Remember the huge expansion Discovery Cove unveiled last year across from Sea World Orlando? They are now adding another new area – Freshwater Oasis.
Archives for June 2012
Disney Pixar’s Brave Gorgeous Nail Art Tutorial!
I am a fan of all things nail polish-related and after falling in love with Brave in theaters, when I saw this nail art tutorial, I had to share! It looks relatively easy too, even if you didn’t want to go all out with the beads, the rest of the nails look like anyone can bravely attempt the design. 😉
The tutorial is done by Cute Polish which also has a whole line of Disney and other nail art tutorial on the Disney Style channel on YouTube.
Check out the video tutorial below!
This video is part of Disney’s celebration of ONE BILLION views on its YouTube channels. This week, the company is celebrating these milestones with a special 10-day programming event on its YouTube network. New original and exclusive videos will be introduced from across Disney, including Disney Parks, Radio Disney, Games, and Theatrical, and its YouTube content partners.
The program schedule includes:
6/24 – A nail art tutorial from CutePolish inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “Brave”
6/25 – An exclusive short from Simon’s Cat — “Window Pain”
6/26 – A One Direction acoustic performance from Radio Disney
6/27 – A look at the new Cars Land at Disney California Adventure® Park
6/28 – An exclusive video from YouTube’s ShanesDominoez, titled “Domorail”
6/29 – Episode 4 of Disney Interactive’s animated Web series, “Talking Friends”
6/30 — “Rainbow Connection” performed by Anna Graceman
7/1 – The first-ever Club Penguin music video with DJ Cadence
7/2 – Behind the curtain at Disney’s Tony® Award winning musical, Newsies
7/3 – The premiere of That’s Fresh, a new cooking show from parenting network Babble
Check out all the videos at YouTube.com/Disney. I know I was really surprised at all the diverse and fun stuff on there!
Fourth of July Events at SeaWorld Orlando
- Sea Lions Tonite SeaWorld’s popular sea lion comedic duo takes the laughs into the night. Hilarious hijinks ensue in this evening show as the park’s talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite daytime SeaWorld shows and attractions. And this year, a new spoof based on the park’s newest attraction – TurtleTrek — will keep guests laughing all night long.
- Shamu Rocks SeaWorld’s spectacular whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert. Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry.
- Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Show Finale
SeaWorld is showcased in a whole new light during this spectacular celebration of soaring fountains and dazzling fireworks. A newly arranged soundtrack features the thrilling and inspirational music of SeaWorld’s most popular shows, including segments of the incredible score from TurtleTrek. Families and friends will experience a wondrous connection that lights the night like never before.
Medieval Times Premiers Epic New Show, Costumes, and Music!
One of the wonderful things about the Orlando area is that there are countless attractions and activities for everyone. Medieval Times is a well-known show with locations across the country, where you know going in what to expect – a royally good time. Before you write them off as just being a show with knights on horses and no utensils, Medieval Times has just premiered an all-new show to keep things fresh and exciting. I could not remember the last time I had been to Medieval Times, I think it was when my oldest (now 13) was a wee one. However, now that I’ve been back, I can’t wait to go again.
The whole Medieval Times castle is wonderfully themed and the time you can wait before seating begins is filled with knighting ceremonies, photo opportunities by roaming castle-dwellers, and merchandise to peruse. There are also three cash bars and a lovely “wine cellar” seating area which makes waiting for the show to start relaxing and fun. Soon the knights are announced and begin roaming around and taking photos before guests are called to their table by the color of their crowns they were given upon arrival. I was really impressed with the well-organized check-in process and reception area. It made my family and I genuinely excited for the night (and knights haha) ahead.
Once inside, service instantly began with servers explaining the evening’s fare for us and how things worked. The menu is conveniently printed inside the napkin so you know what to expect. As recent vegetarians, my husband and I let the server know and we were and there were no issues with that. We were still able to enjoy the delicious tomato soup and garlic bread, and the main entree was a lovely combination of hummus and pita chips, a veggie kabob, wild rice and some of the potato wedges served with the regular dinner. I was pleasantly surprised. I do wish they’d have an alternative for small children though. My three-year old was not into any of the choices, and ended up eating bits of the bread and drinking orange juice for the night.
