Tiny Bits of Magic

Advice and info on parenting, family travel, and healthy family living from a mama of five

Shop Holiday Cards on Zazzle

by

My One-Minute Review of Star Wars–A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party

Are you considering splurging on the Star Wars–A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party during your next visit to Walt Disney World?  If so, check out my FULL review on WDW Fan Zone .

Here is My One-Minute Review of Star Wars-A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party

We attended the event as a birthday celebration for my 9 yr old daughter. She and her siblings LOVE Star Wars. Although I am not really a fan, I thought it would be a great way to celebrate.

As an overall review, I thought the event was lacking in content for the amount of money we paid to attend. At $69.00 per adult and $39.00 per kid, on TOP of the price of park admission, the benefits we received were not stellar. The party was held in  Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This area was still open to park go-ers during the party. This meant that party guests had to wait in lengthy lines to see characters as well as fight though crowds of people to get around the areas with movie memorabilia. The food and drinks provided were good. However, the “special” fireworks viewing area was not all that great.

 

Star Wars

my birthday girl

While my daughter had a great time, I think we will be skipping this event in the future. In my opinion the dollars spent did not equal the benefits received. Have you experienced Star Wars–A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party? What did you think?  Comment below and let me know your thoughts! Be sure to read my full review on WDW Fan Zone too!

 

by

Ready Set APPLY For The Disney Parks Moms Panel

 

Alright kids, it’s that time of year again. Time to dust off your pixie dusted thinking caps and brush up on your Disney Parks nomenclature. It’s time once again to apply to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!

The application for the Disney Parks Moms Panel opened TODAY, 9/6/2017 at noon ET.

Moms Panel application advice

Let’s review some information for those who may not be familiar with the Panel.

What is the Disney Parks Moms Panel?

The Disney Parks Moms Panel is a group of Disney enthusiasts who are chosen by a Disney selection committee to answer real-life guest questions using their own knowledge and experience. You do not need to be a mom, anyone can apply as long as you meet some very basic requirements like:

  • you must be 18 yrs or older
  • cannot work for Disney or be a travel agent
  • must have visited Disney Parks within a certain time frame–this requirement differs for each “specialty”(we’ll talk about “specialty” in a minute), but usually to apply for a position as a Walt Disney World (WDW) or Disneyland (DL) mom, you must have visited the respective parks within the last 12 months.

Those are just the basic requirements. The complete list of requirements can usually be found on the first page of the application website.

As I mentioned before, the panel is divided into “specialties”. This year, the categories are

  • Walt Disney World
  • Disneyland
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Disney Vacation Club

Disney is also looking  for bi-lingual panelists–those enthusiasts who are fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and French.

If you are selected, you will answer real guest questions regarding Disney.  Although those selected do receive a compensated trip to WDW, this is not a paid position and I want every to understand that there is work involved here. Although I have never, ever, heard of a panelist referring to their time spent on the panel as work, you are expected answer a certain number of questions per week. However, if you enjoy sharing your knowledge of Disney with others, you most likely will LOVE this kind of “work”.

How does the Disney Parks Moms Panel application process work?

I can only advise on years past, so here goes. Traditionally, the application process has been three rounds.

  • Round 1, involves basic “get to know you” questions, usually a sample question, one that is similar to that which the actual panelists answer, and usually one or two general knowledge Disney questions.
  • The next round (round 2) is usually a few more essay type questions and two sample panelist-type questions along with a required video submission.
  • Round 3 is usually a phone interview with one of the members of the selection team— sometimes another sample panelist question is added in here (typed and sent via email).  Panelists are notified if they made it or not–sometimes with an email, sometimes with a phone call.The selection committee likes to keep us all on our toes so things can change at anytime…..but this is how it has been in years past.

How do I pick a specialty? Does it matter what I pick? Yes, it matters. You should pick what you know the best. Yes, the competition is greater for a spot as a WDW mom (dad/aunt/grandma..etc), but if you’ve only been to DL once but have been to WDW 6 times, you should definitely apply for a WDW spot.

How many spots are there per specialty? How many apply?  Well now that is the million dollar question, isn’t it? The truth is, I don’t know. No one outside of the selection committee knows. The  number of applications received for round one in years past has been rumored to be between a couple thousand to greater than ten thousand. The number of those applicant who move on from round one to round two are usually rumored to be around 500 with those moving on to round three around 50-100. My numbers could be WAAAYYYY off, but those are the rumors.

