Thrifty Thursday: Your Best, Free Souvenir

Pins are awesome. That adorable Elliott over there on the right is one of my all-time favorite Disney things. He shows off my particular brand of Disney insanity and makes me happy when I’m feeling down. 

But I’m not much of a pin collector, really, because they’re so darn expensive. That Elliott? He cost me something like $8. Which is really quite an investment, when you consider the fact that I could have a Mickey bar and a bottle of water for that price.  Read more

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Thrifty Thursday: Wishes Fireworks & Dessert

 

Wishes from the Poly Beach
Wishes from the Poly Beach (via Mouse on the Mind)

Everyone wants tickets to the Wishes Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. What could be better? Awesome desserts, a great view and Tinkerbell flies right over your seat.

It’s kind of magical. But, at $20-30 for an adult ticket, it’s also kind of expensive. 

Enter one very magical solution: The Polynesian Beach! Read more

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Thrifty Thursday: Disney at Home

Ohana Chicken Wings (Mouse on the Mind)

Your car needs a new motor. Your husband lost his job. The IRS has slapped you with a giant fine. Life costs money. Sometimes more than you have. And at that point, a flight to Orlando (not to mention on-site lodging and daily Park tickets) simply isn’t an option.

When money is tight and a visit to the Mouse House just isn’t in the cards, I like to make a little Disney magic in my kitchen. It’s easier than walking to Orlando, cheaper than eating out, and more fun than eating the same old brussels sprouts and dry chicken breast. Read more

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Thrifty Thursday: Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2012

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival: six words that are sweet, delicious music to every Disney foodie’s ears. 

Walking around the World Showcase, sipping and snacking, is a great way to spend an afternoon (or two … or three) during Food and Wine, but it’s not exactly the most cost-effective way to get your Disney dining done. 

But never fear! I’ve been to the Food and Wine Festival, and I’ve got you covered. Here are my top five picks for the thriftiest treats at this year’s festival: 

Pumpkin Mousse from Hops and Barley (Mouse on the Mind)1. Pumpkin Mousse from Hops and Barley (American Adventure) 
Not only is this the cheapest eat on my list at $1.50, it’s also my all-time favorite Food and Wine snack. Yes, it’s small, but there are four or five good bites here, and every one of them is delicious. It’s got cool, creamy pudding,  chewy craisins and a little bit of crunch from the oat crumble topping. Perfect, delicious and thrifty.

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Thrifty Thursday: Guilt-Free Tours

I visit Disney World a lot. But it never feels like a lot because, during each visit, I find something new and exciting to explore or discover. Recently, I experienced my first Disney tour–Segway Around the World Tour–and I’m super excited to try some of the other offerings.

But I’m not made of money, which is why I was so excited to discover that Disney’s tours are available at a range of price points, from insanely expensive to reasonably priced to free. Yes, free. 

Is there anything thriftier than free? (Staying home, I guess … but that’s not any fun.)  Read more

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