Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D Review

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November 15, 2016

Just in time for Christmas… Star Wars the Force Awakens 3D Collectors edition is out today and I was lucky enough to get a review copy from Disney! This 3DCollectors Edition comes jammed packed with Star Wars goodness.

Here is what you will find inside:

3D COLLECTOR’S EDITION BONUS FEATURES:

Audio Commentary with J.J. Abrams – Enter the mind of visionary director J.J. Abrams as he reveals the creative and complex choices made while developing the first film in the new Star Wars trilogy.
Foley: A Sonic Tale – Foley artists, consisting of old pros and new talent, unite to bring the world of Star Wars: The Force Awakens alive through the matching of sound to action.
Sounds of the Resistance – Hear how the epic sound design of Star Wars: The Force Awakens moves the Star Wars legacy forward.
Deleted Scenes – View never-before-shared scenes that didn’t make the film’s final cut.
Dressing the Galaxy – Costume designer Michael Kaplan reveals how the costumes of the original Star Wars movies were re-envisioned for a new generation.
The Scavenger and the Stormtrooper: A Conversation with Daisy Ridley and John Boyega – The two new stars share the thrill of working together on the adventure of a lifetime and becoming part of the Star Wars legacy.
Inside the Armory – Take a fascinating tour through the design and creation of the weaponry in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Classic Bonus Features – These offerings from the April release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens include the complete story behind the making of the film, an unforgettable cast table read, insights from legendary composer John Williams, and deleted scenes, as well as features that dig deeper into the creation of new characters such as BB-8, the design of the climactic lightsaber battle between Rey and Kylo Ren, the film’s remarkable digital artistry, and the Star Wars: Force for Change global aid initiative.

I was literally blown away by all the bonus content available, many of it released on itunes or as Target exclusives! I am a huge commentary junkie and to be able to hear the behind the scenes info with J.J. Abrams himself was probably my favorite part of the the bonus content. A close second would have to be the deleted scenes that didn’t make it in the theatrical movie.

I am kinda glad I didn’t pick up the Star Wars Force Awakens Bluray when it came out earlier this year as the 3D Collectors Edition is chock full of Star Wars goodies, not to mention 3D is how the Force Awakens is meant to be seen.

I give Star Wars the Force Awakens 3D Collectors edition 4.5 out of 5 stars, my only complaint was this should have been released in April when the original bluray was released. Still I highly recommend picking this up just in time for Christmas, this is perfect for a stocking stuffer for the scruffy looking nerf herder in your life.

Don’t forget Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, premieres December 16, 2016.

The Topi Tsum Tsum Collection is a Cute New Way to Stack

By

Danielle

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November 15, 2016

A new line of Tsum Tsum Creative toys from Topi, brings cute new additions to our favorite stackable characters. No matter how young or old, the Tsum Tsum characters continue to delight and entertain all over the world.

Topi is developing low price range creative toys for the Topi Tsum Tsum Collection. Three adorable collections they have created are the Tsum Tsum Tumblers, Tsum Tsum Spin Cars, and the Tsum Tsum Magnetic Key Holders.

I’m loving the simplistic cuteness of the Spin Cars, when looking at the posters of them my son got super excited! They look just like the small vinyl Tsum Tsum toys, but have little wheels! There is currently 3 collections, and they feature characters from the beloved classics, to the modern Pixar pals! They have a suggested retail of $9.00

The tumblers are tiny cuties that come in blind boxes! Part of the fun is the mystery of which one you will get, the other part is that they roll! Yes, roll! They are round and ball like so they wobble, and you guessed it, tumble!

Finally there is the magnetic key holders, which are cute Tsum Tsums, that magnetize to stack! Of course they have a key ring to attach to your keys like the name says as well.

The Topi Tsum Tsum Collection looks like a fun new variety coming to the Tsum Tsum universe, what do you think? For more information you can check out their Facebook Page.

Save up to 40% with the Disney Store Magical Friday Sale

By

Danielle

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November 15, 2016

Each year the Disney Store rings in the Holiday shopping season with it’s own twist on Black Friday! The Disney Store’s alternative to Black Friday is, Magical Friday! But the Disney Store Magical Friday Sale doesn’t last just one day, it has already begun!

You can save up to 40% off Toys, Tees and more at the Disney Store, and Disney Store online, now through November 27th! You can score lots of great goodies to check off your Christmas wishlists for all of the Disney lovers in your life.