As for the number of spots–well I cannot tell you that either because no one knows until the committee makes their selection. In the past there have not usually been any more than two for each specialty other than WDW. The number of panelists varies year to year, so we will not know for certain how many will be taken until they are…well…taken.

Any tips for Disney Parks Moms Panel applicants?

Here are a few of the BIG things to keep in mind:

  1. Spelling and grammar count–so read and re-read…then read it again
  2. Use PROPER Disney names—if you don’t know, look them up
  3. Be yourself–because you cannot be anyone else…unless you can be a princess, then be a princess. I know that is totally cliche, but you have to write in your own voice. It’s how you let the committee know who you are and how they can see your passion.
  4. Spelling and grammar–yeah, it is THAT important

 

Should I apply to the Disney Parks Moms Panel?

It sounds scary and really hard.

Should you apply? Well I cannot tell you, dear reader, what to do. The process can be  grueling. You are applying for a job for which you have no real idea what the requirements are. You will not know what will set you apart if you are selected (what you did right).  Conversely, you will not know what it is that you could change if you are not chosen (what you did wrong).

Many hours I have spent pouring over my application, making sure my word count was correct and that I was using correct Disney terminology–only to have received that rejection email time and time again. It is hard. You have only a few hundred words to demonstrate to the committee not only your passion for Disney, but also your dazzling personality, your unbelievable writing skills, and strong voice. And there are a LOT of really passionate Disney writers out there.

I do not say this to you to discourage you. Quite the contrary. If you are passionate about Disney Parks, enjoy planning vacations for yourself and others, and live to share your best Disney tips- you SHOULD apply.  Plus, what have you got to lose?

Rejection is painful, I will not lie.  If you are not chosen, you will no doubt be disappoint but you will move on. But, what if it is YOU the committee is looking for? You’ll never know unless you apply……so stop reading my blog and get on the application page here.

And if you apply..let me know in the comments below. I want to be sure to send some positive pixie dusted thoughts your way. As my favorite Tribute Escort says “May the odds be ever in your favor”!

photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

Delicious Details You NEED To Know For Disney Cruise Line Dining

Let’s face it, there are a ton of things to research when it comes to taking a vacation and a Disney cruise is no exception. Disney vacationers, in my opinion, are the “Type-A” of all travelers. They want to know and plan, well in advance, every detail of their trip. I get it.

Disney Cruise Line Dining

In an effort to help those planning their next Disney cruise, check out an article I wrote for WDW Fan Zone. Here you will find the things I think you need to know about dining on Disney Cruise Line. It includes my best advice and details you may not know, about eating onboard the ship.  Because I want you, my Type-A vacationer, to have the ability to prepare!

And if you’re looking for more Disney Cruise tips, check out these posts below.

What are some of your best Disney Cruise Line dining tips? 

photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

Five Things To Consider When Planning a Disney Cruise

Hurray!! You’ve decided to finally “take the plunge” and plan a Disney Cruise. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a few sails shy of a captain’s hat, take a look at my post on WDW Fan Zone for the Top Five Things To Consider When Planning a Disney Cruise. Happy cruising!!

photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

Top Five Things To Bring To Disney Social Media Moms Celebration

Congratulations! If you are reading this post, you have most likely received that pixie dusted email inviting you and your family to Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. Take a deep breath and savor this moment! You have achieved something so incredible through your hard work and dedication that you should take some time to really enjoy the honor of being selected.Disney Social Media Moms Celebration Tips

 

Okay, now that you’ve had time to reflect, it’s time to get planning! You may be wondering what to pack. Here are 5 things you don’t want to forget to bring to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration

 

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration tips

Clothes for Disney Social Media Moms Celebration:

  1. Outfit for the opening meet/greet and dinner. I chose a simple sundress. Most people were in what I call “church clothes”, nice but not too fancy. Pants are okay but I’d stay away from the jeans and shorts. Remember, this will be your first opportunity to meet the Disney Social Media team, conference sponsors, and fellow bloggers and you want to make a good impression.
  2. Conference day: Here you will want something that is dressy but comfy, since you will be sitting most of the day. Business casual seemed to be what most people chose. Again, pants are okay, but I’d stay away from the jeans and shorts. Bring a sweater, as the room temperature seemed to fluctuate through the day.
  3. Family Dinner: This will depend on what the team has planned for that night. We had a beach party and as such, I wore a flowy sundress. Take a look at the itinerary once it is available and make your decision.
  4. Vacation-wear. Shorts, tshirts, flip-flops..etc. This is a vacation, after all. Don’t forget the comfy shoes for walking through the parks, rain poncho in case it rains, swimsuits, and sunscreen.

