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10 Things To Do Before Setting Sail on a Disney Cruise!

May 18, 2015

Congratulations!! You booked your getaway aboard the Disney Cruise Line and are starting to think more about your trip. Here is my list of things to do prior to leaving home to make sure you have an extra magical time and smooth sailing, so to speak.

1. Check-in Online– Here you will fill out all the necessary forms, place a credit card on your account and assign charging privileges for your family and selecting your port arrival time. This will make embarkation much faster and easier for you! You can easily complete the forms online, print them out and bring them along. Otherwise, you will be doing all of this at the check-in counter. You are not required to check-in ahead of time, but, it will save you time in the long run and should only take a few minutes to do at home prior to your trip.

2. Get a passport– While the Disney Cruise Line does not require passports for closed loop cruises, beginning and ending in the USA, it is always a great idea to have a passport whenever leaving the country. In the event of an emergency, if you have to get a flight home, a passport is going to be needed for re-entry to the USA. So err on the safe side and bring one along!

3. Make dining reservations for adult-only dining experiences– If you are looking for a nice, quite dinner without the kids, then I highly recommend making dinner reservations at Palo and/or Remy ahead of time. These dining locations are very popular among cruisers and do fill up. But do not fear, if you are not able to make a reservation prior to the trip, you can always check for reservations once you get on-board as the cruise line sets aside some extra times.

4. Packing for the first day– When you arrive at the port, you drop your bags with a porter and you may not see them again until they are delivered to your stateroom early in the evening. I recommend packing a day bag to include anything you might need until your luggage arrives. Things you should pack include medications, passport, identification, travel documents, electronics and your bathing suits. Embarkation Day is a great day to go swimming…so if you aren’t already wearing them under your clothes, don’t forget to pack them! A small rolling suitcase makes a great day bag so you don’t have to carry a bag all over the ship. Staterooms are typically ready around 1:30pm.

5. Port Adventures– Explore the different adventures that are waiting for you in the various ports of call and see if they look like something your family would enjoy doing. These also book up quickly, so if you are looking to get off the ship and explore the islands or different lands, then be sure to reserve your excursions in advance.

6. Spa Treatments– Carve out some extra time just to relax in an adult-only sanctuary and enjoy a massage, facial, wrap or other treatment. You are also able to book a massage at Disney’s Castaway Cay in an open-air cabana. Amazing! Booking some time at the spa is also a great way to get dolled up before a fancy dinner at Palo or Remy.

7. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League– You are able to make reservations to have your little ones receive a royal makeover prior to leaving home. Just visit the Disney Cruise Line’s Planning Center and under My Cruise Activities you will be able to select your date, time and package. And adults- don’t forget…you can get made over like a pirate for Pirate Night!

8. Reserve Kids Club Time– As part of online check-in, you are able to register the kids for their time in the Kids Club. Once you are in the terminal, you can head over to the Check-In desk for the children’s activities. Since you already completed all the paperwork ahead of time, you can get around all those waiting to register their kids and get your kids their Mickey bands to wear and get any questions answered. If you do not do this in the terminal you will have to do this onboard. During the online check-in process, you are also able to reserve time in the nursery for the littlest cruisers to give you some much deserved downtime too!

9. Castaway Cay Cabanas– There are 20 private cabanas on Castaway Cay available for rent. The cabanas include cushioned chairs, chaise lounges, side tables and a dining table, along with a refrigerator, lockable storage unit, outdoor shower and a shaded deck. You will receive non-alcoholic beverages, suntan lotion and towels with your rental. For a fee, you can add food and beverage options and a private cabana host. The cabanas will hold a maximum of 6 guests and range from $399 to $549 depending on location.

10. Download the Navigator App– The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store for iOS devices and Google Play for Android devices. Be sure to download this before you arrive at the port and then once onboard connect to the ship’s WiFi network (complimentary for app use only) to enhance you vacation. The app will keep you up to date on character experiences, deck parties, dining, entertainment, ports of call, spa services, shopping and youth clubs. You can also use the app to chat with other cruisers, similar to texting. You will never miss a thing by using this app!

The day of the cruise, be sure to arrive at the terminal early enough. There is lots to do in there terminal, like getting photos taken with Mickey and Minnie and checking out the detailed model of a Disney Cruise Line ship. Traveling with kids? Then be sure to pack snacks. There is a vending machine in the terminal, but no other food options. And if you get there early enough, you might be lucky and be able to board the ship early, giving you time to tour the kids’ clubs, getting amazing photos in the ship’s atrium before the ship becomes too crowded and grabbing lunch before you set sail.

Disney Cruises are truly magical experiences and I would love to help your family plan your next getaway. Email me at [email protected] or find me on Facebook to begin discussing your next vacation!

