tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32577023788579821522024-02-19T00:43:12.785-05:00It's like Gold...manHere in the Goldman family, we enjoy sharing our tips and tricks to our exciting experiences!Michael Goldmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02378587481793483482noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-87308624604912500872018-06-30T12:47:00.000-04:002018-06-30T13:41:29.607-04:00Just keep swimming.... or strolleringDid you know, a person could average about 10 miles of walking at a Walt Disney World park? It's true. My fitness tracker confirmed that little tidbit of information.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OrF9TbGJbBiOLtjGLblFqPiOibo5_5Y3MesGe8lVcqiFNnpBbcEgxh14CmuqP2ilIUnOC2rRXJ1vo_024IEmpJLJB_egeSmfp9GhDqhyphenhyphenoy6tyTksutw4jIXV206LFq-Se_97y4WU7XM/s1600/Screenshot_20180629-204210_Connect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1046" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OrF9TbGJbBiOLtjGLblFqPiOibo5_5Y3MesGe8lVcqiFNnpBbcEgxh14CmuqP2ilIUnOC2rRXJ1vo_024IEmpJLJB_egeSmfp9GhDqhyphenhyphenoy6tyTksutw4jIXV206LFq-Se_97y4WU7XM/s320/Screenshot_20180629-204210_Connect.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
As a fairly active adult, a 10 mile day at the park is all fine and dandy. But add a 3 year old into the mix...well 10 miles of walking is a bit much for those little legs. It was an absolute no brainer that we required a stroller for our family trip to Walt Disney World.<br />
<br />
There are a few choices regarding using strollers in Walt Disney World. Some folks prefer to bring along their own stroller. Not a feasible option for the Goldman Family. Therefore, we made a decision to rent a stroller. Disney does rent strollers in the parks, but after dropping those strollers at the gate at the end of a day walking about 10 miles, you would then have to carry the little kiddo to the next mode of transportation to get back to your hotel. That is enough reason for this family to go with Option 3, renting from an outside company.<br />
<br />
A little FYI for those of you staying on Disney property, there are a select number of stroller rental companies that have the approval from Disney to leave rentals at Bell Services. Those select companies are NOT your only choices. The "'non-approved" companies will make arrangements to meet you in person at your resort. We've done it on a previous trip and it really was no hassle.<br />
<br />
Staying at Shades of Green this time around, we didn't have to worry about meeting anyone, as Shades allows rentals to be left with Bell Services. We chose to rent from <a href="https://scontent.fphl2-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/10675797_717015695034217_8017236963797150919_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=4ed91de0c53debd03aeeae4b690564b3&oe=5BB31B21" target="_blank">Baby Wheels Orlando</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent.fphl2-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/10675797_717015695034217_8017236963797150919_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=4ed91de0c53debd03aeeae4b690564b3&oe=5BB31B21" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="761" height="158" src="https://scontent.fphl2-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/10675797_717015695034217_8017236963797150919_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=4ed91de0c53debd03aeeae4b690564b3&oe=5BB31B21" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Baby Wheels is a family owned and operated company. I first heard about Baby Wheels from <a href="https://touringplans.com/" target="_blank">Touring Plans</a>, my online Disney family for the past 6 years. Our experience with Baby Wheels was great from reserving our stroller, to dropping it back off at Bell Services. Baby Wheels offers 8 different stroller options, including singles, doubles and infant travel systems. Every stroller comes with a rain cover and parent console. The GT models also include a small soft sided cooler.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_8yyRfTlxBqcqgcBBZprdQJCrdr1ow8-R8JJ36aKbbFaqUXWVsfsie3H1SAGiYlqSgQ9C9T0nuiLo2bhAJ3wxMtDq1ZYH6bzjT4ZoA8KHghKaW6MNYQcg4N_KcZKdqfUpkQ1Bn4ItdQ/s1600/BabyWheelsSite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_8yyRfTlxBqcqgcBBZprdQJCrdr1ow8-R8JJ36aKbbFaqUXWVsfsie3H1SAGiYlqSgQ9C9T0nuiLo2bhAJ3wxMtDq1ZYH6bzjT4ZoA8KHghKaW6MNYQcg4N_KcZKdqfUpkQ1Bn4ItdQ/s320/BabyWheelsSite.jpg" width="151" /></a>The Baby Wheels website is very easy to navigate. It is very easy to compare the different options right from their front page. Each stroller option lists its rental price per night, child weight limit, and dimensions folded and unfolded. A single stroller was all we needed for our feisty 3 year old. And since he's a pretty small dude, we could go with a stroller with a lower child weight limit. On our trip 5 years ago, we used a City mini GT. It was a great option, but this time we opted for the slightly smaller and lighter stroller. With the Single Stroller option, Baby Wheels provides either a Britax B Agile or a Baby Jogger City Mini. That's probably the hardest part of the whole process, choosing which stroller is right for your family. After you click that "Book Now" button, is all very simple.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCD6yqO9XhAymJHu4tLwUt0bp0UGxM2dsi47c-d2ZcDDY71khzResIrP0BaVqzNoggWBCfNpDPM6deQiiIYFsQeEmY2jwEFWCBUGmkxKy6hBsRdvAt2QJLiMYgPBTtRmE_xtFtFFEVdPY/s1600/BabyWheelsBookNow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="843" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCD6yqO9XhAymJHu4tLwUt0bp0UGxM2dsi47c-d2ZcDDY71khzResIrP0BaVqzNoggWBCfNpDPM6deQiiIYFsQeEmY2jwEFWCBUGmkxKy6hBsRdvAt2QJLiMYgPBTtRmE_xtFtFFEVdPY/s320/BabyWheelsBookNow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Baby Wheels gives you all of the information right on the booking page about the procedures on delivery day for your resort. Select your Check-in and Check-out dates. If the calendar is green, a stroller is available. The remainder of the process is super straight forward after you click "Book Now". There are a few other options you can add to your rental including insurance (which I would suggest because things happen), a case of bottled water, a glider board and even a snack sack.<br />
<br />
To finalize the process, you will indicate the resort you will be staying at, and approximate arrival time which is mostly used for the resorts that require an-person meet drop off. Like I mentioned, we didn't have to worry about an in-person meet, so our stroller was waiting for us when we arrived at Shades of Green. it was easy to pick our stroller out at Bell Services because Baby Wheels puts a name tag with our Family Name, which is big enough to pick out in a sea of stroller at the parks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHByZsUvDAJbt-PmhmDnJiJQ4gBKkWjQclwISsSW2Fm0ZgJwNQRbxi3qZDuB0VWZkJsFN9-iVnNcLfUeMYBmUFIlgJcL7g_ngFHqe3BkL7drAg3NMZYO2Li1TwQq8fvngUC-bZVzODK4g/s1600/20180628_081122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHByZsUvDAJbt-PmhmDnJiJQ4gBKkWjQclwISsSW2Fm0ZgJwNQRbxi3qZDuB0VWZkJsFN9-iVnNcLfUeMYBmUFIlgJcL7g_ngFHqe3BkL7drAg3NMZYO2Li1TwQq8fvngUC-bZVzODK4g/s400/20180628_081122.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSw2Kam9xm9FYxoRWTihkhu-egOQShLCR-pJGCYdRYxsG8R_og-QFahHPYmlnYfrfF4zM4azYAnjvO1Ou-_5MkxixidJUBVkvgqym85o6hU5BkVn60YSFTGTes7-LmrrKwhqVbFZmIHes/s1600/20180616_185145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSw2Kam9xm9FYxoRWTihkhu-egOQShLCR-pJGCYdRYxsG8R_og-QFahHPYmlnYfrfF4zM4azYAnjvO1Ou-_5MkxixidJUBVkvgqym85o6hU5BkVn60YSFTGTes7-LmrrKwhqVbFZmIHes/s200/20180616_185145.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vI-Rbjca5zq0RoJeCdsNcgyHxedHhq4u8KTVK28wxJg3OWlkhAZgNEGmXjWS3RXlzCf-J9kSsDOFkqMwCJQrZwN6BNtXXuM1XzrCKaD1FIporanCDRzrUCYhLo70xuOSApwBoVcVDHU/s1600/20180628_081030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vI-Rbjca5zq0RoJeCdsNcgyHxedHhq4u8KTVK28wxJg3OWlkhAZgNEGmXjWS3RXlzCf-J9kSsDOFkqMwCJQrZwN6BNtXXuM1XzrCKaD1FIporanCDRzrUCYhLo70xuOSApwBoVcVDHU/s200/20180628_081030.jpg" width="150" /></a>We ended up with the Britax B Agile. This model, and the bright green color, helped it stand our from the numerous City Mini's rentals in the parks. The size was perfect for our Littlesthead. He could sit comfortably and it reclined fully if he wanted to lie down. The canopy is very big and gives plenty of protection from that Florida sun.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzU8ZWP_g2snCVMYvRxWhkXMtIyZ3fMpHDq_uW2KlHC-dvmEjX8akj-dMvVbhiTn1zTw0tvy34QFLZj6At-9vHX8jWu6-f-O5ampvnst-ZMYe0YgwP1gndrQZSpyI6G9hfvVT5REMXGM/s1600/20180628_080941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzU8ZWP_g2snCVMYvRxWhkXMtIyZ3fMpHDq_uW2KlHC-dvmEjX8akj-dMvVbhiTn1zTw0tvy34QFLZj6At-9vHX8jWu6-f-O5ampvnst-ZMYe0YgwP1gndrQZSpyI6G9hfvVT5REMXGM/s200/20180628_080941.jpg" width="200" /></a> The parent console is a very useful accessory. It has one designated cup holder, and 2 other compartments with covers that fold down. We constantly had all 3 compartments filled with cups or our trusty misting spray fan.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLmtATZVwdbvspK6IkGdgqx2APlkkNqQXh5r17K9WTHzlIYLPqTjbnlf_kdqJaZraa6nIca0ldf-4kXikYCTjW4Ss3LEESaJpMgn3cVO09_DDLqlCNzWcpMWZjxrU0llORWvz8k7bRck/s1600/20180627_224818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLmtATZVwdbvspK6IkGdgqx2APlkkNqQXh5r17K9WTHzlIYLPqTjbnlf_kdqJaZraa6nIca0ldf-4kXikYCTjW4Ss3LEESaJpMgn3cVO09_DDLqlCNzWcpMWZjxrU0llORWvz8k7bRck/s200/20180627_224818.jpg" width="200" /></a>The basket under the seat was also super roomy. It could easily fit a change of clothes for Littlesthead, the rain cover for the stroller and rain gear (because it's summer in Florida and rains almost every day).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jQP75doIjme3gevhWeFK0lqiwUbgWbZNfC8AiJK-zYKcD6yzNkV8aht3979ftoWacgYg9vw9ycq_ByweDiQrS0CplVkwwo8CbPrascuYiI-4w94agMbrj21SWbsax3UXScCvbSKwPH0/s1600/20180617_160442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jQP75doIjme3gevhWeFK0lqiwUbgWbZNfC8AiJK-zYKcD6yzNkV8aht3979ftoWacgYg9vw9ycq_ByweDiQrS0CplVkwwo8CbPrascuYiI-4w94agMbrj21SWbsax3UXScCvbSKwPH0/s200/20180617_160442.jpg" width="150" /></a>When it was time to get on one of those buses, the stroller folded up nicely. It just takes a push of a button, and a pull on a strap. We did need to get the rain gear out of the bottom basket, or it didn't fold up correctly. It was light to carry and didn't take up a ton of space, which is ideal for a crowded bus at the end of the day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
At the end of our trip, I made sure all of our belongings were out of the stroller, the rain cover was in its bag and back in the basket, and that the stroller was in a condition just as I received it. I wheeled it down to our Bell Services where it waited to be picked up by a Baby Wheels representative.<br />
<br />
I don't know when our next family trip to Walt Disney World will be, but if we require a stroller, I know that I will use Baby Wheels again, and would definitely suggest them to anyone looking to rental a stroller during their trip to Mickey's Florida home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "century gothic" , "applegothic" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** I received a complimentary rental in exchange for my review. **</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "applegothic" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-80745755865379721772018-06-29T14:26:00.001-04:002018-06-30T13:37:40.695-04:00"Standing here, it's all so clear. I'm where I'm meant to be."School is out for Summer for the Goldmans. This year we are celebrating ALL the things in a B I G way! We kicked off the end of school with our tradition of driveway chalk drawings and water games. This year's chalk drawing gave a little foreshadowing into our adventure that was to start the following morning... a trip to Walt Disney World!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu92_B8zozFphCHurv5LcvGfaKF1jb5xbUdxTZxCHXKud25wmBPiveRxBNDMcY5YRPMp_R4Z7xOw7XBZKUF05QFzF7SOzsbthve_uBiZ0E_IYAp-ap7YnNYviDoBQLxw3yPxsC3rrVa0s/s1600/2018-06-15-10-16-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu92_B8zozFphCHurv5LcvGfaKF1jb5xbUdxTZxCHXKud25wmBPiveRxBNDMcY5YRPMp_R4Z7xOw7XBZKUF05QFzF7SOzsbthve_uBiZ0E_IYAp-ap7YnNYviDoBQLxw3yPxsC3rrVa0s/s320/2018-06-15-10-16-34.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It has been 5 years since our last family trip to Mickey's home is Orlando. Littlehead is a freshly turned 9 year old, and grew quite a bit since that last trip. This thrill seeker was very excited to have the opportunity to ride ALL the attractions this time around. Littlesthead is a very compactly-sized 3 year old who couldn't be more thrilled to meet some of his Disney heroes and see Mickey's house for the first time.<br />
<br />
We did a few things different on this year's trip than our previous family trip 5 years ago. We stayed at Shades of Green, a non-Disney owned resort on Disney property that is able to utilize <b><u>some</u> </b>of the Walt Disney World resort guest benefits. As Shades of Green guests, we were able to make Fast Pass selections 60 days out, dining reservations 180 days out, and take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, just like those staying in one of the 28 Disney-owned properties.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lol5bKBvnFDTpzfmEs1XCRpBXHSqx0zfdL5CzFpUKl9CK3GCdbTVCXSvqzKxFwLR4smEmL7wT9BJV6OoZSxxF7WVS8LZyJJ_mTZFhhyu2wTyoN3ATWIXY1tkygmjGjRc71TW1R3FA9Q/s1600/20180627_222836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lol5bKBvnFDTpzfmEs1XCRpBXHSqx0zfdL5CzFpUKl9CK3GCdbTVCXSvqzKxFwLR4smEmL7wT9BJV6OoZSxxF7WVS8LZyJJ_mTZFhhyu2wTyoN3ATWIXY1tkygmjGjRc71TW1R3FA9Q/s320/20180627_222836.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You have to meet particular military eligibility requirements to stay at Shades of Green. We are fortunate enough to be eligible for stays at Shades of Green. To see if you or your family meet the requirements, visit the Shades of Green <a href="https://www.shadesofgreen.org/" target="_blank">website</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf_7wNXu7zP3AXnMcf7URHXNW1sSAXVdZKfVGXu7MvbX5cRAIjVpkqwKo2_d_P9XhJwRhJ_EuYPsyt2zeRmQ9srwR2yu4XY5ZNvzwd_QtMso9ZtfMnbYd3oUeRDakjtGxfzRkcgAPuwQ/s1600/20180629_123223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf_7wNXu7zP3AXnMcf7URHXNW1sSAXVdZKfVGXu7MvbX5cRAIjVpkqwKo2_d_P9XhJwRhJ_EuYPsyt2zeRmQ9srwR2yu4XY5ZNvzwd_QtMso9ZtfMnbYd3oUeRDakjtGxfzRkcgAPuwQ/s320/20180629_123223.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As you can see, Shades of Green is a pretty expansive place. There are 2 pools, and a very nice Splash Park for the little kiddos. Shades has a few dining options with 3 restaurants:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Mangino's Bistro Restaurant - an Italian inspired restaurant</li>
<li>Evergreens Sports Bar - the casual sports bar and restaurant with an arcade and pool tables</li>
<li>Garden Gallery - a breakfast and dinner buffet which has themed Family Nights each evening</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are two wings: the Magnolia and the Palm. As of this moment (June 2018), the Palm Wing has been refurbished. The Magnolia Wing is in the midst of its refurbishment. We stayed in a standard room in the Palm Wing with a Golf Course view. These rooms are HUGE at 450 square feet! There are 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa. There is also a nice little dining area with a table and chairs, a mini-fridge, and even a balcony. We had plenty of room with 2 adults, 2 kids and all of our stuff. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BsOTh-0b0dQMBuH0lnkaw4RzwCI23BhZZidQ-Q3nbMxFL_QgqLdlGXbJf_KjAT6Fc2uB6_XnvIgA_FxUMjn-UvDRv-rFXZG0ilZQjoTYJdeLjeKWguNy8giAA9kC6TvXWpnMMfP6nSw/s1600/20180616_142440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BsOTh-0b0dQMBuH0lnkaw4RzwCI23BhZZidQ-Q3nbMxFL_QgqLdlGXbJf_KjAT6Fc2uB6_XnvIgA_FxUMjn-UvDRv-rFXZG0ilZQjoTYJdeLjeKWguNy8giAA9kC6TvXWpnMMfP6nSw/s200/20180616_142440.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7PfBBJY_nzu1iN2Nmw4m2yD3EqT204MxD54U2ZzzT2toZq-I9YjbWt-X8QtbCrI5SGi3ghp7mbf33p-NWWCuhXKnhWfqGblWGd1ZvNLARHr0schGznGyalOeKTJni2m8Rrge0bh3OwE/s1600/20180616_142445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7PfBBJY_nzu1iN2Nmw4m2yD3EqT204MxD54U2ZzzT2toZq-I9YjbWt-X8QtbCrI5SGi3ghp7mbf33p-NWWCuhXKnhWfqGblWGd1ZvNLARHr0schGznGyalOeKTJni2m8Rrge0bh3OwE/s200/20180616_142445.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPi0tk24bmmevuHx0ilwZ6V48mfNUL41AkjompRYMQ5eFARnS1jQ3btUGiA8RluoXU7vpdh6qbo69ojYkM6C2VVZVK7lWL9x_ubTH4IeqVNKTKHM5yAPkU8hGQwJrLfDJuC5NPz6I7ugo/s1600/20180616_142541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPi0tk24bmmevuHx0ilwZ6V48mfNUL41AkjompRYMQ5eFARnS1jQ3btUGiA8RluoXU7vpdh6qbo69ojYkM6C2VVZVK7lWL9x_ubTH4IeqVNKTKHM5yAPkU8hGQwJrLfDJuC5NPz6I7ugo/s200/20180616_142541.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NjHYWFWFzYM3lLtgttUs_hbPvDU2268I17qPaa9AZ8lx11cjHR2z9B95mBuCpaI7n38CFU65CCYumO3fQ89HZnaLVboZiZwE7UVoi25P4ijXEKj2oHpkpmQXrkSSd0Ol_Dyc0AtNDGA/s1600/20180616_142546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NjHYWFWFzYM3lLtgttUs_hbPvDU2268I17qPaa9AZ8lx11cjHR2z9B95mBuCpaI7n38CFU65CCYumO3fQ89HZnaLVboZiZwE7UVoi25P4ijXEKj2oHpkpmQXrkSSd0Ol_Dyc0AtNDGA/s200/20180616_142546.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One downside of staying at Shades of Green, you cannot utilize the Disney Magical Express. But, there are a few options for transportation from the airport to Shades. We made reservations with <a href="https://www.sunstatelimo.com/" target="_blank">Sunstate Transportation.</a> They are the preferred transportation of Shades of Green, and they were very reasonably priced. We were able to book a passenger van for 4 adults and 2 kids, and they provided a car seat for Littlesthead. I received a text confirmation from our driver, who was very helpful and responsive when our flight into MCO was delayed. Our driver at the end of the trip was great as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As for getting to and from the parks, Shades of Green does have its own bus system. However, it does have a specific schedule. If you miss the pick-up time, you are waiting probably another hour for the bus again. And if you have pre-park opening dining reservations, the Shades of Green buses will not get you there. BUT... you can utilize the Disney transportation to and from the parks, you just have to make a walk over to the Polynesian resort. Depending on your speed of walking, it can be an 8 - 12 minute walk from the front door of Shades of Green to one of the transportation methods the Polynesian has to provide. Bonus, Disney buses, monorails and ferries run very frequently. Some days we were fine using the Shades buses. Other days, like the day of our 8:20am reservation at Hollywood & Vine, we hoofed it over to the Poly and used their bus. Easy peasy. </div>
<br />
