  
• I get the kids to pick a couple of toys, books, and coloring activity items to carry along.  This cuts down on the impulsive buys of unnecessary theme park purchases.  

•  Example: pack princess gear for girls or swords and pirate stuff for boys or take a couple favorite plush items for snuggling
• Pack items like Disney Pins, Vinylmations, MagicBands, lanyards, cameras, camcorders, and any other items you need to take to the parks.
• Lastly, I pack the bulk of our bags
• Add clothes and also pack hygiene bags
• I usually forget a few things like phone chargers, sunglasses or computer/iPad chargers, a pair of shoes, etc and leave a tote bag handy to toss those items in at the last minute. 

I also pack a different bag if we are overnight at a different location other than our main destination.  For this next week's trip, we are starting off with two days with family and ending with a Disney hotel at the end of our Universal Orlando trip. So I'll back a single clothes bag for everyone in the family for each of these separate overnights so we don't have to lug in everyone's luggage for a 24-48 hour stay.

Happy Packing!

(By the way dear friends and readers....I am now a travel agent complete with Disney College of Knowledge and Universal Specialist certification and would love to help you plan and book your next trip! email me at aflener1@gmail.com for info)

Doing Disney Pirate Style

We seem to average about three Walt Disney World trips each year for the last three years. We try to do something unique each time we go. With two boys, we have not experienced the Bippidy Boppity Boutique or princess character meals. (Even though I still would love to dine at Cinderella's Castle!) Since the princess craze doesn't work for us, we search out other fun things to do with boys.  The Pirate Adventure Cruises are for kids only and are one of these great choices.  These cruises sail from one of several Disney resorts and are available for potty trained children ages 4-12.  Each of the four locations that offer the Pirate Adventure Cruises have a slightly different theme.  These adventures set sail from 8:30-11:30 each day from one of the locations and include a hunt for treasure and a story told by the crew.  They even give the kids a snack while away.  You can find the details on Disney's website here.

When we stayed at Port Orleans in 2011, our youngest was too small to join brother on the Bayou Pirate Adventure that sailed from the Fishin' Hole on Ol' Man Island down the Sassagoula River.  But the oldest wasn't keen on leaving mom and dad's side either so we waited until October 2012 and booked the Pirate Adventure Cruise.  This cruise leaves from the Grand Floridian. On this adventure, our kids sailed around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon and were treated to a reading of "The Legend of Gasparilla"—a real Florida pirate. These excursions can fill up in advance so call Disney or your travel agent to book in advance. 

This really turned out to be a great adventure for all of us. While the kids were off for a couple hours, John and I went to the Grand Floridian Cafe (where we had advance dining reservations).  We enjoyed some grown up food: Citrus Pancakes with roasted pecans and dried cranberries served with orange butter and Smoked Salmon with tomatoes, onions, capers (I had these left off), cream cheese, and toasted bagel.

After our delightful breakfast we headed back off to the marina with about 45 minutes to spare.  We spontaneously decided to rent a Sea Raycer for the last 30 minutes before the kids came back into the dock.  I have to say it was pretty cool to cruise around Bay Lake for a bit. 

The kids came back in as we were pulling into the dock and showed us all their pirate treasure (a small chest and bag filled with pirate loot like rings, bracelets, eye patches, pencil toppers, etc.) and we headed back to our Pirate Room at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.  Our little one fell asleep on the way back and rested well in his pirate ship bed. Our boys really loved the pirate themed room but know that we found the beds a bit more uncomfortable than most Disney Resort bedding.  The room was smaller too but Disney still paid close attention to every detail as always with keg-like bedside tables, plank flooring, and pirate curtains.

When we were planning our Spring 2013 trip we decided to try for the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Cruise that sails from the Contemporary.  We lucked out and got reservations about 3 weeks in advance.  We arrived quite a bit early and there were crayons, color sheets, and puzzles for the kids to work on in the hallway until it was time for refreshments.  The snack buffet included white cheddar popcorn, cake, chocolate pirate coins, fruit, a freezer of Mickey and Disney's Ice Cream Novelties), small bagged portions of Disney's cotton candy, and a beverage selection of coffee, teas, cocoa, and more. 