This gorgeous Mickey and Minnie Mouse Holiday Fleece Throw is part of the Holiday Sale! You can share the Magic with loved ones while snuggling through the season under this furry fleece reversible throw blanket with plaid backing and wintry Mickey and Minnie embroidered appliqué!

Holiday Plush like this Pluto Holiday Plush are even included!

Right now you can even get the Mickey and Minnie Mouse Holiday 2016 Snowglobe for only $10.00, with any $25.00 or more purchase too!

The Magical Friday Sale has gifts ranging from under $10, to $10-$25 to fit anyone’s Holiday budget! The great thing is the Disney Store usually adds, and changes things for the sale through out the event! Happy Shopping!

Disney Springs Offers Guests an Abundance of Holiday Experiences this Holiday Season

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2016

If you’ll be at Walt Disney world this Holiday Season, there is so much to enjoy this year during the Holiday Celebration at Disney Springs:

During the celebration — now through Jan. 8, 2017 — Disney Springs puts a big red bow around the season of cheer with three extra special events:

Stitch’s Holiday Gift A fun scavenger hunt will allow guests to explore all four neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Guests pick up their Holiday Hunt booklet at any participating location, then explore Disney Springs in search of a unique Stitch icon at each participating location. Once complete, guests redeem the booklet at a redemption location to receive a free “completer” button.
The Festival of Toys. The Once Upon a Toy Fountain area comes alive with a holiday dance party, deluxe hot chocolate for sale, pin trading and a nightly tree lighting ceremony inviting a select family to turn on the holiday lights.
Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail. This immersive and enchanting walk-through experience features 15 custom decorated holiday trees, each dedicated to a popular Disney theme. Custom music and a light snowfall completes the Christmassy scene.

Holiday Shopper’s Paradise

Talk about shopping, Disney Springs will be the address for shoppers at holiday time – from name-brand retailers to unique boutiques stocking that special trinket for under the tree to everything in between.

Some of the most recognizable names in retailing have opened their doors in Town Center, newest neighborhood of Disney Springs. These include Anthropologie, Lucky Brand, Kate Spade New York, Under Armour Brand House, Tommy Bahama and Sephora – plus brands unique to Central Florida including UNIQLO, Melissa Shoes and UNOde50.

In Marketplace, guests can shop for seasonal offerings at Disney’s Days of Christmas, Art of Disney, World of Disney, Wonderful World of Memories, Marketplace Fun Finds, and Marketplace Co-Op.

At Art of Disney, shoppers can find sketch artists doing holiday artwork. Goofy’s Candy Co. for the holidays is a yummy wonderland of chocolate-dipped candy canes, Olaf caramel apples, Mickey Santa Krispy Treat, miniature fruit cakes and a Mickey Santa Cupcake.

Disney Springs also unwraps a special, hard-to-find present found on every shopper’s wish list: convenient, close-in and complimentary parking.

With the proximity of two “smart” garages where open parking spaces are readily identified, Disney Springs guests are spared the holiday angst of jockeying up and down rows of parked cars for the elusive slot. Disney Springs also is connected to Disney resort hotels by complimentary motorcoach or watercraft service. After 4pm, transportation is available from all four Theme Parks to Disney Springs.

Holiday Feasting at Disney Springs

When the holiday hungries strike, there is no need to pack back into the car. Great dining options abound at every corner of Disney Springs, whether it’s grab-and-go (food trucks at West Side), casual sit-down (Earl of Sandwich, Paradiso 37, Wolfgang Puck Cafe) or a memorable dining experience at venues such as STK and Morimoto Asia. At select locations such as The BOATHOUSE, Raglan Road, T-Rex Café, Rainforest Cafe and Splitsville, entertainment becomes an extra added attraction to holiday feasting.

Frontera Cocina, Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, D-Luxe Burger, Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine are new Town Center dining discoveries holiday shoppers will find. Also new for 2016: a holiday cocktails and craft beer in Marketplace.

Byways and stages filled with holiday entertainment

Between great shopping and dining, Disney Springs treats guests to a sleighful of holiday entertainment.

