Spooktacular Top 5 Haunted Mansion Favorites on Etsy

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August 10, 2016

Did you know that August is the Haunted Mansion’s anniversary month? In celebration of one of my favorite rides, I’ve decided to show off my Top 5 Haunted Mansion favorites from Etsy!

The very first Disney Haunted Mansion ride opened in Disneyland on August 9, 1969. For nearly 50 years this attraction has been delighting fans in many different forms across the globe. It has become a pop culture obsession, that has inspired merchandise, costumes and even a movie! The Haunted Mansion is not only one of my favorite rides, but is also the very FIRST Disney ride I ever went on. So without further ado, I present my Top 5 favorite Haunted Mansion items from Etsy!

5.) Haunted Mansion Hair Bow from LeBownitte

I love hair bows, and Disney Hair Bows make up most of my collection. I love this Haunted Mansion bow, because of the small wall paper pattern. I love seeing lots of those iconic spooky eyes! The black tie in the center makes for a perfect contrast. I might have 999 hair bows, but there is always room for one more!

4.) Haunted Mansion Makeup Bag by SassySkirtsForGals

As a girl obsessed with make up and beauty products, I love finding super cute and themed make-up bags. This make-up bag is not only inspired by the Haunted Mansion, but also has a waterproof liner inside! This haunting beauty is machine washable, just incase you spill your favorite ghostly foundation. There is a zipper closure and also plenty room for ALL of your essentials. Measures 7″ x 4.5″ x 3″.

3.) Haunted Mansion Inspired Leggings by KawaiianPizzaApparel

I adore KawaiianPizzaApparel, they have some of the cutest Disney themed apparel. These sublimation printed leggings are inspired by the wallpaper in the Haunted Mansion! One of my favorite things about this shop, is they make items from XS to 3XL! I think it’s fabulous when a designer includes so many sizes.

2.) Haunted Mansion Minnie Ears from MouseBands

MouseBands makes some of the most comfortable Mouse Ear headbands ever. I’m super excited to get my hands on a pair of her new Haunted Mansion creation! These are complete with a black spiderweb bow, and sparkly bat embellishment. I think these would be spooktacular for a Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party night.

1.) Haunted Mansion Maid Pin Up Apron by SassyFrasCollection

Squee! I love frilly cosplay aprons, so I am dying over these. The Haunted Mansion Maid Pin Up Apron features a custom green and black striped Haunted Mansion fabric for the top skirt and bodice. The top bodice and skirt mixed with the green under skirt and black tulle, is the perfect homage to the ghost hosts.

What do you think of my Top 5 Haunted Mansion favorites from Etsy?

Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion Book on Sale Now

By

Danielle

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August 10, 2016

Earlier this summer it was announced that a new children’s book would be debuting based on a famous Disney Park’s attraction. The Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion Book is the first of a new series of books featuring iconic attractions. It is now available for purchase on Amazon, and oh, it is hauntingly perfect!

This bewitching picture book is a hard cover book that comes with a CD featuring the song “Grim Grinning Ghosts”. The spooky children’s book is the first of the Disney Parks Presents picture books. For me this book offers an amazing feature. You can actually flip through it while listening to the uniquely created song you hear on the ride! That is truly a magical plus for this already gorgeous book. The book is illustrated with texture and depth by James Gilleard. His artwork is also a stunning compliment to the lyrics.

Synopsis:

The song “Grim Grinning Ghosts,” composed in the late 1960s, continues to reside in the dark corridors and spooky cemetery of the Haunted Mansion. Millions of guests leave the mansion with not only a hitchhiking ghost but also this jaunty tune catching a ride all the way home.

The Haunted Mansion has long been a pop culture favorite with Disney lovers around the world. That makes this a fitting book to serve as an introduction to this new series. There will be future “Disney Parks Presents” books coming out. You’ll be able to find other beloved featured attractions. Look for Pirates of the Caribbean and the world famous Jungle Cruise. Each of these will also feature their own unique art style.

You can find the Disney Parks Presents: Haunted Mansion book on Amazon today, for less that $13.00! That’s a great price for an authentic Disney book that also comes with a music CD.

Club Villain Discount Available for Tables in Wonderland Members

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 10, 2016

Discounted Club Villain tickets are available to Tables in Wonderland Members at the rate of $99 per person, including tax and gratuity. This special rate is available only on September 2, 3, 9 and 10 at both the 5:15pm and 8:30pm shows. A valid photo ID and Tables in Wonderland membership card must be shown upon check-in. This offer is good for the member and up to 9 additional guests.