We had a great experience at Shades of Green, and are fortunate to be eligible to stay there. If you and your family are eligible, Shades is a great option. It is practically a deluxe resort at value resort prices depending on the level you qualify for. It felt like home, especially after a long (or even short) day at the parks for this crazy bunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaCBpGnFWdnpBRgHo0X5qShUXB9CZW9c0Kj9GgCVLAgu3gTSHCDhm61aF3IJkNY0JnumPhDZwc1gjJSTrMI_Qf3qsDA45lGFcDSdVcfJ1WhXMBBX4rKruzmpKaTMG_IN2W7tMcby_MGU/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_MK_412224736093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaCBpGnFWdnpBRgHo0X5qShUXB9CZW9c0Kj9GgCVLAgu3gTSHCDhm61aF3IJkNY0JnumPhDZwc1gjJSTrMI_Qf3qsDA45lGFcDSdVcfJ1WhXMBBX4rKruzmpKaTMG_IN2W7tMcby_MGU/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_MK_412224736093.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-26997897905848748862018-04-15T19:55:00.000-04:002018-06-30T13:40:45.479-04:00Disney BoundingAs an adult, it's somewhat frowned upon when you show up in Walt Disney World in a full costume. Unless it is Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, then by all means... dress the part (some rules do still apply)! But, the way around the no costume rule, is an awesome thing called Disney Bounding. There are sites and Pinterest boards dedicated to this movement. To be a successful Disney Bounder, you can utilize clothes straight from your closet. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As a Disney fan, and a fan of dressing up to play a part, be it for Halloween or a play, Disney Bounding is definitely right up my alley. So, I decided to give it a try during my latest trip to Mickey's House. I had to pad my wardrobe a bit, but thanks to some local Thrift shops and sales, I was able design 4 different Disney Bounding outfits.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcFI4jrGSBkxjMrlVGCmZDYfxyz4po7KfJwpmz_wCzC4g9ubDfL-c9lykS6R2K9QuHj88wqYtnXj1jn0yU_nfjQLAOM2oMkF_kGyiC36FInIR8t3tX4rsSgZGeu0yRhyphenhyphentpkV-GAfGUFk/s1600/a-long-time-ago-in-a-galaxy-far-far-away-free-star-wars-printable-sign-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="730" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcFI4jrGSBkxjMrlVGCmZDYfxyz4po7KfJwpmz_wCzC4g9ubDfL-c9lykS6R2K9QuHj88wqYtnXj1jn0yU_nfjQLAOM2oMkF_kGyiC36FInIR8t3tX4rsSgZGeu0yRhyphenhyphentpkV-GAfGUFk/s400/a-long-time-ago-in-a-galaxy-far-far-away-free-star-wars-printable-sign-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XeB9ezH7HIr7zqV7szl6cwD6xZbdOsOqodlL9CzAp9zVq874c9oo9VvUHvyatZqOfbydKgzIsmxlrDdAqVcB1T05kGwbtO_-ZcYszaWDMPRmosjMi_Yj-lOzBT0lwUHgBLUdJK0wvM0/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_STUDIO_410141393964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XeB9ezH7HIr7zqV7szl6cwD6xZbdOsOqodlL9CzAp9zVq874c9oo9VvUHvyatZqOfbydKgzIsmxlrDdAqVcB1T05kGwbtO_-ZcYszaWDMPRmosjMi_Yj-lOzBT0lwUHgBLUdJK0wvM0/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_STUDIO_410141393964.JPG" width="213" /></a>there was a girl who was not only a fan of Star Wars, but a huge fan of Han Solo. That seems like a valid reason to create a Han Solo inspired outfit. I found an awesome pair of capris with eyelets along the side, perfect for adding Corellian Blood strips, at my local Marshalls. The Henley shirt and black denim vest were both found on Amazon for a decent price, and thanks to Amazon Prime, shipping was FREE! Naturally, this Han Solo had a meet and greet with the number one Wookiee, who recognized his best buddy immediately. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyAMBIqm_m1XrYGgQp4OnyR3YTEbrthNAyMR-fifORovnvTVaehUt3VW8mZ_RmVNElmsxKQN-3SgLMthL9QDR3rs7vOrOheH9JrVyDsMGD9CawoPVfiuW3Y-uyw38dGc46Fw1c0wlQX0/s1600/20180319_062657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyAMBIqm_m1XrYGgQp4OnyR3YTEbrthNAyMR-fifORovnvTVaehUt3VW8mZ_RmVNElmsxKQN-3SgLMthL9QDR3rs7vOrOheH9JrVyDsMGD9CawoPVfiuW3Y-uyw38dGc46Fw1c0wlQX0/s1600/20180319_062657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyAMBIqm_m1XrYGgQp4OnyR3YTEbrthNAyMR-fifORovnvTVaehUt3VW8mZ_RmVNElmsxKQN-3SgLMthL9QDR3rs7vOrOheH9JrVyDsMGD9CawoPVfiuW3Y-uyw38dGc46Fw1c0wlQX0/s200/20180319_062657.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
My three old son is quite the fan of Big Hero 6. What's not the love? A big huggable robot who moonlights as a Super Hero! I knew that I was going to have the opportunity to visit Baymax in Hiro's workshop. Every Baymax needs his Hiro. And that was my choice for Disney bounding in EPCOT. I found a red tee at a Thrift shop, that was perfect to use my craft skills, and add the robot as seen on Hiro's tee. I only had to go as far as my closet for the cargo capris and the blue hoodie to complete the ensemble. The photo opportunity would not have been complete with a Ba La La La La La La.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqWG8FBkdyv95o8shyphenhyphenjIhGl1EAhBP0fRhdSJq_sWuMd-bjpgUR-IE_RSHtjpcMVyUftgSKZgAQXA0hEJ7r0jr90dl4K7mtStopJzQf3MNJP36mRCOqyiD2xB1D5gW1ZtwaHP5YuSVV1Q/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_EPCOT_410211577403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqWG8FBkdyv95o8shyphenhyphenjIhGl1EAhBP0fRhdSJq_sWuMd-bjpgUR-IE_RSHtjpcMVyUftgSKZgAQXA0hEJ7r0jr90dl4K7mtStopJzQf3MNJP36mRCOqyiD2xB1D5gW1ZtwaHP5YuSVV1Q/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_EPCOT_410211577403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpMQyONfIz4c6yfCK3OgMb-AYZEEwtedpZSLeTV4I4U_5sY3vjoshbYiFhWHUzYrcmdVLeu3PN6gPInWyKRzEEq7NDLsIpGzfTDnuKJgBBRftpZsrLVt5qD796LQbM0PIvUMXKbOWiB4/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_AK_410180683428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpMQyONfIz4c6yfCK3OgMb-AYZEEwtedpZSLeTV4I4U_5sY3vjoshbYiFhWHUzYrcmdVLeu3PN6gPInWyKRzEEq7NDLsIpGzfTDnuKJgBBRftpZsrLVt5qD796LQbM0PIvUMXKbOWiB4/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_AK_410180683428.JPG" width="320" /></a>Animal Kingdom took a little extra thought. I knew the Wilderness Explorer was an obvious option, because the Wilderness must be Explored! </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I also wanted to incorporate something from the new World of Pandora. Well, there are two groups who help provide us Terrans an unforgettable experience in Pandora: Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE), the eco tour group responsible for getting us to Pandora. And Pandora Conservation Initiative (PCI), the group of scientists and conservationists who give us the ability to "fly"on a Banshee through the Mountain Banshee Project. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSN0MPh3kaecy7xrVh2sk2fO3o07qdtPFyfy_cYC6M71Fx8dci7U5Kfh7ecYpvSNALylr5DLnOlKLJXUMUmzw-HQgt8darEWC4pc5j8DI0vwLct40gLIiaAyndhAP9gTk618dbEqpSRCs/s1600/20180318_063031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSN0MPh3kaecy7xrVh2sk2fO3o07qdtPFyfy_cYC6M71Fx8dci7U5Kfh7ecYpvSNALylr5DLnOlKLJXUMUmzw-HQgt8darEWC4pc5j8DI0vwLct40gLIiaAyndhAP9gTk618dbEqpSRCs/s200/20180318_063031.jpg" width="150" /></a> I am a scientist at heart. In fact, there was a time in my life I was going to be a Marine Biologist, and science still is a passion of mine. If I were relocated to Alpha Centauri, I would see myself working as a member of the PCI. In my imagination, I wouldn't just be a part of research, I, through my Avatar, would be an Ikran Makto... a Banshee Rider. And that is just what I became on my visit to Pandora, thanks to my Disney Bounding idea. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKMU58NKsl0Gavl421N05xdRJu8diRGuJHdf0Oe4SbQv922d_smF7d9fj3E9_YpRAnvXLDgAWMksYIdf56BX3Y-j6oPqPrShkGSeg_6elaUlhgsxe9hyaYaoApM5AObtQHvqx4f9v56U/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_AK_410199460690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKMU58NKsl0Gavl421N05xdRJu8diRGuJHdf0Oe4SbQv922d_smF7d9fj3E9_YpRAnvXLDgAWMksYIdf56BX3Y-j6oPqPrShkGSeg_6elaUlhgsxe9hyaYaoApM5AObtQHvqx4f9v56U/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_AK_410199460690.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There we have it. My first attempt at Disney Bounding in Walt Disney World. I hope to incorporate more ideas on our next visit. I'm always looking for the not so obvious. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-33396242212666900632018-04-15T18:43:00.002-04:002018-04-15T18:43:54.080-04:00Earning the Keys to the Kingdom It was a different way to spend St. Paddy's Day... awake before the sunrise, a quick stroll from the hotel, and a non-alcohol related tour in Walt Disney World. This was the day we decided to take the Keys to the Kingdom tour at Magic Kingdom, and it was MAGICAL!<br />
<br />
A little bit about the Keys to the Kingdom tour... it is a 5 hour walking tour. It is primarily outdoors, so dress for the weather. Tour-goers must be at least 16 years old. A discount is available for Annual Passholders, DVC members, and Disney Chase Visa Cardmembers. You may not use a camera, video equipment or a cell phone during the tour. Yes, they know you will most likely have these things on your person while in the park. Just do not have them out and in use during the tour. Keep the cellphone in your pocket, or backpack, and you will be golden. <br />
<br />
<br />
We started our day bright and early at the Contemporary Resort, with a little breakfast to gear us up for our day. We utilized the walking path from the Contemporary to Magic Kingdom. This is a fantastic benefit of staying at the Contemporary...a few minute walk from door to gate. We were so early, the security checkpoint along the path was not yet open. Perfect opportunity to grab some beautiful shots of the scenery.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZiHltS-jvOgdle1_txXMkOGnBx7ItXOLelUI2yKKrYI9b1prQsrYg4e6pGejWicRvq3lIPWxelPOQ8N_Ek0jilRFsuu1j9QcDa0J46dZLuDEY3KH8FB9WmuXX_24FrtPGxM0ijd8m7U/s1600/DSC00347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZiHltS-jvOgdle1_txXMkOGnBx7ItXOLelUI2yKKrYI9b1prQsrYg4e6pGejWicRvq3lIPWxelPOQ8N_Ek0jilRFsuu1j9QcDa0J46dZLuDEY3KH8FB9WmuXX_24FrtPGxM0ijd8m7U/s200/DSC00347.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtIPprzR5XDS2H-r12Dt7sn9-mTg4BQ-VDGw-MpmIT88IlJCNeW4InzirlOPuw6bz0tHxYcOU-c6L6rlNr24xLhnh5zZ1a6ygj08HXQMTGUM90tT4WI-KJyKXGupoBKndtLJofaGEgTE/s1600/DSC00348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtIPprzR5XDS2H-r12Dt7sn9-mTg4BQ-VDGw-MpmIT88IlJCNeW4InzirlOPuw6bz0tHxYcOU-c6L6rlNr24xLhnh5zZ1a6ygj08HXQMTGUM90tT4WI-KJyKXGupoBKndtLJofaGEgTE/s200/DSC00348.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When we were able to continue on our path, we were able to proceed to the gates at the far left, bypassing the other park goers waiting to enter the park. Those who have pre-park opening dining reservations and early tour reservations are let in through that specific gate when the all clear is given. Yes, there is a list, and they verify that you are on it. <br />
<br />
This was our view upon entering Main Street... a clear line of sight occupied only by Photopass photographers. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWlbKEhjz38sQQqwMGci_gaFLpycIRhAjgU3t-12Xv__oud9EN6o7KQH91OBSA6QwG3tj0J4YchQwODZgOoOmXCoyMsUrqhe38px-Zk1Gnwx6BhpDklfMQ5uk-IUIxOZ7o0UC6MUCzVU/s1600/DSC00353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWlbKEhjz38sQQqwMGci_gaFLpycIRhAjgU3t-12Xv__oud9EN6o7KQH91OBSA6QwG3tj0J4YchQwODZgOoOmXCoyMsUrqhe38px-Zk1Gnwx6BhpDklfMQ5uk-IUIxOZ7o0UC6MUCzVU/s320/DSC00353.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
That allowed us to get a fantastic shot with Cinderella Castle with barely a person in site! Well, a person in site. Disney fanatic achievement unlocked, nonetheless!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwGctf7g53U_IMNTx6Zf199kb1bim60Xlm5QPDhg6154eWGBXfW5DylTxST6kTw20dDbQr6rkCaIl4Z9ormjEBQ822Y2ALLXjVdqnk6Rleqo9DAwOfzsGbyNJqJtTCkTULGPxeOK629U/s1600/PhotoPass_Visiting_MK_410157253486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwGctf7g53U_IMNTx6Zf199kb1bim60Xlm5QPDhg6154eWGBXfW5DylTxST6kTw20dDbQr6rkCaIl4Z9ormjEBQ822Y2ALLXjVdqnk6Rleqo9DAwOfzsGbyNJqJtTCkTULGPxeOK629U/s320/PhotoPass_Visiting_MK_410157253486.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After taking a few minutes to take advantage of the opportunity to catch the photographers along Main Street, we walked over to the Town Square Theater where we checked in, selected our lunch items from the menu provided, picked up our name tags and listening devices, and patiently waited for our tour guide, Caroline, to gather us up to begin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNoKYGoCeeHa0ezA0wp3jQYnA4KpFYr1QYIjymcxxHOvUuKG3ve69oXi3vfwZjA85ITEjCrnvkCkk7rYt0_FElsr6QoyRkrO-J8NCTxm_UMyN9SjeRnIF1Zcs-mHUDQoSnfnCzAb0StA/s1600/DSC00936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNoKYGoCeeHa0ezA0wp3jQYnA4KpFYr1QYIjymcxxHOvUuKG3ve69oXi3vfwZjA85ITEjCrnvkCkk7rYt0_FElsr6QoyRkrO-J8NCTxm_UMyN9SjeRnIF1Zcs-mHUDQoSnfnCzAb0StA/s200/DSC00936.JPG" width="200" /></a>The tour began just outside the Town Square Theater, with some information about Main Street itself. I, as a Disnerd, have read quite a bit about Walt Disney World. I knew some of the information our Tour Guide was sharing, but still learned so much more. Plus, it was great to have someone point out the tidbits I had read and be able to see it in person. Our tour went in a clockwise direction around the park with detours into backstage areas, including the Utilidors. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrm4eOT3iznRnxhKCnBsFH_VJ9ZpieIExDUu4Oy44IAf-98ri4UsTaqTGNz3_ublxUy0L7bodvSpUZGmYPD7OxYaSYSJmv35i3FA_5yJJDS9hki6lb4WUWDhXj0JRZSOTAmxaH4sbMNys/s1600/DSC01349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrm4eOT3iznRnxhKCnBsFH_VJ9ZpieIExDUu4Oy44IAf-98ri4UsTaqTGNz3_ublxUy0L7bodvSpUZGmYPD7OxYaSYSJmv35i3FA_5yJJDS9hki6lb4WUWDhXj0JRZSOTAmxaH4sbMNys/s200/DSC01349.JPG" width="200" /></a>The tour includes a ride on some attractions. <i>Our </i>tour included Haunted Mansion and the Jungle Cruise. The attractions the tour include vary per tour. There is no guarantee what attraction a </div>
particular tour will include. We also enjoyed a nice lunch break at the Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe. As I mentioned we had preselected our lunch from the menu provided at check-in. By the time we arrived at Pecos Bill's, our food was ready in a closed off area of the restaurant, reserved for the tour. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As the tour concluded, we were brought back to Main Street via a backstage area just behind the Town Square Theater. We discovered that Caroline had just completed her first ever solo tour, with her assessor/mentor acting as just another member of the tour. She passed with flying colors! We all congratulated her on her newest accomplishment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Keys to the Kingdom tour was completely worth it! If you are debating on booking this tour, DO IT! It was a great way to spend part of the day at the Magic Kingdom. Never did I feel that the magic was ruined. In fact, I think it added to it. This is definitely a must-do for any Disney fan.</div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-22849514058399872232016-06-24T09:37:00.000-04:002016-06-24T09:37:01.216-04:00Just imagine how cooler I'll be....IN SUMMER!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2ucGl8sXMDlBqmm8k6g9gluqoOgeoaMxIr6wuDzfDM5B0Ddzr_3-o1RH9UNdoP1VEPex79aIDFYEvfr94FK6bzKlG1PWO-Ach1zyx95M7cE0uqT0D83A5vzvde-4ig0wbm4452yBXUI/s1600/13443283_10153727236036173_6674837154433554729_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2ucGl8sXMDlBqmm8k6g9gluqoOgeoaMxIr6wuDzfDM5B0Ddzr_3-o1RH9UNdoP1VEPex79aIDFYEvfr94FK6bzKlG1PWO-Ach1zyx95M7cE0uqT0D83A5vzvde-4ig0wbm4452yBXUI/s320/13443283_10153727236036173_6674837154433554729_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Olaf has been waiting for his moment in the sunlight! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's finally Summer!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With two boys, Summer can be a fun...and interesting time. School's out, which means that Littlehead's year in 1st Grade is over, and Momma's Preschool year is over as well. And Littlesthead is just enjoying being a 1 year old. So, that means Summer adventures can commence. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There will be some Cub Scout fun throughout the Summer. Our local Cub Scout Day Camp is fast approaching. And of course there are Pack and Den activities to keep us busy. Vacation will be another week of awesome fun. BUT WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF SUMMER??!!!!</div>
<div id="_giphy_CRgPur0c8a82Q" style="max-width: 500px;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpDM8p2de_EHe8QQMCkyNIE41-8OWoAy2Twg9EZSA5UjGjjmn4fQGmW2jHja4cM2t4Ji3HXZspv2G2anrRX6XUPIoJjxfvTIHB_72mfr4rEFcdES9Fc6H3AVfAa8UxlmOBMqE5xaczyw/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpDM8p2de_EHe8QQMCkyNIE41-8OWoAy2Twg9EZSA5UjGjjmn4fQGmW2jHja4cM2t4Ji3HXZspv2G2anrRX6XUPIoJjxfvTIHB_72mfr4rEFcdES9Fc6H3AVfAa8UxlmOBMqE5xaczyw/s200/giphy.gif" width="191" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I'm a typically active person. I like to be outside when it's possible. Filling up the baby pool, turning on the slip-n-slide, riding bikes, going on hikes... all of these are things we like to do. Rainy day? Board games, Legos, reading and whichever subject we have chosen to study throughout the Summer. We've learned about bugs, birds, the human body, robots and currently learning about astronomy. All these fun ideas, but how to make sure we do them and not end up at the ol' standby... TV, Ipad, Video games? It does make for a challenge to not turn into screen time zombies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfgz4aFUep2BAUqjGEg8NjPbcbJqes8g8QqBmUYeyaxBNwvWtGli_NYOvwpoaCAKyN2nnOeClVhMPVan60j_uExQ6DkvsA9bDhG7twsuWZBgbyKeHzGp4iPELSagQxiwYyZP5aRcArs0/s1600/giphy+%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfgz4aFUep2BAUqjGEg8NjPbcbJqes8g8QqBmUYeyaxBNwvWtGli_NYOvwpoaCAKyN2nnOeClVhMPVan60j_uExQ6DkvsA9bDhG7twsuWZBgbyKeHzGp4iPELSagQxiwYyZP5aRcArs0/s200/giphy+%25281%2529.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Thanks to this wonderful thing called the Internet, I have found a few solutions to solve this Summer bummer situation.<br />
<br />
First things first.....<br />
How do we limit some of the screen time? It's way too easy for my littlehead to plop down with his Ipad or Netflix. I found quite a few screen time charts or incentive systems. I came across one in particular that I felt like would work with my 7 year old from <a href="http://theshadylane.com/free-printable-screen-time-chart/" target="_blank">the Shady Lane</a>. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theshadylane.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/screentimebkank1-240x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://theshadylane.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/screentimebkank1-240x300.jpg" height="200" width="160" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is the blank version, but there are <a href="http://theshadylane.com/free-printable-screen-time-chart/" target="_blank">other versions</a> as well, including a different color scheme and pre-filled in items. I printed out a copy, filled in the tasks and slid the sheet into a clear plastic sheet protector. As my littlehead completes a task, we can color in the meter with a dry erase marker until he earned his screen time, wipe clean and start again. I incorporated reading time (which goes along with our local library's summer reading program), easy chores, and activities from two other summer boredom busters I will mention in just a minute.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIsIiMQhbKUZOMyAGALW1hg0ER7Qntw0cj3LaZ3p9a4-z_hQVh6jACIQ6iSCSrW52-he5Y8N6OfBBxCYZln6Nmxlvt0wmudNaDTyQo3GLEcmPa205pci_wxqBNrHES_BO2cG9tp1_YCc/s1600/2016-06-24+07.30.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIsIiMQhbKUZOMyAGALW1hg0ER7Qntw0cj3LaZ3p9a4-z_hQVh6jACIQ6iSCSrW52-he5Y8N6OfBBxCYZln6Nmxlvt0wmudNaDTyQo3GLEcmPa205pci_wxqBNrHES_BO2cG9tp1_YCc/s200/2016-06-24+07.30.54.jpg" width="141" /></a></div>