At Marketplace, Living Statues (World of Disney/Poutine Courtyard)
At Marketplace, The Festival of Toys
At Marketplace, Carolers (near Disney’s Days of Christmas and Santa’s Chalet).
At Waterview Park (The Landing), Hanukkah-inspired troupe Kalinka 24-30
At Waterside Stage (Marketplace), DJ Holiday Dance Party
At Waterside Stage, UHURU celebrating Kwanza Dec. 26-27
At Marketplace, Toy Soldier stilt walkers

Best News of All

That would be the Jolly Old Man himself. Direct from the North Pole, Santa Claus invites the young and young-at-heart to share their Christmas wishes at Santa’s Chalet (Marketplace) Nov. 11-Dec. 24 (Noon-10:00 p.m.) and Black Friday Nov. 25 (8 a.m.-10:00 p.m.). Santa Goofy joins the fun Dec. 25-Dec. 30 (Noon-10:00 p.m.).

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

photo: Disney

The Grove Resort & Spa Hosting Walt Disney World Giveaway

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2016

Grove Resort and Spa Logo — The Grove Resort & Spa is a new, all-suite hotel destination opening February 2017 in Orlando, just five minutes west of Walt Disney World. This 106-acre resort sits lakefront on a portion of Central Florida's conservation grounds. The Grove will feature all-suite accommodations with one, two and three bedroom layouts, as well as four swimming pools, multiple dining and drink venues, water sports, a spa, game room, event facilities, and an on-site water park. (PRNewsFoto/The Grove Resort & Spa)

Everyone loves a Disney Giveaway, so we’re excited to tell you about a fabulous giveaway being hosted by The Grove Resort & Spa in Orlando:

Kicking off November 10, 2016 and running through February 16, 2017, The Great Grove Giveaway will award one grand prize winner with a Disney vacation valued at nearly $5,000; the prize pack – to be announced on The Grove’s February 16th opening day – will include the following:

Five days/four nights in a three-bedroom suite at The Grove Resort & Spa (sleeps 6-8)
Four three-day Disney Park Hopper passes
$1000 in spending allowance that can be used across the resort property
One complimentary treatment at The Grove’s Escape Spa
One complimentary watersport experience at the on-site Lake Austin Pier
Welcome amenity for children 12 and under

Two additional winners, selected in December 2016 and January 2017, will enjoy a getaway that includes the following, valued at nearly $2,500:

Four days/three nights in a two-bedroom suite at The Grove Resort & Spa (sleeps 4-6)
Four two-day Disney Park Hopper passes
One complimentary treatment at The Grove’s Escape Spa
One complimentary watersport experience at the on-site Lake Austin Pier
Welcome amenity for children 12 and under

The Grove Resort & Spa also introduces a limited-time promotion that grants to 40% off guest accommodations booked during the pre-opening window, specifically now through December 31, 2016, for travel between February 16, 2017 and June 15, 2017. With rates starting at $167 per night, guests can enjoy the following savings:

Stay seven nights or more and save 40% off the best available rate
Stay five nights and save 30% off the best available rate
Stay four nights and save 25% off the best available rate

Guests of The Grove Resort & Spa will enjoy spacious residential-style accommodations with one, two, and three bedroom layouts with full kitchens, washer/dryers, and screened outdoor balconies that showcase the resort’s natural marsh, wooded landscape. A packed line-up of on-site activities and amenities include multiple restaurants and bars; the large-scale grab-and-go Alfresco Market with ice cream, gelato, fresh Boar’s Head deli meats, a barista bar, and grocery items; Surfari Water Park with a dual rider surf simulator, a lazy river, and an interactive water play structure with multiple slides; four swimming pools; The Grove’s Lake Austin Pier with a selection of watersports, paddle boats, and fishing; Hoopla, a children’s game room; and the intimate Escape Spa.

The Grove will offer convenient access to the area’s top attractions, such as Magic Kingdom® Park, Animal Kingdom® Park, Epcot®, Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, SeaWorld Orlando®, Universal Orlando®, shopping, dining, and entertainment at Disney Springs, as well as LEGOLAND® Florida (Winter Haven). Luxury shopping is also located nearby, with stores that include Gucci, Valentino, Bottega Veneta, and more.

For more information, terms, and conditions about The Great Grove Giveaway and special pre-opening offer, please visit www.groveresortorlando.com. The enter The Great Grove Giveaway sweepstakes, please visit www.groveresortorlando.com/sweepstakes.