Special Eats for Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration 24-Hour Party

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 17, 2015

The Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration 24-hour party is almost upon us! If you’re like me, then you go to Disneyland for the food as well as the rides and attractions. The Disneyland Resort has some great eats and some specialty foods are being added for the 24-hour event. Check out this list of foods that will be available May 22-23:

Disneyland Park

Jolly Holiday Bakery

Disneyland Diamond Celebration Cupcake

Carnation Café

Country-fried Chicken Sandwich with honey-mustard coleslaw with brioche bun (pictured above)

Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor

Diamond Anniversary Ice Cream Sandwich: your choice of ice cream between two sugar cookies
Ice cream sundae served in a souvenir kitchen sink

Plaza Inn

Fried Chicken and Waffles

Village Haus Restaurant

Flatbread Special with Buffalo Chicken, Serrano chile slices and chipotle aioli

Red Rockett’s Pizza Port

Supernova Pizza Special with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, salami, chorizo, chicken sausage, bacon, pepperoncini and seasoned parmesan

Stage Door Café

Mocha Chip Funnel Cake (pictured above)

Rancho del Zocalo Reataurante

Street Taco Trio – three street-style tacos with beef, chicken or carnitas on soft corn tortillas garnished with cilantro and onion, topped with salsa verde served with rice and beans

French Market Restaurant

Creamy Corn Chowder – garnished with roasted corn and black eyed peas, maque choux in a sourdough bread boule
Slow-Roasted Louisiana Beef Stew – simmered with seasoned carrots, peas, red potatoes and mushrooms in a sourdough bread boule
Market French Dip – thinly-sliced slow-roasted beef with crispy onion straws on a potato roll with a side of handmade Cajun chips and au jus
N’Awlins Salad – lettuce medley, julienned yams, Granny Smith apples, caramelized pecans, lentils, tart cherries and a sweet citrus vinaigrette
Royal Street Chicken Caesar Salad – crispy romaine lettuce, citrus chicken, parmesan cheese, croutons with a traditional Caesar dressing
Shrimp Po’Boy – popcorn shrimp, mayonnaise, sliced tomato, shredded lettuce seasoned with vinegar and oil, served on a toasted potato roll with house-made potato chips and fruit

Blue Bayou Restaurant

Creole-brined Bone-in Pork Chop served with roasted garlic Boursin-mashed potatoes, sautéed baby spinach, champagne pear coulis and tomato relish

Café Orleans

Bananas Foster French Toast – thick-cut brioche bread battered and grilled then topped with fresh caramelized bananas and rich caramel sauce, served with bacon

Tomorrowland Terrace

Breakfast Burrito (available from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m.)

Hungry Bear Restaurant

Pulled Pork Hot Dog with citrus slaw, fried jalapenos and fresh cilantro

Disney California Adventure Park

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café

Disneyland Diamond Celebration Cupcake

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream

S’mores Bar – vanilla or chocolate ice cream bar dipped in milk or dark chocolate with fluff drizzle and graham cracker crumbs

Award Wieners

“The Insomniac” – bacon, egg and sausage dog with pepper jack cheese, topped with a maple crunch (pictured above)

Wine Country Trattoria

Surf & Turf – roasted lobster tail and grilled sirloin, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables and demi-glace
Special two-course, prix fixe breakfast menu from 12-1:45 a.m. with reserved seating for a special 3 a.m. showing of “World of Color.”

Lucky Fortune Cookery

Steamed chicken and vegetable dumpling bowl served with rice, vegetables and rice wine vinegar dipping sauce

Cozy Cone Motel

Barbequed pulled pork and slaw cone

Ariel’s Grotto

Special 2-course, prix fixe breakfast menu from 12-1:45 a.m. with reserved seating for a special 3 a.m. showing of “World of Color.”

Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta

Mac and cheese pizza – crispy pizza topped with sun-dried tomato sauce, crispy bacon, mozzarella and creamy mac and cheese, topped with bacon pesto (pictured above)

Talking about all of this food has made me hungry! I hope some of you will make it to the Disneyland Resort next weekend to try some of these fabulous foods and please let me know what you think!

If you want some more information on the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration 24-hour event, or to book your next magical Disneyland vacation, email me today!

“Coolest Summer Ever” Shirt and Cupcake Coming to the WDW 24 Hour Event

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 17, 2015

Finally, we get some news on the special merchandise and food for the WDW 24 hour event. Pictured above is “Coolest Summer Ever” commemorative T-Shirt that you can find at the Emporium, or if you can’t be there you can order it online from May 22 to the 31st. This shirt is even cooler than most because the ink changes colors when it is exposed to sunlight. How cools is that?

Last, but certainly not least there will also be a special cupcake. I know where I will stop first when I get to the 24 hour event! You can find this yummy goodness at The Main Street Bakery, Main Street Confectionery, Gaston’s Tavern, and Big Top Souvenirs.