While we filled up on snacks, Captain Hook and Smee posed for photos and signed the boys 9" Vinylmations.  We were led to the boat by Hook and our cast member on board entertained us with trivia games (for the kids) and prizes while we got our own view of the water pageant before moving along to get into position to watch Wishes.  Of course we had to sing "Yo Ho" and discovered we didn't really know the words! I think The Pirates and Pals Cruise is now our favorite way to experience the fireworks.  It was spectacular with the music piped in over the boats speakers.

The next day the boys had the opportunity to meet Jack Sparrow! After a ride on the Pirates of the Caribbean we made it just in time for him to invite the boys on stage.  They loved the fact that they were sworn in as honorary pirates! Each of them were delighted to have a special certificate to show for this experience.

The only thing that my boys weren't keen on experiencing was the Pirates League at the Magic Kingdom, where children and adults can be transformed into a pirate complete with makeup and accessories.  Maybe we'll try that on another trip.

If pirates and adventure sound fun, try doing Disney pirate style on your next trip. There's no danger of having to walk the plank and you may just have an amazing time.



-Let me know if I can plan your next magical vacation or a pirate adventure for you.  I now work with a full service travel agency that provides FREE quotes, and lots of help to make magic for you! You can email me at Aflener1@gmail.com for your quote

Doing Disney With Disabilities - Part 2

What do you do when your disability is not so obvious?  If you or your disabled loved one are anything like my husband, often he just wants to blend in.  He would rather endure a little (or extreme) pain and suffer rather than have to face the scrutiny (or just plain paranoia) that others are looking, staring, or judging.  Worrisome thoughts like, "Look at him, he doesn't need that ECV" or "They are just doing this to skip lines" or maybe you even overhear another person say, "Pfffft, guess I should have paid for a scooter!"

What if you are that vacationer that has severe PTSD, a panic disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or seizures?  What if you are afraid of people being too close to you and maybe you even get weak and feel like you are going to pass out when crowds are too large and people are all around?  Maybe you even collapse under stresses like these.  Unfortunately, all these are things that my husband has to endure plus a few more.  Yet, until our most recent April 2013 visit, I never thought about how Disney could accommodate these invisible disabilities.  Because John was usually in a wheelchair or used his walker, those injuries/disabilities were more apparent.   When he used a mobility device, we used the Wheelchair/Handicapped entrances to rides, thus typically bypassing those overcrowded and often long lines. 


Just before our April trip, I read somewhere about the Guest Assistance Card.  I knew John wanted to try to tackle this trip without his walker or wheelchair.  Matter of fact, we left the wheelchair at home and only packed the walker.  We decided we would just rent an ECV on the day(s) that he needed it while we were in the parks.  My breathing difficulties are so severe that I knew I couldn't be able to push him much during this trip even if he were to need the wheelchair.  I knew we would need this Guest Assistance Card more than ever. 

As usual on our first day, Magic Kingdom was our first stop. We headed straight to City Hall/Guest Services and I explained our situation to the cast member there.  I told him how John was a combat wounded vet who had severe PTSD, seizures, and anxiety and also told them that we didn't bring his wheelchair along like usual but he still had mobility issues with standing or walking for long periods of time.  

The cast member was gracious and put our information into the computer.  He stamped our pass with "May use an alternate entrance when possible" and also explained that he couldn't guarantee that it would work everywhere but encouraged us to "just ask" and to have a great vacation.  He also told us that sometimes the wait times may be longer using the card than the traditional ride entrance, etc. 

I have heard how this Guest Assistance Card can be a life saver for families traveling with children with disabilities also.  Children with Aspergers, Autism, sensory disorders, etc. can possibly benefit from the Card.  If you have thought about taking a disabled aging family member along on a vacation, this may be a good thing to keep in mind so your vacation is less of a hassle. You can always ask your travel agent or Guest Services on suggestions to make your trip more accommodating and magical.