Club Villain is a specially ticketed dining event held at Sunset Showcase in Hollywood Studios on Friday and Saturday evenings at 5:15pm and 8:30pm during September and October. The event will also be held on Halloween night. Tickets are normally $129 per person and reservations can be made online or by calling 407-939-3463.

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

Photo Credit: Disney

Is the Main Street Electrical Parade Closing?

By

Anonymouse

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August 10, 2016

Hey there guys and gals I am back with more Disney Gossip!

I have some good and bad news to share with you today concerning the Main Street Electrical Parade… A little mouse told me that we might be seeing the end of the Main Street Electrical Parade on September 10th and that Paint the Night which is closing at Disneyland will be coming to take it’s place. Sorry there is no real way to share that news other than to just put it out there.

Paint the night is set to close on September 5th which gives it plenty of time to make the trek from Disneyland to Walt Disney World.

Magic Kingdom Park, the first Disney Park to open at Walt Disney World, will mark its 45th anniversary on October 1st, will Paint the night be there to celebrate? Only Disney knows for sure as this is just gossip for now…

As with all of my rumors as soon as something becomes official my boy Chip will post it.

That is all the Disney gossip I have for now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at anonymouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook page.

AbracadaBar in Disney’s Boardwalk Offers Curious Cocktails in a Magical Atmosphere

By

Lisette R

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August 10, 2016

AbracadaBar, now open at Disney’s Boardwalk, offers curious cocktails in a magical atmosphere. Here you will find some interesting features such as artwork that magically transforms, magicians and illusionists artifacts, comfortable seating areas, interesting libations, and a backstage effect to the restrooms area. AbracadaBar opens at 4:00pm and is a great place to relax with a pre-dinner drink before enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants on Disney’s Boardwalk.

AbracadaBar magically opened its doors to the public on July 23, 2016. The opening itself was not announced until that very day. The storyline is that magicians and illusionists used to frequent this area, until they disappeared 70 years ago. A custodian working on the Boardwalk set his mop against a false door leading into the secret space that is now open for business. The story of the missing magicians is framed on the wall, as a newspaper-style storyline, for all to read if interested. You can find this magical location between Trattoria al Forno and the refurbished Flying Fish, that re-opened August 3rd, on Disney’s Boardwalk at the Walt Disney World Resort.

What trickery is this? One of the really fun atmospheric displays is the poster art framed on the wall. You will see many of the magicians and illusionists appear, then disappear, before your eyes as seen above on the Encantadora artwork. Note that the poster states the bull will disappear, when in fact it is the magician who actually disappears, adding a keen sense of humor to the space. Keep your eyes open, because the change really does happen in the blink of an eye.

There are some interesting artifacts reminiscent of the magicians and illusionists of the Golden Age of Magic, which primarily took place in the late 1800’s through the mid 1900’s. You will see the magician’s hat sitting proudly atop the shelf, above the liquor bottles, behind the bar. The glass-enclosed shelves, covering one wall in the seating area, are loaded with eclectic artifacts. Look for the Magic Wand, Aladdin’s Lamp, and Hidden Mickey’s in this display. The walls boast thin glass shadow boxes holding such items as a straight jacket, a group of shackles, and some magic keys.

AbracadaBar is big on magic, but not on space. Arrive early for the best seats. You will find bench seating with small stools, cozy corner seating with comfy chairs and a couch, as well as your typical bar stool seating at tall tables. There is also outdoor tables and chairs although if you sit outside, you lose out on the magical atmosphere.

The bar is well stocked with many types of liquor. From a variety of gins and vodkas, to bourbons and tequilas, AbracadaBar has it all. Be sure to read the Curious Cocktails menu as it describes some interesting libations. One example is the Magic Hattan, which states it is “A classic Whiskey Manhattan~rabbits not included!” My favorite is the Elixir 13, which boasts it is, “The mysterious cocktail that may have made a room of magicians vanish into thin air…” If you are not into mixed drinks, AbracadaBar also has “Worldly Wines” and “Baffling Beers.” Non-alcoholic drinks are available upon request.