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

New MagicBand Packaging to Debut

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2016

Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel will have their complimentary MagicBands delivered to their homes in new packaging as of November 11, 2016. In response to Guests’ requests, the new packaging is fully recyclable and printed on recycled paper.

No more searching for those luggage tags because they will now be located inside a clearly marked sleeve on the side of the package. The luggage tag straps can be found inside the gray MagicBand holder. The same collateral information on how to wear the MagicBand, how to use it in the parks and resorts and RFID technology will also be included.

The new MagicBand package supports The Walt Disney Company’s environment initiatives while at the same time improving upon the guest experience. It’s a win-win!

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney

Get a Backstage look at the magic of Disney’s Holiday Services

By

Chip

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November 15, 2016

Have you ever wondered how the Disney World theme parks go from Halloween to Christmas almost over night? You might have watched the video we posted a few weeks ago from 2015.

Recently ABC News got a backstage look at Disney’s Holiday Services who are responsible for making the Disney Magic happen. They work year around coming up with the decorations you see at the theme parks, resorts and even the cruise ships.

Check out the video below

New $5 Package Handling Fee at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2016

Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel often ship packages to the front desk in advance or receive mail throughout their stay. Not only does this help save on valuable luggage space but it can also help cut down on expenses during your vacation. It appears more people have caught onto this little trick because Disney has started charging a $5.00 handling fee for each UPS or FedEx package delivered to the Front Desk or hotel room.

If you intend to receive mail during your Disney vacation then be sure the letter or package includes the name and mailing address of your resort hotel. Your name followed by the word “Guest” and the date of your arrival must be clearly written on the front of the package.

What are your thoughts about the new package handling fee at Walt Disney World Resort hotels?

P.S. – If you use Garden Grocer you are fine. There is no charge for using their service.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Disney Store Unlocks Magical Friday Deals Two Weeks Prior to Black Friday

By

Chip

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November 15, 2016

Guests Can Save Up to 40% In-Store and Online Starting November 14 – Earlier Than Ever Before – Special In-Store Wishing Ceremony Kicks Off the Magic of the Season

DisneyStore today unveiled its Magical Friday (aka Black Friday) deals and special in-store holiday events – nearly two weeks before the Thanksgiving holiday shopping weekend. Beginning today in-store and online, guests can expect to see up to 40% off thousands of items, with more deals to roll out in the coming days and when Stores open on Thanksgiving night (11/24), Magical Friday (11/25) and Cyber Monday* (11/28).

Guests have the opportunity to shop Disney Store whenever and wherever through DisneyStore.com and the newly enhanced Disney Store app where they’ll find great deals on exclusive Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars items for everyone on their list.

“There is so much to be excited about this holiday, with products inspired by the theatrical release of Disney ‘Moana’ and ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,’ as well as fan favorites like Disney ‘Elena of Avalor’ and Disney-Pixar Toy Story,” said Elissa Margolis, senior vice president of Disney Store North America. “With our deals beginning two weeks before Magical Friday, and accessible in-store, online and via our mobile app, guests are sure to find something for everyone on their lists.”

Disney Store Holiday Fun
This season, Disney Store continues its tradition of magical in-store events and festive cheer designed to create a memorable shopping experience for guests.

In addition to a holiday version of the traditional store “unlocking” ceremony that takes place every morning at Disney Store locations nationwide, guests will be treated to a special holiday event every evening, called “Disney Store Holiday Wishes.” During this time, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will appear on the Store’s theater screen, inviting guests to make a special holiday wish by writing it on a Wish Ornament and adding it to a special Wishing Tree. A new song, “My Little Wish,” will add an extra magical touch to the event.

“Disney Store Holiday Wishes” will take place daily from Magical Friday (11/25) through Christmas Eve (12/24) at 7:30 p.m.

Most Wished for Gifts
Disney Store offers the biggest collection of exclusive toys, apparel, accessories and more featuring everyone’s favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters at all price ranges. Some of the top holiday favorites at the Disney Store include:

Disney Elena of Avalor Lights and Sounds Scepter
Disney Moana Singing Feature Doll
Disney Animators’ Collection Mini Doll Gift Set
Disney-Pixar Toy Story Talking Figures – Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie
Marvel Ultimate Series Premium Action Figures – Black Widow and Captain America
Imperial Death Trooper Voice Changing Mask – Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

For shopping inspiration and assistance, Guests can check out the DisneyStore.com Gift Guide, as well as interact with Disney Store’s Guest Services team via telephone and email channels listed on DisneyStore.com .