Ok, here is my disclaimer!  I can't guarantee that Disney will accommodate any or all of your issues/disabilities.  I can say that during the last 3 years on at least 9 trips, we've only had one bad encounter with a cast member regarding disability accommodation.  Yes, it made me furious and practically ruined my entire day at the Animal Kingdom.  However, while we were at the Animal Kingdom Guest Services location, I overheard a cast member and a guest discussing her request for a Guest Assistance Card.  The guest apparently had diabetes and had gotten the Card in the past and the cast member did not want to giver her one for her current trip.  The cast member even asked her if she had her prior card or a letter from her doctor!  If you are considering asking for a Guest Assistance Card on your next trip, you may want to take along some type of documentation just in case you need it.  I would hate for your first Disney experience to be unnecessarily anxiety provoking.  While John has a VA ID card that states he is Combat Wounded and Service Connected, I thought about taking a copy of his Compensation Award letter on our next trip.  This way we would have documentation showing what his disabilities he is diagnosed with and you better believe that we're saving this current Card!

Invisible helper dog at Once Upon A Toy

During our April trip, I also noticed several service dog relief areas.  These areas grabbed my attention as we have been on a service dog waiting list for almost a year.  Hopefully, on our next trip we will have a service dog with us.  During our Halloween Party trip in October 2012, John jokingly grabbed this invisible dog/leash at Once Upon A Toy at Downtown Disney and said, "Look at me and my invisible helper dog!"

Whatever need or disability you have, chances are that Disney has a way to make your vacation a little more comfortable.  Even though we started off with 4 years of no family vacations, we now do Walt Disney because it caters to disabilities (both the visible and invisible), it is in John's comfort zone, and it helps turn an ordinary day into a magical escape. Read more about why we do Disney in this post.


If you have a question about Disney accommodating disabilities you can Click Here to go to their Q&A Page.

See our Doing Disney With Disabilities - Part 1 post



(Friends and readers: I am now a Travel Agent complete with graduating from the Disney College of Knowledge and I'd love to help you plan a magical vacation.  Email me at aflener1@gmail.com and Find the agency on Facebook - Our services are FREE from quotes to park plans and dining with qualifying vacation packages)
 

Doing Disney With Disabilities - Part 1

Hakuna Matata!        If you are planning a trip to any Disney location and stressing because of a disability, you can put your worries away.  

Disney caters so well to people with disabilities and this blog will outline a few ways we've witnessed Walt Disney World accommodating...often with a little pixie dust along the way.

When we were planning our 2011 family trip to Walt Disney World, I was almost in tears when I called to explain that we needed to change reservations so that we could accommodate my husband's wheelchair.  The cast member on the line was so understanding and compassionate.  I will always remember what she said, "There are a quite a few things that Disney does really well and helping those with disabilities is something they do very well!"  She modified our reservation so that we had a roll in shower.  When we checked in we had a little extra pixie sprinkled.  We found out that they gave us an extra room to adjoin so the kids could still have a bath tub! I think I shed a tear or two.  Now, I'm not saying Disney will give you an extra room and it is something we've never requested but it happened twice in 2011 for us. Whatever your needs are, explain them and Disney will let you know how they can help.  For example, if you need a room for the hearing impaired, ask.  If you need a shower chair or handheld shower in your resort room, simply ask and see if Disney can accommodate. 

If you have ever been to Disney, you recall seeing a host of motorized scooters or ECVs.  Disney buses, monorails, boats, and other vehicles accommodate wheelchairs and ECVs.  These people needing special accommodation typically board the bus first and can take up to 5 additional people with them.  Larger parties need to split up and wait in the regular line.  We have found the bus drivers to be very kind and helpful.  At times, John has transferred from his chair into a regular bus seat and other times they go to great care to buckle him securely with his wheelchair secured.  During our 2011 trip, he had multiple seizures when he was very crowded on the bus and it was over packed.  We have learned since then that if a bus is crowded or there is a long line, we may choose to wait for the next bus.   