<br />
<span id="goog_1471038253"></span><span id="goog_1471038254"></span>My littlehead has always loved activity books. It could be my doing. Ever since he was old enough to wield a crayon, we carried coloring books or activity books where ever we went. Going out to dinner, a long ride in the car, the doctor's office? Let's load up the backpack with activity books. In more recent years, a majority of those activity books became Math related. Man, does he love Math. We have inadvertently been preventing Summer Slide with these fun activity books, but he doesn't need to know that. <br />
<br />
Of course it was a no brainer when I came across the Summer Brain Camp binder printables from <a href="http://imaginationsoup.net/2015/05/04/summer-printable-for-kids/" target="_blank">Imagination Soup</a>. There are activities for Reading, Writing and Math. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://19xnly3cl9rt2qvk731lwbxpeay.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/free-printables-for-summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://19xnly3cl9rt2qvk731lwbxpeay.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/free-printables-for-summer.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The free printables include 3 lists of various activities and reward coupons. They also provide links to various resources to accompany the listed activities. It's pretty easy, print, slide into sheet protectors, and put in a binder. I put a binder friendly pencil pouch to hold dry erase markers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My FAVORITE Summer Boredom Buster that I found is from <a href="http://overthebigmoon.com/60-days-of-summer-fun/" target="_blank">Over the Big Moon</a>: 60 Days of Summer Fun! All you need is some Popsicle sticks, a way to color code them, and the printable activity cards. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://overthebigmoon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/60-summer-fun-button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://overthebigmoon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/60-summer-fun-button.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At Over the Big Moon, they created a color coded system:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #e69138;"><b>ORANGE</b></span>= Art, Activity or Craft</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b>PURPLE</b></span>= Cooking</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>GREEN</b></span>= Field Trip (Museum, Zoo, Etc)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>BLUE</b></span>= Water Activity</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>YELLOW</b></span>= Science Experiment</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><span style="color: #999999;">SILVER </span></b>= Special Activities</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
There are completed activity cards and blank cards that can easily be edited in Photoshop. I really only had to edit the Green Field Trip cards and the Silver Special Activities. This year, with my Littlehead being in Cub Scouts, I added a new color category: <span style="color: #990000;"><b>RED </b></span>= Hiking Locations. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
What on earth do you do with all these popsicles? At the beginning of the week, Littlehead picks a popsicle from each color, except for Silver. We find the coordinating activity card, and refer back to <a href="http://overthebigmoon.com/60-days-of-summer-fun/" target="_blank">Over the Big Moon</a> for activity information or recipes. That's right, they have all the needed information and resources linked right on the website! We try our best to complete the activities before the week is up. Sometimes we end up a little more busy with camps, doctor appointments, sleepovers at the grandparents', or some much needed errands. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
With all of these Summer Boredom Busters combined, I should never hear the words "Mooommmmmmmm..... I'm booorrrrreeeeeddddd..."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I hope these suggestions can work for you family as well as it did for mine. Have a great Summer!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHpQKJFUk4zWQ_16DOlJwMpyoV7GU8vMv6NwhvU5rw_QX862HCEPDaj4zevxR8-_BmFRfjj9hN3Zch9Ssy52BfaqodLF-UfXtRI-XDDl5QXCXO7Pqe4U4GX2kKq5VzCGu-Vn00OKZGY4/s1600/giphy+%25282%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHpQKJFUk4zWQ_16DOlJwMpyoV7GU8vMv6NwhvU5rw_QX862HCEPDaj4zevxR8-_BmFRfjj9hN3Zch9Ssy52BfaqodLF-UfXtRI-XDDl5QXCXO7Pqe4U4GX2kKq5VzCGu-Vn00OKZGY4/s320/giphy+%25282%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-1031795766284864082015-05-19T15:08:00.001-04:002015-05-19T15:08:45.846-04:00We forgot the introductions!Oh how rude of me. I completely forgot the formal introductions to our littlesthead. <br />
<br />
It was a pretty cold day on February 16th. There was some snow left on the ground when we went to the hospital. It was a planned c-section, so there was no rush to the hospital. After all the pre-op and such, the littlesthead was officially born at 11:24 am. What this mama remembers from the operating room... some super silly things.<br />
<br />
When asked how I was feeling after getting epidural and whatever other fluids they were pumping into me, my response was "I'm actually hungry". I was! I wasn't allowed to eat anything for breakfast since my food/liquid intake had a midnight cutoff.<br />
<br />
Right around that 11:24 mark, Dr. Gotzman, who was performing the procedure, says "What are you holding onto in there?" Apparently, the littlesthead was a grabby little guy and got a grip on something. Good news, he did not bring any kind of souvenir out with him. And, the presentation to mama and daddy over the blue curtain...littlesthead proceeds to show his love by spitting at his mama. Yeah... love you too buddy.<br />
<br />
Littlesthead weighed 6 lbs 5 ounces and was 18 inches long. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXm00PwHUOpJZn11vMfu7YSHIMn62doDMJKlbGb5xjQ-Rya6i6OGZQODUklT3Wf7ZsoKMLy4RlJgEj4pM2KiznPuleNSQp2iKaMX_FmL_0JWJIumzf1KpR6KgwF-DovzLiYePjsZ50Jwg/s1600/DSC_0432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXm00PwHUOpJZn11vMfu7YSHIMn62doDMJKlbGb5xjQ-Rya6i6OGZQODUklT3Wf7ZsoKMLy4RlJgEj4pM2KiznPuleNSQp2iKaMX_FmL_0JWJIumzf1KpR6KgwF-DovzLiYePjsZ50Jwg/s320/DSC_0432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, now, here we are...at the 3 month mark. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglSBgNkILWp62VhOeydsdZd14215GDGGjHzVKOJZusbOGd-sFSy0oRcG_y3WU2LunfuQDZc6CghJsyQCwOLcmFQY9UkAH_7vsL4ubY7V0qyqYFsBapVBsFBGxB19eA8u1z1GvvXVwHAQ/s1600/DSC_0516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglSBgNkILWp62VhOeydsdZd14215GDGGjHzVKOJZusbOGd-sFSy0oRcG_y3WU2LunfuQDZc6CghJsyQCwOLcmFQY9UkAH_7vsL4ubY7V0qyqYFsBapVBsFBGxB19eA8u1z1GvvXVwHAQ/s320/DSC_0516.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Wait?! What?!?! 3 months already?!?!? My how time flies. And look how impressed he must be to be 3 months old.<br />
<br />
Littlehead and littlesthead are getting along well. Big Brother is enjoying his promotion. He loves holding his little bro, and entertaining him. It's fun now that littlesthead smiles and laughs. He is even starting to recognize familiar faces, including Big Bro. I mean, look at the brotherly love.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0fxs3u9lSuFHWU_E3l0s6zlclSSpn98BsY5lBIlpcrtsApY05_p66-Kk1mRY2BtC7Z1woGtzBZPUW7hGzGjq_R9hwo2BdGp02BwSiDoOT6mr-p2pBzSdbEgDV_l6qP_4y3SUXEgrUf0/s1600/DSC_1457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0fxs3u9lSuFHWU_E3l0s6zlclSSpn98BsY5lBIlpcrtsApY05_p66-Kk1mRY2BtC7Z1woGtzBZPUW7hGzGjq_R9hwo2BdGp02BwSiDoOT6mr-p2pBzSdbEgDV_l6qP_4y3SUXEgrUf0/s320/DSC_1457.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
And let's say, these two definitely look like brothers. Don't believe me...see for yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pySPA_aC5I7_DvdNBCsC7ejbXf7RdgJ1C1Aw4Ma_FRfp1ccu_ymtuo3G8BzFgOlZ-ByNPxDcwf0yeTno78Si69J8F4uwdWcV3QAUMceHVNiAyxRqGweZF1mTQPFPwuDTkHwcD9DkIOo/s1600/Simon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh092xtN4Gt4LeAhEqJieVdMBolchOktkIfZ3r2qyYfZhmyYWOm6q8SNo1aNNSFWpOT5k8BX-8Uk-aZCgLbbS6ibXS1lq64JUZRcvg1gV1WlFvElo-OPbpnEOOB-zyCnw2ZGpfTuDWqM6s/s1600/DSC_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh092xtN4Gt4LeAhEqJieVdMBolchOktkIfZ3r2qyYfZhmyYWOm6q8SNo1aNNSFWpOT5k8BX-8Uk-aZCgLbbS6ibXS1lq64JUZRcvg1gV1WlFvElo-OPbpnEOOB-zyCnw2ZGpfTuDWqM6s/s200/DSC_0051.JPG" width="200" /> </a><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pySPA_aC5I7_DvdNBCsC7ejbXf7RdgJ1C1Aw4Ma_FRfp1ccu_ymtuo3G8BzFgOlZ-ByNPxDcwf0yeTno78Si69J8F4uwdWcV3QAUMceHVNiAyxRqGweZF1mTQPFPwuDTkHwcD9DkIOo/s200/Simon1.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-58435109708278286532015-05-12T16:44:00.003-04:002015-05-14T12:28:29.804-04:00The Cloth Diaper Chronicles - Lil HelpersSo, yes, we are in the midst of the Cloth Diaper adventure with the Littlesthead. We are quickly approaching 3 months since the littlesthead was born. We have been cloth diapering for a little over a month, well part-time. I have a few different brands that I purchased to try out. One of the brands that I came across thanks to Fluff Love University, is <a href="https://www.lilhelper.com/" target="_blank">Lil Helper</a>. Lil Helper has been around since 2009. The company was founded by Mohammed Gandhi and Nader Abu El Samid, and it's sole mission is "to provide quality products and fantastic customer service". "Apart from providing parents with a greener alternative to disposable diapers, Lil Helper also started the Baby Do Good program, which gives 1 brand new cloth diaper to a family in need for every 3 diapers they sell."<br />
<br />
After finding out about Lil Helper, I decided to give them a try. At the time, they were running a special, 50% off on 2 Diapers and FREE SHIPPING!! Why would I not take advantage of that? The catch, I had to select 5 of my favorite colors, and they would pick 2 to ship me. <br />
<br />
Well, apparently word got around, and the good people at Lil Helper actually had to wait for their diapers to get restocked. I received an email from Mohammed informing me of the delay and that this was "not business as usual". Okay, so my order is delayed. No problem, especially since they notified me. A check mark in the great customer service column. <br />
<br />
Before I knew it, I received my package from Lil Helper! And it didn't just have my diapers!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_Oy4RV99w6oPbOjCHoiaAg-gLFMGyZVNv-AopXQgj3RlMWMsAVYjtg7vchb5oCQahXjiBmLvMdcq9ALCqbSTzQQ6gZ0ckE3dNPjYXf3AjxAmt5V2CuwCGJ_Eoi7wgdYUsh6rb-JlZmI/s1600/lilhelper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_Oy4RV99w6oPbOjCHoiaAg-gLFMGyZVNv-AopXQgj3RlMWMsAVYjtg7vchb5oCQahXjiBmLvMdcq9ALCqbSTzQQ6gZ0ckE3dNPjYXf3AjxAmt5V2CuwCGJ_Eoi7wgdYUsh6rb-JlZmI/s320/lilhelper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I was surprised to see some extra goodies included. They sent a cloth wipe, a hand-written thank you note, tea and some treats! Another check mark in the great customer service column. <br />
<br />
Next step, I prepped my new diapers for use, and was a little sad to discover (dun dun dunnnn) that one of the inside snaps that connects to the liner was missing! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLqlSGlSZ571dj0xF4bG2YljXT1SvD7OCVCPOiZWVfJO99MxUo0E13jemK21uFri7qfcFaRHTwduu9YMQO06Y9WjkjgfXqalIoBfWwEemq1FZ4YiktWBKCu31U0Q_Po6KAOQZdEddbg0/s1600/missing-snap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLqlSGlSZ571dj0xF4bG2YljXT1SvD7OCVCPOiZWVfJO99MxUo0E13jemK21uFri7qfcFaRHTwduu9YMQO06Y9WjkjgfXqalIoBfWwEemq1FZ4YiktWBKCu31U0Q_Po6KAOQZdEddbg0/s320/missing-snap.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So, I sent a nice email informing them of the missing snap, and even sent the picture. Well, guess what? Shortly after, I received a response that (1) they needed me to resend the picture b/c they were in the midst of migrating to a new help system and (2) they would send me a replacement cover. I asked if they'd like me to send the now defective one back and the answer was...No, go ahead and keep it. <br />
<br />
After I got them all prepped, we gave them a test run.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSxBZtiOnARUvsC7EkpwazZVWUo5bRYdZg38jcGwu0SpF8em-oHbcOaT_Re_cLl6PdjVruvBbnh92VlJ3taE2MLtWPAWwvW7ny6beIzGSB4n1UJWEnxhOxKQs2-CRRi6VfZt9Ncgt73c/s1600/20150412_093713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSxBZtiOnARUvsC7EkpwazZVWUo5bRYdZg38jcGwu0SpF8em-oHbcOaT_Re_cLl6PdjVruvBbnh92VlJ3taE2MLtWPAWwvW7ny6beIzGSB4n1UJWEnxhOxKQs2-CRRi6VfZt9Ncgt73c/s320/20150412_093713.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgo_VoaJmAe64-Llyr-CSGd3vt6_3BY7aIqp34_hEfkK8-B9nR4gWEg6NsvxpQe8sadvL5PYoyItkbar06SJREsTK1cDt22bnnY6Rv6jearRs7NA_ZqVQELVTpOPAXFSVSENiyEFPmXQ/s1600/DSC_0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgo_VoaJmAe64-Llyr-CSGd3vt6_3BY7aIqp34_hEfkK8-B9nR4gWEg6NsvxpQe8sadvL5PYoyItkbar06SJREsTK1cDt22bnnY6Rv6jearRs7NA_ZqVQELVTpOPAXFSVSENiyEFPmXQ/s320/DSC_0378.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
I do dig the Lil Helper diapers. They fit pretty darn good, and are fairly trip. Now, they came with two inserts, a large and a small that snap to the cover. They are made to attach to each other and to the cover. I have only been using one at a time. If/when I decide to cloth at nighttime (we do disposables now) doubling the inserts would probably be a good idea. <br />
<br />
What do I say about Lil Helper? All good things. The product is great. The customer service is fantastic. And the fact that have the Baby Do Good program is AMAZING! Two thumbs up from this mama. And if he could do it, another two thumbs from my littlesthead.<br />
<br />
If you are thinking about trying Cloth Diapering, please consider <a href="http://www.lilhelperdiapers.com/" target="_blank">Lil Helper</a>. They are always running specials it seems. Go ahead. Check them out!Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-71226581327403323742015-01-20T12:09:00.003-05:002015-01-20T12:09:43.655-05:00Preparing for the littlest-headIt's the final countdown to the arrival of our littlest head. Plenty to do in a little over a month.<br />
<br />
Let's go back to July 4th weekend, where the Big news was revealed to the Big Brother (and everyone else for that matter). We were attending a Maryland Blue Crabs baseball game, and thought it would be a fun way to let the Littlehead know that he wasn't going to be the only littlehead in the family anymore. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyp9j-AiA9ut_Y3GPRnq2pinkTfZN7OwcgjINZP18Q_g86rx9YGdKi1-FhPjn_QhQikhq3FyF70vgMQDyhoEQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<br />
Obviously, it was a bit of a shocker. But we had more people to share the news with. How to do it?<br />
Well, good thing Mommy designs shirts for such an occasion. We had to improvise since it would have taken too long to order a real shirt from my <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/tobedesigns" target="_blank">Cafe Press shop</a>, but it worked great.<br />
<br />
Littlehead walked into Mimi and Poppy's with the shirt on, and didn't say a word until someone actually read the shirt (which says "Big Brother To-Be : Loading in Progress"). Lot's of excitement ensued.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhGflwejf99UWKDv65Hhqvb1Zt2Qbg9ZTKO5KFyxZpkaN61bz1LNWH_FH3faAiSv9ot7LA40u_lf3EnddT0PvqosQ55qnIjNLQybu7ijqzXlxJjnFa8mnTHpc3T9VtH0NwPNywXVIDhc/s1600/BigBroAidan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhGflwejf99UWKDv65Hhqvb1Zt2Qbg9ZTKO5KFyxZpkaN61bz1LNWH_FH3faAiSv9ot7LA40u_lf3EnddT0PvqosQ55qnIjNLQybu7ijqzXlxJjnFa8mnTHpc3T9VtH0NwPNywXVIDhc/s1600/BigBroAidan.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When it was time to find out if it was a Baby Mickey or Baby Minnie, we decided to involve the Big Brother in the reveal! He was at school while mom and dad were at the doctor's getting the results.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpItldi_Qq2XkQMogwFIQJ1NQkBeOFEwkbJOZIGxwVIxYFPPkswy48V-8v_Mm5hZ6w9VBWXkU_-DAgZbQrZqMijX7anoeEmJREAQyFFYyCCa1QvhjOkeQMPjSN26bpzl1VFrXI9YZBhA/s1600/PA150164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpItldi_Qq2XkQMogwFIQJ1NQkBeOFEwkbJOZIGxwVIxYFPPkswy48V-8v_Mm5hZ6w9VBWXkU_-DAgZbQrZqMijX7anoeEmJREAQyFFYyCCa1QvhjOkeQMPjSN26bpzl1VFrXI9YZBhA/s1600/PA150164.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEinON83cOD6akPiXnduqkNmdHyqh91z3_22jv-fkITBNLkkBqeNBDiyjavIw2UwO5HPnMYq2SecO_jFLsB9UrYzZGznTtdO7o-iBxC30TQOkh61Bafegc7dzC7LugVW1kzhTgDPJ36NY/s1600/PA150171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEinON83cOD6akPiXnduqkNmdHyqh91z3_22jv-fkITBNLkkBqeNBDiyjavIw2UwO5HPnMYq2SecO_jFLsB9UrYzZGznTtdO7o-iBxC30TQOkh61Bafegc7dzC7LugVW1kzhTgDPJ36NY/s1600/PA150171.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEinON83cOD6akPiXnduqkNmdHyqh91z3_22jv-fkITBNLkkBqeNBDiyjavIw2UwO5HPnMYq2SecO_jFLsB9UrYzZGznTtdO7o-iBxC30TQOkh61Bafegc7dzC7LugVW1kzhTgDPJ36NY/s1600/PA150171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="color: black; text-align: start;">It's another </span><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">BOY</span></span><span style="color: black; text-align: start;"> for the Goldman family!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Good thing we've held on to all if little head's clothes and such. We just have to supplement a few things since the littlest head will be born in the winter instead of the summer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now it's January, and it's a little less than a month before the little guy is due to arrive. (Well, due is a little different in this case as it will be a scheduled C-Section). And there's plenty to do. The lists have started...so has the nesting it seems as I have just spent the past few days tackling some organization in the kitchen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One big thing on my mind lately... Cloth diapers. Now, big brother was a solely disposable diaper baby, until the cloth training pants stage. Now...I have quite a few friends who are experienced cloth diapers, and I have hit them up for suggestions and advice. I've also done research via Pinterest. I found a decent sale on Zulily on FuzziBunz,and ordered a few. Just waiting for them to arrive. I also found a local gal who runs a cloth diaper business from her home. A shout out to Tiffany at <a href="http://www.figgyfuzz.com/" target="_blank">FiggyFuzz</a> for letting me stop by and explaining all things cloth diapering. It was very helpful to see and touch all the varieties of cloth diapers. From pre-folds, to pockets, to all-in-ones.... it actually really all started to make sense.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, this is the beginning of this new endeavor. I hope to keep sharing as I learn more about cloth diapers and how they work or don't work for us and the littlesthead.</div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-5864080625015319242014-09-08T20:31:00.003-04:002014-09-09T07:59:12.357-04:00Yet more Disney inspiration... Tinkerbell GiftsAs the 1 year anniversary of our trip to the Mouse's house approaches, I am still reminded of all the fun we had. I'm also finding some useful tips, tricks and fun information that was useful during out trip, that would be useful for others. <br />
