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The Jungle Book Blu-Ray Review

February 10, 2014

I had the pleasure of reviewing The Jungle Book on Blu-Ray that is set to be released on February 11th. This is my favorite Disney animated movie, so I was ecstatic to watch it once again and review the bonus features that are included in this release. The color and sharpness of the movie were incredible, so different from the VHS quality that I remember as a kid. If you’re a fan of The Jungle Book or Disney history, you will absolutely love the bonus features included. I have to say, I’m not really someone who likes to sit down for an hour or more to watch bonus features, but I can say with 100% certainty that these were hands down, the best bonus features I’ve seen on any DVD! So, they are definitely something you don’t want to miss. You can check out my reviews of each bonus feature below.

Alternate Ending: I honestly didn’t like the alternate ending and am glad they went with the ending they chose. The current ending leaves room for a sequel whereas the alternate one didn’t. Without giving too much away, the alternate ending just had a different tone – it was darker, a bit scarier, and not as playful as the rest of the movie. Upon watching the original DVD special features (also included in the Blu-Ray version), I realize that this alternate ending is the original ending that Bill Pete, the original animator on the project, had created for the movie.

Music, Memories & Mowgli: A Conversation with Richard M. Sherman, Diane Disney Miller and Floyd Norman: I really enjoyed watching this, as I learned a lot about how the movie was made and a lot about Walt’s personality. The Jungle Book was the first Disney movie to use celebrity voices. Walt had refrained from doing so before The Jungle Book. As evident by Walt nixing the alternate ending, Walt wanted to make the scariest scenes in The Jungle Book novel fun and playful and that can be seen in the King Louie scenes. In this bonus feature, you also get a glimpse into how Walt acted and interacted with employees and family members, so be sure to take the time to watch this bonus feature content.

I Wanna Be Like You – Hangin’ Out At Disney’s Animal Kingdom: This was my favorite part of the bonus features, not only because it made me want to make a trip back to Walt Disney World ASAP, but because it really made me want to be an animal trainer and work at Animal Kingdom (or at least in that moment it did). You’ll learn a lot about how they take care of all the animals at Animal Kingdom, which kids and adults alike will love to watch, especially since some of your favorite Disney Channel personalities take you through a day in the life of an Animal Kingdom cast member. At the Animal Nutrition Center, they prepare over 1000 diets a day, a whopping 4.5 tons of food a day! You’ll see how they make and place enrichment items throughout habitats for the animals, how they use scents on enrichment items for animals like tigers and how they call in each animal at the end of the day.

@DisneyAnimation: Sparking Creativity: It’s always neat to get an inside look at what it’s like to work as an animator. I loved this part because it showed that Disney really does encourage creativity and collaboration among all animators, both young and old. The Spark Program/Showcase allows little-known animators to ‘pitch’ their ideas to other animators – so they get a large audience and feedback on their ideas. Some of these animators have produced technology and ideas that are being featured in Disney movies today.

Bear-E-Oke Sing A Long: The best part about The Jungle Book in my opinion is the songs. So, if you love the songs, you’ll love this sing-a-long.

DVD Bonus Features: You’ll get to see all of the bonus features that were included in the original DVD, including “The Making of The Jungle Book.” For example, you’ll learn the story of Bill Pete, who was Walt’s go-to man for animation. He proposed The Jungle Book movie to Walt, but Walt didn’t like the way things were going with the story (too dark), so Pete left and was replaced by the animators who made the movie we know today. Another interesting fact that I learned from these original bonus features was that “The Bare Necessities” almost didn’t make the movie – it was the only song the Sherman Brothers didn’t write. Can you imagine The Jungle Book without this song???

Be sure to check the photos below for some behind the scenes photos, concept art and stills from the movie. The Jungle Book releases February 11th on Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital. Be sure to go pick up the last movie that Walt worked on before it goes back into the vault.