With rides and attractions, there is often a handicapped entrance also.  This entrance usually accommodates wheelchairs and scooters when the normal line may be too narrow or have stairs.  While this has often seemed to cut down on our wait time, Disney's policy is that axillary entrances "are not intended to bypass waiting lines."  It may be possible to wait longer in an alternate entrance line (i.e. waiting on a boat to accommodate a wheelchair or scooter at It's a Small World or the Jungle Cruise).  Sometimes a guest must transfer from an ECV or wheelchair and some attractions or shows allow the guest to remain in their chair.  

Check the park map for details.  Additionally, know that each Disney Park has a special guide/map for guests with disabilities.  Check with guest services or the park's wheelchair rental location for these special guides.  

These special Guides for Guests with Disabilities outline things like:

• Where to find companion restrooms (I love these as a mom with boys)
• Where to find service dog relief areas (Since we are on the waiting list to get a service dog, this caught my eye.)
• Service dog restrictions
• Special parade viewing areas
• Accommodations for guests with visual disabilities (Braille guides, audio descriptions)
• Accommodations for guests with hearing disabilities (handheld or video captioning, assistive listening devices
• Courtesy Wheelchair locations/use
• AED locations 

There are a few other Disability Accessibility things to mention.  At most restrooms on Disney properties you can find sharps containers.  So if you are a diabetic and have to take injections, you won't have to worry about where to put your used needles.   You can also stop by Guest Services  to get a Guest Assistance Card if you have disabilities.  This can help if you have a mobility disability but don't use a chair or if you have an invisible injury (see Part 2 of this post).  At the Magic Kingdom's Columbia Harbor House restaurant, we were greeted by a cast member before we got in line and she escorted us to a special section for accessibility.  We didn't have to suffer through tight lines.  They were even willing to take our order and bring it to us.  If you rent an ECV from a Disney park, you have to return it before you exit, however you can show your ticket if you park hop or return later and be issued another ECV.  One last tip is don't forget that you can get a free ice water at counter service locations or snack carts/locations that have tap water available. 

2012 Birthday Trip with Extended Family

 

So until my next Part 2 Post (when you have an invisible injury like Panic Disorder, Seizures, PTSD, etc) know that Disney is a great option for catering to your needs, whatever they may be.  If you need something, let Guest Services or a cast member know.  You may be suprised at what they can do.  For us, Disney is therapeutic, magical, and provides that escape from the day to day realities of life.  Disney bends over backwards to make sure every vacation is a magical one.

(Friends and readers: I am now a Travel Agent complete with graduating from the Disney College of Knowledge and I'd love to help you plan a magical vacation.  Email me at aflener1@gmail.com and Find the agency on Facebook - Our services are FREE from quotes to park plans and dining with qualifying vacation packages)

We love FREE Customized Disney Maps

I know I've been posting a lot about Disney lately.  It is no secret that we love the land of the Mouse.  Our oldest child loves being the "tour guide" when we go places.  He loves navigating and maps.  

We ordered our first set of Disney maps a couple years ago and still have them! When you have them mailed, allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.  You can print them but they are not a good quality and don't compare to the exquisite ones Disney prints and mails to you.  

You can request additional new maps, but you have to wait at least 6 months from your previous order.  This is just one additional FREE thing Disney has to offer.  Studying the maps and attractions helps you better prepare for your park visit and spend less time scurrying around trying to figure out the layout of the park after you arrive.  Get your maps here.

(Friends and readers: I am now a Travel Agent complete with graduating from the Disney College of Knowledge and I'd love to help you plan a magical vacation.  Email me at aflener1@gmail.com and Find the agency on Facebook - Our services are FREE from quotes to park plans and dining with qualifying vacation packages)

Disney on a Dime

For families on a tight budget, vacationing is often the thing that takes a back seat.  Yet, vacationing seems to be what keeps us sane! We've been fortunate enough to do Disney from all sorts of perspectives.  We've stayed off-site, stayed at Disney Value Resorts, Moderate Disney Resorts, and also stayed at a Deluxe Disney Resort. Disney can really accommodate almost any budget. I think our favorite trips have included stays of 4 days and 3 nights. If you are brave and adventurous you can add a four day park pass to a four day stay for power packed vacation.  But, even when you can do less for cheaper, you don't want to overwhelm yourself and stress over trying to cram too much into a short time frame.  If you aren't a seasoned Disney traveler, book way in advance and allow yourself the freedom to pay it off before you go.