Are you attending the 24 hour event this year? I can not wait! If you are remember to share your pictures on social media and use #Disney24 and #CoolestSummer.

We will be hosting a 24 hour party in our Disney Addict Group at Gaston’s Tavern in the Magic Kingdom at 11:30pm. Click here to learn more.

Photo Credit: Disney parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Some New Shows Coming to ABC for 2015-2016

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 17, 2015

abc logo

ABC Studios and ABC Signature Studios had another banner development year with thirteen new shows ordered to series. New dramas “The Catch,” “Dr. Ken,” “The Family,” “Of Kings and Prophets,” “The Muppets,” “OIL,” “Quantico,” “Wicked City” along with new comedies “Dr. Ken” (co-production with Sony), “The Muppets,” “The Real O’Neals,” “Uncle Buck” (co-production with Universal Television) were picked up at ABC.

Returning ABC Studios shows “American Crime,” “black-ish,” “Castle,” “Galavant,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Nashville” (co-production with Lionsgate Television), “Once Upon a Time,” “Marvel’s Agent Carter,” “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” “Scandal” and “Secrets and Lies” on ABC.

ABC Studios dramas “”The Whispers” premieres on MONDAY, JUNE 1 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET), “The Astronaut Wives Club” premieres on THURSDAY, JUNE 18 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) and “Mistresses” premieres on Thursday, June 18 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on ABC.

“We are extremely proud of the series the studio is producing for ABC and other networks. This TV season is especially exciting as we have increased the number of quality shows over last season,” said Patrick Moran, EVP, ABC Studios.

The new series are:

“THE CATCH”
From Shondaland’s Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers, “The Catch” is a new thriller centered on the strong, successful Alice Martin (Mireille Enos). She’s a fraud investigator who’s about to be the victim of fraud herself by her fiancé. Between her cases, she is determined to find him before it ruins her career.

“The Catch” stars Mireille Enos as Alice.

“The Catch” was written by Jennifer Schuur. Executive producers are Jennifer Schuur, Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers and Julie Anne Robinson. “The Catch” is produced by ABC Studios.
“DR. KEN”
Doctor-turned-actor/comedian Ken Jeong (“Community,” “The Hangover”), plays Dr. Ken, a brilliant physician with no bedside manner. He is always trying to be a good doctor as well as a good husband and dad to his two kids. However, these good intentions have a way of driving everyone crazy at work and at home. Luckily, his therapist wife, Allison, is just the right partner to keep things sane.

“Dr. Ken” stars Ken Jeong as Dr. Ken, Suzy Nakamura as Allison, Tisha Campbell-Martin as Damona, Dave Foley as Pat, Jonathan Slavin as Clark, Albert Tsai as Dave and Krista Marie Yu as Molly.

“Dr. Ken was written by Jared Stern, Ken Jeong, and Mike O’Connell. Executive producers are Jared Stern, Ken Jeong, John Davis, John Fox and Mike Sikowitz, with Mike O’Connell as co-executive producer. “Dr. Ken” is produced by Sony Pictures Television and ABC Studios.

“THE FAMILY”
This thriller follows the return of a politician’s young son who was presumed dead after disappearing a decade earlier. As the mysterious young man is welcomed back into his family, suspicions emerge — is he really who he says he is?

“The Family” stars Joan Allen as Claire.

“The Family” was written by Jenna Bans. Executive producers are Jenna Bans and Mandeville Television’s Todd Lieberman, David Hoberman and Laurie Zaks. “The Family” is produced by ABC Studios.

“OF KINGS AND PROPHETS”
An epic Biblical saga of faith, ambition and betrayal as told through the eyes of a battle-weary king, a powerful and resentful prophet and a resourceful young shepherd on a collision course with destiny.

“Of Kings and Prophets” stars Ray Winstone as King Saul and Oliver Rix as David.

“Of Kings and Prophets” was written by Adam Cooper & Bill Collage. Executive producers are Adam Cooper, Bill Collage, Jason Reed, Reza Aslan and Mahyad Tousi. “Of Kings and Prophets” is produced by ABC Studios.

“THE MUPPETS”
The Muppets return to primetime with a contemporary, documentary-style show. For the first time ever, a series will explore the Muppets’ personal lives and relationships, both at home and at work, as well as romances, breakups, achievements, disappointments, wants and desires. This is a more adult Muppet show, for “kids” of all ages.

Bill Prady (“The Big Bang Theory”) and Bob Kushell (“Anger Management”) are co-writers and executive producers. Randall Einhorn (“Wilfred”), Bill Barretta, Debbie McClellan and Kyle Laughlin are also executive producers. “The Muppets” is produced by ABC Studios and The Muppets Studio.

“OIL”
Billy and Cody Lefever dream of a new life beyond their working class roots and move to “The Bakken” in North Dakota, booming after the biggest oil discovery in American history. They’re soon pitted against a ruthless tycoon who forces them to bet big and put everything on the line, including their marriage.