To find a Disney Store location, Guests can visit www.DisneyStore.com/storelocator or call (866) 902-2798. Guests can also sign up for email alerts at www.DisneyStore.com/Register, become a fan on www.facebook.com/DisneyStore or follow on Twitter and Instagram to stay connected.

*Disney Store locations will begin opening at 8 p.m. local time the night of Thanksgiving. Guests are encouraged to check disneystore.com/storelocator for specific holiday hours.

Limited Time 4-Park Magic Ticket Offer at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2016

If you plan on visiting each theme park only once during your next Walt Disney World vacation then consider purchasing the new 4-Park Magic Ticket valid for travel dates November 15, 2016 – May 26, 2017. It includes one day at Magic Kingdom, one day at Epcot, one day at Animal Kingdom and one day at Hollywood Studios on four separate days. Although guests can leave and re-enter the same park during one day, they may not visit the same Park on more than one occasion over the four days.

Ages 10+: $279.00/ticket plus tax
Ages 3-9: $259.00/ticket plus tax

The 4 Park Magic Ticket is available to purchase for a limited time beginning November 15, 2016 through March 5, 2017. Tickets must be used within 14 days of first use or by May 26, 2017, and the following block-out dates apply:

Dec. 17, 2016 – Jan. 2, 2017
April 10-21, 2017.

Room and ticket packages are also available. For example, enjoy 4-night accommodations in a standard room at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort and a 4 Park Magic Ticket starting at $1,768 for a family of four. Sample package is valid for arrivals most nights Jan. 3–April 5, 2017 and April 22–May 22, 2017. The booking deadline is March 5, 2017 and this offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney

It’s Time To Meet Santa Claus In His Chalet At Disney Springs

By

Lisette R

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November 15, 2016

A highlight for many people during the Christmas Season, both young and old alike, is meeting Santa Claus. A new structure has appeared in the Marketplace Neighborhood of Disney Springs. It’s time to meet Santa Claus in his Chalet at Disney Springs.

In order to meet Santa Claus you must check in at Santa’s Chalet check-in podium A fun and festive Cast Member will greet you, sign you in, and hand you a pager. When it is your turn to step in line to meet Santa Claus, your pager will buzz. You then return and hop on line to meet the jolly old elf himself. Be aware that there is still a small line, but it does move fairly quickly.

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A Disney Photographer is on hand to capture the moment of your meet-and-greet with Santa Claus. My mom insisted on sitting on Santa’s lap and he asked her to please leave him some beer and pretzels this Christmas Eve to change things up from the traditional cookies and milk. Santa Claus has an interesting sense of humor and we left there laughing. We were an adults-only group and I am quite sure that is the only reason he placed this request. This meet-and-greet was so much fun and I am happy we decided to visit Santa Claus on this visit to Disney Springs.

Disney Springs has certainly made it easier to meet Santa Claus. They have done away with the long line of waiting through the simple pager system. The pagers have a fairly long range as we were able to leave and walk the new Christmas Tree Trail while we waited for our pager to buzz. We all know how difficult it can be for little ones, and for adults as well, to wait on line patiently. Be sure to check-in and get your pager. When your pager buzzes you will know it’s time to meet Santa Claus in his Chalet at Disney Springs!

What do you think of this new process for meeting Santa Claus? Please leave your comments in the box below.

The Force is Strong with this Death Star Christmas Tree Topper

By

Danielle

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November 14, 2016

That’s no moon—it’s the ultimate tree topper for any Star Wars fan. This Death Star Christmas Tree Topper is sure to amuse any Star Wars lover.

Expertly crafted to resemble the Empire’s armored space station, this Death Star’s design won’t pull you in with a tractor beam, but it will capture your attention with its awesome light and sound features! Included remote control features the iconic Imperial insignia crest. The tree topper even has a push button remote control that makes the Death Star illuminate and play the Star Wars: Main Title and The Imperial March.

The Death Star Christmas Tree Topper is finally back in stock at ThinkGeek.com!! Plus right now you can get Standard shipping to the US for free! Sure I might have a Mickey Tree, but I can do a Star Wars tree too, right?