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration tipsElectronics for Disney Social Media Moms Celebration:

This is a social media event so bring your devices. It is encouraged that you post to Facebook, Twitter..etc during the conference, so bring whatever makes it easiest for you. Phone, laptop, iPad…whatever you need. Don’t forget power cords (there will be outlets at the tables).

 

Business Cards For Disney Social Media Moms Celebration:

I could go either way on this one. Most people bring business cards with them. It’s a convenient way to exchange information with fellow bloggers. They are not mandatory. If you are going to bring business cards, make sure to include the following:

  • Name
  • Blog Name
  • Email
  • Photo (makes it easier to remember names and faces)

Some people like to put on their phone number and/or address. I do not just because I am naturally suspicious of people. You do what makes you feel most comfortable.
Disney Social Media Moms Celebration Tips

Bring A Positive Attitude To Disney Social Media Moms Celebration:

I know, I know, sounds lame but it is true. Bring a positive attitude. Don’t go into this with any expectations. That was one of the saddest moments of the weekend when an attendee told me she was disappointed in this year’s event. She said she had been to Disney SMMC before and this year was a complete let down from years past. I truly did not know what to say. While Disney Social Media Moms Conference is a celebration of mom/dad bloggers, it is still an honor to be chosen. No, this is not a complimentary event.  Your fees include lodging, a few meals, and park tickets. That is what you should expect. Everything else is gravy. Make this a magical event for yourself and do not arrive with expectations. Plan on soaking up all that is offered and enjoy your experience.

 

Don’t Forget A Smile:

Okay, this one might be even more lame that my last tip but it is worth mentioning. Be friendly. A smile goes a long way in meeting people. This is especially true if you are a shy-introvert like me. Presenting yourself in a pleasant manner will give others the feeling that you are approachable. If you are one of those awesome outgoing personalities, keep an eye out for those shy people who are off by themselves. A smile and an introduction will make all the difference to them and you might be connecting with your next life-long blogger friend.

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration tips
my best blogging buddies. Love these two

 

There you have it, my top five things to bring with you to Disney Social Media Conference. You are in for an incredible weekend. Congratulations again and remember to HAVE FUN!
photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

Jamberry’s Collaboration with Disney Creates Exciting New Wraps

I don’t talk much about Jamberry Nail Wraps. As a matter of fact, many people don’t even know I’m a consultant–I know, not a great tactic, but a great saleswoman I do not claim to be.  So something really great must be happening for me to be shouting from the rooftop…or at least from my blog. Disney and Jamberry have finally collaborated to create Disney themed nail wraps. YAY! Let me tell you, they are pretty awesome. 21 wraps will be available for purchase starting TODAY at 12pm EST with many more designs in the works for the future. Here are some sneak peeks….

These wraps will be $18 each and DO NOT qualify for the usual Buy 3 Get 1 Free deal. As for now, only regular sizes are offered but there are plans for junior designs as well. To see the full line of products visit my Jamberry website. Remember, the Disney wraps will not appear on the page until 2/9 at noon EST. Tell me what you think of these new designs, I’d love to know.

photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

Top Five Ways to Prepare to Have Your BEST Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Ever!

 

Can you believe it??  After months of training, you have just a few days  to go before you run Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon. Perhaps you’re a little nervous, especially if this is your first half marathon or first nighttime race. Don’t sweat it! Having run this race a few times, I am here to offer you my top five tips for running Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon so you can have your best night race ever.

Wine and Dine Half Marathon TIP #1:  

Don’t spend ALL day at the parks on race day.  You’re excited to be on vacation, I get it.  You want to make the most of every moment and every dollar spent, I totally understand. However, spending all day on your feet walking miles and miles around the park is a great way to insure you are going to sputter out towards the end of the race. So, take it easy. Plan a relaxing day. Hang out at the pool. If you just cannot stay away from the park magic, at least plan on visiting in the morning and head back to your resort in the early afternoon.  Put your feet up, watch a movie, and RE-LAX!