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Sadly it’s official, PUSH has been retired!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 10, 2014

As of February 9th, 2014 Walt Disney World sent out an Advisory that PUSH the Talking Trashcan, who could be found entertaining guests in Tommorowland, will no longer be a performing act at Walt Disney World. The last performance for PUSH was on Saturday February 8th, 2014. This is a confirmed Advisory straight from the Walt Disney World Cast Member HUB.

Here are some of the FAQ’s regarding PUSH’s departure.

In the last few days there have been a number of SAVE PUSH campaigns going on through out social media such as Twitter, with fans using the #savePUSH hashtag. It is very apparent that PUSH fans DO NOT want to see him go and although this advisory was posted in the Cast Member HUB, Disney has not made an official announcement about the departure of PUSH.

Several cast members that work in Tomorrowland have confirmed that PUSH has been dismantled and his storage area has been cleared out. As for the handlers, two of the three have been let go.

There are plenty of rumors about why this decision has been made, but until there is official word from Disney, we will not know the true reasons for the decision to retire Push.

One thing we do know is that Push is owned and operated by an outside company that is contracted by Walt Disney World. This opens up the possibility that the retirement of the beloved character is not entirely Disney’s decision, but an issue with contract negotiations with the outsourced company.

For those that had the opportunity to interact with Push, this is a great loss due to the wonderful memories they have of him. And for those that did not have the privilege of meeting him (myself included) well, we can relive the experiences of others through their stories.

Please share with us your thoughts and memories of your encounters with Push The Talking Trashcan.

Walt Disney Studios presents Tomorrowland!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 9, 2014

disney tomorrowland logo

Walt Disney Studios is set to release Tomorrowland, the movie on May 22, 2015. Starring Academy Award winner, George Clooney as Frank, a former boy-genius who has become jaded and disillusioned and Britt Robertson (starring as Casey) a teenager full of scientific curiosity. Together they take part in a mission full of mystery and adventure to try to find the secrets to a place in time and space called “Tomorrowland”. The exciting adventures and unknown mysteries the pair find as well as what they have to do on their mission will not only forever change them but the world as they know it too.

Based on a story written by Damon Lindelof , Jeff Jensen and Brad Bird and the screenplay written by Damon Lindelof and Brad Bird. Directed by Brad Bird and produced by Damon Lindelof, Brad Bird, and Jeffrey Chernov, Tomorrowland promises to take us to new dimensions through non-stop, thrill rides, that we have only dreamed about.

Also starring my favorite, Hugh Laurie as brilliant scientist David Nix, Raffey Cassidy as Athena and Thomas Robinson as young Frank, as well as Kathryn Hahn, Tim McGraw, Keegan-Michael Key and Judy Greer.

Tomorrowland opens in theatres world-wide on May 22, 2015. Reserve your tickets and get ready for an adventure into the future, that only Disney can provide.

My name is Loretta and I am the Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co. and a Travel Agent with Destinations in Florida Travel. I would be happy to help plan your next Amazing Magical Adventures to your favorite destinations. Contact me today at [email protected] or visit my Facebook page for tips and promotions.

Take a trip to Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 9, 2014

What happens when Hilton Head and Disney come together? Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort of course!

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort (DHHIR) is the perfect combination of beach time plus Disney magic. My family stayed at DHHIR for the first time over New Year’s Eve. We were a little nervous because we normally get bored on beach vacations after a few days. However, we were pleasantly surprised that even during this time of year there were many activities to do! The best part of all at DHHIR is the awesome Cast Members that you will meet!

When we arrived at DHHIR, we checked in at the Live Oak Lodge and were promptly given our check-in packet. Also at Live Oak Lodge is Big Murggie’s Den – complete with a television, checker board, and pool table. If you are lucky enough, you might even be able to snag a cookie and a drink in the afternoon. Everything is close together at DHHIR, which is very different than being at WDW resorts. We actually got our full room request and ended up in a 2 bedroom villa #2422. Parking is a little challenging at times because there are no assigned parking spots. Thankfully, we found a spot and used the luggage cart to get everything over to our room. The rooms are currently themed as a 1940’s hunting and fishing lodge, but they are currently undergoing a needed refurbishment. We were not able to see what the new rooms would look like while we were there, but a CM told us that the rooms would be getting stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops for sure. The CM also advised us that the rooms should be done by the end of March 2014.

