Things to Do

First Haircut Magic at Harmony Barber Shop

28 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 11 Comments

first haircut magic kingdom — Ready for anything with Mickey stickers!

It’s not news to any regular readers that we go to Walt Disney World…a lot, nor that we have 3 children. My oldest son is about to turn 12 this weekend, my daughter is 10 and my youngest son turned 2 the end of October. While we have visited the barber shop in the Magic Kingdom many times, in both its locations, we had never experienced a “first haircut” there. With our first child, the thought just never occurred to us and we took him to a local kids hair cutting place. With our daughter, well, we just never really cut her hair until she was about 4 anyway! So since we now frequent Disney a lot more than “normal” with the blog and Moms Panel and twitter meet-ups etc. It seemed only natural to experience this rite of passage, well, the right way.

Now what’s changed since our last visit, aside from the new location, is that you can now actually book appointments at the Harmony Barber Shop. Since this is such a popular attraction among those who know the Magic Kingdom, the wait time can get quite long in the shop. Simply calling 407-WDW-DINE will secure you a spot in the barber’s chair. Walk-ins are still available but will be taken when available around those with appointments. Our time was for 11am on a busy Saturday, and despite the line out the door, the wait wasn’t too bad for those without appointments. These dual-skilled cast members/stylists know their stuff and do it efficiently. The “First Haircut” package is $18, a child’s haircut is $15, Adult haircut is $19 and colored hair gel and pixie dust is $7.50

Alice in Wonderland 60th Anniversary HD Release+Bonus Features

27 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

With interest in all things ALICE IN WONDERLAND at an all-time high following the record-breaking theatrical performance of Disney’s epic live-action fantasy adventure, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment proudly unveils aone-of-a-kind 60th Anniversary Special Edition of Walt Disney’s original animated version of the whimsical classic tale ALICE IN WONDERLAND on Blu-ray — on February 1st, 2011. Released just in time for Valentine’s Day!

The new ALICE IN WONDERLAND 60^th Anniversary Special Edition takes viewers on magical adventure like never before with a fantastically odd and fun-filled world of colorful characters in brilliant high-definition and crystal clear sound. Additionally, the disc comes specially-packed with never-before-seen footage hosted by Kathryn Beaumont, an all-new interactive game and more. I was given a chance to preview this edition – one of my all-time favorite movies and was simply blown away by the colors, the quality and the sound. The bonus features are must-views for any Disney or Alice fan. This is definitely a film you’ll want to add to your Disney collection.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 DVD Release, Twitter Party and Activity Sheets!

26 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment proudly announces the return of the greatest Chihuahuas to walk on all fours in Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2! Chloe & Papi are back in an all new, ¡Ay yay yay! fun-filled adventure—and their family just got bigger. Meet their rambunctious, mischievous and hilarious litter on February 1, 2011 when Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 comes out on a Blu-ray™ combo pack (include Blu-ray and DVD of the movie), 1-disc DVD.

From the creators of Beverly Hills Chihuahua, everybody’s favorite talking Chihuahuas are back in a comedy that’s a pack of outrageous fun for the whole family. Puppy mayhem turns the lives of newlywed Chihuahua parents, Papi and Chloe, upside down when their playful puppies present one challenge after another. But, when their human owners find themselves in trouble, the tiny pups will stop at nothing to save them—because in good times and hard times, the family always sticks together. Papi, Chloe and the puppies embark on a heroic adventure, proving once again that big heroes come in small packages.

Featuring an all-star cast, including George Lopez (voice of Papi), and complete with a litter of bonus features, this heartwarming tale of the meaning of family, friendship and loyalty is a special breed of fun—times five.

My family was able to preview Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 and it was a big hit with my tweens. Who doesn’t love tons of puppies all dressed up? Favorite parts were the adorable fashion show and bedtime stories with Papi. I’m sure your little puppies will love it too!

WDW 40th Anniversary Merchandise & New Duffy Costumes

18 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 6 Comments

On a recent visit to the Magic Kingdom, I was super excited by all the wonderful Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary merchandise, and wanted to share some with you. Check out all the new items below (click to enlarge photos):

40th Ladies t-shirt — WDW 40th picture frames and ladies Castle projection T-shirt

Disney’s Wild Africa Trek Fast Facts & Info

15 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 13 Comments

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has always had a special place in my heart. I was there opening day and have had many a discussion with those that dismiss it as “boring” or having “nothing to do there”. To me, Animal Kingdom has always been a magical place of discovery and the best part about that discovery is that you are seeing things that are part of our great planet. It’s fun to get swept up in Fantasyland or old Hollywood but when you see live animals living for the most part as they would in the wild and all the flora that surrounds them, it’s kind of hard not to be amazed that we share this wonderful world with them.