The restroom areas are set up to resemble a backstage area. The lighting with mirrors reminds me of a backstage dressing room. The tile on the ladies restroom wall has an arrow with the words “TO STAGE” pointing to the door. Be sure to linger in the area just outside the restrooms to admire the displays on the walls, the magic mirror, and look for the Hidden Mickey Ace of Spades.

AbracadaBar is a busy place as the evening hours commence. If you wish to enjoy the space, an early drink before dinner, a chance to speak with a team member about the storyline, and the opportunity to find comfortable seating of your choice, then I strongly recommend you arrive within the first two hours of opening; between 4:00pm and 6:00pm. The interior space, the Curious Concoctions, and the magician’s artifacts definitely warrant a visit to this establishment.

What Curious Concoction will you try when you visit AbracadaBar at Disney’s Boardwalk? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Cinderella As Told By Emoji

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2016

Cinderella logo

Just when you thought you’ve seen every way to tell the story of Cinderella, a new version comes out that we’re sure you’ve never seen. Today, Disney released their newest episode of the popular “As Told By Emoji” series featuring Cinderella: Cinderella As Told By Emoji.

Join emoji-fied versions of Cinderella, Prince Charming, Fairy Godmother, Gus, the Wicked Stepmother, and more as they retell one of Disney’s most timeless stories. Created by the team at Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, the As Told By Emoji series has released seven episodes to-date, reaching more than 80 million views and has been translated into 25 languages.

Deputies arrest a man attempting to bring a gun into the Magic Kingdom

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Disney News

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August 9, 2016

According to WFTV 9 ABC Deputies arrested an armed man impersonating a police officer Monday at the entrance of Magic Kingdom.

Kevin Webb tried walking through the metal detectors yesterday morning at 8am with a gun in his front pocket. Webb admitted he was carrying his gun and that he was a retired Police Officer in Arkansas. According to the arrest report he owned up to having the firearm in his right front pocket immediately and then showed something in his wallet to the security officer, trying to indicate he was a police officer.

After some research it was determined he was not a retired officer but he did work for the Police Department in Arkansas but was fired.

Webb was arrested and booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of impersonating an officer and carrying a concealed firearm.

For more:

We’re very thankful for the alert deputies who handled the situation!

Disney Invites You To Bring Home Beauty And The Beast 25th Anniversary Edition & All Of The Disney Princesses

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2016

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the cherished animated classic “Beauty and the Beast,” Disney fans are getting a rare opportunity to access Disney’s Princess films. On Sept. 6, the beloved classic featuring Belle and Beast will be released as part of The Walt Disney Signature Collection and in celebration of the event, for the first time ever, all 11 Disney Princess films are being made available to bring home at the same time,Sept. 6 – Oct. 17. This is a chance you can’t miss!

“Beauty and the Beast” 25th Anniversary Edition
Releases Sept. 6 on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere and Sept. 20 on Blu-ray™ and DVD
Twenty-five years ago, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” broke ground as the first animated feature film to receive an Academy Award® nomination for best picture. The beloved classic won two Oscars®, including best song and best original score, as well as a Golden Globe Award® for best comedy/musical. Now a whole new generation of viewers will follow the magical journey of Belle, an independent and intelligent, modern-day heroine who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her precarious situation, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock, among others—and ultimately learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince.

The Walt Disney Signature Collection edition features four versions of “Beauty and the Beast,” including a never-before-released on home entertainment, sing-along version. A host of all-new bonus extras include a rare opportunity to gather around the piano with some of Disney’s greatest composers, as they sing and share how they’ve personally been inspired by the film’s award-winning music; a look at how Walt Disney himself sought to adapt this famous fairytale; a nostalgic look back with Paige O’Hara, the voice of Belle; behind-the-scenes access into the recording booth with the cast; and a sneak peek at Disney’s upcoming live-action re-telling of “Beauty and the Beast,” arriving in theaters in 2017.

“Aladdin”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Soar away on a magic carpet ride of non-stop laughs, thrills and Academy Award®-winning music. In the heart of an enchanted city, a commoner named Aladdin and his mischievous monkey Abu battle to save the free-spirited Princess Jasmine from the schemes of the evil sorcerer Jafar. Aladdin’s whole life changes with one rub of a magic lamp as a fun-loving, shape-shifting Genie appears and grants him three wishes, setting him on an incredible journey of discovery.