The Big Dipper feature pool at the resort was fantastic and very warm at around 82 degrees we were told. Our kids swam every day that we were there except one. The temperatures were around the upper 50’s to 60’s during our stay. The best part about the pool (besides it being heated and the slide) are the life guards who double as the recreation/activity staff. Each week the resort publishes an activity sheet with things to do. Some items are free, some have a cost, and some require reservations. A few activities that my kids enjoyed was meeting Shadow and B’ Lou, making shark teeth necklaces, and making tie dye shirts. Their favorite activity was the New Year’s Eve party that DHHIR Cast Members held for kids ages 5 to 17. All of the Cast Members were great during our stay, but it was at the New Year’s Eve party that our kids met CM Joey who we feel went above and beyond with helping create the Disney magic for them. The countdown party to the New Year brought everyone back together and was a great experience as well with CMs providing the pre-ball drop entertainment.

Close to the Big Dipper pool is the Broad Creek Mercantile and Tide Me Over. Broad Creek Mercantile is a quaint gift shop with assorted sundries. Tide Me Over creates scrumptious breakfast and lunch options. All the food locations at DHHIR close by 4 or 5 pm to encourage people to go out and try all the wonderful restaurants on the island for dinner. At and around the Broad Creek building, there is also shuffleboard, Foosball table, community hall, fire pit, and the recreation window where you can rent bikes and reserve your spot for activities.

Even though it was colder, we still went to the Beach House, but never swam in the ocean. We had fun walking on the beach and saw an abundance of sand dollars and crabs. At the Beach House, we ate a fantastic lunch at Signals. Signals also has Dole Whips – score! They also had an arcade and another swimming pool there, but we did not try them out. You can drive your car over to the Beach House, ride a bike, walk or take a shuttle from the Live Oak Lodge over. Since it was not overly busy, we just drove our car. Remember to bring your key card – you will need it to get into the Beach House.

Overall, I can’t say enough about the resort. It was truly a magical Disney style beach vacation and we will be back again. Hopefully you and your family can experience the magic that Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort has to offer! Whether you are staying on Disney Vacation Club points or as a cash reservation, I think the resort provides a good value for your vacation dollars. Let’s hear from you! Have you or your family stayed at DHHIR already or are you first timers in the making? What excites you the most about DHHIR?

Bringing the Disney Magic Home

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 9, 2014

Some people are not lucky enough to live within close distance to Disney World or Disneyland and need to find other ways to bring Disney Magic into their everyday lives however far away they are from “home.” Since the senses account for everything we experience and Disney parks are a sensory overload, I’d like to share some my ideas for keeping the magic close!

First, is scent. The sense of smell accounts for the strongest part of memory and many Disney Addicts I talk to miss the smells of Disney most! I’ve found a way to bring you back to Adventureland enjoying a Dole whip, eating Mickey Waffles or relaxing at the Yacht & Beach Club. The way, you ask? Candles! I create 100% soy candles with over 30 “Mouse Inspired” scents sold through my etsy shop and WalterandRosie.com.

And great news! There are a few other ways to bring Disney scents home. One thing Disney Addicts know about is the scent in Norway that comes from the perfume Laila. It’s sold online and of course at the Norway pavilion in World Showcase.

The last of favorite ways to re-imagine I’m at Disney is H20plus! This is a wonderful, cruelty free, Chicago based company that produces all the shampoos and soaps for Disney Parks! Ask mousekeeping for a couple extra during your next stay or purchase some bigger bottles online. Don’t forget to check out Chip’s collection!

