Disney Store 25th Anniversary Celebration
Photo Credit: EH
I was able to attend the celebration today held at Mall of Georgia Disney Store located in Buford, GA. I am also a Cast Member at this store. My main role is a member of the Stage Set Team. When you walk in the store and see merchandise moved around or new items on stage, the Stage Set Team has moved fixtures and merchandise usually on a Sunday evening into early Monday morning for new sales or promotions. I began working for The Disney Store several years ago on a part-time basis. However, I had to stop working two times due to full-time job obligations. I started working again for the company in 2008 and reached my three year mark in November of last year.
I attended the celebration with friend, Kelsey F (@Kelskc and N3rdGrl blog founder). When I arrived at the mall, there was already a line and a trivia game was being played to keep the guests entertained. I was allowed in the store early due to Cast Members receiving gifts for the anniversary. I was surprised and pleased to see how the company was showing their appreciation to the Cast Members. Of course I fell in love with everything from the Light-up Sorcerer Mickey Vinylmation to the napkins and cups for us to use with our snacks. I also enjoyed talking to Cast Members who I do not see on a regular basis due to my work schedule at the store. I walked around the store with my Mickey Mouse ears on talking to other guests about Vinylmations, attending One More Disney Day (I had my shirt on) and just going the park.
I had a wonderful time at the “party” with fellow Cast Members and Kelsey. Below are pictures taken at the store as well as the gifts I received. If you attended the celebration at your Disney Store, please feel free to let me know how you enjoyed your experience.
Wonderful co-workers and Cast Members!! Photo Credit: EHCast
Photo Credit: EH
Cast Member Gifts!! Thank you so much Disney Store and Happy 25th Anniversary!! Photo Credit: EH
Disney Behind The Scenes – Kevin M. Richardson
Photo Credit: voicechasers.com
Kevin Michael Richardson is a voice actor who has worked on several Disney films and series. Some of his work includes:
- Gantu in the Lilo & Stitch franchise
- Ian the Alligator in The Princess and the Frog
- Ray-Ray and Jim Crow in The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning
It has been reported that Mr. Richardson is the voice of The Ghost Host during HalloWishes, the fireworks show held during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. I just enjoy HalloWishes.
Partnership with Destinations in Florida Travel Agency
I am excited to announce that Diz Thru Brown Eyes has formed an affiliate partnership with Destinations in Florida Travel Agency.
I know from experience that it takes a great deal of planning for a Disney trip to be magical, fun, and most of all memorable. Destinations in Florida Travel Agency is a Florida based travel agency with offices in Orlando, FL and Ponte Vedra, FL. All of the agents are certified Disney College of Knowledge Graduates as well as certified by Universal Studios as Specialists.
There are two promotions taking place at the Walt Disney World Resort that I would like to mention:
Free Disney Dining – Guests visiting the Walt Disney World Resort August 25th – September 27th staying at a Disney Value Resort can get Quick Service Dining free or if staying at a Moderate/Deluxe Resort, Basic Dining is free.
Military Discount – Active or retired military can save up to 40% off the Walt Disney World Resort Hotels with a special discount. Plus, add the Basic Dining Plan to save even more money on your visit. The military discounts are good through 2012.
If you would like quotes for Disney Vacations, Disney Cruise Packages, or Universal Orlando, follow the designated links below:
Get the best price on your Walt Disney World Vacation Package… Guaranteed!
Disney Cruise on Your Horizon?
Get a quote on a Universal Orlando Vacation Package
There is also a banner on the sidebar of the blog that will take you directly to Destinations in Florida Travel Agency. Double click on it and start planning your magical vacation with the help of an experienced agent !!!! Let your agent know, Diz Thru Brown Eyes sent you!!
Mean Muggin’ Monday
Today’s mug comes from The Disney Store. It is a reusable travel mug that was a part of the Earth Day merchandise line several years ago.
Photo Credit: EH
Fabulous Find Friday
The item I am presenting this Friday is the Disney Classic Messenger made by Harveys The Original Seatbelt Bags. Now I will warn you that I have a thing for bags. I was first introduced to these bags in 2009 while in California for the D23 Expo. Since that was my first time at Disneyland, I was walking around Downtown Disney and saw one of the bags in a window. I had to go into the store to inspect the bag even closer. I love being different and a bag made out of seatbelts was right up my alley. I currently own three Harveys bags, with 2 being Disney. The bag really is made of automotive seatbelts printed with a Mickey Mouse comic strip. Other Disney touches included Mickey Mouse charms, Mickey ears zipper pull and a Disney lining. I can fit a binder, wallet, and iPad inside with some room to spare. The bag can be purchased at Harveys Seatbelt Bags . The messenger retails for $168.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Tasty Thursday – Mom’s Meat Loaf
It was cold in Georgia not too long ago, believe it or not. When it’s cold out, I want comfort food. Warm, tasty, and not always healthy foods is perfect such as macaroni and cheese and mashed potatoes. I decided to go with Mom’s Meat Loaf from 50′s Prime Time Cafe at Disney Hollywood Studios.