“OIL” stars Don Johnson as Hap, Chace Crawford as Billy, Rebecca Rittenhouse as Cody, Delroy Lindo as Tip, Amber Valletta as Carla, Scott Michael Foster as Wick, India de Beaufort as Jules, Yani Gellman as AJ and Caitlin Carver as Lacey.

“OIL” was written by Josh Pate and Rodes Fishburne. Executive producers are Tony Krantz, Josh Pate, Rodes Fishburne, Drew Comins and Don Johnson. “OIL” is produced by ABC Signature.

“QUANTICO”
A diverse group of recruits have arrived at the FBI Quantico Base for training. They are the best, the brightest and the most vetted, so it seems impossible that one of them is suspected of masterminding the biggest attack on New York City since 9/11.

“Quantico” stars Priyanka Chopra as Alex.

“Quantico” was written by Josh Safran. Executive producers are Josh Safran, Mark Gordon and Nick Pepper. “Quantico” is produced by ABC Studios.

“THE REAL O’NEALS”
A fresh take on a seemingly perfect Catholic family whose lives take an unexpected turn when surprising truths are revealed. Instead of ruining their family, the honesty triggers a new, messier chapter where everyone stops pretending to be perfect and actually starts being real.

“The Real O’Neals” stars Martha Plimpton as Eileen, Jay R. Ferguson as Pat, Noah Galvin as Kenny, Matthew Shively as Jimmy, Bebe Wood as Shannon and Mary Hollis Inboden as Jodi.

“The Real O’Neals” was written by David Windsor and Casey Johnson. Executive producers are David Windsor, Casey Johnson, Stacy Traub, Dan Savage & Brian Pines, Lorenzo DiBonaventura & Dan McDermott, and Todd Holland. “The Real O’Neals” is produced by ABC Studios.

“UNCLE BUCK”
Based on the hit movie of the same name, Uncle Buck (Mike Epps) is a fun-loving but irresponsible guy who needs a job and a place to stay. By happy coincidence, his nieces’ and nephew’s nanny has just quit and his brother and sister-in-law need his help. His unconventional personality may just make him the right fit for the family and they may be the answer to his problems, too.

“Uncle Buck” stars Mike Epps as Buck, Nia Long as Alexis, James Lesure as Will, Iman Benson as Tia, Sayeed Shahidi as Miles and Aalyrah Caldwell as Maizy.

“Uncle Buck” was written by Steven Cragg and Brian Bradley. Executive producers are Steven Cragg, Brian Bradley and Will Packer. Co-executive producers are Korin Huggins and Phil Traill. “Uncle Buck” is produced by Universal Television and ABC Studios.

“WICKED CITY”
This character-driven procedural explores sex, politics and popular culture across various noteworthy eras in L.A. history. In season one, two LA cops search for a Bonnie & Clyde-esque serial killing team amidst the rock-and-roll, coke-infused revelry of the 1980s Sunset Strip.

“Wicked City” stars Ed Westwick as Kent and Erika Christensen as Betty.

“Wicked City” was written by Steven Baigelman. Executive producers are Steven Baigelman and Mandeville Television’s Todd Lieberman, David Hoberman and Laurie Zaks. “Wicked City” is produced by ABC Studios.

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney Finds – Disney Theme Park Edition Hollywood Tower of Terror Hotel Jenga Game

Chip

May 17, 2015

2015 05 17 08 17 14 Amazon.com Disney Theme Park Edition Hollywood Tower of Terror Hotel Jenga Game

While at Walt Disney World this past week I saw this super fun Disney Theme Park Edition Hollywood Tower of Terror Hotel Jenga Game. Disney combines the fun of one of my favorite board games with Tower of Terror.

I wish I had room in my suitcase to bring this game home, luckily I found it on Amazon. You can make this game yours for $40. Just click one of the links above to learn more.

ABC Family May Update!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 17, 2015

logo abc family

All-New Shows!

Production began this week in Chicago for the new ABC Family reality series “Job or No Job,” an aspiring, one-hour reality show about young adults going out on interviews for their dream job. The show premieres Wednesday, August 5th at 8:00pm ET/PT.

They’ve studied for years, interned for free and got themselves through school. Now it’s time to find a job. From the Emmy Award-winning producers of “Undercover Boss” comes “Job or No Job,” an unprecedented look at the job market facing today’s young adults. Each episode will follow one highly qualified applicant on an intense ride as they interview for three extremely coveted positions at different companies in the industry of their choice. They’ll also have to figure out the best way to get around the city, what their housing options might be, the places to eat, shop and hang out and more.