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Forever enchanting and inspiring, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs launched The Walt Disney Signature Collection. In this epic story of love and friendship, the kind and beautiful princess Snow White wins the hearts of the Seven Dwarfs and triumphs over the evil plans of a wicked Queen. Discover the movie called “The Greatest Animated Film Of All Time”!

“Tangled”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
When the kingdom’s most wanted – and most charming – bandit Flynn Rider hides in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel, a beautiful and feisty tower-bound teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. Together, the unlikely duo sets off on an action-packed escapade, complete with a super-cop horse, an overprotective chameleon and a gruff gang of pub thugs. “Tangled” is a story of adventure, heart, humor and hair—lots of hair.

“Cinderella”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
With a wave of her wand and some “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother transforms an ordinary pumpkin into a magnificent coach and Cinderella’s rags into a gorgeous gown, then sends her off to the Royal Ball. But Cinderella’s enchanted evening must end when the spell is broken at midnight. It will take the help of her daring animal friends, Jaq and Gus, and a perfect fit into a glass slipper to create the ultimate fairy tale ending.

“The Little Mermaid”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
This highly celebrated winner of two Academy Awards® follows Ariel, a fun-loving and mischievous mermaid, who is off on the adventure of a lifetime with her best friend, the adorable Flounder, and the reggae-singing Caribbean crab Sebastian at her side. But it will take all of her courage and determination to make her dreams come true—and save her father’s beloved kingdom from the sneaky witch Ursula.

“Sleeping Beauty”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
When an enchanted kingdom and the fairest princess in the land fall prey to the ultimate mistress of evil, the fate of the empire rests in the hands of three small fairies and a courageous prince’s magic kiss. Their quest is fraught with peril as the spirited group must battle the evil witch and a fire-breathing dragon, if they are to set the Beauty free.

“The Princess and the Frog”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Enter Princess Tiana’s world of talking frogs, singing alligators and lovesick fireflies as she embarks on an incredible journey through the mystical bayous of Louisiana. Spurred on by a little bit of courage and a great big dream, these new friends come to realize what’s truly important in life … love, family and friendship.

“Brave”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
The recipient of the 2012 Oscar® for best animated feature, “Brave” features the heroic journey of Merida, a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom that inadvertently unleashes chaos in the kingdom. She must harness all of her skills and resources – including her clever and mischievous triplet brothers – to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, and discover the meaning of true bravery.

“Pocahontas”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
“Pocahontas,” winner of two Academy-Awards®, tells the story of a free-spirited girl who wonders what adventures wait “Just Around the River Bend.” Pocahontas – along with her playful pals Meeko the raccoon and Flit the hummingbird – relies on the guidance of her loving and wise Grandmother Willow when English settlers arrive on the shores of her village. Her meeting with the courageous Captain John Smith leads to a friendship that bridges the gap between two cultures and changes history.

“Mulan”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Witness true courage as Mulan breaks tradition by joining the Imperial Army – accompanied by her hilarious guardian dragon, Mushu. Relive the wonder and excitement when Mulan’s adventures lead to a climactic battle in which her family’s honor and the fate of the entire country rest in her hands!

For nearly 80 years, audiences have followed the dreams and magical adventures of Disney Princesses including Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel and Merida. The timeless tales that introduced the world to these inspirational heroines include “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Tangled,” “Cinderella,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Brave,” “Pocahontas,” and “Mulan.” And now, for the first time ever, all 11 of these timeless family favorites will be available to purchase during the same six-week window. If you are a collector of Disney movies, or just love the princesses mark your calendar for this event now!

Disney removes Character Steamboat scene from Fantasmic

By

Disney News

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August 9, 2016

After the fall Dopey took on Sunday night on the Character Steamboat during Fantasmic Disney has pulled the scene with characters and according to WDW News Today has replaced it with a water effect.

Talk online is that Disney is adding safety measures to the boat so this type of incident doesn’t happen again. No official word has been released by Disney but I know Disney considers safety their highest priority for both their guest and their cast members.

In case you missed the video of Dopey falling off the 2nd floor of the steamboat you can see it here.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closing for Refurbishment

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2016

If you are a fan of the runaway train ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, then you’ll want to know that there is a very lengthy refurbishment scheduled from August 8th- November 18th of this year. We know it’s always a disappointment when you visit Disney and your favorite ride isn’t operating, but you can always rest assured you’ll have a blast on one of Disney’s other rollercoasters at Magic Kingdom. Check out the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain or even Goofy’s Barnstormer instead!