<br />
Last year was our now 5 year old's first trip to the World, and we wanted to make sure it was the most magical trip ever. I scoured the web for any helpful information. The result.... an overflowing Pinterest board.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneUJAsnz4DRZh-gnIPbJfXmK0d0LfgTYwadVdg2pJpbVPLj1iqjJ6rW1PCbT_rlWNi6V0ll3rEACgZRvFtiyEEuLhFzvuOUQlfo4jrU_F5Hgwm-e8_LMHIo2yFLEVwNFEEbzmuXfGKPs/s1600/TBnotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneUJAsnz4DRZh-gnIPbJfXmK0d0LfgTYwadVdg2pJpbVPLj1iqjJ6rW1PCbT_rlWNi6V0ll3rEACgZRvFtiyEEuLhFzvuOUQlfo4jrU_F5Hgwm-e8_LMHIo2yFLEVwNFEEbzmuXfGKPs/s1600/TBnotes.jpg" height="146" width="200" /></a>Let's talk Tinkerbell Gifts, because this is one of the most fantastic ideas to add a little extra magic to any kid's trip to WDW. The idea is that Tinkerbell, or whomever your child's favorite character happens to be, leaves a little something special in your room each day. I personally thought this was brilliant! Not only does it have that magic factor. it also creates a method of reducing the<br />
meltdowns for souvenirs, and may even encourage good behavior. In the weeks leading up to our trip, I searched through the clearance section at Walmart, the $1 spot at Target, and our local Dollar Tree for gifts. I also made use of my creativity for a few of them. The biggest purchase was pins for trading/collecting from eBay.<br />
<br />
***Time for a Public Service Announcement... when purchasing pins from eBay... DO YOUR RESEARCH!! Google "Disney Scrapper Pins". They exist, and unfortunately, the trading pull on any given Cast Members' lanyard in a park has been "diluted" with these scrapper pins. They are not illegal, and some are cool, but still... Also, make sure you purchase from an eBay seller with a high ranking to reduce your chance of being scammed. ***<br />
<br />
Back to Tinkerbell Gifts... I did end up with a pretty darn good stash of gifts for my littlehead. Next step was to organize and write cute little messages to accompany them. This is definitely fun. Let me show you how my notes turned out.<br />
<br />
The first gift was came the night before the trip. Littlehead found a nice surprise waiting for him on his bed. Mickey had somehow left a package with new Disney PJs and a set of activities for the plan. He also included a reminder to wear the "I'm going to Walt Disney World Resort" shirt littlehead had gotten for his birthday. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX7l7oUrf6x-b3wLvXDhTK2le5sMTCu3dXX6nyztc1v-WfYmXzY9SaK8D28tIAD8tNaVYWGHslcoRU8BnhofVuFOp7FTXV_YjDd7m27XRQuTgVaa1KWP7WkG0M9-eiH8lrf7fAvIs-8w/s1600/PlaneRide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX7l7oUrf6x-b3wLvXDhTK2le5sMTCu3dXX6nyztc1v-WfYmXzY9SaK8D28tIAD8tNaVYWGHslcoRU8BnhofVuFOp7FTXV_YjDd7m27XRQuTgVaa1KWP7WkG0M9-eiH8lrf7fAvIs-8w/s1600/PlaneRide.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Then next gift was delivered very early the next morning (it's amazing how Mickey mail works). Russell (from Up) was kind enough to send a note of encouragement for littlehead's first plane ride. There was also some animal guides and an invitation to become a Wilderness Explorer at Animal Kingdom, as that was the planned for after check-in at our resort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin1hIblXo4dOOnVr4sGQx0XYvpsxnCxMF9wLZxc2gTJ3UpYWtIiRMk714PhmhtNZc4hhrbwoRFSpArhKGw0dCNlDJDX01DUt1RTqAF1EnqCYDAOpXz033sqxCTdn052SKD604r-0Mh8c0/s1600/AnimalKingdom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin1hIblXo4dOOnVr4sGQx0XYvpsxnCxMF9wLZxc2gTJ3UpYWtIiRMk714PhmhtNZc4hhrbwoRFSpArhKGw0dCNlDJDX01DUt1RTqAF1EnqCYDAOpXz033sqxCTdn052SKD604r-0Mh8c0/s1600/AnimalKingdom.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Every morning, a new gift was waiting somewhere in our room at Caribbean Beach, and sometimes next door in Mimi and Poppy's room. The character who sent the package usually corresponded with the activities of the day. Gifts included:<br />
<br />
<ul><ul>
<li>Glow sticks for nighttime activities</li>
<li>Activity books</li>
<li>A printed passport for EPCOT</li>
<li>An autograph book for Universal Studios</li>
<li>A Trick or Treat bag for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party</li>
<li>Buzz and Woody figures</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
And each day, there were pins to either use for trading purposes, or just to add to the collection.<br />
<br />
Here are the notes that were left each day. The littlehead was very excited to see who left him a gift each day. There was one day taht two gifts were delivered. That would be the day we had breakfast with Lilo, Stitch, Mikey and Pluot at 'Ohana's before heading to Magic Kingdom for half of the day. We took time for a nap, during which the second gift was found, before heading back to Magic Kingdom for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2waXlNrsJppewIQ6y21GUQJ16ETYU9if7Ac7n71-UgXjz8miH9qM9Xch_rEG8q-Yrih6AkBCtt4z5VP9njUGKivswvd04BoDDb-ZTx38-1R6kr7CpyJp5hrO5My6Dyu30X54sXrcXmY/s1600/Breakfast+MK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2waXlNrsJppewIQ6y21GUQJ16ETYU9if7Ac7n71-UgXjz8miH9qM9Xch_rEG8q-Yrih6AkBCtt4z5VP9njUGKivswvd04BoDDb-ZTx38-1R6kr7CpyJp5hrO5My6Dyu30X54sXrcXmY/s1600/Breakfast+MK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2waXlNrsJppewIQ6y21GUQJ16ETYU9if7Ac7n71-UgXjz8miH9qM9Xch_rEG8q-Yrih6AkBCtt4z5VP9njUGKivswvd04BoDDb-ZTx38-1R6kr7CpyJp5hrO5My6Dyu30X54sXrcXmY/s1600/Breakfast+MK.jpg" height="133" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7thUa23GiNbfa_AHU-RBCcO9F9jMFe4pRzrhtnafcDA-6zv7c-Cfd6sT5WCAV4ExFBFuYUqH98DPNQjvHPzR2kYB4yP674FUloFpVm2ycPQPc-5jKUqB9bNWoVirfE55HrE8D_jixEY/s1600/HalloweenParty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7thUa23GiNbfa_AHU-RBCcO9F9jMFe4pRzrhtnafcDA-6zv7c-Cfd6sT5WCAV4ExFBFuYUqH98DPNQjvHPzR2kYB4yP674FUloFpVm2ycPQPc-5jKUqB9bNWoVirfE55HrE8D_jixEY/s1600/HalloweenParty.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-plxSuMA9klV_TAYaySr9alO6r7O1mNS_q6qH65k_yChzMsLmchVax3m_j7JxMJQzPFnXil9p7E-uVuJi20N4dfjniNOAB-8ujrFsoIHk18hG43gDmxc9whE7298iyOEg0kqkeIeK_A/s1600/IslandsOfAdventure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-plxSuMA9klV_TAYaySr9alO6r7O1mNS_q6qH65k_yChzMsLmchVax3m_j7JxMJQzPFnXil9p7E-uVuJi20N4dfjniNOAB-8ujrFsoIHk18hG43gDmxc9whE7298iyOEg0kqkeIeK_A/s1600/IslandsOfAdventure.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZbYWxH_HTaCyOQPUGXA5V5uOx5n3CO5y-EuYCTmSpWnKTJQ6yfLIJtmk1fnPzUAMnlwyJfpQXAZaFF7SBGCxeUDXmdwFzTBA1wpj5mWWV4gyWX03ACWBj8q1iNujAHsejKuFa0EqZKU/s1600/DIsneyJuniorBreakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZbYWxH_HTaCyOQPUGXA5V5uOx5n3CO5y-EuYCTmSpWnKTJQ6yfLIJtmk1fnPzUAMnlwyJfpQXAZaFF7SBGCxeUDXmdwFzTBA1wpj5mWWV4gyWX03ACWBj8q1iNujAHsejKuFa0EqZKU/s1600/DIsneyJuniorBreakfast.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKD4wZNPPV_KjdsoO__-L4y93uPxuW5H6NRhmGnPwzq39frhrtejonDId9CsfYe4PZ0Svm0mw8n_Jcz3LPbdvdlPkdx4X4e-T6Xc1oMDmeJ1rDsCPr9zBI92sYeYxWAMXVLzqB4atN6I/s1600/Pooh+Breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKD4wZNPPV_KjdsoO__-L4y93uPxuW5H6NRhmGnPwzq39frhrtejonDId9CsfYe4PZ0Svm0mw8n_Jcz3LPbdvdlPkdx4X4e-T6Xc1oMDmeJ1rDsCPr9zBI92sYeYxWAMXVLzqB4atN6I/s1600/Pooh+Breakfast.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBXpJAdTwyUnPXpUW2DQ6TlwtItdAbkxRpr0xiwHqb6wg8WGNPjD01M2pCwimwzDUz0-XWc5oilfG5RVqU4nZmyKQtQ03MtaUovNZxTLxYhvdg3CaxwVNPadNLVPpdUCPoM93ZAEQH18/s1600/Fantasmic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBXpJAdTwyUnPXpUW2DQ6TlwtItdAbkxRpr0xiwHqb6wg8WGNPjD01M2pCwimwzDUz0-XWc5oilfG5RVqU4nZmyKQtQ03MtaUovNZxTLxYhvdg3CaxwVNPadNLVPpdUCPoM93ZAEQH18/s1600/Fantasmic.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CJ0C6F_dpj8mcwKj_kVCQTg6Dhtrfj2bTMau0afcINzNABq-oT-MGWTksnXPmEeofIT9HOqSW_9OshqBckZmWP67V9q00gnoKEqS0JgkE_KxVyI3f-ZAtjKb4vDEcXfn57B2HvTv458/s1600/Universal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CJ0C6F_dpj8mcwKj_kVCQTg6Dhtrfj2bTMau0afcINzNABq-oT-MGWTksnXPmEeofIT9HOqSW_9OshqBckZmWP67V9q00gnoKEqS0JgkE_KxVyI3f-ZAtjKb4vDEcXfn57B2HvTv458/s1600/Universal.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EoQv0QaZKeYcWcimh9IQqrvq83sDKM6CSm2hDY23BvEW-pq4OKovOO0S__OKBjfz6kvZLjbR0A9lq4VvBpUFRXWJJCILDYggxwnjxH1Y5s-mPQp9Y-sM4fMj-ZUDNowgRDXPv2-N44U/s1600/Epcot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EoQv0QaZKeYcWcimh9IQqrvq83sDKM6CSm2hDY23BvEW-pq4OKovOO0S__OKBjfz6kvZLjbR0A9lq4VvBpUFRXWJJCILDYggxwnjxH1Y5s-mPQp9Y-sM4fMj-ZUDNowgRDXPv2-N44U/s1600/Epcot.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhsB5qg1UOo2Iwo14J6IZFmr5wgiNRAJh4kzTh4YGo7IcIaur4moy-OHwG-xYDxB-HswjDoC0MwcB7waSX74o86P6q1gGYbXG3RORZyozQNyjyF4zJCFOgbAiHyx7DRyoSNIsrlSoLFw/s1600/LastDay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhsB5qg1UOo2Iwo14J6IZFmr5wgiNRAJh4kzTh4YGo7IcIaur4moy-OHwG-xYDxB-HswjDoC0MwcB7waSX74o86P6q1gGYbXG3RORZyozQNyjyF4zJCFOgbAiHyx7DRyoSNIsrlSoLFw/s1600/LastDay.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4Ygusj7KEaZYwVJXQmofDuMoQ72ngVh7B8rUtGlhrFMGdSn3ehLsyXGdDh40U9J9GR6_qsdbfjYmWElv8C7olRq5n1qSCn9s2InhRcxwirmzySIz_Oh-uGfeqNA9hSc5_oYoDgelOqA/s1600/HeadingHome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4Ygusj7KEaZYwVJXQmofDuMoQ72ngVh7B8rUtGlhrFMGdSn3ehLsyXGdDh40U9J9GR6_qsdbfjYmWElv8C7olRq5n1qSCn9s2InhRcxwirmzySIz_Oh-uGfeqNA9hSc5_oYoDgelOqA/s1600/HeadingHome.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For the day that we visited EPCOT, this "communicator" note was left by Major Monogram, in addition to the note from Duffy. M.M. was recruiting our little agent to take part in the Agent P Adventure throughout EPCOT. That was a fun addition to the World Showcase.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRO6gq9lfoVJFWMCsNsdMa8qAZt-qB75HDz9UZB_xmEBdzW4ageg8fMvRc9I8Yq7-HeqrNilZIiXiWvyRlN08tUedP_pqnfPCVivr8dIz0tIYkuvbQveOfo3dtzmxMEoJxc9ew0llci0/s1600/AgentP_Communicator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRO6gq9lfoVJFWMCsNsdMa8qAZt-qB75HDz9UZB_xmEBdzW4ageg8fMvRc9I8Yq7-HeqrNilZIiXiWvyRlN08tUedP_pqnfPCVivr8dIz0tIYkuvbQveOfo3dtzmxMEoJxc9ew0llci0/s1600/AgentP_Communicator.jpg" height="320" width="205" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Were the Tinkerbell gifts a success? I'd say so. Littlehead did not pester us every minute of the day for a souvenir. We did find some special items through the parks, like tshirts and even took the time to have a silouhette done. oh, and Pressed Pennies.... those were a hit as well. <br />
<br />
About those Pressed Pennies... littlehead loves them. And they do make a pretty cool souvenir. Collect your pennies and quarters prior to your trip. Then get a container. Those M&M Mini cannisters are the best. You can easily find printable wraps around the Internet, or you can design your own. Use this pattern to load your quarters and pennies for the most efficient method: Quarter, Quarter, Penny. You will need $.51 cents per each pressed penny. Want to be even more efficient, have a list or map of the pressed penny locations printed, or saved on your phone. You can find a good up to date list <a href="http://www.presscoins.com/Listings/WDWMaster.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> or some maps <a href="http://www.parkpennies.com/disney-pennies-wdw/wdw-penny-press-machine-maps.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
I hoe your find this helpful. If you have any questions about Tinkerbell Gifts or the notes I created, don't hesitate to ask. And if you're planning your next trip to Disney, good luck and I hope you have a magical time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-UykGCsD3Wuw%2FVA5Hmi4lxEI%2FAAAAAAAABGo%2FKNrX3-vq_T8%2Fs1600%2FBreakfast%252BMK.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2waXlNrsJppewIQ6y21GUQJ16ETYU9if7Ac7n71-UgXjz8miH9qM9Xch_rEG8q-Yrih6AkBCtt4z5VP9njUGKivswvd04BoDDb-ZTx38-1R6kr7CpyJp5hrO5My6Dyu30X54sXrcXmY/s1600/Breakfast+MK.jpg" -->Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-46550362766498408372014-02-20T17:37:00.001-05:002014-02-20T17:37:47.717-05:00Yes, we're pin collectors...All of these Thursday that have passed me by and I have yet to take advantage to make one a "Throwback Thursday". Today, I have the opportunity to do a little Throwback to 2001. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was my 3rd trip to Walt Disney World. I was almost 20 years old, and it was Spring Break in my college days. My parents decided to take myself and my cousin, Shannon, on a trip to Universal Studios Orlando and Walt Disney World. AWESOME!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm pretty sure this is the trip where I was on the plane with my short hair up in crazy pig tail things on top of my head. The airline attendant walked by and reminded my mom that we were seated in an emergency exit row, and wanted to confirm that I was at least 12 years old. 12?!?!?! We all looked at her and my mom blurted out "SHE'S 20 YEARS OLD!" I've hear looking younger, but wow.... 8 years younger. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyhoo - fast forward a bit through the trip. We noticed folks walking around with lanyards and such around their necks, weighed down by numerous pins. Then we saw the carts selling these various shiny pins. We checked out one of the carts finally and asked what the deal was with these pins. That's how I first learned about Disney pin trading. I was debating joining the craze. I did't know the history, didn't know how long it had been going on, didn't know how long it would last. The Cast Member realizing my hesitation informed me that pin trading had been going on for 2 years, and it wasn't going anywhere. Okay! SOLD! Sign me up. What do I do?<br />
<br />
So, we bought a lanyard and a pin or two. The Cast Member who sold it to us, also gave me my first official pin trade: a very cool musical Mickey conductor. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGMM5NZxp6oG195MYEFCw8M8Z2kY0_okYvtRGE0nLbbUSsLQ97_fHL0sXZCkwa1SttoPXUVH2wlfV_7A6afTX9AwuNdPeZsTb_gzJDVJEif_1ppbl6qYHZMOMxCsh2YZt0oacvuYyaKM/s1600/1stpin_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGMM5NZxp6oG195MYEFCw8M8Z2kY0_okYvtRGE0nLbbUSsLQ97_fHL0sXZCkwa1SttoPXUVH2wlfV_7A6afTX9AwuNdPeZsTb_gzJDVJEif_1ppbl6qYHZMOMxCsh2YZt0oacvuYyaKM/s1600/1stpin_small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I acquired a few more pins throughout the trip, including one from the Caribbean Beach Resort where we were staying. And of course, I <i style="font-weight: bold;">HAD </i>to have an Indiana Jones pins, especially since I was finally on a trip that I was old enough to be in the Indiana Jones stunt show and was selected to be in it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BcQt_Ve5CMnIR9JHecu5ywexb8j7dQdxmKO120T-FQRjGHuFx4PRfFRxJpVPN0TGGN2C_FlEt58XlDFkWwO_ASKGQqdZv-ZUIHHtZIx5oiNiLUyu9QlTsAe4h1LPM0yAhRp4QW8aDpM/s1600/IndianaJonesPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BcQt_Ve5CMnIR9JHecu5ywexb8j7dQdxmKO120T-FQRjGHuFx4PRfFRxJpVPN0TGGN2C_FlEt58XlDFkWwO_ASKGQqdZv-ZUIHHtZIx5oiNiLUyu9QlTsAe4h1LPM0yAhRp4QW8aDpM/s1600/IndianaJonesPin.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And here we are, posing under the Tudor Lane sign ('cause my maiden name was Tudor) and my pin lanyard around my neck.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_YYZA5_cKylsicAM0HNDzvWu0TK1hoxJmifXkYY2hIMCLwa_l4yr7nJpXR4EWkh4jSysTNeXkMy8PmdyZ-S6zzqKoHstG7e1ywrO4f8JRTFW0tOufKxD0czP6Wg8TtVqB1vYG5FA3MU/s1600/TudorLane_2001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_YYZA5_cKylsicAM0HNDzvWu0TK1hoxJmifXkYY2hIMCLwa_l4yr7nJpXR4EWkh4jSysTNeXkMy8PmdyZ-S6zzqKoHstG7e1ywrO4f8JRTFW0tOufKxD0czP6Wg8TtVqB1vYG5FA3MU/s1600/TudorLane_2001.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, fast forward 12 years. It was back to Walt Disney World for my 4th visit, and my littlehead's <b>1st</b> visit!! What did I make sure he received for his birthday prior to the trip, his own pin trading starter set! It came with a lanyard and four 2013 pins representing the four WDW parks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4eeh75cf4PiVC9ADwluswHEMlvBndu79uyc6d4hFZlkk4kNfeUbaybIS46N7ml9OFDGrNgtiN5lw7o7xGL9Pp3etejpGDL-trxWB4zH_ISqMC_eA3XMwut8hlOlTbBU7woaHR74y7BNQ/s1600/$_35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4eeh75cf4PiVC9ADwluswHEMlvBndu79uyc6d4hFZlkk4kNfeUbaybIS46N7ml9OFDGrNgtiN5lw7o7xGL9Pp3etejpGDL-trxWB4zH_ISqMC_eA3XMwut8hlOlTbBU7woaHR74y7BNQ/s1600/$_35.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Littlehead's first "trade" was the very pin I received as my first "trade" - the musical Mickey conductor. The other pin he received as part of his Disney theme bday gift was a really cool spinner with Mickey and Friends.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2qVWoklTV3nErFMvR4KrrXPWyIsWL-At3OBvxJeOoro2dzLhTdRu4rYRx6hvVVIIlSqID5gA5wckxgMZYrbkXGCor4smh1wge4iBpkuv8-3oLiM40o9Xt2OjWGVP3PKptNePIHJf8lM/s1600/MickeyFriendsPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2qVWoklTV3nErFMvR4KrrXPWyIsWL-At3OBvxJeOoro2dzLhTdRu4rYRx6hvVVIIlSqID5gA5wckxgMZYrbkXGCor4smh1wge4iBpkuv8-3oLiM40o9Xt2OjWGVP3PKptNePIHJf8lM/s1600/MickeyFriendsPin.jpg" height="200" width="197" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We acquired a few more pins for trading purposes. When we arrived in WDW, the littlehead and I were ready to do some serious trading. We ended up with some great pins. Some traditions had to be repeated. For instance, littlehead was in need of a pin to remind us of the resort we stayed: Caribbean Beach Resort. On the left, if my pin from 2001, the right is his awesome Mickey pirate pin. Yeah, I was way jealous that his is much cooler than mine. But the folks at CBR did appreciate my older pin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrrCI61OMmiQRr_gIUaTiKIUvU1ZOpcLwoihmn80cg_dYPhV_W5mFBP07Z3jJ11C2vIyxZQN_1iq3ucTCqRZnB3YvReji5iaxAtMl5P3WMvlFPvlWItWEP0o-nb_iBECSSl704IeL5edQ/s1600/CBR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrrCI61OMmiQRr_gIUaTiKIUvU1ZOpcLwoihmn80cg_dYPhV_W5mFBP07Z3jJ11C2vIyxZQN_1iq3ucTCqRZnB3YvReji5iaxAtMl5P3WMvlFPvlWItWEP0o-nb_iBECSSl704IeL5edQ/s1600/CBR.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, after we acquired a collection we needed a way to display them. Where else to look, but Pinterest? I found my inspiration for a great pin display at these two sites:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.tipsfromthedisneydiva.com/2012/10/29/what-to-do-with-disney-pins-after-vacation/" target="_blank">http://www.tipsfromthedisneydiva.com/</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.passporterboards.com/forums/making-more-magic-everything-else-walt-disney-world/179077-check-out-my-shadowbox-memento-our-latest-trip.html" target="_blank">http://www.passporterboards.