
You’re strolling along World Showcase before dinner one evening, and suddenly a gentleman brings out a chair or two, and asks for some “help”. Curious, you stop for a moment and wonder what on Earth he is doing. Before you know it, the person who “volunteered” to help, is perched high up in the air, and you are holding your breath hoping that the poor guy doesn’t fall and break his neck. He doesn’t, of course,
and you applaud this demonstration of balance, courage, and yes, a bit of Disney magic too.
It’s just another typical evening at Epcot. And one of many reasons why you shouldn’t go rushing from one attraction to the next, without stopping to be amazed and entertained every once in a while.
Probably everyone who visits Walt Disney World has a favorite “icon”: that one structure, building, or sign that just warms your heart and tells you that yes, you are back in that magical place you love. For many it is probably Cinderella’s Castle.
For me it is the stunning beauty of Spaceship Earth that tells me that I am home at last.

The are a lot of things I love about World Showcase in Epcot, at Walt Disney World. One of them happens to be the art and architecture depicted in each country. With respect for each country’s culture, heritage and traditions, and that Disney attention to detail, the imagineers have provided some true wonders. The temple in China is one of my personal favorites.
As August winds down and September gets ready to make an appearance, within a few weeks the Epcot Food and Wine Festival will be starting. For those of you who are lucky enough to be planning a trip during this especially delicious time of year, don’t overlook the entertainment that is available as well! Sometimes folks will just pop up right beside you as you are walking along, and before you know it, you are clapping, singing, and laughing along. Take these energetic fellows for example: they are the JAMMin’ Chefs, and if you see them setting up their impromptu kitchen, be sure to take a minute to check them out….But I warn you now, watch out or you will find yourself part of the show!
This is a beautiful resort: serene and calm, and it couldn’t be less like Disney World or Disneyland if it tried. Where everything at Disney World is all about going, going, going, here it’s about…..stopping, relaxing, unwinding. Among the shady oaks and spanish moss, it is impossible NOT to do these things…..Still, Disney does remind where you are…..just in case you forgot. And that Disney magic makes this beautiful place even more magical. I’ll be sharing more pictures next week when I get back.

One of the the things I like the most about The Land Pavilion at Disney World’s Epcot, is how light-filled and airy it is, seeming to celebrate not only the land we stand on, but the sky above that land as well, emphasizing the ties the each has to the other. So entering this building, it seems completely appropriate then to see these whimsical balloons, soaring overhead, on their way to who-knows-what magical place….
There is something about Disney’s Boardwalk that makes me think fun, and summer, and beach…. Of course that’s what it is supposed to do! Like any self-respecting boardwalk, it’s a great place to find fun and food, or take a stroll and people watch. Or do them all……

Most of the country is experiencing a heat wave at the moment…so isn’t it nice to celebrate Christmas in July and think “cool thoughts”? This beautiful Christmas tree is part of the lovely holiday decorations at Disney’s Boardwalk. If you are planning a December visit to Walt Disney World, taking time to visit all the resorts to see their Christmas decorations is a must!

Disney’s attention to detail is evident in every part of their theme parks and resort hotels….and it can certainly make visits to Disney World even more interesting and fun as you discover surprises just about everywhere, that help to tell a story. This racehorse and jockey, who have just won a big race and received a blanket of roses…of course are found at Disney’s upper New York State, horseracing themed resort, Saratoga Springs.

One of the things that I really love at Disney’s Beach Club is this little sitting room, tucked away off to the side, on the way to the Beach Club Villas. A sunny, tranquil setting, it’s a great spot to relax peacefully with a cup of coffee and the morning paper…or have an evening chat with a friend. Just goes to show, some of the best things about Walt Disney World are not found in the parks.