The next sense is sight. My favorite for this category, and in general, is Disney movies! Everyone has a favorite (or maybe 2 or 3…)! I fill a lot of my nights watching Disney movies or youtubing my favorite Olaf quotes. Watching Disney movies is one of the best ways to cure a heartache (this is medically proven). A great way to benefit from being a Disney fan is to join the Disney Movie Club. You agree to buy 5 regularly priced Disney movies over the course of 2 years and get great perks like buy 1 get the rest for 50% off and the entire Disney Movie Rewards site! At the DMR site, you enter the magic code listed on the inside cover of most Disney movies, receive points and cash them in for goodies! Plus you can enter lots of awesome sweepstakes.

The next awesome Disney sense is sound. This one is pretty easy! Listening Disney tunes around the house or whenever you’re on the road is definitely a pick me up! I’m constantly listening to the Frozen soundtrack in my car and know all the words! There are plenty of other soundtracks out there for whichever music you love most. Beyond soundtracks, there’s park music and compilations that feature different Disney movie songs in one place!

This one is delicious, using taste! Honestly, one of my favorite parts of Disney (besides parades) is the food! Easy ways to do this are to make all your food Mickey shaped! If you’re up for spending a little bit, there are plenty of snack items available at the parks and resorts that you can bring home with you like cookies, chocolate, pretzels, candy, etc. Luckily, there are people nice enough to be your own personal shopper and send the items right to your door! I am very excited to move to Orlando in a month and half and I would love to shop for my fellow DA’s 🙂

Last but not least is touch. Most people relate Disney to kids and kids at heart. I willingly admit I still sleep with some stuffed characters and I am always snuggling up with a Disney blanket! For some reason, I find comfort in holding something so magical close to my heart as I dream of Wishes. Right now plush characters are buy 1 get 1 for a $1 and disneystore.com! A few weeks ago when I was in the parks, they were running a deal for a $15 fleece blanket and it’s so nice to have in this Elsa ridden winter!

I hoped you enjoyed my tips for bringing Disney home with you! Please leave a comment letting us know your favorite ways to bring the Disney magic into your home.

-Samantha

Ten Tips to Surviving Disney World Over Spring Break

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 9, 2014

After Christmas and Easter, Spring Break is one of the busiest times at Walt Disney World. Besides the obvious that schools are out for a week, many people from the Midwest and Northern parts of the United States are tired of being cold, under snow, and ready for some sun! So they make the trek to Florida to get some sun, revitalized to make it through the school year until summer break, and to enjoy some Disney magic! Are you planning on visiting Disney World over Spring Break? If so, then these Ten Tips for Surviving Disney World Over Spring Break are for YOU!

1. Arrive at the parks before they open. This in “Disney” language is known as Rope Drop. Arriving at the parks about 45 minutes before they open is key. In the first hour you are in the parks, you can enjoy a lot of great attractions! Concentrate on one area of the park at a time as well. This will save you a lot of time running from one attraction at one end of the park to another!

2. Schedule your FastPass Plus times for later in the afternoon or evening. If you can follow the first step, and arrive at Rope Drop, your day will be off to a great start! And you can relax, knowing you have some FastPass Plus return times to look forward to while others are waiting in lines in the afternoon!

3. Make your ADRs for “off” meal times. Plan on enjoying many attractions during the prime dinner and lunch times. Then, you can take a break from the heat of the day while you enjoy a nice meal and character interaction after getting in several attractions in the morning and while everyone else is eating!

4. Plan on taking a break from the parks. If you made it to Rope Drop in the morning, chances are shortly after lunch, you and your kids will be ready for a rest. This is the perfect time to return to your resort and recharge during the afternoon. Then, you can return to the park in the evening for some more fun.

5. Visit the popular attractions during parades and fireworks shows. I’m not saying to miss out on the parades. But, I can also tell you from experience, that being in Fantasyland or Tomorrowland during the 3PM parade is fabulous! The wait times are low since the majority of the crowds are hanging out along the parade route!