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Utilizing two shadow boxes (which happen to be on sale at JoAnn Fabrics), two foam boards from the dollar store, and free customized maps from <a href="http://customizedmaps.disney.go.com/" target="_blank">Disney</a>, we created two awesome pin displays that now reside in the littlehead's room. The Disney customized maps are fantastic! You can select your favorite rides and attractions to be listed on your maps. They will have your family's name on them as well. You can choose from a Character or Classic theme. For these, we chose the Classic theme. The only problem I have with these is that they are double sided. Luckily the two maps I wanted to use for this project are on two different sheets. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKC9BpneyD8yE_CgtEw0bjuutummpVikZfe10YFuTM-Qo0NL7zAXG2ZkmtEs3K9W1AcLqtD3arWCEfRjxHqseDt630Qb-ZOvim3HnIfOx1VbICk74H5d9m-HMfes7aNCbQQ5CVSRv9Us/s1600/MK_map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKC9BpneyD8yE_CgtEw0bjuutummpVikZfe10YFuTM-Qo0NL7zAXG2ZkmtEs3K9W1AcLqtD3arWCEfRjxHqseDt630Qb-ZOvim3HnIfOx1VbICk74H5d9m-HMfes7aNCbQQ5CVSRv9Us/s1600/MK_map.jpg" height="251" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Above is the Magic Kingdom map display. The littlehead and I sat down with our pins and chose ones that fit in with the Magic Kingdom. We even included our band from Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoh9Ag7qcAz5tT4pNBlHB5jwv2ah9tLUrwOzgyj85ogt7_qddz0L-euRpud4n-IJfnMvgyzUfL4k0AknZtfK0Vl_kiUJX_TCDNqzGsiE4h_dwPpcOP_hG-_exPewyyAi82JXgONO1pS8/s1600/WDW_maps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoh9Ag7qcAz5tT4pNBlHB5jwv2ah9tLUrwOzgyj85ogt7_qddz0L-euRpud4n-IJfnMvgyzUfL4k0AknZtfK0Vl_kiUJX_TCDNqzGsiE4h_dwPpcOP_hG-_exPewyyAi82JXgONO1pS8/s1600/WDW_maps.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one is a map of all of the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. This was a fun one. We actually had pins that represented each park. And, our Caribbean Beach Resort pins were a great addition as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKtJ05gTUBLuAWwwztoFBYHrHhwNrEvDpCb-zVPnkufiDUNKjgyvzZpqNtq5XLi-CX54uIpOuixgI3jM6XCGI1DuzO6PHxL-bCVzia4Z1SJuOxDZDRpu_WDquhdtyaXO5yrqz6Qt8268/s1600/1stvisit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKtJ05gTUBLuAWwwztoFBYHrHhwNrEvDpCb-zVPnkufiDUNKjgyvzZpqNtq5XLi-CX54uIpOuixgI3jM6XCGI1DuzO6PHxL-bCVzia4Z1SJuOxDZDRpu_WDquhdtyaXO5yrqz6Qt8268/s1600/1stvisit.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Littlehead's 1st Visit button also found a home on the WDW resort map!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNF5blv0EEFUpXunJ1bIFb-qZbni5QsstOejbOE9iGQy87Fx9WuJFl36u79G8j6qVxTlVhmgbAk0rcvXkUvpZ8JTzx_itGGba6vzsmOCe91LsWNB8L62S5lwUfBQc_V_qWXRHo5vb_90w/s1600/lanyards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNF5blv0EEFUpXunJ1bIFb-qZbni5QsstOejbOE9iGQy87Fx9WuJFl36u79G8j6qVxTlVhmgbAk0rcvXkUvpZ8JTzx_itGGba6vzsmOCe91LsWNB8L62S5lwUfBQc_V_qWXRHo5vb_90w/s1600/lanyards.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span id="goog_1159526035"></span><span id="goog_1159526036"></span>Here are the lanyards, displaying the pins that remain. Yup, we are Disney Pin Collectors (ignore the Ravenclaw Quidditch pin on my lanyard. Besides being a Disney Geek, I'm also a Harry Potter nerd). We are quite proud to be Pin Traders and look forward to more trading in Disney.</div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-71102918553488141202014-01-19T21:43:00.005-05:002014-01-19T21:43:59.100-05:00Paying the Magic Forward<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IiHAszmSzYr2QJ0JJFHYy418rXQWvUGWdTyP9r3TtNOuGmNhDzANXGxFJfGF2JCwisJUBmqjIjjshxzI385aAS3VtdNuuuVvhyphenhyphenxbKjgifU4Z2xoYpmqZZYyMuQ8oIK96BEI71IkKVWM/s1600/PayMagicForward_logo.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IiHAszmSzYr2QJ0JJFHYy418rXQWvUGWdTyP9r3TtNOuGmNhDzANXGxFJfGF2JCwisJUBmqjIjjshxzI385aAS3VtdNuuuVvhyphenhyphenxbKjgifU4Z2xoYpmqZZYyMuQ8oIK96BEI71IkKVWM/s1600/PayMagicForward_logo.jpg" height="155" width="200" /></a></span><span style="color: black;"></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">Prior to our trip, I did quite a bit of online research for Disney tips, tricks and other miscellaneous information. I came across so many interesting things. One of my favorite little tidbits, was found on <a href="http://www.tipsfromthedisneydiva.com/2010/12/28/walt-disney-world-challenge-the-giveaway-toy/" target="_blank">tipsfromthedisneydiva.com</a>. The Disney Diva shares an anecdote about a trip to Disney where a 12 year old girl approached the Diva and her daughter to share a plush Minnie Mouse. The 12 year old's mother proceeded to explain that each trip they buy a toy for their children to give-away to another child to "create some magic for another family." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">The Disney Diva and her family started a similar tradition. She shares; "throughout the trip they look for families with children in melt-down or just being pushed down the street in their stroller. When they feel the child is JUST RIGHT for their toy they approach the family and ask permission to give their toy away." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">She concludes her story with the following:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">"So this is the Diva Family Challenge to you on your next trip. Are YOU willing to make some magic for another family? Give it a try and see if it doesn’t turn out to be the highlight of your trip."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, after reading the post, I thought it was the most brilliant idea EVER! I was ready to take the challenge. I shared the story with my 4 year old son, and asked him if this was something he was interested in doing? His face brightened at the idea of sharing some magic with another boy or girl during our trip. CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKecuwH-KotZo9SZRPhRcsO7vtxiSlWujPSq7SUKUDn3JCjh-hRGali1BvrlLeNL45DRp7TddFsiCnOVdBcyubQr5W3JxU8hH1NNKW7owN9TQ355017G4CAZ-n_-3WaEEAJYBV9S0sIE/s1600/PayTheMagicForward_Mickey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKecuwH-KotZo9SZRPhRcsO7vtxiSlWujPSq7SUKUDn3JCjh-hRGali1BvrlLeNL45DRp7TddFsiCnOVdBcyubQr5W3JxU8hH1NNKW7owN9TQ355017G4CAZ-n_-3WaEEAJYBV9S0sIE/s1600/PayTheMagicForward_Mickey.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>So, we went on a search for a small plush Minnie and Mickey. We happened upon some perfect ones at CVS (of all places). We wrote up some notes and tied them to Mickey and Minnie's arms (a little rhyme to share a smile and an explanation of our new family tradition). My son was very proud to pack them in his suitcase to Disney World. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">After we arrived, we made sure we had one of the plush dolls with us in a backpack at the parks. My son kept an ear and a eye ready to identify a "friend" having a bad day. Our first friend who needed a smile we found at Hollywood Studios. We had just gotten off Toy Story Mania, and could hear someone crying nearby. We looked around, and saw a mom with her crying daughter in a stroller. I looked at my son, asked if this was someone he thought needed a little smile, and when he responded "Yes", we walked over together with of the plushes in hand. As we approached the pair, I explained to the Mom that we have this plush, and can see her daughter was in need of a smile. I asked if it was okay if my son could give her daughter the plush. After receiving approval, my son peeked into the stroller, offered the plush, and instantly the little girl stopped crying. I read her the rhyme and told her that we hope she'll keep a smile for the rest of the day. Even the mom had a smile.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">Our second friend who needed a smile was in EPCOT. We followed the same protocol as before, with my asking the mom and giving an explanation first. Turned out, the friend we heard had siblings as well who were succumbing to a long day. We spoke to the girl, and I even asked her if she could share the Mickey with her siblings to give them a little smile. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">After both encounters, my son and I had even bigger smiles, knowing that we shared a little magic with others. We didn't ask for anything in return, we never gave our names. We actually saw one of our "friends" later in the day, but didn't draw attention to ourselves. We smiled as we noticed there was not an unhappy sound that followed. We helped make a little extra magic, and it felt really good. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">So, as the Disney Diva issued in her blog, I am doing the same here and challenging <b>YOU </b>to make a little magic for another family during your Disney trip. It really does add that special something that you will remember, and possibly a memory another family will have with them forever.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgralbftWh-1hgZZf8PGkSdrjTAAfJ7w1vWokTPmQt4n8SHDUKLDGspBbkZN5lbdC7Eaa6xbpFWwe1uf8JyBi2huC0Dj4GZSHaXCIv0Da45K7eWgQjPDBRPyjhJz0Gf76Tcg8_IfJTpAg/s1600/disney-mickey-and-minnie-plush-dolls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgralbftWh-1hgZZf8PGkSdrjTAAfJ7w1vWokTPmQt4n8SHDUKLDGspBbkZN5lbdC7Eaa6xbpFWwe1uf8JyBi2huC0Dj4GZSHaXCIv0Da45K7eWgQjPDBRPyjhJz0Gf76Tcg8_IfJTpAg/s1600/disney-mickey-and-minnie-plush-dolls.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-80131664476125289172014-01-17T20:56:00.001-05:002014-01-17T20:57:31.614-05:00Passporter's Guide to WDW<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvOmPwUpPXEhokUTkTBui3qsXJlcRnNWVd2QpUxRNy34pw5iBUzqLEQqRv8k253VvaTZMmz4P3vwtYX_p6XVOiFhK4839c6NIOrEe1Bh8yzLg9bALqHerNQDfbmhEhm3XJsN6aqONwOg/s1600/wdw2013spiral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvOmPwUpPXEhokUTkTBui3qsXJlcRnNWVd2QpUxRNy34pw5iBUzqLEQqRv8k253VvaTZMmz4P3vwtYX_p6XVOiFhK4839c6NIOrEe1Bh8yzLg9bALqHerNQDfbmhEhm3XJsN6aqONwOg/s1600/wdw2013spiral.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>As I mentioned, the Passporter's Guide to Walt Disney World was VERY useful for our most recent trip. It's a pretty cool and useful book. It's spiral bound so flipping pages super easy. It has a nice sturdy cover that has flaps to tuck into the book to protect it, and an elastic band to keep it closed. It also features "PassPockets" to hold all sorts of goodies and space for useful notes. There is just SOOOOO much useful information about the parks, each of the resorts, restaurants and more. Want to know everything about Caribbean Beach Resort? There are 4 pages worth of information! Easily find a standard room layout, a map of the property, tips and even a list of specific rooms to have great views. <br />
<br />
Want more from PassPorters...join the online community (<a href="http://www.passporterboards.com/">http://www.passporterboards.com/</a>). I get regular emails about updates on the blog, or the upcoming issue. Even though I am not currently planning a Disney trip, I enjoy being able to keep up to date on all the goings-on at Disney, including the rollout of Magic Bands, Fast Pass Plus, new restaurants, new attractions and more. I feel that I will be extra ready for our next trip, whenever that may be (hoping for the near future).<br />
<br />
To my friends at PassPorters, I hear the new Walt Disney World 2014 edition is ready, and I would LOVE a free review copy, if possible. And I hope that I can gather my thoughts enough to submit my own tips and tricks to future editions.Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-92106803875905590422014-01-17T20:37:00.001-05:002018-04-24T15:26:23.234-04:00The most magical place on earth!In September, the Goldmans packed their bags, donned their ears, and headed down to visit a particular Mouse at his house. That's right, we went to Walt Disney World! (Thanks Mimi and Poppy!!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFyTJe8xBJMyCAnixq7b1Nbe5saYelHMraWJ5j3U-DILRMhiJeGLLk82-FQCcocsRE_QN-7cUW9tkPEJ5XyqXhZrSSn8xtNFni7kVmc4eOKvcUmsmqMIwCbVOxQEMzOkZ5wr0t3qsgWI/s1600/WDW-Resort-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFyTJe8xBJMyCAnixq7b1Nbe5saYelHMraWJ5j3U-DILRMhiJeGLLk82-FQCcocsRE_QN-7cUW9tkPEJ5XyqXhZrSSn8xtNFni7kVmc4eOKvcUmsmqMIwCbVOxQEMzOkZ5wr0t3qsgWI/s1600/WDW-Resort-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyqiff387iOQAyUjCh5lgWSlVH3EH-mLR-uIpwzSY457z0EBGdu1pBh6zBjOMDqzpBc5QJLBWok3Ontjjsia-uGcciBIvha7BziRn0zQygVgaLAQHHg3PuwkPGqZCkSNAEFLrxCPQ4PwE/s1600/P9190009_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyqiff387iOQAyUjCh5lgWSlVH3EH-mLR-uIpwzSY457z0EBGdu1pBh6zBjOMDqzpBc5QJLBWok3Ontjjsia-uGcciBIvha7BziRn0zQygVgaLAQHHg3PuwkPGqZCkSNAEFLrxCPQ4PwE/s1600/P9190009_small.jpg" width="150" /></a>The first adventure of the trip was Aidan's very first plane ride. He made it through his first flight like a pro. He really enjoyed the experience having a ticket, a carry-on, and flying up in the clouds. <br />
<br />
Throughout the 10 days spent down in "The World" was full of adventure of as well. It even included 2 days to detour to the Universal Studios. Aidan definitely had such a great time on his first Disney trip. And now....it's possible, we may have created a Disney Monster. Even to this day, 5 months later, Aidan still talks about going back to Disney. (Mindy likes that idea too.)<br />
<br />
There is so much to recap, and so little time to write it. <br />
<br />
But let me give a few quick recommendations for some things that really helped make the planning very efficient, and the trip itself very easy and enjoyable. Between my own mother and myself, we had a good collection of Disney related planning books: <i>Birnbaum Guides Walt Disney World</i>, <i>Passporter's Walt Disney World</i>, and <i>The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World [and with Kids version]</i>. Each was useful in its own way. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYmbvFTspTnoJuacjK0K1gOesjg0KdRMNgKN9bnY-GO_f0XyY7K9VGWrvOzRXzsJs_KIzrDwei4M4A1iL25V0Zfs_YZdzc6_sKjvwlOutiBENq1OWCW5GLhigQvBvH9XkWyHLddFdXPM/s1600/WDWbooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYmbvFTspTnoJuacjK0K1gOesjg0KdRMNgKN9bnY-GO_f0XyY7K9VGWrvOzRXzsJs_KIzrDwei4M4A1iL25V0Zfs_YZdzc6_sKjvwlOutiBENq1OWCW5GLhigQvBvH9XkWyHLddFdXPM/s1600/WDWbooks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
They are FILLED with post-it tabs and highlighter marks. I became a member of both the Passporter's and Unofficial Guide's Touring Plan communities and I am still an active "stalker" and occasional contributor, happy to provide my own 2 cents based on our recent experience. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19-X0yJYxS9i-xvm_Iy2qDpPyOGKKs8qznIAFmeKM0lMP6bIhwVfoLM-fsVvZqvJCzgCr_fxq7ce14o0mY_YkNVZNHpi08-WLZppxRm8QWj-4yYvW-AYJsWPnhprZrPne7igLOH6uomE/s1600/P9280047_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19-X0yJYxS9i-xvm_Iy2qDpPyOGKKs8qznIAFmeKM0lMP6bIhwVfoLM-fsVvZqvJCzgCr_fxq7ce14o0mY_YkNVZNHpi08-WLZppxRm8QWj-4yYvW-AYJsWPnhprZrPne7igLOH6uomE/s1600/P9280047_small.jpg" width="200" /></a>A BIG shout out to Buena Vista Scooter Rentals (<a href="http://www.buenavistascooters.com/">http://www.buenavistascooters.com/</a>)! My mom, "Mimi," took a spill during our 2nd day at Universal, with 3 days left in the trip. She ended up breaking her foot. The Buena Vista Scooter Rentals folks delivered the scooter to Caribbean Beach Resort. It was a very big help. My mom was able to enjoy part of the following day at EPCOT and also made it so much easier to get around the very LARGE property of CBR. <br />
<br />
<br />
I have sooooo much more to add to recap this trip included other tips and tricks we figured out. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<span id="goog_918957668"></span><br />
<span id="goog_918957667"></span>Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-49259588515498158942013-05-18T21:56:00.002-04:002013-05-19T12:30:38.898-04:00Aidan is turning 4!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8rijJxwSPWQFbQJq2qN9Dp90vI98OsrFZfr9K8RBustwb4BwpKq63Wh0EhQKd3WxD-iQVWjxoVwigNiE_uhl_NE-7dmIyBwLNbr4R3GVn_BfsUDcfNt_VZrVpNwzjsLYUHS5TguMYc5o/s1600/Aidan_4_Invite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8rijJxwSPWQFbQJq2qN9Dp90vI98OsrFZfr9K8RBustwb4BwpKq63Wh0EhQKd3WxD-iQVWjxoVwigNiE_uhl_NE-7dmIyBwLNbr4R3GVn_BfsUDcfNt_VZrVpNwzjsLYUHS5TguMYc5o/s320/Aidan_4_Invite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
Join us for a Mouskarrific good time <b>Wednesday June 12th at 5:00pm</b> to celebrate Aidan's 4th Birthday. The party will be taking place at <b>Jump On It </b>(located at <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=131+Industry+Lane,+Forest+Hill+MD,+21050&hl=en&sll=38.804821,-77.236966&sspn=2.324295,5.410767&t=h&hnear=131+Industry+Ln,+Forest+Hill,+Maryland+21050&z=16" target="_blank">131 Industry Lane, Forest Hill MD, 21050</a>)</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
RSVP by June 9th to <a href="mailto:mindy@thegoldmans.com">mindy@thegoldmans.com</a> or 410-612-2177<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Besides plenty of energy and an appetite, be sure to bring socks for all jumpers and a signed waiver.<br />
You can print out a copy of the waiver <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B3DQxO16J6AgakhYUUV1by03Tm8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a> to fill out prior to the party.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">Want to know more about Aidan? </span></h4>
Check out some of these fun facts.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(click to view larger)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_t11xiGbcHhkVaZZ08-yNz2eCDBQg-Ao7xeaFUa1T6wX7NzTtwRBz_ymN90Jstw6LWBtQdWV7Y_GmnY_j1O3bQ2l58NH7BQcgOOSkISO8_XQOlhqEqL0N95iblbjlNkbGjz4gCDLidLs/s1600/AboutAidan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_t11xiGbcHhkVaZZ08-yNz2eCDBQg-Ao7xeaFUa1T6wX7NzTtwRBz_ymN90Jstw6LWBtQdWV7Y_GmnY_j1O3bQ2l58NH7BQcgOOSkISO8_XQOlhqEqL0N95iblbjlNkbGjz4gCDLidLs/s320/AboutAidan.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Aidan has wish lists at <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/wishlist/search/index.jsp?_flowExecutionKey=_cB0EFF0BC-CD8B-32C0-770C-B18809DDCEE1_k3ACEF702-184A-04C0-28F5-3ED1D4FBC179&overrideStore=TRUS" target="_blank">Toys R Us</a>, <a href="http://amzn.com/w/33Z9FEIFGKFIE" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. But as you can see, his biggest wish this year is to make a trip to Disney World this Fall to meet all his favorite Disney Characters. You can help make Aidan's wish come true buy purchasing a <a href="https://www.disneygiftcard.com/cards/" target="_blank">Disney Gift Card</a>.Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-15418608003293428762013-04-28T12:43:00.001-04:002013-04-28T19:31:39.554-04:00Woolite Washed - Tested and ApprovedI've always heard about this Woolite, but never thought it was for me and my families' laundry. I always had the thought that Woolite was best for delicates, but Woolite has been making the push to let everyone know that Woolite is for all the clothes you love: your favorite jeans, a special tee, or a great sweater. <br />
<br />
So, I received my Woolite Sample and Share (thanks to Crowdtap) and got a little excited about trying Woolite for the first time. BONUS!! I received other samples to share with friends! Woolite totes that it "helps protect the clothes you love by not causing fading, shrinking and stretching." Okay, sounds good. <br />
<br />