I have never eaten at this restaurant, but read good things about their meatloaf. I usually make Turkey Meatloaf but decided to give this a go. I knew it would have lots of flavor and not dry out with the combination of beef and pork, and it did not disappoint! I love a meatloaf with a sweet glaze and the addition of the Dijon mustard gave it a little kick. My wonderful host here at Diz Thru Brown Eyes even ate some (and if she hasn’t told you yet, she is a very picky eater). She did end up picking out the red and green bell pepper but I wouldn’t expect anything less from her.
You don’t have to wait until next winter to make this meatloaf! It would be great for a Sunday dinner or when company is coming over. Don’t forget to come back next month to see what I made to accompany this main dish. Enjoy!
Mom’s Meat Loaf
From Allears
Ingredients:
2 lb. lean ground beef
1 lb. ground pork
4 eggs
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
Salt & black pepper to taste
1/2 cup onions, diced
1/4 cup green peppers, diced
1/4 cup red peppers, diced
1/2 cup ketchup
1 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350º and prepare a loaf pan with cooking spray. Combine meats, eggs, bread crumbs, 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add vegetables. Place meat mixture in oiled loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour (internal temp 155º).
2. While meatloaf is baking, combine ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Brush meatloaf with meatloaf glaze. Bake another 10 minutes. Let meatloaf set 10 minutes, cut loaf and serve.
Being A Member of D23
Photo Credit: EH
I have been a D23 Gold Member since the Charter Year of 2009. I did not sign up on the first day but waited until April. I have been to several D23 events:
- 2009 – D23 Expo
- 2009 – Magic and Merriment
- 2010 – D23’s 1st Anniversary Party
- 2011 – D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt at WDW
- 2011 – D23’s Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th
- 2011 - D23 Expo
Other than information gained at events, I have also met many Disney fans. On several of the events I was a solo attendee. Several participants welcomed me into their groups to prevent me from being alone. Over the years, I have kept in touch with people I have met and still meet up with them during D23 events.
I look forward to attending the 2013 D23 Expo with friends and the planning has begun. I did notice a big change between the 2009 and 2011 expo. The 2009 expo was over a course of four days vs. the 2011 one being three days. I do remember long lines in 2009 but the lines in 2011 were ridiculous. If you wanted to attend programs in the Arena you had to be in line at least a hour before and was still not guaranteed to get in.
I have registered for D23 Disney Fanniversary Celebration in Orlando on 6/23. It was nerve racking to get registered due to the site being overloaded. Per the website, “each show will be hosted by a Disney archivist and D23 team member and will highlight the rich behind-the-scenes stories of these magical moments through rarely (or never-before) seen film footage, concept art, photography, and exclusive interviews with many of your favorite Disney Legends and luminaries.” The event is being held on different dates in Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco (which is reported being sold out), Chicago, and New York. I cannot wait to do a post on my experience at this event.
There are so many different views about D23, the events, the price of events, location of events, lack of perks, etc. I feel this “official club” could use a makeover in some areas. However, I will still renew my membership and attend events.
Are there any memorable D23 events you have attended? One of my favorites was touring Cinderella’s Suite during Magic and Merriment.
Photo Credit:EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Mean Muggin’ Monday
Today’s mug or shall I say tumbler was given to me as a Christmas gift by my nephew. It is a Tervis Tumbler with a Disney twist. My favorite princess is Princess Tiana. I had been talking to my sister about wanting to design a Tervis with her on it. So imagine my surprise when I got one as a gift. You can purchase a tumbler here at Tervis Tumbler. There are several sizes of the hot/cold drink-ware and designs that you can use to customize your cup. You can also purchase accessories such as lids, straws, and handles.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Fabulous Find Friday
The item being presented this Friday is a Mickey Mouse notepad by Disney by Britto. Romero Britto is known for his colorful and bold designs. It is a tri-fold notepad that stays closed with a magnet. I found the notepad at a Hallmark store in Orlando, FL. It retails for $6.95.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Mean Muggin’ Monday
Today’s mug was given to me by nephew, who I refer to as Baby Jacob. He knows his auntie spotlights Disney mugs on her blog. I could not help but smile ear to ear when I saw the mug because one, it had Mickey Mouse on it and two, MY NAME IS ON IT!!! The mug was ordered from PersonalzationMall.com . They also have Disney plates, a bowl, a reusable travel tumbler, and a cookie jar.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Fabulous Find Friday
The item I am presenting this Friday is the 7” Light-Up Vinylmation. I am a huge Vinylmation collector and knew I had to add this to my collection. This Vinylmation was released at D-Street on 3/2. It comes in four colors and with 2-AAA batteries. There is also an on/off switch on the bottom. As you can see I chose green. The Vinylmation retails for $24.95.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit:EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit using Instagram: EH
Tasty Thursday – Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Photo Credit: JG
Good day all! I am JoVonn (@jhgive) and excited to be a contributor to Diz Thru Brown Eyes. I have had a food blog The Givens Chronicles for almost 3 years and I am happy to now share my cooking here. I will be featuring recipes from your favorite Disney restaurants and resorts on the second and fourth Thursday through September. Some of them I have tried while in Orlando and some I look forward to trying in the future. I tend to adapt recipes to my family’s liking and what I have on hand, but I will always link back to the original recipe. Also, I have found that many of the recipes’ measurements are based on weight and I know that not everyone has a kitchen scale so I will be converting those for you. If you do like to cook, I encourage you to get a kitchen scale because weight is more accurate than volume; I love my scale!