Jane Buckingham (Founder and CEO of Trendera and bestselling author of “The Modern Girl’s Guide to Life”) will be on as the career expert to help guide and prepare them for each of the interviews. After all three interviews are completed, emotions will reach a boiling point as they wait to hear back from the companies: How many job offers will our applicant get? Will they get an offer from the company they really want? What if they gets no offers at all? Whatever the result, viewers will be left educated, inspired and riveted by this incredible journey on the first step to adulthood. The show will film all across the country, including Los Angeles, Nashville, Chicago, San Francisco, New York, Dallas, Portland, Lubbock and Kansas City.

Schedules For Returning Shows:

“Monica The Medium” premieres Monday, July 13th at 10:00 – 11:00 p.m. ET/PT and provides a fascinating look at Monica, a junior at Penn State navigating friends, family, relationships – and the fact that she’s a medium and can talk to dead people. Her uncommon vocation provides an endless supply of emotional and engaging stories, with a unique millennial perspective. The show is produced by Dave Caplan’s Trooper Entertainment in association with Lionsgate TV. Caplan will serve as executive producer alongside Malachi McGlone.

From the producers of “Undercover Boss,” “Job or No Job” premieres Wednesday, August 5th at 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The series follows one young adult per episode on his/her journey to land a first job. Each job seeker will go on three interviews, and we will watch the intense ride to find out if he or she lands three, two, one – or zero offers. Jane Buckingham (Founder and CEO of Trendera and bestselling author of The Modern Girls Guide to Life) will be the career expert on ABC Family’s “Job or No Job.” The series is produced by Studio Lambert/All3Media America. Stephen Lambert, Eli Holzman, Greg Goldman and Sara Quick serve as executive producers.

The business-based docu-series “Next Step Realty: NYC” premieres on Tuesday, August 11th at 9:00 – 10:00pm ET/PT. From Lincoln Square Productions, this series follows the passionate and ambitious employees of Next Step Realty. The Manhattan-based real estate firm specializes in helping recent college graduates find their apartments in New York City while navigating interpersonal and professional conflicts in the workplace. Danielle Rossen (“What Would You Do?”) serves as the executive producer.

“Young & Hungry” returns with more episodes on Wednesday, August 12th at 8:00-8:30pm ET/PT as Gabi continuing to cook up drama and laughs in Josh’s kitchen and his life! Josh rolls out his biggest app yet; Elliot revels in the state of his love life; and Yolanda gets even closer to Gabi and Sofia. “Pretty Little Liars” star Keegan Allen guest stars in one episode as Tyler.

The half-hour workplace comedy “Kevin from Work” premieres on Wednesday, August 12th at 8:30-9:00pm ET/PT. The single-cam series centers on Kevin, a young man who declares his unrequited love for his coworker Audrey in a letter, believing he’ll never see her again after he accepts a job overseas. But when the opportunity falls through and Kevin is forced to return to his old job, how will he and Audrey continue to work together now that his feelings are no longer secret? The series is written, created and executive-produced by Barbie Adler (“How I Met Your Mother,”). Aaron Kaplan at Kapital Entertainment (“Chasing Life”) and McG at Wonderland Sound & Vision (“Charlie’s Angels”) serve as Executive Producers. The comedy stars Noah Reid (“Backpackers“) as Kevin, Paige Spara as Audrey, Matt Murray (“Rookie Blue”) as Brian, Jordan Hinson (“Eureka”) as Roxie, Punam Patel as Patti, with guest star Amy Sedaris (“Strangers with Candy”) as Julia.

Starting moments after Leo’s surprising marriage proposal, Season Two of “Chasing Life” premieres on Monday, August 17th at 9:00-10:00pm ET/PT. April will try to live life to the fullest despite her recent relapse. From wedding dress shopping to a surprise trip, and a bachelorette party ending in jail time, April is determined to enjoy everything. The rest of the Carver family must deal with the effects of April’s illness and choices as the medical bills start to mount up. Meanwhile, questions arise about a mystery surrounding their father’s death.

“Startup U” premieres on Tuesday, August 18th at 8:00-9:00pm ET/PT and follows a group of entrepreneurial millennials as they embark on a semester at Draper University in Silicon Valley. Led by billionaire founder and venture capitalist Tim Draper, the seven-week program teaches the fundamentals of launching a startup company under the mentorship of America’s business leaders. In the end, students pitch their ideas to a panel of hungry venture capitalists with the hope that they’ll receive a life-changing investment to launch their business. To date, more than 150 Draper graduates have received funding totaling more than $15 million from mogul investors and Tim Draper himself. Brimming with innovation and determination, “Startup U” pulls back the curtain on what it takes to achieve success in the most innovative and competitive marketplace in the world. Viewers join a group of savvy millennials as they suffer through hard lessons and grab opportunities with both hands, all in the pursuit of their dreams. “Startup U” is produced by Ugly Brother Studios, a Sky Vision partner. Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy and Tim Draper serve as executive producers.