The new show was wonderful and definitely kept everyone entertained and happy. You’ll still find the action-packed knight battles, but this time there is an invader from the north to liven things up and keep the show going even after the winning knight triumphed. There are also beautiful and amazing horses who perform in between battles and a falcon who flies around the entire arena. New costumes and an exciting new musical score round out the new show. It was a fabulous night of entertainment that had everyone cheering and on their feet by the end of the night. I can’t recommend the show and the entire Medieval Times experience enough and I look forward to our next visit.
For more photos, check out the Zannaland Facebook page album – and see the new parts of the show too! (and feel free to “LIKE” my Facebook page while you’re there!)
Check out more info at MedievalTimes.com and book your visit today online or by calling 1-888-WE-JOUST.
Guests also can find Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament on Facebook and Twitter.
My family and I were provided with complimentary admission to Medieval Times for this event, but as always, my opinions and thoughts were my own.
Marvel Avenger’s Fans – Make Your Own Pocket Loki!
I saw a crafty Facebook friend post this link and little amigurumi style Pocket Loki instantly won me over – I knew I had to share him here. Check out the adorableness that is Pocket Loki:
At Over the Bifrost, Pocket Loki visits places and poses with things!
You can find the pattern and how to make Pocket Loki on Ravelry.com and take a little Loki with you everywhere!
Mary Blair Inspired Disney Small World LeSportsac Purses
I recently saw the LeSportsac Disney It’s a Small World collection of handbags and accessories and when I saw one of the designs, I fell in love. I ordered one for my upcoming trip to Disneyland in August and it arrived today so I thought I’d post about all the current designs. The collection will be releasing five sets of designs, seasonally, but I couldn’t resist the redheaded mermaid charm that comes on the Tahitian design. Here’s the official press release from Disney Consumer Products below – and you can see the rest of the available designs and purchase them at LeSportsac.com :
LeSportsac and Disney Consumer Products launched the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection about a month ago, featuring handbags, totes and accessories that combine the bright aesthetic of LeSportsac with inspiration from the mid-century artwork of Disney artist Mary Blair who created the whimsical look of the beloved Disney theme park attraction “it’s a small world.”
Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection includes five seasonal deliveries, each inspired by a specific country. In addition to celebrating a country, each delivery will be anchored with a Signature Tote and a colorful print that pays tribute to the unique facades and architectural works of Disney’s “it’s a small world” Theme park attraction. The collection kicks off with a celebration of Tahiti that includes two graphic totes and a range of 12 styles in two vibrant prints.
“We are so inspired by Blair’s original art and the “it’s a small world” theme of global awareness,” said D’Arcy Jensen, Vice President, Global Creative Director, LeSportsac. “Each collectible design we are creating is a colorful narrative that is sure to delight fans of Disney, Mary Blair and LeSportsac alike.”
The “it’s a small world” attraction, which debuted at the New York World’s Fair in 1964, was created by Walt Disney both as a salute to UNICEF and his belief that everyone is united in their love of children and dreams of a better tomorrow. In keeping with the original philanthropic message of “it’s a small world,” Disney will make a donation to UNICEF in honor of “it’s a small world” and all product in the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection will include a special hangtag sharing the history of the original attraction and the connection to UNICEF.
“Our collaboration with LeSportsac pays homage to the magical experience of “it’s a small world” while continuing the legacy of the message behind one of Disney’s most beloved theme park attractions,” said Robert Oberschelp, director, Disney Collections, DCP. “Walt Disney’s vision is as powerful and true today as it was when he first shared it with the world.”
The Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac Collection is available online at LeSportsac.com and at all LeSportsac flagship boutiques worldwide. LeSportsac is also available at better department stores and select specialty stores.