6. Watch Wishes from outside the Magic Kingdom. Everyone knows the little known secrets of watching Wishes from the beach at the Polynesian or the boat dock at the Grand Floridian. Perfect! Why? Well, they pipe the soundtrack to these areas, so you aren’t missing out on the magic of the narration and the crowds are low.

7. Choose a counter service location with ample seating. This will cut down on your waits, and you’ll easily find a place to sit. Also, if possible, have one adult get the meals while the other sits with the kids. Perfect! Cosmic Ray’s at Magic Kingdom, Sunshine Seasons at EPCOT, and ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood Studios come to mind as great examples.

8. Consider buying base tickets instead of park hoppers. There are some wonderful benefits to Park Hopper tickets, yes. But, during a peak time like Spring Break, base tickets work very well. With it being a more crowded time in general, it’s a good idea to just pick a park and stay there. You will spend more time than you intend traveling from park to park, longer wait times at the buses, and in turn longer attraction wait times.

9. Be patient with your family and with others. If there is one crucial thing to pack for a Spring Break trip to Disney, it is your patience. Be patient and be prepared for others to “be in your way”. Also, your children will need a little extra patience from you. Waiting in line is difficult. Be sure to have bubbles, gum, snacks, and maybe even some portable gaming systems.

10. Visit the park that does NOT have Extra Magic Hours. Why? Because EMH are a privilege that come with staying in a Disney resort. That means that the majority of on site guests will be at THAT park on that day. So head to a different one, at least in the morning. Evening EMH are a bit different of a story. Our family has found, personally, the crowds are fairly manageable in the late evening. This is of course after our family has returned to our resort for a mid day break and relaxed.

Do you want more Disney planning tips? Or are you ready to book your Spring Break getaway to Walt Disney World? Perfect! There is still time under the current resort and ticket discount that Disney is offering! Contact me at [email protected] today for a free quote and to get your Spring Break plans started!

Southern California Choirs to Raise Voices and Spirits During Fifth Annual Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Resort

Chip

February 8, 2014

In recognition of Black History Month, 15 Southern California choirs will perform during the fifth Celebrate Gospel, a festival honoring gospel music at Disneyland Resort.

New this year is the Gospel History Walk, a walk-through exhibit highlighting the history and rich traditions of gospel music. The Disneyland Resort has long celebrated the spirit of gospel music. In 1960, the Clara Ward Singers performed at the third annual “Dixieland in Disneyland.” Since then, Disneyland park has hosted several other gospel events.

All performances and the exhibit take place inside Stage 17 at Disney California Adventure park and are included with theme park admission. Come by and enjoy the show!

Details below:

Date: Saturday, February 15
Location: Stage 17, Hollywood Land, Disney California Adventure Park

Times:
11:00 am – 12:45 pm

Greater Los Angeles Cathedral Choir (Los Angeles)
Rock Boy Fresh (Ontario)
Divine Deliverance Ministries Choir (Los Angeles)
Pastor Thom Washington & The Cathedral Voices (Los Angeles)

1:45 pm – 4:00 pm

Amazing Grace Conservatory (Los Angeles)
Diamondz & Pearlz (Yorba Linda)
Lorenzo Johnson & Praizum (Los Angeles)
New Generation Choir (Santa Ana)
J. Kingdom & Voices of Destiny (Compton)

4:00 pm – 6:30 pm

The Prime Minister of Joyful Jazz (Bellflower)
KJLH Radio Free Performance Choir (Inglewood)
Moreno Valley College Gospel Singers (Moreno Valley)
Project Purpose (Los Angeles)
Xtreme Purpose Choir (Pasadena)
Friendship Baptist Church – The Wrecking Crew (Yorba Linda)

Schedule subject to change.