Off to the laundry pile to find some great qualifiers for the Woolite challenge. And I found some good ones from both my husband's and my pile, and our almost 4 year old's pile:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLK_7klx209ieMXS_ieE5-rCXFaP_S-xF6rmd7MCvlpRoNAJRKzgBrdM6bhibal9eCAXtPx2F3bnHAbn2Ith9jkyPIL_lLKE94C4u-RXyMA6MKERRBBviFr7PAAtr93Ap2sIqZGrwXRHk/s1600/P4250344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLK_7klx209ieMXS_ieE5-rCXFaP_S-xF6rmd7MCvlpRoNAJRKzgBrdM6bhibal9eCAXtPx2F3bnHAbn2Ith9jkyPIL_lLKE94C4u-RXyMA6MKERRBBviFr7PAAtr93Ap2sIqZGrwXRHk/s320/P4250344.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby's Photography shirt needed for an upcoming job.<br />
He wears this a lot, so it needs to stay looking like new.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjVz4Bhyphenhyphennzqqg1qq4IZ2QIcUA-Dz0PislTxv4RUCQDxTXaw7Qj3bluXNd351WNItUElNvbxE2AQ489QjcMdgU3B3MCcVh69bwfl7clbq7MZTNV12x1ekU3SPuzWjxGujg4a8UHlFVSjY/s1600/P4250349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjVz4Bhyphenhyphennzqqg1qq4IZ2QIcUA-Dz0PislTxv4RUCQDxTXaw7Qj3bluXNd351WNItUElNvbxE2AQ489QjcMdgU3B3MCcVh69bwfl7clbq7MZTNV12x1ekU3SPuzWjxGujg4a8UHlFVSjY/s320/P4250349.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a nice shirt worn by an almost 4 year old.<br />
These clothes just have to last the adventures<br />
of preschool and the playground.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDxzqWRJqbhA_f5la5uwI6lcqw4lMJCzufojmXg-yokQr2SpAt-vQg4fifRWZgWVQGgt-nB47dp5B2LmwPYlHmR6oWm5NrNZlb-eExlrpnkFxs2VK1YPt8RAVzgOCnQ5i8e6Fsr63vQg/s1600/P4250345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDxzqWRJqbhA_f5la5uwI6lcqw4lMJCzufojmXg-yokQr2SpAt-vQg4fifRWZgWVQGgt-nB47dp5B2LmwPYlHmR6oWm5NrNZlb-eExlrpnkFxs2VK1YPt8RAVzgOCnQ5i8e6Fsr63vQg/s320/P4250345.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This hoody is VERY special.<br />
Grandpa brought this from his trip to Italy.<br />
It would be a bit difficult to replace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXtpxwboF3l94dG9OJe3ngVDY6eh7v5n8ereLIcqCkgx9d1Ozr6K6gb-GzybPwwsZ0h07A2N2qBPp0hAwXRmpowdv1DbyPZ4eHtTgEH5hXypctGktUrIeBLuop-2OBxCNVa49D_JUZh8/s1600/P4250346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXtpxwboF3l94dG9OJe3ngVDY6eh7v5n8ereLIcqCkgx9d1Ozr6K6gb-GzybPwwsZ0h07A2N2qBPp0hAwXRmpowdv1DbyPZ4eHtTgEH5hXypctGktUrIeBLuop-2OBxCNVa49D_JUZh8/s320/P4250346.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's Daddy's shirt now, but if it's still in great shape<br />
I can wear it when I get bigger!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTlNvV5KaHlgeoJsZbAFACiFlroEZVl09X6Rkwgk6SToi2lz8uJmKj2yoHhzHUJRyVJOkuMg-mV-OCw-LGzfM2wTmqGK5uEW_BHJp9wSsWcSeZtW060WR_RT1kb-hUCQDlt5mi7WHl0I/s1600/P4250353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTlNvV5KaHlgeoJsZbAFACiFlroEZVl09X6Rkwgk6SToi2lz8uJmKj2yoHhzHUJRyVJOkuMg-mV-OCw-LGzfM2wTmqGK5uEW_BHJp9wSsWcSeZtW060WR_RT1kb-hUCQDlt5mi7WHl0I/s320/P4250353.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And it's personalized with my derby name.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQhDN_NjqkgxbIP4ECH0z9NIvp_RvA2TB8QOZzRvJ-pQHPF7ITUFJ1ggVerH0WWlaPUvuYz2APK_-XWpj0nnvOvv3eX73ZwOVQhkA8xU4fqWI_JN_28ZuN0Xxco-Eve5xR9o1owFLj5M/s1600/P4250351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQhDN_NjqkgxbIP4ECH0z9NIvp_RvA2TB8QOZzRvJ-pQHPF7ITUFJ1ggVerH0WWlaPUvuYz2APK_-XWpj0nnvOvv3eX73ZwOVQhkA8xU4fqWI_JN_28ZuN0Xxco-Eve5xR9o1owFLj5M/s320/P4250351.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Super important shirt...<br />
Charm City Roller Girls!<br />
Worn a lot over the past 3 years...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjGoXoe4Kmu_u31L9Opb1jMaxU8pvsyE_gSSJNpElN9tm7Rp4dNWjT9WpmozG6KrfMF-wkqnM5MYm3Pn9bTqVqFZWQ7afhV3u_kZmj87U9yJ2N4cgwRKMGVrrVk4VOCPmLauQXVGzZ_E/s1600/P4250359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjGoXoe4Kmu_u31L9Opb1jMaxU8pvsyE_gSSJNpElN9tm7Rp4dNWjT9WpmozG6KrfMF-wkqnM5MYm3Pn9bTqVqFZWQ7afhV3u_kZmj87U9yJ2N4cgwRKMGVrrVk4VOCPmLauQXVGzZ_E/s320/P4250359.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another item from the Roller Derby collection...<br />
My team track jacket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhNg3P513dBHzb4YSTYJKzkbPf5XzBfwlxFf6nBVVOFNCipB2rX-KVyM_zmQ4Yf3_R2Y0CsetFF3_YlvBeRLh6gU9qLlaS5fIGNeF7p-h5ok0W_-PdOT7ltmtThyphenhyphenPBGMALPxL_kRwGcs/s1600/P4250355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhNg3P513dBHzb4YSTYJKzkbPf5XzBfwlxFf6nBVVOFNCipB2rX-KVyM_zmQ4Yf3_R2Y0CsetFF3_YlvBeRLh6gU9qLlaS5fIGNeF7p-h5ok0W_-PdOT7ltmtThyphenhyphenPBGMALPxL_kRwGcs/s320/P4250355.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pair of super cute jeans that I'd love to<br />
keep looking like new as long as possible.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLO-_e6xk_MkuH93FwRzz0uvC-X2T7_45OOHwNko2FBwRZOLTvdhfLqKXYGCKhDrUMJuTxkU2g-kUVSZZNgTW0jsPVjFAKXQNBmlALV-K56V8vHVfe66nqF_h-DWtXrocWutb8eD7eVQ/s1600/P4250358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLO-_e6xk_MkuH93FwRzz0uvC-X2T7_45OOHwNko2FBwRZOLTvdhfLqKXYGCKhDrUMJuTxkU2g-kUVSZZNgTW0jsPVjFAKXQNBmlALV-K56V8vHVfe66nqF_h-DWtXrocWutb8eD7eVQ/s320/P4250358.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress pants - His and Hers...<br />
Much needed for business-type activities.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-4kbDTdl4i1-X7mYFLsNlqjA_hVIWIh9OqligkmeamG7wRODdcE0dez8mzSi3ZmnNegT7RA1wvXyhxDQfQyi0HtzOR1f3IjevKmp4yadSpAptDI90_eKY1Kn4RJ9h1slbZVWGf0OLRA/s1600/P4250362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-4kbDTdl4i1-X7mYFLsNlqjA_hVIWIh9OqligkmeamG7wRODdcE0dez8mzSi3ZmnNegT7RA1wvXyhxDQfQyi0HtzOR1f3IjevKmp4yadSpAptDI90_eKY1Kn4RJ9h1slbZVWGf0OLRA/s320/P4250362.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In goes the Woolite.<br />
Let's see how it works!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_292414898"></span><span id="goog_292414899"></span><br />
<br />
An hour or so later, the freshly laundered clothes came out of the washer. The first thing I noticed was the scent. It was fresh and clean.... just like the description says. I practically sniffed each piece of clothing as it got transferred from the washer to the dryer. I would have taken a picture, but I was too busy huffing the fresh scent. <br />
<br />
The end result... the clothes came out great. Not only did they smell fantastic, Woolite seemed to make even more over-worn Charm City Roller Girls shirt seem closer to what it was when it was brand new. Gone were the little fuzzy balls that occurred over time of constant wear. Even my jeans came out soft. Usually, freshly washed jeans are kind of stiff and not comfortable. I couldn't wait to get them back on after this wash. My husband's photography shirt was ready to go for a full day event and survived all the running and stress. Thumbs up for Woolite in this house! Thanks Woolite and Crowdtap for the opportunity to try something new, and find a winner.<br />
<br />
Now, if only Woolite can take care of the bigger messes....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wolmHeCBn1e5KzzD3WKkwZxH7UMlM0x9Z8S17txlAN1gPbgpAIp9ROR_Op4-2VgRdm3YgceAq2nem5qomXH6fGwCKZKSzF6CxZvEL5QOYLwfHY7V4JbF_Xj0vseBJ4o_tBa5DU-VoXc/s1600/P4250364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wolmHeCBn1e5KzzD3WKkwZxH7UMlM0x9Z8S17txlAN1gPbgpAIp9ROR_Op4-2VgRdm3YgceAq2nem5qomXH6fGwCKZKSzF6CxZvEL5QOYLwfHY7V4JbF_Xj0vseBJ4o_tBa5DU-VoXc/s320/P4250364.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
***UPDATE:<br />
What my other samplers had to say about their Woolite Samples:<br />
<br />
<br />
Renee: "I was really happy with the results of using Woolite. It was honestly the first time I tried it. The girls clothes and our own came out with a nice and fresh feeling. I too thought Woolite was for special items only. Thanks to Mindy for sharing the sample!!"<br />
<br />
Nicole: "I used my sample to wash my son's khaki pants that had grass stains on them. I used a stain remover in addition to the Woolite and the tough stains mostly vanished! The pants were soft and smelled fresh, but not with overpowering fragrance. Good stuff!"<br />
<br />
Elizabeth: "I thought the woolight wasnt bad, I bought some new shirts (i always wash first) and the color seemed to be the same. Normally when I wash clothes they look a shade lighter."<br />
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-49443540873112771382013-04-23T14:24:00.001-04:002013-04-23T14:24:31.454-04:00April Showers bring.... OLD NAVY'S BEST TEES!Ahhh Spring. What a great time of year. It means sunny days, beautiful flowers starting to bloom, and temperatures perfect for Tees! And what a coincidence that thanks to yet another opportunity from Crowdtap and Old Navy, it also means FREE OLD NAVY TEES!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibED1zrdIc1sQTIQR7293Z_Hu5_979eNR86TetfMG1vJP8Km6hauO97TazEjVHQgxM3OOyLw2NM7LZQQvLO2_1pOkzFwAWKGw0LggjdP3O6pAa4z2w50GMv5GaUaxfnpTnrQkAO1B1sHI/s1600/P4030337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibED1zrdIc1sQTIQR7293Z_Hu5_979eNR86TetfMG1vJP8Km6hauO97TazEjVHQgxM3OOyLw2NM7LZQQvLO2_1pOkzFwAWKGw0LggjdP3O6pAa4z2w50GMv5GaUaxfnpTnrQkAO1B1sHI/s320/P4030337.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite piece of mail to receive!<br />
Old Navy Women's Best Tees Sample and Share!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As soon as I got the Sample and Share coupons in the mail, it was on to FaceBook to find out which of my friends would jump at the chance for free stuff. I think I need to start having a Sample and Share raffle because EVERYONE jumps at these kind of chances. <br />
<br />
I was joined again by my friend Elizabeth, who joined me on the Old Navy dress excursion. I think we had a bit more fun with the tees. Plus, it was a WAY better selection for both of our styles this time around. Cue U2's Beautiful Day and let's get on with the Spring Time Tee adventure!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcuYzer-FbEDmroWTEULb6DBvyMh2UVVkek4EFiwNBlEcbjx2bTrlFZcYGe-aNsV8x0Vfzv3Qv8EnrGdAeKSVOVrPErTx-OBipdQuC3glFE-kIXheNZhGjAkYsNpl5wiXS3WVe1Pe9ro/s1600/TeeCollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcuYzer-FbEDmroWTEULb6DBvyMh2UVVkek4EFiwNBlEcbjx2bTrlFZcYGe-aNsV8x0Vfzv3Qv8EnrGdAeKSVOVrPErTx-OBipdQuC3glFE-kIXheNZhGjAkYsNpl5wiXS3WVe1Pe9ro/s1600/TeeCollage2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's start our search for the Best Tees by scoping out the Perfect Tees & Henleys and...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggo8h7h8IoQ6b0VqEPZTEKpM6XXGSs7oI0xhmjunftrscT54Q-Mfzdy-LySti1r4IRILT-Q555GgWTXfXLMh0zZyFNcXsI-d_YC38O61Lw5aSNBg6GigPgBQH4tSaOjjNPog-0OrNeoVA/s1600/P4030338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggo8h7h8IoQ6b0VqEPZTEKpM6XXGSs7oI0xhmjunftrscT54Q-Mfzdy-LySti1r4IRILT-Q555GgWTXfXLMh0zZyFNcXsI-d_YC38O61Lw5aSNBg6GigPgBQH4tSaOjjNPog-0OrNeoVA/s320/P4030338.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the Vintage V-neck selection.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_imevnSTW0wFLfs9pNWA81dvb6e5ztUVOmNgYR4MNmrhoiGfnd1s81uwosO7E3Ne7bfgEadJJmpA9UDIsU6HRbDJlr57j-1OGCPEh4nr0ec9cTAd_qPMG6ei6Lc_63y5PqvZXifaeg-U/s1600/P4030339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_imevnSTW0wFLfs9pNWA81dvb6e5ztUVOmNgYR4MNmrhoiGfnd1s81uwosO7E3Ne7bfgEadJJmpA9UDIsU6HRbDJlr57j-1OGCPEh4nr0ec9cTAd_qPMG6ei6Lc_63y5PqvZXifaeg-U/s200/P4030339.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO-DdJqRBzn3TVp5ibb_9xmZuBTIgG85L42T_yMhhhTpjyzVF5kguzEjUNf0z4E6JULTysOAlh27tcGYIZ409iukIDnE_Chmt9OrDlUgbCImL0EVDQqXnD08Ds9V5reccTadWmEBgYJM/s1600/P4030340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO-DdJqRBzn3TVp5ibb_9xmZuBTIgG85L42T_yMhhhTpjyzVF5kguzEjUNf0z4E6JULTysOAlh27tcGYIZ409iukIDnE_Chmt9OrDlUgbCImL0EVDQqXnD08Ds9V5reccTadWmEBgYJM/s200/P4030340.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Soooooo many choices, what to try first? So, we grabbed a variety of shades and styles and heading to the dressing rooms for some model quality runway-like action.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosKjb6f6nyf1rV4XGZC6PIUwpJSrBWsq4xjuEPJjgYmh-n1aU5sIaMkZmcEX1uUCFFjSi9TTExsgPqlrTsdlRpF3mvApIUicIzCPKuzrsnvLI8y7GUJJXGLCU1S_NZHxOIeawDtw-X08/s1600/P4030343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosKjb6f6nyf1rV4XGZC6PIUwpJSrBWsq4xjuEPJjgYmh-n1aU5sIaMkZmcEX1uUCFFjSi9TTExsgPqlrTsdlRpF3mvApIUicIzCPKuzrsnvLI8y7GUJJXGLCU1S_NZHxOIeawDtw-X08/s200/P4030343.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elizabeth feeling sunny and free<br />in a bright yellow Henley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Yg6-fBzHMDyx5xHFXy7FZtmZumdCvVX5mvtyZ-rB6p2DUcEnRlCTNaBZX3drE7QZe8zk9AT9-LUJUf5QAPCe7-NHYchJE1UT3sAt954c8i8t2WpZ2HWo_QFHtJLQXXRxuJzqK6bNAHU/s200/P4030342.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="150" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocking the Henley/Tami combo<br />in Bawlmer Orioles colors<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Yg6-fBzHMDyx5xHFXy7FZtmZumdCvVX5mvtyZ-rB6p2DUcEnRlCTNaBZX3drE7QZe8zk9AT9-LUJUf5QAPCe7-NHYchJE1UT3sAt954c8i8t2WpZ2HWo_QFHtJLQXXRxuJzqK6bNAHU/s1600/P4030342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"> </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosKjb6f6nyf1rV4XGZC6PIUwpJSrBWsq4xjuEPJjgYmh-n1aU5sIaMkZmcEX1uUCFFjSi9TTExsgPqlrTsdlRpF3mvApIUicIzCPKuzrsnvLI8y7GUJJXGLCU1S_NZHxOIeawDtw-X08/s1600/P4030343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GUJeiu4TeskH3LdsnwGV5KsfP0JVFyQJxSq-OIMX88noa7hk6omZQ0PYyadrOlKef2YMH2eD48Dcev0L5dRNwOporBGWqlZJBUE9fgv3RDZns4qLVApcA6IHOC26sFgIQEHQdN9RrFA/s1600/P4030346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GUJeiu4TeskH3LdsnwGV5KsfP0JVFyQJxSq-OIMX88noa7hk6omZQ0PYyadrOlKef2YMH2eD48Dcev0L5dRNwOporBGWqlZJBUE9fgv3RDZns4qLVApcA6IHOC26sFgIQEHQdN9RrFA/s320/P4030346.JPG" width="240" /></a> Best Baseball tee calls for a Best Baseball pose.<br /> Batter Up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Elizabeth is feeling the power of a pink Vintage V-neck Tee, after finding a more perfect fitting size</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQ_BQEFguJYLYirM0Ywbnv3b1Mb6NGF7cZVNTpoR1BiHNENOSw2vEaPHAY5j6bsfluxOUEJgVumXaWMw6vu6RnehqSJse9NaMtAFHklig8szfSGs_cTMz5rNFdObG6UcxlNWeHFUQlJA/s1600/P4030345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQ_BQEFguJYLYirM0Ywbnv3b1Mb6NGF7cZVNTpoR1BiHNENOSw2vEaPHAY5j6bsfluxOUEJgVumXaWMw6vu6RnehqSJse9NaMtAFHklig8szfSGs_cTMz5rNFdObG6UcxlNWeHFUQlJA/s320/P4030345.JPG" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66Oc3UPOcfot7O5fu070k0M1YnihoBQbH3W-aJBJ0NOJgBFL2SZkyokiJAH8zKMeqJoxxlGwFPQimH_EIor4qy9gJ90aohACq-4ky5mug2YX7UQT4K-Biahp3W9iJR-CAAJXCswHfpK0/s1600/P4030356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66Oc3UPOcfot7O5fu070k0M1YnihoBQbH3W-aJBJ0NOJgBFL2SZkyokiJAH8zKMeqJoxxlGwFPQimH_EIor4qy9gJ90aohACq-4ky5mug2YX7UQT4K-Biahp3W9iJR-CAAJXCswHfpK0/s320/P4030356.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXpxHfPW9BZ__UAJwZ60faIo3C1EmW0_CSrvQOl_ibMboLXOuydjwMe9-iE81Whff6jI68f8iJzZNFJqmsBP0oveYheloeApsbIQaSgltsi5Q3a00sRIqkyNx5DgzoI4FFIIBNU922b4/s1600/P4030344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXpxHfPW9BZ__UAJwZ60faIo3C1EmW0_CSrvQOl_ibMboLXOuydjwMe9-iE81Whff6jI68f8iJzZNFJqmsBP0oveYheloeApsbIQaSgltsi5Q3a00sRIqkyNx5DgzoI4FFIIBNU922b4/s320/P4030344.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmmm... these stripes look rather nice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Wait? Am I seeing Double?!?!<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">I guess two great minds thing alike when considering the Best Tees!</span></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Same tee, different ways to wear it:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By itself or layered with another vintage vneck</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGuqQQAuboOKAxtbt3ogAuCW0DU0zixBRIAtGRFdon4vhZdN2Bn8j_eugi68KOSdIL8V8j5dV2K7WZMiwa_IuV0jTwHjugG980coxYBlcRGUEnqx-E4w7T_cbmdYnAYTIPgsalT0IySs/s1600/P4030341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGuqQQAuboOKAxtbt3ogAuCW0DU0zixBRIAtGRFdon4vhZdN2Bn8j_eugi68KOSdIL8V8j5dV2K7WZMiwa_IuV0jTwHjugG980coxYBlcRGUEnqx-E4w7T_cbmdYnAYTIPgsalT0IySs/s320/P4030341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQagfuZdHgdJM4d-F-2R_h6Cc_zfj_dhZRjPrulUNIKGXn-cmwwqlOomJD33ZGeqG_X6lAeS_TiiKjFL-QTWdL1hDw1MH54kXTAVdLfYQWZEZeoT9nZkJ5ckznYwFLQ7doTDRIz_81bDE/s1600/P4030354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQagfuZdHgdJM4d-F-2R_h6Cc_zfj_dhZRjPrulUNIKGXn-cmwwqlOomJD33ZGeqG_X6lAeS_TiiKjFL-QTWdL1hDw1MH54kXTAVdLfYQWZEZeoT9nZkJ5ckznYwFLQ7doTDRIz_81bDE/s320/P4030354.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feeling a little Blue in our Baseball tees... not available from the rack in our sizes</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Vq2Te_aNkyRWkkdttqdSSx_eY3XyscvZBuwpcq19DHRxPo0xTq6SEmL4sZ17UfmSZlavi7Y2vDGVZjAnW3ZHb_x3-dl_7dzbjxo3GYrca_14TD5LnMNBJtntHNbeVXrAMqsv20-QI3U/s1600/P4030347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Vq2Te_aNkyRWkkdttqdSSx_eY3XyscvZBuwpcq19DHRxPo0xTq6SEmL4sZ17UfmSZlavi7Y2vDGVZjAnW3ZHb_x3-dl_7dzbjxo3GYrca_14TD5LnMNBJtntHNbeVXrAMqsv20-QI3U/s320/P4030347.JPG" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgST0WwLctlhmtyz2_954x3ri87Azf2xL7LeZio7wiwpBek2D-tLsA7AyBcBzVEInIRhlJVvtlBg5PF1cQL6hQDAxEgpUp4XEqy2t6wn-3OqHpR_t7ZZZab8j1nC3a05a0eNKpGoZeyz40/s1600/P4030353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgST0WwLctlhmtyz2_954x3ri87Azf2xL7LeZio7wiwpBek2D-tLsA7AyBcBzVEInIRhlJVvtlBg5PF1cQL6hQDAxEgpUp4XEqy2t6wn-3OqHpR_t7ZZZab8j1nC3a05a0eNKpGoZeyz40/s320/P4030353.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We're not twins, but we have some sort of twin-sync when it comes to Best Tees</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
FREE SPIRIT!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp_0BupHL8s4BSHrJzzip_4EOmrvTK116a4cZ5sFgzrLWQDkdPBBrQ5uFVWI96sq_2e0IreQi9Pud6EvpDjt52G-_I880uqUaMLiXTxmGH6r6eHweMYLeak-hz6BQtdwDcrYaniwlP6Q/s1600/P4030348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp_0BupHL8s4BSHrJzzip_4EOmrvTK116a4cZ5sFgzrLWQDkdPBBrQ5uFVWI96sq_2e0IreQi9Pud6EvpDjt52G-_I880uqUaMLiXTxmGH6r6eHweMYLeak-hz6BQtdwDcrYaniwlP6Q/s320/P4030348.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkSCxQ7d-RVBPGgRRhg8XS2U6sG3hy2smHqYifp_WTf45cmpGWRYquI3hHfMFoj5P8sXl7h74XWmWPbOGiXlKMenMCYFQDi4R1eL9aEDZXoqEGW-TAB2b5L66OWGFxajwNW8Rocoyb-8/s1600/P4030349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hzp-ABwfCphRWC5QSEaRIJHuxjWSx4XNJRzX5r-1qiUhrkjDiyP2OqlN_B677Mhg8l9ZsIXHdBOT_6otLE0vUTAPrcCDwG-IzczNbfx8kl10-IeTL5g1-APXAW0VrWv6vPm8xSrj7Ps/s1600/P4030352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hzp-ABwfCphRWC5QSEaRIJHuxjWSx4XNJRzX5r-1qiUhrkjDiyP2OqlN_B677Mhg8l9ZsIXHdBOT_6otLE0vUTAPrcCDwG-IzczNbfx8kl10-IeTL5g1-APXAW0VrWv6vPm8xSrj7Ps/s320/P4030352.JPG" width="240" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkSCxQ7d-RVBPGgRRhg8XS2U6sG3hy2smHqYifp_WTf45cmpGWRYquI3hHfMFoj5P8sXl7h74XWmWPbOGiXlKMenMCYFQDi4R1eL9aEDZXoqEGW-TAB2b5L66OWGFxajwNW8Rocoyb-8/s320/P4030349.JPG" width="240" /> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a recap of my Best Tee Choices (btw - it was a hard decision)</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4zFJSnq4pIhNU0k8doM-3iq2A5auV47sbGQ7P1LMwuEP6pZKeREFBPOxK-pwJrKoZXWg-qNiPg5v64Tdb5WeIdmA4plsMCFj2D6n_TYSwtKW43CiksFHaTE3PqiKRpN1n7GWb67azEA/s1600/P4030357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4zFJSnq4pIhNU0k8doM-3iq2A5auV47sbGQ7P1LMwuEP6pZKeREFBPOxK-pwJrKoZXWg-qNiPg5v64Tdb5WeIdmA4plsMCFj2D6n_TYSwtKW43CiksFHaTE3PqiKRpN1n7GWb67azEA/s200/P4030357.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage V-necks that layer<br />perfectly with a white v-neck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNw-qO7gyaQ2z3nALWXmNGr0ixGI-4vSg96vWdaRFdm043-FtbZNfbzAMnBDj6I5gpdO4GWUg_WNG-2JLAqK18tiDdyyW00YGPmqDA_EpBxvLDz1nVJ7zj5fuE3xkrkxwuU52I75PxZ0/s1600/P4030358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNw-qO7gyaQ2z3nALWXmNGr0ixGI-4vSg96vWdaRFdm043-FtbZNfbzAMnBDj6I5gpdO4GWUg_WNG-2JLAqK18tiDdyyW00YGPmqDA_EpBxvLDz1nVJ7zj5fuE3xkrkxwuU52I75PxZ0/s200/P4030358.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henleys paired with a comfy Tami</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScC1kh8oOnbjBf2Krglutpv3qlWtYcjbVyI_m9d7-AdH6zQ-dIb4MuAIlhumtvsdjQOTtdWAMc3sLKhkOsw8Cix5ZwaMhg9ghjM-HVApzlGZ6U_1smjoVewmi5yRru6C6JNs1YjqTM4k/s1600/P4030359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScC1kh8oOnbjBf2Krglutpv3qlWtYcjbVyI_m9d7-AdH6zQ-dIb4MuAIlhumtvsdjQOTtdWAMc3sLKhkOsw8Cix5ZwaMhg9ghjM-HVApzlGZ6U_1smjoVewmi5yRru6C6JNs1YjqTM4k/s200/P4030359.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Batter Up with Baseball tees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScC1kh8oOnbjBf2Krglutpv3qlWtYcjbVyI_m9d7-AdH6zQ-dIb4MuAIlhumtvsdjQOTtdWAMc3sLKhkOsw8Cix5ZwaMhg9ghjM-HVApzlGZ6U_1smjoVewmi5yRru6C6JNs1YjqTM4k/s1600/P4030359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<h3>
