We’re Having a Birthday…and Celebrating with Disney Giveaways!

A little over two years ago, I had the crazy idea to start a blog about Walt Disney World. A number of things contributed to this, but the main reasons were probably a couple of questions that I get asked a lot:

  • “Why do you go to Disney World all the time? Don’t you get tired of it?”
  • “How do you afford to go to Disney World so often?”

Having a friend who knew all about blogs and such, I was encouraged to share my love for the Mouse and my desire to answer those questions, by starting a little blog of my own. First hosted over on Blogger.com, I quickly realized all the things that my little site could do and be, so before long I made the decision to become a “grown-up” website and www.theaffordablemouse.com was born. Read more

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Thrifty Thursday: The Magnificent Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian

During the holiday season, it is easy to find loads of FREE things to do at the Walt Disney World Resort. No one decorates on the level of Disney anywhere else and you are totally immersed in the spirit of holiday cheer. One prime example of decorating in Disney style is the Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.

This is a must-see for my family during every trip. We have had our Christmas cards taken in front of this magnificent house and we, in fact, take a family picture in front of it during every visit. The aroma is awesome; even for someone who doesn’t like the taste of gingerbread the scent screams holiday magic. It is a beautiful, and completely edible, masterpiece. Read more

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Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Toto, We’re Not in Florida Anymore

Waterfall at Wilderness Lodge Walt Disney Worldphoto via http://www.flickr.com/photos/kathika/2460948050/

When people ask me which Disney resort is my favorite, I usually hesitate giving the answer because I love so many of them for so many different reasons. I love the Epcot resorts because of their location and love Animal Kingdom Lodge because of the peace and serenity. I love Caribbean Beach because it is just so fun, and makes me think I am in the Caribbean!

But all things being equal, for a beautiful resort with amazing theming, I vote for Wilderness Lodge as my true favorite. It is an amazing depiction of a traditional Pacific Northwest lodge that is so successful in this effort that if you visit, you WILL forget you are in Florida. Even in the middle of the summer. 🙂 Read more

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Thrifty Thursday: Disney Rewards Visa Character Meet ‘N’ Greet

One of the perks I have always enjoyed about being a Disney Rewards Visa cardholder is the Character Meet ‘N’ Greet opportunity at Epcot. Susan and I will be taking advantage of this FREE opportunity during our trip next week. 🙂

It is very easy to get your free photo with special Disney characters and it is a wonderful memory to treasure for years to come. Even if you plan on making this a “cash only” trip, take your DRV card just for this purpose. You will be glad you did. Here is all you do: Read more

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Disney Vacation Planning: Saving While Packing for the Parks

Anyone who has visited WDW knows “forgotten” incidentals can really cost if purchased in the parks each day.  Even purchasing at the resort hotel can add up the unnecessary costs.  Packing your “to-the-parks” bag with these things each day can really save the day. Read more

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