Friends often ask how they can conservatively do Disney and I thought I would share a few tips with you here.  Often, the most bang for your buck will include a package that includes tickets and dining.  With many promotions, a 3 night stay with park tickets and dining may not cost as much as you think.  Then most of your meals and some snacks are already paid for when you arrive.  Family vacations can cost less than $100 per person per day.  After you've decided on dates and booked a vacation, the last thing you want to do is get to Walt Disney World and feel like you are spending too much money.

First, souvenirs and trinkets from the parks are one quick way to blow extra money you just don't count on spending.  It is easy to cave into the little one's (or big one's) requests for many items they don't necessarily need.  Sometimes we give in, and of course you have to take some sort of mementos home.  However, ways we get around this are numerous.

• Trade Disney Pins - When you are on Disney property, you can trade these pins with cast members.  It is too fun to track down sets of pins or just pins that you like! Buying them in larger sets or will save tons as individual pins in the parks range from $5-15 and some specialty pins costing more than that. 

• Staff members with Green Lanyards or Pouches only trade with children under 12.
• Pin boards can be found at front desks at your resort, at bell service desks, with Disney Vacation Club reps, behind the desks at shops in the park or at your resort gift shop. The Downtown Disney Marketplace Finds store even has pins on a Flip Flop!
• Downtown Disney has a Pin Trading pavilion that also has a hidden board that opens to a secret Disney science when a computer generates the time for the staff to open it.  If you are lucky enough to get a peek or get to trade here, you will likely find whatever you are searching for.
• Disney security staff harbor pin boards in their little stations near the buses at Magic Kingdom, etc.  They are always happy to trade when asked because few people know about their boards. We were lucky enough to find the rare Figment sweater pin there last year.
• Animal Kindgom Lodge's Jambo House provides an opportunity to trade with "King Pin" at certain times in their gift shop.  Contact the resort for current schedule. He knows his pins and  you stand on a red carpet to trade! 
• Collect trading cards - Few people know that all the water ferries and monorails, etc. have their own trading cards.  These include a picture and facts.  

• You can ask any staff person (boat driver, monorail driver or attendant) to see if they have cards.  
• The Walt Disney Railroad at the Magic Kingdom also gives out conductor passes.  
• Lastly, your kid can get a "Driver's License" when they ride/drive at the Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland Speedway.
• Take flashlights or glow sticks - This will help avoid unnecessary light up purchases during the evenings and parades.  Although, you can purchase $5 light up items off the carts in the evening and you can even score a Mickey light saber for under $8.
• Take some of your child's toys - Taking your own toys, especially Disney related toys, can cut down on the urge to spend on impulse souvenirs.  For our boys, we also take along toy swords or pirate attire.  For girls, you can take your own princess costumes, dolls, etc.  

Another way to save at Disney includes going places that can entertain your kids with little or no cost involved (provided you don't make lots of impluse purchases while you are there!) Consider a whole day just to check out your resort or Downtown Disney.  Always check entertainment schedules for Downtown Disney or the park you are visiting.

• Check out Downtown Disney - This entertainment district doesn't charge a parking fee or admission.

• T-REX cafe has a dig area just to the side of their gift shop where little ones can uncover dino bones.
• Ghiradelli gives out a free piece of chocolate to all who enter
• Ferry boats provide an escape from walking from the East Side to the West Side and to nearby resorts.  
• You can let your little ones build Mr. or Mrs. Potato Heads at Once Upon a Toy store.
• The Lego store has interactive stations where visitors can build and race cars, use the computer to design Lego creations, or use the Legos at other tables to create their own designs.  
• Train rides and carousel rides are $2 each. 
• Check out the Phineas & Ferb interactive experience. 

Hang out at your Disney resort and enjoy the play area,pool, hot tub, or other activities.  

• Disney resorts typically offer a movie poolside or in a garden area each night.  Check your activity scheulde when you arrive.  
• Cookie decorating, kitchen tours, campfires, and other activities may also be included at your resort so check with someone at the front desk if you can't locate it on your activity schedule.  