 

Wine and Dine Half Marathon TIP #2:  

Be Prepared! No, not for the “death of the king”, silly! Be prepared for the race. Check the weather often. Last year it rained…A LOT…the whole race (any other “Splash and Dash” veterans?). Luckily my mom is ALWAYS prepared and had a few ponchos in her suitcase. While running 13.1 miles wrapped in plastic wasn’t ideal, it was definitely better than being soaked to the bone for hours on end. Also, make sure you have a sweatshirt for after the race, either with your chEAR team or in your checked bag. Your body temperature will drop after you are done running and whether you are staying for the after party or heading back home, you are going to want something to wrap up in. Also the walk to the resort busses is LOOONG and the busses are always, at least in my opinion, really cold, so a warm, dry sweatshirt will be a welcome luxury.

Wine and Dine Half Marathon TIP #3:

Take a nap if you can.  At 10pm your body is probably ready to close up shop for the night, not gearing up to run a half marathon. While the adrenaline from the start line will definitely perk you up, a little catnap at 4pm on race day could really make the difference come mile 10 of the race.

Wine and Dine Half Marathon TIP#4:

 Stay as close to your normal diet as possible in the few days leading up to the race and HYDRATE!  I know, I know, this is not as easy as I make it sound. It is difficult to eat “normal” when you’re on vacation and even more so during Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. But believe me when I say you DON’T want to discover around mile 5 of the race that Schinkennudeln doesn’t quite agree with your digestive system. Eating right before your race will take a bit of planning but your body will thank you for your efforts (or at least not punish you for your lack there of). Make sure you are drinking plenty of water too, especially on race day.

Wine and Dine Half Marthon TIP #5:

Don’t let race night be your only nighttime run. If you have not done so already, make sure you do at least one or two training runs at night.  The demands of a night run on the body are very different than that of an AM race. You need to know how your body will respond to the late night stress and how best to cope with fatigue.  Fueling during a night race will also be different so you may need to test out different ways of nourishing your body before and during your run to find what will work best for you on race night. Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT try anything new during the race. This includes the food that will be handed out at between miles 8 and 9. If you did not train using it, don’t use it during the race. Seriously, if I had a quarter for every person I have witnessed get sick during a race after eating the provided on-course nourishment …Well, let’s just say I wouldn’t need to worry about financing my runDisney habit for quite some time. So take my advice and DON”T DO IT!

 

Well there you have it, my top five tips to help you have your best nighttime race. Above all else, don’t forget to have fun. You trained long and hard for this and while 13.1 miles is no “walk in the park”, running through the Walt Disney World resort is an experience like no other—so enjoy the ride!

 

 
 
photo signature_zps36353129.png
 
 
 

by

Say Goodbye to a Disney Holiday Tradition


Sad news coming out of Orlando this morning. Disney announced that this year will be the 

final year for The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. The impressive holiday display has been a holiday tradition at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for 20 years. Disney said it plans to end the show to make room for new expansions, including Toy Story Land and Star Wars Land. The lights began as one Arkansas family’s personal display of Christmas 

spirit and over the years expanded into an elaborate collection. In 1995 the family decided 

to share their decor with the world and the Walt Disney World resort became the 

permanent home for this display.  This is one of my family’s favorite holiday events and  I 

am so sad to see it go.  Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will run this year 

from November 6th through January 3rd , so go see it before it’s gone!!
photo signature_zps36353129.png

by

The Great Rubba Ducks® Giveaway!

Exciting news coming from Walt Disney World Resort! The Boathouse Restaurant at Disney Springs has partnered with Rubba Ducks®, making them the ONLY non-Disney toy available at the Boathouse gift shop.
So what are Rubba Ducks ®?  They are duckies with personality! Founded in 1997, Rubba Ducks® was the first line of rubber ducks created to be something more that just a yellow rubber bath toy. Each Rubba Duck® is uniquely designed as an individual character and with over 200 different ducks available, there is something for everyone. Rubba Ducks® have not only created these quack-tastic toys to reflect careers and hobbies but also life events, holidays, and even other animals!

In addition to the incredible individuality these ducks have, they also make for a great bath toy. These guys are sturdy enough to endure tons of tubbies and are weighted on the bottom so they always float upright. The BEST part is that, unlike other bath toys, Rubba Ducks® do not have a hole on the bottom, so no yucky bath water (or worse–MOLD!) getting trapped inside!

My kids haven’t stopped playing with our ducks since they arrived on our doorstep.
You can win your very own Rubba Duck® by entering the giveaway. Simply visit  Rubba Ducks®  and comment on this post which Rubba Duck® is your favorite! Earn an extra entry by following my blog and adding “followed” in the comment. Winner will be chosen at random using Random.com.

#I received products in exchange for my review. My views here are strictly my own
  photo signature_zps36353129.png