Fun Facts About the Disney Dream

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 8, 2014

Did you hear the news? After enjoying a few magical days in the Disney Parks from October 11-15, under the exclusive Chip and Co and Destinations in Florida resort discount, you can set sail for three nights on the Disney Dream! That’s right! Chip and Co is teaming up with Destinations in Florida to bring you a magically wonderful getaway that combines the best of Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line! But before you board the Disney Dream for 3 nights to the Bahamas, don’t you want to know a little more about this ship? I know you do! So today, I’m going to share some Fun Facts about the Disney Dream.

The Disney Dream was created in 2009, and modeled after the ships of the 1930s, which is considered the “golden age” of cruising! The Disney Dream is designed with the glamour of the 1930s, yet has the contemporary necessities for families and couples!

When you step aboard the Disney Dream, your family is announced and greeted with Disney style. The bronze statue of Donald Duck reminds you that you are in fact going to enjoy the attention to detail and magical cruising that you expect from the Walt Disney World Travel Company. The staterooms on the Disney Dream feature split bathrooms-perfect for families, and the first of its kind among the major cruiselines. And are you worried your kids won’t have enough to do while at sea for 3 nights? Think again! The Youth Clubs aboard the Disney Dream have plenty to keep kids of all ages busy, and the 3 awesome pools on Deck 11-one for families, one adult only, and one just for kids, will give you plenty of time together while soaking up the sun.

If you choose a late seating for dinner, and your kids are getting restless, no fear! The Cast Members aboard the Disney Dream will come and take your children off to an adventure in the kids’ clubs while you enjoy the remainder of your meal and relax.

So, are you ready to set sail on an adventure aboard the Disney Dream? How about combining that with some magical vacation time in the Disney Parks under our exclusive group rate? Contact Carrie today to get your vacation planning started! Request a quote or more information via email at [email protected]

Two New Walt Disney World Spas Engage the Senses, Pamper and Renew in 2014

Chip

February 8, 2014

Two newly reimagined full-service spas at Walt Disney World Resort take guests on a sensory journey designed to renew, relax and energize.

At Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, and Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, guests can usher in the new year with a seasonal menu of rejuvenating treatments that include a Chocolate and Strawberry Facial to tone, tighten and detoxify and a Mimosa Champagne Scrub and Body Wrap that hydrates and refines.

These tasty treatments and more are available from Jan. 1- Feb. 28. Reservations can be booked by calling 407-WDW-SPAS or visit www.disneyworld.com/spas/senses for more information.

Here is more about the refreshing offerings that await guests at both spa locations:

Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort welcomes Walt Disney World Resort guests to renew and rejuvenate. The newly remodeled spa, owned and operated by Disney, blends Grand Floridian Victorian elegance with modern touches – plus a dash of Disney whimsy.

All the senses are engaged in an ultimate relaxation experience – flavorful and soothing elixirs, color variations in lighting and Disney orchestral music harmonize with the treatment selected. Spa-goers walk through the new Victorian-style entryway and indulge in the spa’s relax, renew, or imagine themes aimed at creating a custom experience. Centerpiece of the spa’s lobby and check in area is an original mural reflecting old Florida landscape and nature.

Fifteen treatment rooms offer pampering services such as water therapy, sugar exfoliation body treatment, warm stone massage, rejuvenating citrus facial, couples’ massage and more. The new menu of services also includes a signature 80-minute Grand Floridian treatment featuring a special aromatherapy massage.

Lounges, whirlpools and treatment rooms all provide rejuvenation through the healing nature of Florida citrus and botanicals. Hand crafted glass mosaic tiles in the Jacuzzi rooms further enhance the elegance and sophistication of the spa. Heated lounge chairs there invite spa goers to the ultimate in relaxation in between treatments.

There’s a separate room for spa manicures and pedicures with offerings like a restorative hand and foot ritual with Chinese Jasmine oils or a Just for Feet Massage. Even young spa-goers can get the VIP treatment as their toes soak in a playful Mad Hatter themed green pedi chair, just their size. Princess Pedicures or Magical Manicures are for youngsters ages 4-12. *Special touch — Guests receive a mini bottle of vegan nail polish – in their color choice — following the service.

Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort transports guests to a therapeutic haven of pampering and wellness at Walt Disney World Resort.

The two-story, full-service spa is inspired by the healing properties of natural springs that have drawn people for centuries to Saratoga Springs in upstate New York. Senses Spa incorporates the springs, nature and the storyline of health in its design and theme. Design materials and textures, including natural stone, pebbles and rich woodwork, will “connect with the earth and speak to the serenity and tranquility associated with nature,” according to Ginger Mclean, spa director.

Guests are greeted with the soothing sounds of a trickling fountain, branch-like fixtures and soft amber lighting setting the mood for this new oasis for rejuvenation and relaxation. Wood floors, stone details and wood-beamed ceilings bring a warm, organic feel to the newly imagined spa and fitness center.

Walt Disney Imagineers incorporated nature throughout the design using a hummingbird motif showcased in wood carvings and furnishings; alongside authentic Native American artwork.

Each treatment is guided by one of the spa’s core themes – relax, renew or imagine – each of which will create a custom experience. All the senses are engaged in an ultimate relaxation experience, plus flavorful and soothing elixirs harmonize with the treatment selected.

A completely redesigned space, Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, features 10 treatment rooms offering an array of therapeutic services including water therapy, massage and facials. An intimate couple’s room is ideal for honeymooners, or for those who want to relax and spa together.

A glass mosaic tile mural featuring hummingbirds in a nature setting takes center stage in the whirlpool room. There’s also heated loungers and a steam room providing relaxation and renewal. A glass doorway leads guests to three manicure and four pedicure stations, a great way to recharge after a day in the theme parks.

Signature treatments include:

Saratoga Springs Signature Bamboo-Fusion massage 80 min $200
Combining the soothing effects of warm stones and the ancient technique of bamboo massage, this signature Bamboo-Fusion treatment is guaranteed to create a deep state of relaxation. The Bamboo massage technique incorporates bamboo stalks providing deep-tissue work.

Saratoga Springs Signature Revitalizing Blueberry Facial 80 min $195
This unique facial experience incorporates a double mask, hydrating lip treatment, acupressure and facial massage. Antioxidant and tannin-rich blueberries purify and tighten pores for a luminous, revitalizing youthful glow.

Disney offers additional facilities with traditional salon services, plus a limited menu of massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, plus a fitness center to soothe and unwind. These amenities are a convenient way to get a little “me time” right at your home resort. All five locations are now owned and managed by Disney so that means a whole new menu of relaxing and pampering services with a dash of Disney in décor and guest service.

Treatment hours are from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. with extended hours on weekends and holidays at Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Olympiad Fitness Center at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Study Branches Health Club at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Salon hours are typically 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily at La Vida Health Club and Casa de Belleza Salon at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Ship Shape massage Salon Fitness at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts and Ivy Trellis at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.

For more information, visit www.disneyworld.com/spas. To book a treatment at either spa, call 407-WDW-SPAS.

Disney Channel picks up Dog with a Blog for a 3rd season!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 8, 2014

Dog With A Blog gets a 3rd season pickup!

Disney Channel has ordered a third season of its hit comedy series, “Dog With A Blog.” It was announced today by Adam Bonnett, Executive Vice President, Original Programming, Disney Channel. The family comedy follows the talking and blogging canine Stan as he helps his owners, step-siblings Avery, Tyler and Chloe and their parents Bennett and Ellen, continue to adjust to blended family life and the typical challenges kids experience at school and beyond. A favorite with kids and families, the series is currently in its second season with new episodes airing FRIDAYS (8:30 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel.

Season to date, “Dog With A Blog” is TV’s #1 telecast on Fridays at 8:30 p.m. among Kids 2-11, Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14. For 2013, it was a Top 5 TV series among Kids 6-11.