It’s A Zanniversary! Happy 3 Years to Zannaland
Three years ago today, I made the decision to write about my Disney memories and experiences here at Zannaland. I can honestly say my life has changed drastically since that time, in a million wonderful ways. The old saying “do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” rings true every day. I certainly don’t consider what I do here a “job” but it’s something that’s given my family and I so many wonderful opportunities and experiences we’d never have otherwise. I’ve met so many amazing people, because of the site and through twitter and other social media outlets. In addition, I’ve connected with other bloggers and writers and been to some wonderful events where I’ve learned even more to share here with you.
I just want to take a moment to reflect on all of the fantastic people and experiences the last three years have brought into my life. I am so very grateful for every moment. I’ve learned so much about myself in the process as well. I’ve gone from a very shy person who chose to write so she didn’t have to speak to people in person, to someone who isn’t afraid to take risks and step outside her comfort zone. And that’s all thanks to YOU! Your support, comments, re-tweets, links, questions, and suggestions have kept me going and it propels me to keep looking forward to the next great thing I can share with all of you, while enjoying the present at the same time. (I’m still working on the shyness 😉 )
Thank you so much for reading my silly thoughts and memories here at Zannaland and for being the reason I hope to be writing here for many more years to come!
Happy Zanniversary from me to you! I’d love to hear from you below if you could drop me a comment just to say hi!
Disney Pixar Monsters University Teaser Trailers and Movie Images
Disney just sent over the newest clips from the upcoming Monsters University – looks pretty funny to me, can’t wait to see these guys on campus!
Here’s the official release:
“Billy Crystal’s an amazing comedic actor,” remarked Dan Scanlon, Director, Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University. “He gave us so much fun material, we decided to cut four slightly different versions of the trailer. We are so happy to have him back as Mike!”
You can also watch all four versions of the new trailer and vote for your favorite Mike sleep talking line on the official Monsters University Facebook Page. The winning line will be drawn up by a Pixar artist and shared EXCLUSIVELY with the fans of Monsters University.
Here are the four teaser trailers now available:
Are you ready for school?? Which Mike Wazowski line is your favorite??
Enter the Brave Adventure to Scotland Sweepstakes from Disney.com!
Disney.com Invites Guests to Enter the Brave: Adventure to Scotland Sweepstakes
For a Chance to Win a Family Trip to Explore the World of Disney•Pixar’s Epic Action Adventure “Brave”
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Guests of Disney.com get an opportunity to change their fate by entering the Brave: Adventure to Scotland Sweepstakes, for a chance to win a trip to Scotland to explore the world of Disney•Pixar’s “Brave,” arriving in theaters June 22!
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One lucky family will join Adventures by Disney on an epic journey across Scotland, where they will visit and discover the castles, landscapes and legends that inspired the lush settings and memorable characters in the film. A host of fun-filled family activities will be offered including archery, canoeing on Loch Ness, Highland pony rides, playing Highland Games, hiking the Scottish countryside, exploring medieval castles and feasting like kings and queens.
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Visit Disney.com/BraveSweeps or text FERGUS to DISNEY – that’s FERGUS to (347639)* to enter for a chance to win a 9-day/8-night guided vacation to Scotland – with airfare – for a family of four. Entries must be received by 11:59:59 PM (PT) on July, 6, 2012. Sweepstakes rules are featured on the site.
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5 Parenting Lessons From Disney Pixar’s Brave
This companion piece to my initial spoiler-free Brave review will contain some references to plot points or ideas within the film which may spoil it for those wishing to be surprised. If you’d like to be prepared for bringing your children to the movie, or are looking for some discussion topics either before or after seeing Brave, I wanted to put this list together. If you do not want any elements of Brave spoiled, do not continue reading below, and head over to my review, which contains no spoilers. Thanks!