In the fourth season of “Switched at Birth,” premiering on Monday, August 24th at 8:00-9:00pm ET/PT, Bay continues to deal with the fall-out of her assault and her break-up with Emmett, and Daphne struggles to find a balance between college and a new love. The Kennish family is rocked by news of an unexpected pregnancy.

SUMMARY:

Monday, July 13th, 10:00 – 11:00 p.m. ET/PT – Series premiere of “Monica The Medium”

Wednesday, August 5th, 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET/PT – Series premiere of “Job or No Job”

Tuesday, August 11th, 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET/PT – Series premiere of “Next Step Realty: NYC”

Wednesday, August 12th, 8:00 – 8:30 p.m. ET/PT – Season premiere of “Young & Hungry”

Wednesday, August 12th, 8:30 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT – Series premiere of “Kevin From Work”

Monday, August 17th, 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET/PT – Season premiere of “Chasing Life”

Tuesday, August 18th, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT – Series premiere of “Startup U”

Monday, August 24th, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT – Season premiere of “Switched at Birth”

These summer series join ABC Family’s previously announced summer schedule, which includes:

“Pretty Little Liars” premiering on Tuesday, June 2nd at 8:00 – 9:00 PM ET/PT.
“Stitchers” premiering on Tuesday, June 2nd at 9:00 – 10:00 PM ET/PT.
“Melissa & Joey” premiering on Wednesday, June 3rd at 8:00 – 8:30 PM ET/PT.
“Baby Daddy” premiering on Wednesday, June 3rd at 8:30 – 9:00 PM ET/PT.
“The Fosters” premiering on Monday, June 8th at 8:00 – 9:00 PM ET/PT.
“Becoming Us” premiering on Monday, June 8th at 9:00 – 10:00 PM ET/PT.

Stay tuned for more ABC Family!

10 Can’t Miss Toddler Experiences at Disney World

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 17, 2015

Seeing Walt Disney World through the eyes of a toddler can be a magical experience for any parent, grandparent or family member! While there are plenty of thrill rides and other attractions and entertainment aimed at an older audience, there are several can’t miss things for the youngest of Disney World visitors.

1.New Fantasyland: Okay, maybe I’m cheating a bit here but every attraction in Magic Kingdom’s New Fantasyland (and those from before the expansion) are created with little one’s in mind! Take a ride on Dumbo or go Under the Sea with Ariel and her friends. Perhaps your little one will enjoy flying with Peter Pan or visiting the Beast’s castle and Belle’s cottage for a little story time. This really is a toddler’s dream come true!

2. Disney Junior – Live on Stage: Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney Jr favorites including Mickey and the Clubhouse gang, Jake, Doc and Sophia, come to life in this life stage performance featuring amazing puppets, bright scenery and wonderful stories. Kids are free to sing and dance along with their favorites while experience a few surprises they are sure to love.

3. The Boneyard: Visiting the Boneyard in Dinoland at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a great way for little ones to burn of some of that energy exploring this fun, prehistoric play area. With slides, caves and a sandpit full of Wooly Mammoth remains, there is so much for toddlers to explore. Young paleontologists (ages 10 and under) play, discover and learn more about the extraordinary world of dinosaurs.

4. Talking Mickey on Main Street: There is nothing more magical than having your favorite mouse chat with you like you’re old pals! The wonder on a toddler’s face as they interact with Mickey is something never to be forgotten. And it’s a new experience every time you visit. We’ve had Mickey sing Happy Birthday to our little guy and even lead he around pretending they were “choo choo trains!” Really, this meet and greet is fun for the whole family.

5. Imagination Pavilion: Located in Epcot’s Future World this is a pavilion where imagination rules. Start by taking a Journey into Imagination with Figment in this updated, yet still classic, Disney World attraction. Then let you little one’s imagination run free in a play area designed just for them. My little one could spend hours jumping from activity to activity and back again! While I’ll be the first to admit this attraction could use some TLC, the little Disney fans don’t seem to mind and makes it a must visit for us on every trip!

6. Meeting Elsa and Anna: Frozen Fever is still burning hot and meeting Elsa and Anna is usually a major highlight of a toddler’s visit to Walt Disney World. Located in Princess Hall in New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom, Frozen fans are sure to enjoy this magical Meet and Greet. This is honestly one of the best character interactions in the parks. My little guy was star struck when he met Elsa but she was so wonderful with him that he was smiling and chatting away by the end of his visit.

7. Hollywood and Vine Play and Dine: This character meal is a can’t-miss for the toddlers of the group. Have breakfast or lunch with your favorite Disney Junior characters including Jake, Doc, Sophia and Handy Manny. Through out the meal the little ones will be invited to get up and dance with their favorite characters as part of the entertainment lead by two amazing hosts! It’s certainly a favorite for my family.