Be sure to check out the list of scheduled refurbishments for WDW in August here. You can also view Disneyland’s August refurbishments here.

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks vacation, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

Review: Ample Hills Creamery Ice Cream at Disney’s Boardwalk

By

Lisette R

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August 9, 2016

Ample Hills Creamery, at Disney’s Boardwalk, offers many unique ice cream flavors. Served in a whimsical setting reminiscent of an old-school ice cream parlor, the ice cream is literally the cherry on top of the atmosphere. Be sure to sample a couple of flavors before ordering as you will find it difficult to choose.

As you enter the creamery you will be drawn to the menu sign and the pastel colors of the decorative elements providing some fun pops of color. The sign boasts of ice cream flavors, cones, cups, milkshakes, and build-your-own sundaes.

When you walk along the queue, you will want to refer to the ordering flowchart to assist you with your decision to purchase an ice cream. There are a variety of ice cream flavors and ice cream cones. You can choose two flavors for any size ice cream you order. Looking for something a little less drippy? Try a fun and fabulous milkshake. If you are looking for something more elaborate be sure to look at the Build-Your-Own Sundae chart. If you thought it would be difficult to choose a flavor of ice cream, just wait until you see the choices for putting together a sundae!

Sampling some of the flavors is key here. I sampled the Peppermint Pattie, Nonna D’s Oatmeal Lace, and the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. I decided on Sally Sells Seashells, which is a fresh and fluffy marshmallow ice cream with house made salty chocolate seashells. This particular flavor is exclusive to the Ample Hills Creamery on Disney’s Boardwalk. Lucky for me there are no calorie contents listed on the menu and I opted not to ask.

The Sally Sells Seashells flavor was delicious. I do have to say that my favorite was the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and I will likely order that one on my next visit; and sample three of the flavors I have not tried yet. I absolutely love ice cream and this new ice cream parlor has the best ice cream I have tasted outside of the creamery I frequented as a child in New England. Certainly Ample Hills Creamery is serving up the best ice cream on the Walt Disney World Resort property. I highly recommend you visit Ample Hills Creamery on Disney’s Boardwalk for a flavorful treat you will not soon forget.

What flavor of ice cream will you try when you visit the Boardwalk’s Ample Hills Creamery? Leave your comments in the box below.

Once Upon A Time: Season 5 Blu-Ray Review

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2016

The season of the dark Swan…

I began watching OUAT from the beginning and I never looked back. I’m a sucker for all things fairy tale and that Disney had a series with Snow White, the Wicked Queen and every other character imaginable? You couldn’t keep me away. I wait with bated breath for each season to start and especially when season 5 premiered. Emma becoming the Dark One??? What the…

Season 5 takes the cast and in turn, the viewer, to more locations than just the dark forest and Storybrooke. Besides those usual places, this season we travel to Camelot, the Underworld, DunBroch, Boston, New York and I’m sure some other lands I can’t recall right now. Like pure Once fashion, new characters we have known and loved, are introduced into the ‘family’. Owning the entire season on Blu-Ray is awesome, for fans like me because you get to watch your favorite episodes, whenever you want, but also the bonus features are such a delight!

• Audio Commentary: A couple of episodes have commentary featuring the creators of the series Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis, Jennifer Morrison (Emma Swan). There is also commentary from writers Jerome Schwartz and David Goodman and Colin O’Donoghue (Captain Hook).

• “Tales From The Underworld: A Knight With Cruella”: A featurette starring Victoria Smurfit as Cruella and James Marsters (Spike from “Buffy”), lamenting the fate of the underworld.

• “Merida In Storybrooke”: A behind the scenes look at Amy Manson, the actress who plays Merida. Everything Manson goes through to become Merida, and her getting to know and hanging out with Mulan (Jamie Chung) and Ruby (Meghan Ory).
Fun fact: the bow she uses is an exact replica of the one from the animated movie!

• Boopers/Gag Reel: Pretty self-explanatory. I always love a good gag reel, and this one does not disappoint!

• Deleted Scenes: Fun little tid bits that were left out of the final edit.

All in all I thoroughly enjoyed rewatching the “Once Upon A Time” episodes I had all ready seen and discovering all the new things that are included in this 5 disc Blu-Ray set. It’s a must for anyone’s collection.