In keeping with that theme of discovery, Disney’s Imagineers have once again crafted a one-of-a-kind experience to dazzle even the most jaded theme park visitor. According to an Imagineer on our tour, this has been in the works for years, knowing that the guests wanted a more immersive experience at that park and they are pleased to see it come to fruition. Disney’s Wild Animal Trek takes guests deep into the story that you first learn about in Harambe, Africa on the Kilimanjaro Safari and puts you right into the story yourself as you learn Swahili, dangle over hippopotamus and navigate a rope bridge over giant Nile crocodiles. In typical Disney fashion, you are also given the royal treatment as you pause two thirds of the way into your adventure to enjoy an African breakfast or lunch on the savanna platform as you gaze out at the majesty before you. Truly breathtaking.

Here are some Fast Facts on Disney’s Wild Africa Trek:

Price: Varies seasonally, starting at $189. Park admission is required but not included in the Trek.

What’s included?

complimentary metal water bottle to take in your harness and on your trek and take home with you.

a 3-hour walking, hiking, and vehicle tour of previously forbidden areas of Animal Kingdom’s Africa.

breakfast or lunch for 30 minutes at the savanna platform.

binoculars for use during the safari truck portion of the trek.

complimentary PhotoPass CD of the photos taken by your guide that day as well as some stock animal photos for keepsakes.

amazing, once-in-a-lifetime views and experiences and memories to bring home with you!

Times: Treks are offered several times daily. Currently that is 8,9,10am and 12,1, and 2pm. According to Animal Kingdom Vice President Michael Colglazier, as park hours increase during the summer, trek times will change.

Requirements: There are a few pre-requisites for this adventure.

Weight Limit: 310lbs due to the safety harnesses used. They do weigh you at the outpost station before you get your harness vest on.
Carry-on Items: you are permitted to carry a camera or video camera but only if it can attach to the harness via clips provided. Lockers are provided at no cost to store any other items you have brought with you.
Age limit: you must be 8 years of age and at least 48 inches tall and 45lbs to join the trek.
Clothing: Closed-toed (preferably sneakers or walking/hiking type) shoes are a must. I would definitely recommend pants and long-sleeves, tho in the summer this might not be much fun, you DO traipse through bushes, tree limbs and other foliage that might scrape or scratch you with bare skin exposed.

Trek Size: groups are limited to a maximum of 12 guests. This is a good thing because it keeps the group small and intimate and you don’t have to wait too long for any one part of the trek. You are also all given an ear piece to listen to your guide throughout most of the trek. This comes in handy as you travel through Harambe village at the start of the tour, and as you engage in your bush walk. You never have to worry about not hearing what the guide is saying.

Caveats: this trek does traverse two very high “rope bridges” across a river and some sunning crocodiles. While I am a little scared of heights myself, I had no fear going into this because a) it’s Disney and b) the bridges are completely wrapped with netting at the bottom in the chance that you do misstep on one of the boards, you will not plunge to your death.

Additionally, that is exactly what the harness is for, you are safely clipped in to a powerful cable above with virtually no chance of becoming crocodile brunch. That said, those who are faint of heart should not go if there is any chance you will get on top of the bridge and say, nope, never mind! While there is a way for you to not cross the bridges and re-join your party later, it really is a highlight of the trek and not something I’d want to miss out on.

One last note, the harness vest can be a little heavy and weigh you down after a while. If you have a bad back or doing like being constricted like that, keep that in mind.

Bathrooms: you are given a chance to use the facilities before your trek begins but once you set out, there are no restrooms for the fist two hours, until you reach the savanna platform. Once there you can also wash up before enjoying your meal.

Weather conditions: the trek takes place rain or shine – ponchos will be provided if it is raining and the safari truck will be covered (it was not yet during our preview trek so pictures will not show a cover) as is the savanna platform. The trek will be canceled with signs of lightening or other severe weather.

