Tuesday Disney Tips: Weight Watchers at Disney World

Some of you might know that I began the Weight Watchers program thirteen weeks ago. I started the plan to try to get trim and fit before our December cruise on the Dream. I have lost 23 pounds so far. The thing I really like about the WW Points Plus program is that I can negotiate the use of my points based on my lifestyle. In other words, if I know I have a party to go to on Friday night, I will minimize my points usage throughout the day in order to save more for the evening. I get extra bonus points each week also, so I can save those and use them whenever a sudden craving comes on during the week.

By the time Susan and I leave for our Girlfriends Trip in September I will, hopefully, have reached my goal and started the maintenance phase. My main objective for September is to thoroughly enjoy my trip without gaining any weight, so that I won’t have to struggle to lose it before the cruise. Read more

Thrifty Thursday: Tips for Making Your Disney Dream Come True

As you read on Tuesday, I have recently been reminiscing about my family’s trips to Walt Disney World while preparing the board for my son’s upcoming graduation party. In remembering all of our wonderful times, it became increasingly important to me to make sure that I have done my part to try to make a Disney vacation seem attainable to everyone – even those who think there is no way to visit without spending a fortune.

Walt always said, “if you can dream it you can do it.” Today, I am going to give you the insight on every tried and true money-saving tip that my family has used throughout the years. I am hoping that by incorporating any or all of these ideas, you can make your dream of taking a Disney vacation a reality for you and your family. Read more

It’s Snack Time in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

JAMBO, EVERYONE!!!!  The latest addition to the Walt Disney World parks is Animal Kingdom – the gateway to all things 4-legged!   The animals there graze and snack away all day long, and I am no different!!   Although AK is my LEAST favorite of the parks, it is my 1st choice for snacks.   Due to the heat of the Florida summers, it is best to keep your snacks light & cool when visiting this park, and with all of their great choices, this is not hard to do. Read more

Thrifty Thursday: Voyage of the Little Mermaid

One of my favorite attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is The Voyage of the Little Mermaid. We used to enjoy this show as a family but now my macho big boys have outgrown it for more thrills. So, it has evolved into one of the special mother-daughter activities that Kristen and I share at the parks. This indoor show is Disney at its best!

This 17-minute show is presented every 20 minutes beginning at 9:45am. Located in Animation Courtyard, which is typically a high-traffic area, the crowds start to develop after the first or second showing. So, try to see the show before lunch as the crowds get bigger as the day goes on. VOLM does have Fast Pass service, but you will notice that, unlike most FP attractions that have 1-hour windows, the Voyage of the Little Mermaid has a 10 minute return window. Be sure to look at your FP ticket closely so you will not miss your return time. Read more

Smart Snacking Around the Magic Kingdom

I absolutely love the Disney Dining Plan (DDP)! I find dining to be an attraction at Walt Disney World…can you tell I like to eat? One of my favorite things to do when we are on the DDP is to be on the hunt for fabulous snack options.  We see our snack options as more of a meal rather than a snack.  Magic Kingdom is my favorite park so I want to share the best ways to use your Disney Dining Plan snack credit at Magic Kingdom.

Before we begin, you are looking for items that are labeled with the DDP symbol. (shown here…)

First stop….Main Street USA!! Read more