1. It is rated PG.
When I think of PG-rated Disney animated films, I instantly think of The Black Cauldron. I’m not sure Brave is quite at that level, but I did jump out of my seat one time and the bear scenes are pretty suspenseful and loud. Certainly the under-7 set may be shaken. In addition, there is a scene where the clans are being rousted by Merida’s dad, Fergus, as he tells tales of finding and killing Mor’du, the bear that took his leg so many years ago. In the midst of his story-telling, he and others throw their weapons at an already stuffed bear standing within the castle hall. It’s was pretty disturbing to me to see a once-living bear getting an axe stuck in its head as it stared blankly ahead. That said, I don’t feel the violence in any way exceeds other Disney animated features. The battle with Maleficent is pretty scary, as are most of the villain battles throughout the years.
There are also few ‘risque’ scenes – one where the clansmen must parade kilt-less back into the castle and you see quite a few derrieres, in the dark. The housemaid, Maudie, also has quite a bit of cleavage showing, which is a running gag as the triplet brothers are constantly hanging above her trying to steal cookies or retrieve keys, etc. Definitely not on the level of the Judge Frollo/Esmeralda scenes in Hunchback of Notre Dame, but a departure from the norm, I suppose.
2. The setting is REAL! Unlike most Disney animated films, either from Walt Disney Animation or Pixar, the world of the story is a surreal or non-existent place. Even when we know Ratatouille or Little Mermaid take place in France, in Brave, the setting itself is one of the stars of the film. The sweeping mountains, the sparkling lakes, the foreboding forests and ancient stone formations – really exist. With those facts, Brave is a wonderful stepping off point for exploring other lands, cultures and history. As with most ancient cultures, there are elements of mythology and a suspension of reality {in Brave’s case, in the form of the “Wisps” which guide Merida and the witch}, but the history is there to share with your children.
3. The Importance of family. As mentioned in my Brave review, we are treated to a strong family relationship here. Two solid, loving parents, and family members who put each other above all else. Sure, not every family is like that, and that’s okay, but it’s a refreshing change to see family love rather than plotting and evil. Merida may briefly forget these bonds and their importance, but therein lies one of the lessons of the film. When Merida’s mother is helpless and at her mercy, Merida also realizes she needs her mother and appreciates all she had done for her up to that point.
4. Children can be independent. So often parents are guilty of hovering, sheltering our children from every possible misstep or danger. As with The Little Mermaid or Jasmine in Aladdin, the parents in Brave start out demanding that their child act a certain way or live out a pre-determined future. With Merida’s spell, she is given no option but to act on her own, make her own choices and learn a great deal in the process. In the end, her parents support her making a wise decision rather than dismissing her because she is only a child. Merida doesn’t end up happily ever after with a prince charming. She ends up happy, with her own life. That was something I loved in the film. It would’ve been so easy for the creators to have Merida fall in love with one of her suitors at the last minute for a nicely tied-up ending. Instead, the story showcases Merida’s strength of character as well as that of her parents for letting her choose her own happiness.
5. Honor. The above points regarding family all lead to the important lesson of honor found throughout the film. Merida wanted to change her fate but ended up changing more than just hers. When her mother was turned into a bear, it became a way to bond as mother and daughter. Merida had grown up favoring her father’s archery and battle lessons vs. her mother’s etiquette and princess training. Seeing how important Merida’s skills were in her time of need was an eye-opener for Merida’s mother, Elinor, as it was for Merida to realize how much she needed her mom. It’s not just Merida who must honor her parents, but Elinor and Fergus who must honor their daughter and her future fate. The lesson is honor, among every family member.
To recap, Brave offers some wonderful parenting moments to share with your child and the storyline certainly helps to appreciate the bonds we have with our children. Though the violence and action are there, the rest of the movie more than overshadows any brief scare little ones may experience. The characters are strong, especially Merida and Elinor, and their strengths are not diminished for a typical happy ending.
Brave opens everywhere June 22 and I cannot wait until I can see it again, I know it will become a classic in our family.
Disclaimer: I was provided free passes to see a screening of Brave with my family but as with all reviews, my opinions were my own and not affected.