8. The Seas Pavillion: Join Nemo and friends at the Sea’s Pavillion in Epcot’s Future World. Take an underwater adventure with Nemo and his friends in The Sea’s with Nemo and Friends, an attraction based on the Disney Pixar film or spend some time with Crush, the totally awesome sea turtle from Finding Nemo during Turtle Talk with Crush, and interactive attraction sure to delight toddlers and their parents! The Seas is a wonderful place to play, explore and learn about life underwater.

9. Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station: Let your kids loose to enjoy some magical water fun in this circus-themed water play area! Located in New Fantasyland, this is a wonderful place for little ones to cool off and have some fun with interactive water features. An added bonus: it’s a great place for parents to relax while their little one’s play.

10. The Affection Section: Located in Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this petting zoo provides delightful hands-on encounters with a variety of animals, including goats and sheep. Toddlers can use hand brushes, provided on a first-come, first-serve basis while spending time with the friendly animals.

And if you’re planning a trip with a toddler make sure you check out the Top 5 Best Disney World Tips with Toddlers and 7 Tips to Make the Most of a Character Meet and Greet.

There are so many wonderful things for toddlers to experience at Walt Disney World. Did we miss one of your favorites? Make sure you let us know in the comments below!

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation with a toddler? Let me help you make it a magical experience! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and the Disney Addicts and I’m also the mother of a toddler! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation!

Disney twenty-three Celebrates 60 Magical Years Of Disneyland

Chip

May 16, 2015

As Disneyland approaches its 60th anniversary, Disney twenty-three brings readers inside the party, with an in-depth look at how the park is celebrating this milestone with new parades, spectaculars, and enhancements to popular attractions. In preparation for the landmark occasion, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club took Disney Legend Marty Sklar—who worked at Disneyland on opening day—and Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Creative Executive Bruce Vaughn on a walk through Disneyland, where they reminisce about details from the past, such as the park’s legendary opening day, and look ahead at all the excitement yet to come.

Also in the Summer issue, available exclusively to D23 Gold Members, the Walt Disney Archives unveils rarely showcased ephemera from Disneyland’s opening including a media pass and concept art for freeway billboards promoting the world’s first theme park. And for Disney parks foodies, there’s a look at some of the park’s signature snacks, from Dole Whips and turkey legs to churros and Mickey Mouse ice cream bars.

Plus, film critic, historian, and co-producer of the Walt Disney Treasures DVD series Leonard Maltin gives a behind-the-scenes look at Disney’s three big summer movies featuring exclusive interviews withTomorrowland director Brad Bird (The Incredibles, Ratatouille), Inside Out director Pete Docter (Monsters, Inc., Up), and Ant-Man director Peyton Reed. Each director offers Maltin—who authored the book The Disney Films—a fascinating look at the creation of the colorful, complicated, and magnificent worlds of their three films.

Also included in the Summer issue of Disney twenty-three:

Rarely seen photos from the Disneyland Hotel’s storied history
A look inside a Disneyland Pitch Portfolio that was used to sell East Coast investors on Walt’s vision for the park
Fifty years of Disney Ambassadors and how they bring magic to people around the globe
Newlyweds share the stories of their beautiful Disney-themed weddings
An up-close look at the beloved animated feature Pinocchio with historian J.B. Kaufman
Regular columns including A Walk with Walt, D Society, and Ask Dave

D23 Members are invited to visit D23.com for additional online-exclusive features, including a gallery of more artwork from the Disneyland Pitch Portfolio, used to showcase concepts of the park that would turn Walt’s dream into a reality.

Other features coming to D23.com include:

Disney Legend Marty Sklar talking about the past and future of Disneyland as the park celebrates its 60th anniversary
A robust gallery of images of Disneyland through the years
A dazzling display of wedding cakes to bring a sweet finish to any Disney fan’s wedding, from classic confections to truly innovative tastes for all the senses

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving late May.

2015 Disney World Attraction/Ride Closures and Refurbishments

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 16, 2015

Here is the list of Disney World Attraction/Ride Refurbishments and Closures for 2015-2016 that we know of. As always, please visit the Disney World website for more information.

Epcot

Maelstrom is closed for Frozen Refurb. No completion date announced.

Magic Kingdom

Liberty Square Riverboat- Closed 8/4/2015- 8/10/2015
Dream Along with Mickey- Closed 7/19/2015- 8/22/2015
Liberty Tree Tavern- Closed 7/6/2015- 11/19/2015
Pirates of the Caribbean -Closed 6/8/2015- 9/25/2015
Phone charging kiosks in Cosmic Ray’s and Space Mountain Gift Shop- Closed Permanently
Island Supply- Closed Permanently 10/23/2014

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Flame Tree BBQ- closed 1/5/2015-6/3/2015
Creature Comforts- closed 1/5/2014-6/17/2015
Tricera Top Spin- closed 5/11/2015- 5/24/2015
Wild by Design Tour- last tour was 9/26/2014. This is being discontinued. Tip Board permanently closed.
Sunrise Safari Tour- last tour was 12/28/2014. This is being discontinued.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Voyage of the Little Mermaid- closed 9/7/2015- 9/10/2015
American Idol Experience closed. Last day was 8/30/2014.
Backlot Tour closed permanently 9/27/2014
American Film Institute Showcase at the end of the Backlot Tour closed permanently 8/17/2014.
Legend of Jack Sparrow closed permanently.