  

Food! Even if you have the Disney Dining Plan, food is an area where it is easy to overspend.  Lori, my Disney Travel Agent friend, confesses that on their last trip they "tested it and would have saved roughly 20% had we had [the Dining Plan] on our trip!" 

We hardly ever waste a meal credit on a breakfast, unless it is a table service character breakfast.  One quick service breakfast platters are big enough to serve me and the two kids usually.  My favorite way to go it to get the Mickey waffle platter with no biscuit and an extra waffle!  That leaves two waffles for the boys plus the eggs, meat, and hash browns to divide.  If you have to pay out of pocket for a lunch item, a kid meal at Disney (usually not on the menu) is a good value too because it is cheaper than buying a drink and entree separately, plus you get a desert.  Also, remember to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to snacks. 

Please don't waste a snack credit on a banana! Try to maximize your snack credits by going for the items that are around $4.00 each or more.  Pay out of pocket for smaller snacks.  The Main Street Bakery offers a large cookie (or most any other desert item as a snack credit) but you can also get a cookie ice cream sandwich for a snack credit.  That is two cookies with a mound of ice cream layered between.  You decide which is the better option...but I will add that the sandwich is plenty big enough for sharing! To the right is a Oreo Cookie sandwich dipped in chocolate with Butterfinger pieces and a chocolate drizzle.  This is a great use of a Disney Snack credit.

Pizza!  You can order a pizza from your resort without using your dining credits.  We've added a large bowl of grapes and used our souvenir mugs (free refills) to have a Disney meal for 4 for around $20-25.

Remember that you can take your own food!  We typically pack granola bars, Pop Tarts, dried fruit or fruit snacks, and bread and peanut butter (also these items can be found in Disney resort gift shops).  You can take your own bottled drinks and snacks into the parks.  Animal Kingdom has restrictions on things like straws and such due to the animals, so make sure to check their website before traveling. 

Other items to remember include stopping by the Confectionery on Main Street at Magic Kingdom where they usually have someone passing out free cotton candy.  Then you can step across the street and walk back to the Harmony Barber Shop (located beside City Hall) and ask for a complimentary sprinkling of confetti in you or your child's hair.  Even a simple bang cut is only $5.  I can't get that good of a deal at a local salon!  Other locations around Magic Kingdom, like the Castle Couture shop, will sprinkle Pixie Dust in hair too (this is fine glitter rather than chunky confetti like the barber shop).

Lastly, don't forget to take advantage of any vouchers and coupons that come along with your Disney vacation.  For example, if you get a pass for Mini golf be sure to use it.  We like Fantasia Fairways and Fantasia Gardens courses.  The Fairways course is like a shrunken mini golf course with hills and water features.

These are all suggestions that I offer to my closest friends when they travel and I hope they've helped you too! You can plan a magical vacation without breaking the bank.  If the travel planning overwhelms you, Now I work as a Travel Agent from home and I can help you book a Magical Vacation if you'd like. Often you can book a Disney vacation with only a $200 deposit so you can pay it all off before you travel.  Our services are free with a qualifying booking and we will even book your dining reservations and give you daily itineraries.   Email me at   aflener1 @ gmail.com for more information or quotes.  If you've booked yourself in the last 30 days, you can transfer the booking to us and still get our concierge professional service. 

For us, Disney is not only magical, but it is therapeutic.  It heals, it revives, and it provides a pleasant escape from the day to day monotony.  Hope you can visit soon...you'll be glad you did.

How to spend our Travel Referral gift card?

It won't be long before we head to the land of the Mouse again.  Yes, we go a lot.  Disney is one of the few place in John's real zone of comfort.  With severe PTSD, you can't just spontaneously decide to go on a vacation anywhere at anytime.  However, three years ago thanks to the Wounded Warrior Family Support organization, we took our first real family vacation.  They gave us a week at Universal, a day at Sea World, and we spent one day at the Magic Kingdom doing the Very Merry Christmas Party.  