In making the announcement, Bonnett said, “Its relatable characters and unique approach to storytelling has made ‘Dog With A Blog’ a show the whole family can enjoy together. Season three will continue to deliver laugh-out-loud sitcom fun from a dog’s point of view.”

“Dog With A Blog” stars G Hannelius as Avery, Blake Michael as Tyler, Francesca Capaldi as Chloe, Beth Littleford as Ellen and Regan Burns as Bennett. Stephen Full voices Stan, who is played by the canine performer, Mick.

Fans can continue to visit SeeStanBlog.com to catch Stan’s latest musings and play “Dog With A Blog K9 Coaching,” a follow-up to its popular game “Stan’s Sneaky Blog.” Additionally, kids and families can click on the “Be a Friend” link to watch the PSA featuring the “Dog With A Blog” cast covering Common Sense Media’s “5 Tips for Teens” and “10 Tips for Parents” for smart and safe use of digital media. Visit DisneyChannel.disney.com/tips for access to the tips.

Stay tuned for more Dog With A Blog!

Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Figure for Disney Infinity

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 8, 2014

The highly anticipated figure, Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey, is the latest character to join the wildly successful Disney Infinity video game franchise. Starting this Sunday, February 9, Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey will be available at retail stores nationwide for an MSRP of $12.99.

Check out Mickey and all his cuteness:

For the first time in more than 30 years, gamers will have the chance to experience Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey in a video game. The team at Avalanche Software chose this beloved version of Mickey, who is primarily featured at Disney Parks & Resorts, because they felt his mischievous nature and magical powers would deliver unique gameplay experiences to Disney Infinity. From magic broom sweeps to blazing fast energy bursts, Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey and his “Mickey’s Magical Escape” Toy Box adventure promises to bring fantastical fun to the Toy Box mode.

Players will also enjoy pairing Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey with other memorable Disney and Pixar characters from the past and present to create a number of outrageous scenarios such as having him hop into a vehicle to race Buzz Lightyear in Cinderella’s Coach and Sulley in Mickey’s Jalopy.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney Themed Valentine’s Family Movie Night with The Princess and the Frog

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 8, 2014

You guys know how I feel about a theme! I love to put things together and watch every detail fall into place! Today I’m combining my love for all things themed with my adoration of the best day of the year (well to me at least)…VALENTINE’S DAY! Today, I’m paring up one of my favorite Disney love stories, the Princess and the Frog with my favorite holiday!

There’s an old saying that you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. I say with 100% assurance that this is totally true! This post is the prince equivalent to that perfect pucker. Combining some true New Orleans favorites for your family with some crafty creations from Spoonful.com, this movie night is a crowd pleaser and a perfect way to celebrate a day the day of LOVE with your family!

What’s Cookin’?

Charolotte’s Favorite Shrimp and Grits

Ray’s Red Beans and Rice

Louis’ Brass Bread

Tiana’s Man Catching Beignets

Prince Naveen’s New Orlean Praline Ice Cream

Do the Decor

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate! Decorate for this night of family fun by throwing some Mardi Gras beads (traditional colors or pay homage to Valentine’s Day) into the bottom of a candle votive.

Play it up with creative props! Spoonful.com has an AWESOME collection of activities, crafts, and recipes. Make a Tiana’s tiara, debutante fan, or Dr. Facilier’s top hat.

Make a Mood

Set the mood with some simple clear Christmas lights

Play some music from New Orleans

Candles are must

Chocolates are welcomed

Play some games before the movie! A Princess and the Frog memory game it is as easy as click, print, cut and play! What a perfect way to wet your movie watching appetite as you digest your dinner!

And POOF! Just like magic, you’ve got yourself a wonderful Valentine’s Disney themed family movie night! I hope that you’ll check out my Pinterest board for more ideas to make this a magical night for your family. You’ll find links to recipes, crafts, and ideas there!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting!

See ya real soon,

Ashley

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