Disney World Transportation

Monorail- Now through December 2015. The monorail is under refurbishment and may have modified service or routes. You should check on the day of travel the best option to use. Alternative transportation options may be available.

We will update this list if any other closures are announced for 2015. Hopefully these closures won’t interfere with your Disney vacation, and if they do, it’s a great reason to go back again!

Need help pricing or planning your Disney trip? Email me at [email protected] and I will do it for free! My clients always get the best planning tips, advice, and even dining reservation help!

Disney Honors the Top VoluntEARS of 2015

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 16, 2015

Mickey Mouse has been surprising and recognizing special groups of Cast Members from Walt Disney World Resort for their community service efforts in Central Florida last year. To recognize those efforts, Disney honored the top 2015 VoluntEARS of the Year.

“Our VoluntEARS are the heart and soul of Disney in the community,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of Corporate Citizenship for Walt Disney World Resort. “Their passion and dedication to nonprofit groups continues to improve the lives of Central Florida families and kids.”

As Disney VoluntEARS, Cast Members donated more than 235,000 hours and steered more than $1 million in EARS To You grants to nonprofit organizations and community service groups in 2014.

This year’s top VoluntEAR team provided more than 750 hours of community service activities such as collecting more than 6,300 school supplies for Central Florida students last year. The team also raised more than $13,000 to benefit cancer associations and homeless pets.

Cast Members Jon and Danielle Warner, along with their two sons, David and Patrick, can be found supporting many local events in their Celebration community, including the 34747 Cares food pantry and the Celebration Art Stroll. The family was named the first VoluntEAR Family of the Year. Each received their own Mousecar trophy and embroidered Mickey EARS for this new tradition in Disney VoluntEARS history.

As an individual contributor, Christine Flego was named the VoluntEAR of the Year for her efforts to collect food and school supplies for local children. She also engaged nearly 100 fellow Cast Members to donate and fill 130 back packs for kidsPACK Inc., an organization that provides weekly back packs of food to students attending Osceola, Polk and Hardee county schools. In addition, she donated several inches of her hair to Locks of Love, which supplies hairpieces to children who have suffered hair loss from a medical diagnosis.

In recognition of their service, Disney will donate $2,500 to the nonprofits of their choice.

The Disney VoluntEARS program started more than 30 years ago as a way for Cast Members to focus their volunteer efforts in a more meaningful way.

Love this!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Adventures by Disney Announces Two More Danube River Cruises!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 16, 2015

After announcing that it would be adding river cruising to its lineup of adventure, Adventures by Disney just announced two more departure dates of its first-ever river cruising itinerary along the picturesque Danube River.

Due to overwhelming demand, the two new itineraries are:

August 4-11, 2016- Budapest to Vilshofen
December 15-22- Vilshofen to Budapest- Since this sailing takes places during the holiday season, there are some variation in the itinerary to include trips to Christmas markets!!

Partnered with AmaWaterways, the travel industry’s top luxury river cruise line, these Adventures by Disney river cruises offer you a new way to immerse yourself in the heart of Europe.

To learn more about these amazing river cruises or to see what else is offered by Adventures by Disney, email me at [email protected]. I’d love to help ignite a spark of adventure in your next trip, while providing a relaxing time, as well! And, be sure to follow me on Facebook to keep up with the latest in Disney news and promotions!

Disney Dining News – Chef Mickey’s Opens for Brunch Starting May 31st

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

May 16, 2015

Have you heard the latest Disney Dining News?

If you have not been to Chef Mickey’s, then you have most likely passed it when you were on the monorail on your to the Magic Kingdom. Chef Mickey’s is a very popular spot. So, they will soon serve brunch. Brunch will be by reservation of course. Reservations open up on May 22.

I am sure you are wondering what will be on the menu. Well, the breakfast menu, yes that includes Mickey Waffles, will expand and they will also offer soup; salads including Caesar; seafood, fresh broccoli, antipasto, chicken and Caprese, and hot dishes such as barbecued ribs, seafood étouffée and baked salmon. That will include the ice cream bar and Contemporary bakery sweets. Sounds good to me!

Brunch will be served from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Breakfast hours are still 7-11:30 a.m. and dinner is still 5-9:30 p.m.

Meals are one table-service entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.

Are you going to go?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

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