During that that vacation, I saw John and the boys smile more than they had smiled in a long time.  I think the fact that we survived a week of vacationing made him realize that we could go on vacation and we could have fun.  

Since that time, we have been to Disney countless times.  Technically, I suppose the number would be about 9 times to Disney, Universal, or the Downtown Disney area in the last 3 years.  We go during off peak seasons like late September, October, early November, or February to avoid the most crowded park days.

We really like using an authorized agent to make the hassle of booking and planning a vacation a little simpler.  Of course, we still like to do our fair share of research, planning, and booking too.  But, one perk to the agent we used is that when you refer friends and family who book a qualifing vacation, you will get a Disney gift card!  You can use it online at the Disney Store or at Disney locations.   

I found this one today in my purse.  We have had it since December, after some friends who booked a trip traveled to Walt Disney World.    

So the question of the day is how do we spend our gift card? We have $50 in Disney Dollars to spend.  Would you use it for dining, souvenirs, a boat or bike rental, towards booking another vacation? 

(Friends and readers: I am now a Travel Agent complete with graduating from the Disney College of Knowledge and I'd love to help you plan a magical vacation.  Email me at aflener1@gmail.com and Find the agency on Facebook)

A Surprise Birthday Adventure!?!

Two weeks ago, John told me he couldn't keep it a secret any longer.  "I've got to have some help, so pack your bags and one for the kids.  I'm taking you somewhere tomorrow for your birthday."
He confessed that he'd thought about packing my bag for me and later telling me we were heading out for lunch and then realized that he would have left something out and that I would have been beyond panicked, not knowing what to expect. 

Second row parking at Epcot!

As my birthday was not for another two and a half weeks, a "surprise" was a little easier to pull off than if it were my actual birthday.  I had a couple of guesses but John went way beyond with planning.  He made reservations for a hotel, meals, and tickets.  I was astonished that he had put so much thought into making my birthday special! We went through a couple years when he didn't remember birthdays and didn't remember Christmas, Valentines day, or a few other occassions.  I suppose I gave him a bit of greif over this because he has made it a big point to make sure (even if early) that he remembers these days and celebrates them in some way. 

John quizzed me on where I thought we were going.  I knew he's wanted to go to the mountains to Octoberfest for a couple years, but we had never been there.  So, I told him I knew this was "out of his comfort zone" and I told him that I thought he had booked something in Orlando. Universal and/or Disney was my best guess.  It is the last couple weeks of Epcot's Food & Wine Festival and I knew he had wanted to go.  We took the kids last year and they were just plain awful.  They were tired, didn't want to be there, and they acted out horribly.  We swore we would never take the kids back when we wanted to eat and drink our way around the world.  Last year, Aston wore most of the foods on his clothes.  He had jerk chicken with mango chutney on his shorts, along with chocolate mousse and he had what was left of two pieces of chocolate cake from France on his shirt.

Shrimp, Lobster Chowder, & Mini Crab Cakes

John surprised me with La Nouba, the Cirque du Soleil, performance with seats in the fourth row.  He booked them on the drive down from my phone's browser and I didn't have a clue.  He made reservations at The Coral Reef restaurant at Epcot.  We debated park hopping but stayed at Epcot from opening to close!  John even made reservations at the Disney Polynesian's Kona Cafe.  We slept in and didn't make it, nonetheless the effort was there.  Just before going home, we played a round of mini golf at Fantasia Fairways.  It was awesome.  It is a mini shrunken course with "sand traps" and water.  I still managed a hole in one on the third hole.

I was exhausted from the drive there and back but we had a great weekend.  I was blown away by the thoughts that John put into making the weekend special.  He was determined that for the third year in a row, we wouldn't spend my birthday at the VA hospital for appointments or tests.  He wanted it to be memorable for me. 

Thanks, John.  It is still a few days away but this has been the best birthday in a while. 

(Friends and readers: I am now a Travel Agent complete with graduating from the Disney College of Knowledge and I'd love to help you plan a magical vacation.  Email me at aflener1@gmail.com and Find the agency on Facebook - Our services are FREE from quotes to park plans and dining with qualifying vacation packages)