Special Dietary Needs: When you call to book your tour, just let the reservation agent know what your needs are – vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut allergy, etc. Chefs will accommodate your needs. Kids meals are provided but still on the adventurous side, so if you know your child is a picky eater, be sure to bring this up at time of booking as well.

How to Book: Call 407-WDW-TOUR (407-939-8687) to book your Wild Africa Trek now. The trek officially opens to the public tomorrow, January 16, 2011.

Help Give Kids the World with the Power of 10

8 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

Readers will know that Give Kids the World is an organization near and dear to my heart. My fellow Moms Panelists helped raise $7500 last year to deliver in person at our October reunion, and I shared some stories with you then.

Now the Power of 10 has been brought to my attention, organized by Disney fans in an effort to raise $1 million for Give Kids the World. Here is some more info below and instructions for how you can donate today and help children and family’s dreams have a little more pixie dust.

Changes to Via Napoli Dessert Menu

4 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

Via Napoli almost instantly won my heart as my new favorite place to dine at Epcot. I’m not even a huge pizza fan, but I just loved everything about this place, from the atmosphere and cast members to of course, the food (much more than just pizza). I covered opening day at Via Napoli as well as another trip with my husband. When out of state friends came to visit Walt Disney World, we naturally met up at Via Napoli for dinner. I recommended my favorite dessert to my friend that night and he loved it. So imagine my sadness when I dined there today with my mom and children (who still had never been) and the dessert menu was missing two items!

The Gelato Frizzante (my favorite!) and the Copa Di Brutti Ma Buoni (Good but Ugly Sundae) were completely removed from the list. I fell in love with the Gelato Frizzante when we had little samples of it opening day and ordered it again at each visit. My husband tried and loved the Copa di Brutti ma Buoni on his first visit and also enjoyed it. I asked our server what happened but she just said they were taken off the menu. Could we really be the only people that liked them? Perhaps they were too labor intensive to make? In any case, it makes me sad, but since I was usually too full from the meal to have needed dessert, I guess it’s probably a good thing in my case. I always overdid with the Gelato Frizzante! Here are some pictures of the new dessert menu – no items have been added, simply the two removed items: (click to enlarge the photos)

VIDEO: Epcot’s Candlelight Processional With Corbin Bernsen

22 December 2010 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

I’m embarrassed to say I’d never really sat through an entire Candlelight Processional until last year at Walt Disney World Moms Panel training. We’d walked by before but I’d never thought I or the kids could sit through the whole thing (read: yes, I thought it’d be boring). After being moved to tears last year, it is now among the must-do events of the holiday season at Walt Disney World. I actually thought before seeing the entire performance, that it was all stuffy old hymns and one looong narration of the Christmas story. That couldn’t be further from the truth. The show starts out with a toe-tapping song Shout For Joy and immediately you are filled with spirit and ready to join in! The narration then flows throughout the subsequent songs, weaving the Christmas story in words and music. It is truly beautiful and as I mentioned, moves me to tears.

Here’s a video of some images, songs and narration by Corbin Bernsen, I hope you enjoy it and add the Candlelight Processional to your must-do holiday events too!

VIDEO: Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights With Snow!

21 December 2010 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Without a doubt, the amazing Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season at Walt Disney World. It’s a family tradition and I can’t tell you how many pictures I have of my kids in strollers looking up with their mouths hanging open at the awe inspiring lights before them. This year, I captured the lighting ceremony, the snow and more on video to share here with you. I hope you enjoy it and get a chance to check them out in person at Disney’s Hollywood Studios if you haven’t yet!

Mulch Sweat N’ Shears Rock Christmastime at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

20 December 2010 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

I have to admit, I am guilty of never having sought out or listened to the DHS “house band” Mulch Sweat n’ Shears. I had no idea what I was missing! During Disney’s Holiday Showcase last month, we were lucky enough to attend a dinner served right inside the stage area of Lights, Motors, Action! and treated to a holiday performance by Mulch Sweat n’ Shears. Their Jack Black-like front man delighted my tweens and entertained the whole crowd. Both older kids proclaimed them their new favorite band. I hope you enjoy their version of the Paul McCartney favorite “Wonderful Christmastime” as they performed it.

Be sure to check out Mulch Sweat n’ Shears next time you’re in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I can’t wait to hear their regular set after the holidays too!