And the finalists of the Old Navy Best Tee Search......</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1jteuJHFwwyq4qgQbkoLr_ykGdT6_jvsE5aPId7BzWGtvCUQmD_VeWHNeT_9luGO9EByB5jKrvmA0tudDHStnZLj9TjW0kB4gCtOYlmk_quiw1ytqBjBrogoVIkx5GUWMnQ_CnZj_vY/s1600/P4030360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1jteuJHFwwyq4qgQbkoLr_ykGdT6_jvsE5aPId7BzWGtvCUQmD_VeWHNeT_9luGO9EByB5jKrvmA0tudDHStnZLj9TjW0kB4gCtOYlmk_quiw1ytqBjBrogoVIkx5GUWMnQ_CnZj_vY/s320/P4030360.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z20ymCSmusS4Lmp1c7pU0l3lF6uiMEAPe0p98OUp3vQm6BuTBgrkHRMbQQ6oQCBDYXPIOooSQ69-CdZPMyTQJ0Rf3Z6K90MVI5QoEL4W2KlR1hmql85du5JLIryJSwJKE_o1_QPsIok/s1600/P4030361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z20ymCSmusS4Lmp1c7pU0l3lF6uiMEAPe0p98OUp3vQm6BuTBgrkHRMbQQ6oQCBDYXPIOooSQ69-CdZPMyTQJ0Rf3Z6K90MVI5QoEL4W2KlR1hmql85du5JLIryJSwJKE_o1_QPsIok/s320/P4030361.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
*special thanks to the Modelquins for helping with the final decisions<br />
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-54457737279834458172013-03-03T19:37:00.003-05:002013-03-03T19:37:23.021-05:00Call Me Maybe.... on my Windows 8x by HTC<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3257702378857982152" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3257702378857982152" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">Hey I just met you, and... this is crazy. But here's my number, so call me maybe.... on my Windows 8x by HTC!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Meet, the Windows 8x by HTC. It's sleek, slim, easy to use, and in the best color ever (what I refer to as <span style="color: #0b5394;">Night Terror Blue</span>)! How else can you truly find out just how cool this phone is, unless you take a test run on it? So, thanks to Crowdtap and Verizon, we had a reason to have a party and play with new technology!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv59CMU7Dn2ittrNzSwrDSxabrOhaN3KVF8_lT6fxRa9WpqqCSnHZvTQA7D7JNmXUnkEhBU-KsqEx71soccfOGe84buyjVYp07Dvv2QA2QcvFDLOMCkZrOR0Mlwtn1c57phOp-cKzL80A/s1600/guide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv59CMU7Dn2ittrNzSwrDSxabrOhaN3KVF8_lT6fxRa9WpqqCSnHZvTQA7D7JNmXUnkEhBU-KsqEx71soccfOGe84buyjVYp07Dvv2QA2QcvFDLOMCkZrOR0Mlwtn1c57phOp-cKzL80A/s320/guide.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What is there to know about the Windows 8x? PLENTY! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLqu6gDIC8QmTXAdkovgXg-a7g3XxEaMEL1g4asLAhTznILmEyqWjfR9lJD4_2dY1eriftj2QBXtKXTAEVr-Y72wqONdtQxcRJnJD0drCBnNdTEbRlmo2_gNJ1qlnbMDKCTz3cwOcAGU/s1600/startpage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLqu6gDIC8QmTXAdkovgXg-a7g3XxEaMEL1g4asLAhTznILmEyqWjfR9lJD4_2dY1eriftj2QBXtKXTAEVr-Y72wqONdtQxcRJnJD0drCBnNdTEbRlmo2_gNJ1qlnbMDKCTz3cwOcAGU/s200/startpage.jpg" width="120" /></a>Of course, it's running the Windows 8 OS. That's obvious with a first glance at the Live Tiles start screen. These are customizable to represent you. I'm running an Windows 8 laptop, so it was a pretty easy transition to the Windows 8x phone. How do you customize your start screen? Easy. You pin your favorite apps or friends to instantly see the latest updates. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRysRLEJWrixXtVY_ET50Qwy84eAwTZl3qvbkvnqWTsSrccat3V_4FsPrFdzyGM_vNVwgU2gtpqKuUdheosJUlJMYxcoJAExYj-JlikVh0q2-QbBvO88FrZS2aeUsAfmxNOA9456yCCwk/s1600/FOT7BF7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRysRLEJWrixXtVY_ET50Qwy84eAwTZl3qvbkvnqWTsSrccat3V_4FsPrFdzyGM_vNVwgU2gtpqKuUdheosJUlJMYxcoJAExYj-JlikVh0q2-QbBvO88FrZS2aeUsAfmxNOA9456yCCwk/s200/FOT7BF7.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main Camera... great pose Indy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are 2 cameras, the main camera and the front camera. The main camera is 8 megapixels with auto focus, LED flash and a BSI sensor to help in low light. The front camera, perfect for those self portraits, features a 2.1 megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzGES_vQwMov4gjhvZlJpt1j6YdLXdeCDkuUEqRSY2hEZ5-2S-SOZTt1H1j1AU4iP2Y9K8ir_Oaa13ZcaobEeBfO6ggo8TZb824sH07dyux95K-G4USwbAR_ool4Bw8iStRuTLJuiuJ4/s1600/WP_20130125_009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzGES_vQwMov4gjhvZlJpt1j6YdLXdeCDkuUEqRSY2hEZ5-2S-SOZTt1H1j1AU4iP2Y9K8ir_Oaa13ZcaobEeBfO6ggo8TZb824sH07dyux95K-G4USwbAR_ool4Bw8iStRuTLJuiuJ4/s200/WP_20130125_009.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">front camera... super cool self portrait</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It runs Beats Audio? You mean the same Beats Audio created by Dr. Dre and has all those cool headphones. Sah-weeet! Not that I've ever used my phone as my primary MP3 player, but I've never had one with Beats Audio either. I'm down with having some tunes stored on my phone if it will give the sound justice.<br />
<br />
The sleek slim design is a bit of improvement on my current smart phone. I mean... look... my LG looks HUGE and bulky compared to the HTC Windows 8x. I carry my phone in my pocket.... so the HTC would definitely fit a little more comfortable than my current phone. <br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4UOJF690gfhlce_iTPuqxqAadW0eUAqjiPgUmY6G75XKq6J9goswFZT1g1frzSRp50_easJtPisEwNbTz-A0J3Rk4ZAxcExOl-VQ7vgfJuBM5nk6cMugIm59hn-ReJTyLPrrmATk7KY/s1600/P3030293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4UOJF690gfhlce_iTPuqxqAadW0eUAqjiPgUmY6G75XKq6J9goswFZT1g1frzSRp50_easJtPisEwNbTz-A0J3Rk4ZAxcExOl-VQ7vgfJuBM5nk6cMugIm59hn-ReJTyLPrrmATk7KY/s320/P3030293.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Kid's Corner for well.... kids. My 3 year old definitely like to play games on my phone. And of course I have to go through methods to ensure a certain little head isn't making crazy calls, or downloading thousands of dollars of app or in-app purchases when I think he's innocently playing Super Why or Angry Birds. Kid's Corner, takes out some of the hassle. I create an environment safe and secure for my littlehead to happily play in his own games and apps, without worrying what else he has stumbled into. My only issue... has to do with apps that have ads that when clicked, open a browser even in Kid's Corner. Now, it does prevent any real browsing like entering a web address, but it's surprising just how far some simple clicks within a webpage can navigate to somewhere not so preferable. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Meanwhile... back at the Call My Maybe party....</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
We can't be expected to test out new technology on empty stomachs. So, we had plenty of hunger reducing apps... no downloads required. Live Tile cake pops gave everyone a tasty sense of what can be customized in Live Tiles. And these super tasty rice treat HTCs were available in many of the HTC color schemes!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig81V1xamZEQVgA-sLOBfSk2yQ0xFsK-0v8E9HfE31KUMFfHyFWq8mP-H1csROFe-AGgT5UH_qUHmXcPP9VNUTtcWrHlozoEeuIFDi8SDui4suK4VGyia9vlHrsIKvjGXxctN-oRGMoQs/s1600/P2090279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig81V1xamZEQVgA-sLOBfSk2yQ0xFsK-0v8E9HfE31KUMFfHyFWq8mP-H1csROFe-AGgT5UH_qUHmXcPP9VNUTtcWrHlozoEeuIFDi8SDui4suK4VGyia9vlHrsIKvjGXxctN-oRGMoQs/s200/P2090279.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live Tile Cake Pops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AXzomZmzCUf8T_eAGYhdBF9WMO7ocSmLAeccm1UJkR_ZDTRuJceUZoTxzTp1fUnrddlIrndGixKc2hTLjt8mtFqc2ljxRVZTUe3cLKaijwXiJlRNX3DMiTOIVLEAtGFvp0Bjp0v7kxg/s1600/P2090280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AXzomZmzCUf8T_eAGYhdBF9WMO7ocSmLAeccm1UJkR_ZDTRuJceUZoTxzTp1fUnrddlIrndGixKc2hTLjt8mtFqc2ljxRVZTUe3cLKaijwXiJlRNX3DMiTOIVLEAtGFvp0Bjp0v7kxg/s200/P2090280.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Live Tile Cake Pops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2bItCh2PhF5YQktJmGrxE-PMKm9QoMbBRIDEcktJUvlg9X5ZMz3q5TlODTjS9ohpliCCYhbs8UCRPAB3ZJVpGhyphenhyphenaTtMkqInEh4QLnjOhPSqj4t_UM1FFtNVI81oSuTYxs89IaZCp1Xk/s1600/P2090278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2bItCh2PhF5YQktJmGrxE-PMKm9QoMbBRIDEcktJUvlg9X5ZMz3q5TlODTjS9ohpliCCYhbs8UCRPAB3ZJVpGhyphenhyphenaTtMkqInEh4QLnjOhPSqj4t_UM1FFtNVI81oSuTYxs89IaZCp1Xk/s200/P2090278.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">edible HTCs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUTYyVowEXyk2qTDWViSusWl3RnFV9H4sKOYQ212-9cHIbY-mTvbawdW_nuzOXpAU4CdjUh-12bsXRabYsfI2lewiF0xmSrh6tnA1w3NG6UWwEe6m6PS3HgKgDHQhPXe3a_EYishVUPA/s1600/P2090284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUTYyVowEXyk2qTDWViSusWl3RnFV9H4sKOYQ212-9cHIbY-mTvbawdW_nuzOXpAU4CdjUh-12bsXRabYsfI2lewiF0xmSrh6tnA1w3NG6UWwEe6m6PS3HgKgDHQhPXe3a_EYishVUPA/s200/P2090284.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mmmm....Live Tiles....</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImE-bk6U1ed4DbBDHy5M0SRHiZSlr7e1tk5MbVMCk2g-AVOI8Ikxtl7Yijh-QtLmZNjAs6qbES4JrVboDYB8YaaiTRTOCEiTpg8DSJGn2fYAsEiShflHQtwTAyp40r8cyWnZAy85cBOU/s200/P2090285.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="150" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hello? hello? what's up with this...oh...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<b>And what's a party without games! </b>We created our own version of Live Tile during the "Meet My Windows Phone" Pinterest Challenge. What a great way to get to know more about your friends? You can check out ours on the <a href="http://pinterest.com/spookyt23" target="_blank">Call Me Maybe Pinterest Page</a>. Here's a little preview:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hrg9eNp15sQTkO939RgK9J3srV1p-_2Rv1qDi_c1R_DUm4BpD4kPj951gNm9D2oFUp3VpxPEwju_AlJfyCcUlZl4ZqQYqnAd_TQhKedEDhYZfPv2zQoaQSST1hAL9XW-ndQfoCJEBq0/s1600/boards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hrg9eNp15sQTkO939RgK9J3srV1p-_2Rv1qDi_c1R_DUm4BpD4kPj951gNm9D2oFUp3VpxPEwju_AlJfyCcUlZl4ZqQYqnAd_TQhKedEDhYZfPv2zQoaQSST1hAL9XW-ndQfoCJEBq0/s320/boards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had a great time getting to know the Windows 8x. And, of course, no one left empty handed! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome to the Verizon Insiders!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYbnukCNmWTR_fe7u9tUfTz338uajcgTQmj1zWXtXEe13QfoL3tcHw47O01oN62-0rLH439P8nT1ngbT9Ag_tYT1ZN_WTIidlgj2yLz3MFSjS2i5UfcFoVnxwg7_StNN0Q5UotknuvlR8/s1600/P2090288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYbnukCNmWTR_fe7u9tUfTz338uajcgTQmj1zWXtXEe13QfoL3tcHw47O01oN62-0rLH439P8nT1ngbT9Ag_tYT1ZN_WTIidlgj2yLz3MFSjS2i5UfcFoVnxwg7_StNN0Q5UotknuvlR8/s200/P2090288.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbJnjfAhG7PsX-DjMChiLHPC12JS_5wxzlHabksTTKoKaB_8OB5E1FO4gzGuiONpsV6tYcNG2oKore2VmqLdGW5yAcXwu-OhJElwVhZ_uCikPgSHzvduifzR3uXGX2oe8Q-aftuJX6Vc/s1600/P2090293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbJnjfAhG7PsX-DjMChiLHPC12JS_5wxzlHabksTTKoKaB_8OB5E1FO4gzGuiONpsV6tYcNG2oKore2VmqLdGW5yAcXwu-OhJElwVhZ_uCikPgSHzvduifzR3uXGX2oe8Q-aftuJX6Vc/s200/P2090293.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-25701561988335743762013-02-23T09:51:00.004-05:002013-02-23T09:51:43.374-05:00A Monster Bowl Celebration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnIsW7mjkCLTUxerFL0oPWcrXyBnLEY37kWuQFsSlyB9k53VqxG8A70t-QHIwxy2InqjnKFKyBoyTxNucZKqHsdgW3bIw9CIwc6nWFbckmGxOrc5YiH4PIskeFlAoh4dsVHyBPKa9ZuY/s1600/hotel-transylvania-mavis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnIsW7mjkCLTUxerFL0oPWcrXyBnLEY37kWuQFsSlyB9k53VqxG8A70t-QHIwxy2InqjnKFKyBoyTxNucZKqHsdgW3bIw9CIwc6nWFbckmGxOrc5YiH4PIskeFlAoh4dsVHyBPKa9ZuY/s320/hotel-transylvania-mavis.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">OMG!! Did you hear?!? The <span style="color: #20124d;">Battymore Ravens</span> won the Super Monster Bowl! We have to celebrate!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Hi There! Mavis here! <br />
After my most favorite Monster Team won the Super Monster Bowl, and my favorite player, Ray L. Beastis, announced his retirement, I convinced Dad to have a little shindig here at the Hotel Transylvania! <br />
<br />
It was great! There were great snacks, FANtastic friends, and we did a little Lie In Movie screening.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR5PVMUCqOzW9z7KAA08hdR4HKsB0KJh_61gbf83OXBR9wJ1y_vhrMPb-ybNfFLE9kf8v-5gc4YAXGxhBEtOTPhsu8wH93UpvAsB-DsX9Ks0uSLBYB65tmpdoz52XB1MWeRfKLeVjDcA/s1600/P2090266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR5PVMUCqOzW9z7KAA08hdR4HKsB0KJh_61gbf83OXBR9wJ1y_vhrMPb-ybNfFLE9kf8v-5gc4YAXGxhBEtOTPhsu8wH93UpvAsB-DsX9Ks0uSLBYB65tmpdoz52XB1MWeRfKLeVjDcA/s200/P2090266.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Monster Bowl trophy (The Zombardy Trophy) was in the hotel. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was such an honor to have it in our presence.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The menu was superb, just like always. Dad only hire<span style="font-size: large;">s the best <span style="font-size: large;">chefs in all<span style="font-size: large;"> of <span style="font-size: large;">Transylvania</span>.</span></span></span> </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmHnJY83YKAJzM7Q8GnO5UJlJnoSurMLJz7_LBGiJ6YLj4kynqX6VWk0qxUMvNsxJmUMvGLf-bvvbJGiZf5lK9AZH7rzTmkUXUuXKCxhFPfqTIbqS9B-u12e9CMBBWMbqS-BiH1MxIA8/s1600/P2090264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmHnJY83YKAJzM7Q8GnO5UJlJnoSurMLJz7_LBGiJ6YLj4kynqX6VWk0qxUMvNsxJmUMvGLf-bvvbJGiZf5lK9AZH7rzTmkUXUuXKCxhFPfqTIbqS9B-u12e9CMBBWMbqS-BiH1MxIA8/s320/P2090264.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monster Brain pizza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUa6pBu-IUcBOGixHIvc__0D_mx-quB7Z_JjyVp2u1y93buOcIQOn_Q2Ut8pi9EaHBwbAy8u_O4NIxIB5x2Fic7wxPu_gyrVNgxC7WMwu28RZHnNTmEeysd75mmApMolkeWHEATVs7AL4/s1600/P2090276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUa6pBu-IUcBOGixHIvc__0D_mx-quB7Z_JjyVp2u1y93buOcIQOn_Q2Ut8pi9EaHBwbAy8u_O4NIxIB5x2Fic7wxPu_gyrVNgxC7WMwu28RZHnNTmEeysd75mmApMolkeWHEATVs7AL4/s320/P2090276.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghoul Eye Ball Pops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB-VA98ZHHNNnDb5ovthuRk5R3JzShHBhE_dxv7kTv9ZpUuX6dsBjQTjaXkUOHutMlaYgrQ5BeodJv5U93_vXgetpxca6QE5YwTSRpd7-Rgf0qCQWE-OCuIbcG50B-YjVcrEZAGZ7KpE/s1600/P2090265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB-VA98ZHHNNnDb5ovthuRk5R3JzShHBhE_dxv7kTv9ZpUuX6dsBjQTjaXkUOHutMlaYgrQ5BeodJv5U93_vXgetpxca6QE5YwTSRpd7-Rgf0qCQWE-OCuIbcG50B-YjVcrEZAGZ7KpE/s320/P2090265.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini Mummy Dogs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRKRndgDMqa3T1DnidUfnpRp2FgrdMAgo20ORcjQvP6rcpGl-8tRmyILX8ljOHzqBAbM9aBLBDeTGfHstg-wF7FZkEaLndnJrg-Xuv1I6px8tk5TBu-FsPF_tS0lVtJ_lyV7QAl0uXwA/s1600/P2090281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRKRndgDMqa3T1DnidUfnpRp2FgrdMAgo20ORcjQvP6rcpGl-8tRmyILX8ljOHzqBAbM9aBLBDeTGfHstg-wF7FZkEaLndnJrg-Xuv1I6px8tk5TBu-FsPF_tS0lVtJ_lyV7QAl0uXwA/s200/P2090281.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well, that Ghoul eye could work.<br />I don't think it's time for <br />a transplant though.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_7XcG3IbuickpNYQndf9M3PuISUxj5F_C2VSPp7QQOnAX4OgLFV8M0Ta1C575nh6uWrG4eM9EqAbyihv73HK4O1znCS5c4mUO_QYp-gXqIvJL4Egi7S6zO442PQY5qu8rlAC18h7nDA/s1600/P2090267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_7XcG3IbuickpNYQndf9M3PuISUxj5F_C2VSPp7QQOnAX4OgLFV8M0Ta1C575nh6uWrG4eM9EqAbyihv73HK4O1znCS5c4mUO_QYp-gXqIvJL4Egi7S6zO442PQY5qu8rlAC18h7nDA/s200/P2090267.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the delicious snack <br />in the company of the<br />Zombardy Trophy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9QF_8WPpjrVCAAMUIn_MJ7KwScNkT7vZDfs2ldfYF3u9b6mOop6NdkCszC4c2YfPS7nGsBcFn3kEqjIr-6qywg8qL6ATqp7gwRPCJ5ruEWvrGLOA-K3N6loPbhjSqEKLgtIMlP2nkfw/s1600/P2090283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9QF_8WPpjrVCAAMUIn_MJ7KwScNkT7vZDfs2ldfYF3u9b6mOop6NdkCszC4c2YfPS7nGsBcFn3kEqjIr-6qywg8qL6ATqp7gwRPCJ5ruEWvrGLOA-K3N6loPbhjSqEKLgtIMlP2nkfw/s200/P2090283.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I'm not too sure about these<br />Ghoul eye pops. They keep<br /><i>eying</i> me up."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAo9r-tV2UcCp1JCxNeVUy_aq5SO7Qez4Val4BQK8u1fchDtnnuAW6K2e6EiyhYuyHj1ve6CVW63-WkPCG4QtcPuKxJM03HuK7o_EETfNPEZhP9yQBAgRFeviUtVVfBgz8om1_V6RK7k/s1600/P2090272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAo9r-tV2UcCp1JCxNeVUy_aq5SO7Qez4Val4BQK8u1fchDtnnuAW6K2e6EiyhYuyHj1ve6CVW63-WkPCG4QtcPuKxJM03HuK7o_EETfNPEZhP9yQBAgRFeviUtVVfBgz8om1_V6RK7k/s200/P2090272.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Special thanks to Delilah for acting as both<br />security and fire chief for the event.<br />We've never felt safer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZXrd-JjA0XPNpTRKrXLGUFZtfdiQJB9LwWFN7-fE1-DQmogDINYED9nfdrTsyrjX-9jG-9iuWO7qclo_AzpULqWUKRbGruQQg2omj1VqNA0Oy1m5K8waWCzncWU3ZEj2g37Dwe727-E/s1600/P2090275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZXrd-JjA0XPNpTRKrXLGUFZtfdiQJB9LwWFN7-fE1-DQmogDINYED9nfdrTsyrjX-9jG-9iuWO7qclo_AzpULqWUKRbGruQQg2omj1VqNA0Oy1m5K8waWCzncWU3ZEj2g37Dwe727-E/s200/P2090275.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lie-In Screening...<br />complete with blankets and pillows.<br />Lacey thought is was a Drive-In, though.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPYn9DQlgvv-rbF7-u6SkpftD73ydZ5nL0Wwd-wxRxlT5I1DCL_FTXkXnQBKTuLthyphenhyphenuXe7XTdEdG25pKZwqlqFIk3smoY-EWi2m4iGEdBzXGaWivQzr2SQFQBSoOM14ukvpbWJqZow0Q/s1600/P2090291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPYn9DQlgvv-rbF7-u6SkpftD73ydZ5nL0Wwd-wxRxlT5I1DCL_FTXkXnQBKTuLthyphenhyphenuXe7XTdEdG25pKZwqlqFIk3smoY-EWi2m4iGEdBzXGaWivQzr2SQFQBSoOM14ukvpbWJqZow0Q/s200/P2090291.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"No paparazzi!"<br />It wouldn't be an official screening<br />if the paparazzi didn't arrive.<br />Lacey handled them well, though.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #20124d;">I alwa</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #20124d;">y</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #20124d;">s enjoy entertaining here at the Hotel Transylvania. Thanks so much to the FANtastic f<span style="font-size: large;">riends who cam<span style="font-size: large;">e and celebrated with us.</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></div>
Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-63786875913034812342012-12-05T18:36:00.001-05:002012-12-05T18:41:46.140-05:00A Dress to Impress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Thanks to another Sample and Share opportunity from Crowdtap and Old Navy, we had quite an adventure at Old Navy sampling all sorts of different dress styles. Even the Modelquins had something to say.<br />
<br />
Check out this installment of <i>A Dress to Impress</i>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIjrxtfdtdfK4wxnRdeWf_jV_SsFFcJEy0oFFhvv4QFHkKGGYdFXju54vz_DR6ASDbBMnA5VrNm2ZbZ_x5MQE5gMKZpM44SyHe3YLRhjBI4K3eyE2RPvsK0Jx1qnMEKLqlXkZ8qjSeHc/s1600/ComicStrip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIjrxtfdtdfK4wxnRdeWf_jV_SsFFcJEy0oFFhvv4QFHkKGGYdFXju54vz_DR6ASDbBMnA5VrNm2ZbZ_x5MQE5gMKZpM44SyHe3YLRhjBI4K3eyE2RPvsK0Jx1qnMEKLqlXkZ8qjSeHc/s1600/ComicStrip.jpg" /></a></div>
<i>*You too can get opportunities like this by visiting <a href="http://bit.ly/lf92uf" target="_blank">Crowdtap</a>. Sign up today*</i>Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-42516060147376168232012-10-06T19:38:00.000-04:002012-10-06T19:38:05.904-04:00Hotel Transylvania - Mavis' 118th Birthday<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Hi! I'm Mavis! </h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6Apvscp9k3kNuzUz_wNMGIJjPC51Zp4xvfUp2wjDeXz48hhsm0yvO7HTaRtagLzhyphenhyphensduGdRz8PUcqG2NRa1R5xIb38P8X-sookfTpY8RnzWo4pu2XC6cadcilgofAKufLIc6oRCdRa4/s1600/Mavis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6Apvscp9k3kNuzUz_wNMGIJjPC51Zp4xvfUp2wjDeXz48hhsm0yvO7HTaRtagLzhyphenhyphensduGdRz8PUcqG2NRa1R5xIb38P8X-sookfTpY8RnzWo4pu2XC6cadcilgofAKufLIc6oRCdRa4/s320/Mavis.jpg" width="203" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3YZN0iWwBlhKTUjknIFNmffyi2QWlpVh1Bq9pftD5kQZ0cmWDSPAdsh1ZsnR-mSz9V9XPdUEzYmXb-Zi-W3a-cJgIOUyoTc9H-O8BYSXxBmpWMNjwXKez3K5p3ZfsiCG_QDH9tsIsV0/s1600/hotel_transylvania.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3YZN0iWwBlhKTUjknIFNmffyi2QWlpVh1Bq9pftD5kQZ0cmWDSPAdsh1ZsnR-mSz9V9XPdUEzYmXb-Zi-W3a-cJgIOUyoTc9H-O8BYSXxBmpWMNjwXKez3K5p3ZfsiCG_QDH9tsIsV0/s200/hotel_transylvania.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'm 118 years old. And...I'm a Vampire. I live at Hotel Transylvania. My dad, Dracula, built Hotel Transylvania, a lavish five-stake resort, to be a place where monsters and their families can live it up, free to be the monsters they are without humans to bother them. There's one catch...NO HUMANS ALLOWED!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsf2yGdZocgINQ_j5fohlDvUAIGsisiGdxH9YjntPLBXGunM1AVJV5obwrC13NLTyL2W3p2mzVon9dR7pCun94TkVa4NRfDz_ODOD6yOaqjkzM52ImaQqCDH59bw8NbyxGmvSwzP8_I4/s1600/hotel-transylvania-dracula2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsf2yGdZocgINQ_j5fohlDvUAIGsisiGdxH9YjntPLBXGunM1AVJV5obwrC13NLTyL2W3p2mzVon9dR7pCun94TkVa4NRfDz_ODOD6yOaqjkzM52ImaQqCDH59bw8NbyxGmvSwzP8_I4/s200/hotel-transylvania-dracula2.jpg" width="200" /></a>This is my dad, Dracula. He's soooooo overprotective. But he decided to throw a big party for my 118th birthday! He invited all his best friends, like Uncle Frank and Aunt Eunice, Wayne the Werewolf and his huge family, Murray the Mummy, and Griffin the Invisible Man. I took it upon myself to invite a few friends too.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCSOLVDOtm3Kb5AKQF942h3SQA3bXMwyuqZIPHkF3WDsvAz8kHeLbzUEErGZYU_tUdpRQ_paT-pAwrdawVDKPurN84v4sUz1tlHdX9SbV4MUSNhwP0MWrQ0aKnztNpOrXVQ1ykCwZSzY/s1600/firelight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCSOLVDOtm3Kb5AKQF942h3SQA3bXMwyuqZIPHkF3WDsvAz8kHeLbzUEErGZYU_tUdpRQ_paT-pAwrdawVDKPurN84v4sUz1tlHdX9SbV4MUSNhwP0MWrQ0aKnztNpOrXVQ1ykCwZSzY/s200/firelight.jpg" width="128" /></a>There were a few things to prepare in the Hotel for the party goers. I decided we need to shed a little light, and had housekeeping put up a few flame cauldrons. I also had them add a few more cobwebs in the halls. I'm not one for balloons, banners, confetti or streamers. It's just not my style.<br />
<br />
Next, I worked with the kitchen staff to create a monsterrific party menu. There was no way I was going to let the guests starve. The result was a very tasty variety of treats. There were Monster Toes, Troll Nails, Swirly Snail Cookies, Bat Droppings and Monsterriffic Popcorn Cake!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXa7Mb2KUcIjbPpK4Vvsp99gH9mr7dIAMmTu4lcsCYiKIrAKV5IdsdsV7O1qIuIXxhSQ6gsH-f-YrMZXqw4Frs-ZY4ijFPR0B2mb5Qt_cuRbH-3KlIkg4ZAOcFMNXU2-AXYJIoDls6Fw/s1600/Treats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXa7Mb2KUcIjbPpK4Vvsp99gH9mr7dIAMmTu4lcsCYiKIrAKV5IdsdsV7O1qIuIXxhSQ6gsH-f-YrMZXqw4Frs-ZY4ijFPR0B2mb5Qt_cuRbH-3KlIkg4ZAOcFMNXU2-AXYJIoDls6Fw/s320/Treats.jpg" width="210" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Now that the Hotel was decorated, and the menu was finalized, it was time for guests! But I had a little secret. There were humans coming! I knew Dad wouldn't be happy, so I took my human guests through a Monster Transformation.<br />
<br />
First, my little human guests picked out a monster mask, and colored it in. There were 3-eyed monsters, and monsters with horns, and also a monster that looked like my Uncle Frank. Even the grown-up humans helped create monster disguises.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjFL4PScTiYD2H51fHxshATHMaIiyN6bC8t8AH-68PZCux04DxAO_gtfuftd8fEMNROgxG419rFWcIqPLT_DC9-YqDdg28zxXdUHBv1jZ0dpSb_npA7l1JeKqZRr_ekxr0uS-YcF77Zc/s1600/MonsterTransformation_Step1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjFL4PScTiYD2H51fHxshATHMaIiyN6bC8t8AH-68PZCux04DxAO_gtfuftd8fEMNROgxG419rFWcIqPLT_DC9-YqDdg28zxXdUHBv1jZ0dpSb_npA7l1JeKqZRr_ekxr0uS-YcF77Zc/s320/MonsterTransformation_Step1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijirYJiwjf5jEdTcj8Ofju-XKsvzjK21aLzC4KwwLfbEiPmy0dqDjQ2R9g6gyQj1XlSMUEgFV8AeDcV1LsCGjgOt1ERGT9-igXF-WvuGgrHEjrQphJstJKzr_o6VzzMHvX94n57H20czQ/s1600/MonsterTransformation_Step1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijirYJiwjf5jEdTcj8Ofju-XKsvzjK21aLzC4KwwLfbEiPmy0dqDjQ2R9g6gyQj1XlSMUEgFV8AeDcV1LsCGjgOt1ERGT9-igXF-WvuGgrHEjrQphJstJKzr_o6VzzMHvX94n57H20czQ/s200/MonsterTransformation_Step1c.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxAwl8JZQEz4sqj7rcrDVoXIGLiv6qRiJvOuVj0zpDJ7lBpvgdEQ5pSJbD1TBNmiMu60h2ENICfdKUVCVf_maAqFpsr7jz7J9FSWAw0SrTfYbv5RgwO8zHF4qa4qYSURiMMm7bPuulQt4/s1600/MonsterTransformation_Step1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxAwl8JZQEz4sqj7rcrDVoXIGLiv6qRiJvOuVj0zpDJ7lBpvgdEQ5pSJbD1TBNmiMu60h2ENICfdKUVCVf_maAqFpsr7jz7J9FSWAw0SrTfYbv5RgwO8zHF4qa4qYSURiMMm7bPuulQt4/s200/MonsterTransformation_Step1b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The result... a fantastic group of Monsters ready to PARTY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiWkX-RiViDKiWDzLrnf9ECP9TkZNK7O7zOt6fGcimjaDtpWPjPRpRmrC3IHG8mHYyw3euTaqgvAgyDNQjAMJsJB4YhS24ue3h46tUnMSSYYjy_x38RUd7H6lYV1EsqqKhvNWovZQhBM/s1600/MonsterTranformationFinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiWkX-RiViDKiWDzLrnf9ECP9TkZNK7O7zOt6fGcimjaDtpWPjPRpRmrC3IHG8mHYyw3euTaqgvAgyDNQjAMJsJB4YhS24ue3h46tUnMSSYYjy_x38RUd7H6lYV1EsqqKhvNWovZQhBM/s400/MonsterTranformationFinal.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyAmdEj4RRByYpvtfTlZ8nEVZskysuqY8Kep6RbJ2dN5fCUqQJW1aArJBku22Etih0GKcjNQX9W5zvHSujRRWS7XIreGn97XMiks09_r60b2fAcFGb0iNRX72WBDPsGaW26zMHLRSa4Y/s1600/MonsterParade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyAmdEj4RRByYpvtfTlZ8nEVZskysuqY8Kep6RbJ2dN5fCUqQJW1aArJBku22Etih0GKcjNQX9W5zvHSujRRWS7XIreGn97XMiks09_r60b2fAcFGb0iNRX72WBDPsGaW26zMHLRSa4Y/s200/MonsterParade.jpg" width="200" /></a>My Dad would never suspect all these cute little monsters were actually humans. And to prove their monster abilities, we went on a monster parade around the hotel, scaring anyone in site. We tiptoed around corners, and through secret passages, sneaking up on unsuspecting hotel guests. They did such a fantastic job. No one ever suspected a thing.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XwziMfWqIdC9lECnVTx3QVPuXFT__WieZLQ6xNWzRoNoGDGAs8RhGPsZsJ0dprb6dxYtiST-Jrd3xMkL5QimEuEHTiweSnr4ocqk5nJrm8D20zD4lbabJwZ5FWE8vD3JAdRajqP6h2o/s1600/HandPrintGhosts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XwziMfWqIdC9lECnVTx3QVPuXFT__WieZLQ6xNWzRoNoGDGAs8RhGPsZsJ0dprb6dxYtiST-Jrd3xMkL5QimEuEHTiweSnr4ocqk5nJrm8D20zD4lbabJwZ5FWE8vD3JAdRajqP6h2o/s200/HandPrintGhosts.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Biu2to-ktODAGGPIQhH3tIq4EvDfl8fYqHM2OsYwZsQm0OVynmrffX7Qb1DByzrpJUl_CkgNbKiEC9iMKnzx2PvyCFEy3l_dCGZDPGwAG2DTlHHws5lVPU04r3pwPejlIWRsRNMNsh0/s1600/HandPrintGhost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Biu2to-ktODAGGPIQhH3tIq4EvDfl8fYqHM2OsYwZsQm0OVynmrffX7Qb1DByzrpJUl_CkgNbKiEC9iMKnzx2PvyCFEy3l_dCGZDPGwAG2DTlHHws5lVPU04r3pwPejlIWRsRNMNsh0/s200/HandPrintGhost.jpg" width="200" /></a> We took the parade through the Hotel and into the Dining Hall for some ghostly craft projects that they could take home and remember the fun time they had celebrating my birthday. The messiest project was creating hand print ghosties. We also made toilet paper monsters that were so frightening, that the suits of armor were shaking and clanking.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After using much of our energy creating these fabulously spooktakular crafts, we were famished. The party menu was a big hit! Everyone filled their bellies and regained the energy for some fun games.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtW8OwwORHQxG9p5rKBbnuYtNWt_5IrEV6umR_52UMn9Fi9ccpuOEGVnVMl0j8oHi7lGZTV6wbrnBt73k_s_n5dkIrrqBgf1ftl_LXCjWJ34lOuxplQjhDYnqDZWd93ni-kZ1MN44yyM/s1600/Nom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtW8OwwORHQxG9p5rKBbnuYtNWt_5IrEV6umR_52UMn9Fi9ccpuOEGVnVMl0j8oHi7lGZTV6wbrnBt73k_s_n5dkIrrqBgf1ftl_LXCjWJ34lOuxplQjhDYnqDZWd93ni-kZ1MN44yyM/s200/Nom.jpg" width="151" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0UFuT9qZc59zQmNZENWz-DoS5nGQknLiTcCLcMkMTS_WqNnABVHFIREVYIum-I4K8J-ZxsjH0ZbQbzjn7wnG9pqaF-LDLuKSPEnOeItRwuxYr0FFJt6IjF4zAfm_6et4rzS0ud3v-SU/s1600/MonsterToes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0UFuT9qZc59zQmNZENWz-DoS5nGQknLiTcCLcMkMTS_WqNnABVHFIREVYIum-I4K8J-ZxsjH0ZbQbzjn7wnG9pqaF-LDLuKSPEnOeItRwuxYr0FFJt6IjF4zAfm_6et4rzS0ud3v-SU/s200/MonsterToes.jpg" width="151" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKDDRDbP-_L8VN74h6hGwUOicoLDrMk-wv3JnAT0bSG4OHyhSHXEItgaLs7yFqagLpC-PJSzGYjim8K6oAJyokDGogH4agC7XHTUJgDcPTRWhSEbxQf9KJ9UbVjn1LTx9mTl5CgR898A/s1600/WitchHatRingToss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKDDRDbP-_L8VN74h6hGwUOicoLDrMk-wv3JnAT0bSG4OHyhSHXEItgaLs7yFqagLpC-PJSzGYjim8K6oAJyokDGogH4agC7XHTUJgDcPTRWhSEbxQf9KJ9UbVjn1LTx9mTl5CgR898A/s320/WitchHatRingToss.jpg" width="320" /></a>I decided that playing coffin creeper in the graveyard was a little too spooky for my guests, and the weather was not the best for murky pool activities, and lap the moon was definitely out. We did play witch hat ring toss, and haunted house ball toss. It was the best birthday party ever. My human friends fit in nicely at the Hotel Transylvania. And I know they all had such a spooky good time. I'm sure I'll see them all again!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBF3PmH2t_nrIsj7dWGLAWLR2cs_ifjEb49BpvsY0UrQyKHGj52NXqzOEnHPBta95UpuXflkZ3R5JVuXqeDcSGXOLxoeOPO8r20tgUe52gtQMqG26mtEeqPsOktOyLaejEO1kUlvyzGA/s1600/monsterpumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBF3PmH2t_nrIsj7dWGLAWLR2cs_ifjEb49BpvsY0UrQyKHGj52NXqzOEnHPBta95UpuXflkZ3R5JVuXqeDcSGXOLxoeOPO8r20tgUe52gtQMqG26mtEeqPsOktOyLaejEO1kUlvyzGA/s200/monsterpumpkin.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*<i>This opportunity was provided by Crowdtap and the movie Hotel Transylvania. I took on the role of Mavis from Hotel Transylvania to help create the atmosphere and help our guests identify with the characters of the movie. You too can get opportunities like this by visiting <a href="http://bit.ly/lf92uf" target="_blank">Crowdtap</a>. Sign up today*</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-26105020622696775912012-06-20T13:30:00.004-04:002012-06-20T13:31:14.488-04:00On June 6, we decided to have a little shindig to try out some new McCormick Grill Mates products and celebrate a certain 31 year old's birthday.<br />
Thanks to another great opportunity from Crowdtap, I got a McCormick Grill Mates Grill Ambassadors party kit, including Brown Sugar Bourbon BBQ Sauce, Spiced Brandy & Herb marinade, Memphis Pit BBQ Rub, Molasses Bacon Seasoning and Montreal Steak Seasoning, and some recipes.<br />
The menu that I decided on included:<br />
<ul>
<li>Brown Sugar Bourbon Ribs using the Brown Sugar Bourbon BBQ Sauce</li>
<li>Bacon Turkey Burgers with Pineapple Aioli using the Molasses Bacon Seasoning</li>
<li>Burgers using the Montreal Steak Seasoning</li>
<li>Grilled Veggies</li>
<li>Grilled Corn on the Cob</li>
<li>Cous Cous with tomatoes</li>
</ul>
I never made ribs, so I was a little worried at how they would turn out. Thanks to the Brown Sugar Bourbon BBQ Sauce, they turned out AMAZING. And the interesting combination of the Molasses Bacon Seasoning in a Turkey Burger with Pineapple Aioli was also amazing. We finished with a little birthday dessert. Everyone had a great time, and left feeling full.<br />
<br />
Aidan and Matthew also filled their bellies before playing a little soccer and enjoying the swings and slide. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGASjxDCfmtbOrqfff4oeEcoQsMEdUWgbRWR5GgYOjWfuq6ZrG5QD_KjsEomoLpROgYwOGJLEl7kUnkM6I-fvRzqp6NsTRsLrqL2WBBevFPsQ_bTCPKxre3y6uWPDjjOJjnfapZPRieII/s1600/DSC02740+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGASjxDCfmtbOrqfff4oeEcoQsMEdUWgbRWR5GgYOjWfuq6ZrG5QD_KjsEomoLpROgYwOGJLEl7kUnkM6I-fvRzqp6NsTRsLrqL2WBBevFPsQ_bTCPKxre3y6uWPDjjOJjnfapZPRieII/s320/DSC02740+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYD5lscnIBs4voEZ6tKrKbDMqSZ14SGBQr6lDS0g6Y58_0YEyMIzlAj0GSDHeGSYpHqU2TspJ6upEV58NTbyHEoEuI1vQSDA8hNd7kMaXXXsQ-DOwgkuaUf6fhfiG9G0_kXjUHFAWKJPY/s1600/DSC02734+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYD5lscnIBs4voEZ6tKrKbDMqSZ14SGBQr6lDS0g6Y58_0YEyMIzlAj0GSDHeGSYpHqU2TspJ6upEV58NTbyHEoEuI1vQSDA8hNd7kMaXXXsQ-DOwgkuaUf6fhfiG9G0_kXjUHFAWKJPY/s200/DSC02734+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjNLNMUZocs3Ivqp88NJdL021M5_1cytp7pi-yR0XaIirxlg66Wt4GYG_-RYb0Id7XqpCVx09IkKTZ8TVdbSTT2xTFrHt1NMgkqCFjVSpIDdzcB-qaJmnq8UPNGN5QJQfuMOfdtZF9S0/s1600/DSC02731+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjNLNMUZocs3Ivqp88NJdL021M5_1cytp7pi-yR0XaIirxlg66Wt4GYG_-RYb0Id7XqpCVx09IkKTZ8TVdbSTT2xTFrHt1NMgkqCFjVSpIDdzcB-qaJmnq8UPNGN5QJQfuMOfdtZF9S0/s200/DSC02731+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3Krdq_FhODctSZaw2nLCGFDSvWFETqebsMli7TbIsck0h2pfKxyDdV5N5wZnPgo2064nRL65oVqJvekUIDXlIU1isZoODjmJc4jLDsm7PEhXRvfZvKgrt7ZaU1FsHzKx3ywOhUzSIkw/s1600/DSC02737+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3Krdq_FhODctSZaw2nLCGFDSvWFETqebsMli7TbIsck0h2pfKxyDdV5N5wZnPgo2064nRL65oVqJvekUIDXlIU1isZoODjmJc4jLDsm7PEhXRvfZvKgrt7ZaU1FsHzKx3ywOhUzSIkw/s200/DSC02737+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxkOqCKQM3jpU_mq2xPV0zh1rgBjm_7OF3jivcbStG-ed2KQEBkyJgPwfTqetNsfY7SHaRYLl632f6iuFG6YaeFzNwtWN6byPUDL1ot9E2JNlB2E5thOrrjaR1Hiuz_1jmHoxY58VBQ4/s1600/DSC02736+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxkOqCKQM3jpU_mq2xPV0zh1rgBjm_7OF3jivcbStG-ed2KQEBkyJgPwfTqetNsfY7SHaRYLl632f6iuFG6YaeFzNwtWN6byPUDL1ot9E2JNlB2E5thOrrjaR1Hiuz_1jmHoxY58VBQ4/s200/DSC02736+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a> </div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTJuGdiSoYHc_IDKa1UfBINcYB2VMumokV9kH8HwByW5pInI5sCU7cgDEraSb4mtF1M7Aia35aVl35cK0euluZnofexuwy0mCyuAtc8BpEktVuKqOsz_ny0J9ejGREIHE489cnqyRWgo/s1600/DSC02742+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBnszNr6T_X6ryH8aiS_DxfyhjIoIlAJucjcfnY5E8bgfkwizfLhbLeabuCYQdZFzpV6XGSMHlTFjlbhqkoLorKjF5qtTBiKDyjTSLRB2TAr7lj7FATp3nwZ1pDNvGRuQcwhjoSp-jZg/s1600/DSC02751+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBnszNr6T_X6ryH8aiS_DxfyhjIoIlAJucjcfnY5E8bgfkwizfLhbLeabuCYQdZFzpV6XGSMHlTFjlbhqkoLorKjF5qtTBiKDyjTSLRB2TAr7lj7FATp3nwZ1pDNvGRuQcwhjoSp-jZg/s200/DSC02751+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9hQ3MsB4XeW9y7oUHrPYeGxr2DtcYLmoRXm3427IGiE_igLzMRyV0-HQsFdrgR0gfbLq2z_JTxuxnUQ1eK_in0mkxItNGUKSZH4-JJBswgRh-wPfPvYJmrImUwXHEkilspAIpoTY4Qw/s1600/DSC02747+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9hQ3MsB4XeW9y7oUHrPYeGxr2DtcYLmoRXm3427IGiE_igLzMRyV0-HQsFdrgR0gfbLq2z_JTxuxnUQ1eK_in0mkxItNGUKSZH4-JJBswgRh-wPfPvYJmrImUwXHEkilspAIpoTY4Qw/s200/DSC02747+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7exQTqAKOJFR7zG4Gyw8BKkX0YwTUyL-BdGHCyKPC5HPUqYkr8Vh5xiZl0CWyqGG1gQC1rkvUs-NcWOlEA3e0oNnxnQCJtI1BT7C48HwGXxshvqUUAoGsAJwIhKIS5UsAv_lO_pXjag/s1600/DSC02753+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7exQTqAKOJFR7zG4Gyw8BKkX0YwTUyL-BdGHCyKPC5HPUqYkr8Vh5xiZl0CWyqGG1gQC1rkvUs-NcWOlEA3e0oNnxnQCJtI1BT7C48HwGXxshvqUUAoGsAJwIhKIS5UsAv_lO_pXjag/s200/DSC02753+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmkbOK1PNMQz6BC8zeKuAMR6tN5ONqCDLl9iaOm3FEVW3oXhZUJUhXfpElOx6I_G5i8fX8BtV8jaEjvIiA_z6wri0grgSoYBZXR5MNcvKT33zrNPVBEbS4YUZCY1y2TIhFk-yMxxqtC8/s1600/DSC02752+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmkbOK1PNMQz6BC8zeKuAMR6tN5ONqCDLl9iaOm3FEVW3oXhZUJUhXfpElOx6I_G5i8fX8BtV8jaEjvIiA_z6wri0grgSoYBZXR5MNcvKT33zrNPVBEbS4YUZCY1y2TIhFk-yMxxqtC8/s200/DSC02752+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSkbG_KiccCDqBOM_qYE_klMJaVqcQvIjcxzk0LBpha13fBGCwWuP54V4CQQdmES26TnzVyRfbFA8zlUueZTUlFE4KhnKxIki5x3lsrHA1cwsmiPsKACVqxSCgBvx2De3q1AHD_Ie3Ck/s1600/DSC02755+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSkbG_KiccCDqBOM_qYE_klMJaVqcQvIjcxzk0LBpha13fBGCwWuP54V4CQQdmES26TnzVyRfbFA8zlUueZTUlFE4KhnKxIki5x3lsrHA1cwsmiPsKACVqxSCgBvx2De3q1AHD_Ie3Ck/s200/DSC02755+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtmKXXZjByDmKN95v3FM-rk_auCXfw33f-QyKS-pdN8-KF-BumiYQ2pWg-RKFaW3bGDNER33_Haox-PHky5eJWt9p_1N2PUD_or07IvlE2OS1rUauJUfkDdwhddXbfy6TK80gnnVxcTFc/s1600/DSC02754+%28Medium%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtmKXXZjByDmKN95v3FM-rk_auCXfw33f-QyKS-pdN8-KF-BumiYQ2pWg-RKFaW3bGDNER33_Haox-PHky5eJWt9p_1N2PUD_or07IvlE2OS1rUauJUfkDdwhddXbfy6TK80gnnVxcTFc/s200/DSC02754+%28Medium%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ellie Vationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12886843283085404787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3257702378857982152.post-58950151861266517322011-06-24T11:18:00.000-04:002011-06-24T11:18:15.237-04:00Moving to blogspotIn an effort to manage less websites (including my own) I decided we needed to move this to "provided" solution. This will not only save me time but also we may be able to get more posts up. Keep an eye here for more news to come and all the fun stuff we have been up to.Michael Goldmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02378587481793483482noreply@blogger.com0