Now on to the good stuff. This has been some unpredictable weather we are having so I decided to make a soup first (for those of your who have been affected by the recent tornadoes that ravished the Midwest and South, my thoughts are with you). I have visited Boma twice, once for breakfast and again for dinner. I love it, even my husband enjoyed it. It reminded me of my trip to South Africa a few years ago with a myriad of flavors influenced by different cultures. I enjoy the combination of coconut and curry and have made similar soups before. It was a little on the spicy side so I had this all to myself, and I’m not complaining. I used chicken thighs because they are flavorful and remain moist. Make this soup before the warm weather is back for good!
Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Adapted from Allears
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 Tbsp. curry powder, toasted and divided
4 ounces (1/2 cup) oil
3 ounces (about 1/3 cup) butter
3 ounces (about 1/3 cup) flour
1 quart (4 cups) chicken stock
8 ounces (1 cup) coconut milk
8 ounces (1 cup) onions, diced chunky
8 ounces (1 cup) red bell peppers, diced chunky
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and sliced
8 ounces (1 cup) potatoes, diced chunky
8 ounce (1 cup) diced tomatoes, drained
5 ounces (2/3 cup) honey
Cayenne pepper, to taste
½ cup cilantro, chopped
Shredded coconut (optional)
Directions:
1. Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon curry powder. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken until golden brown and ¾ done; set aside.
2. Melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux in a small saucepan; set aside.
3. In a large pot, heat chicken stock, remaining curry powder, coconut milk and roux. Let simmer until thickened.
4. Add the vegetables (except the cilantro) and seared chicken. Cook until chicken is done.
5. Add honey and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with cilantro and shredded coconut.
Mean Muggin’ Monday
Today’s mug was inspired by One More Disney Day. Yes it is a Magic Kingdom mug. It retails for $14.95.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
My 24 Hours in the Magic Kingdom
Photo Credit: EH
On December 31, 2011, it was announced the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland would be open on February 29, 2012 at 6am until March 1, 2012 at 6am. I was so excited that I made resort reservations before the ball dropped in Times Square to ring in 2012. Reservations were made at Pop Century Resort and soon thereafter flight arrangements were made as well.
When February 29th arrived, I was nervous as well as hyped to be at Walt Disney World. The nervousness was due to me not being a night person. Yes, I can be in bed by 9pm and up to start the day about 5am. I just hoped if I feel asleep on Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover, my mouth would not be open. My roomie and one partner in this adventure, was Sara M. (@DisneySara) of MickensMouse.com. Sara designed the shirts the group would be wearing. I must say they were a hit.
Photo Credit: EH/SM
Sara and I got up at 4am met and our other friend Shaene C. (@Shaene_o_Mite) at the Pop Century bus stop by 4:45am. Phil (@PAdams626) called to let us know that he was on his way to park at the Ticket and Transportation Center. There were several people in line who were talking and laughing despite it being so early in the morning. The first bus arrived around 5am and we were off.
The media event was still taking place when we arrived. In January, I think, Disney emailed a link to Annual Passholder to register for a special pair of One More Disney Day Mickey Mouse Ears. According to the email, the first 1000 passholders to register would receive the ears. I nor several others did not receive the email to register. I found out about the offer after the fact. Once getting in line at the turnstiles, Sara and I observed several people being let into the roped off area to get into the park. Sara went to speak to the Cast Member and waved me over. She explained Annual Passholders were being let into the park to get special event Mickey Mouse ears due to information not being received by all registered passholders. We were given our ears and the event button. There were several people in the area talking and watching Mickey and Minnie, dressed in their PJs, on stage filming for news spots.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
The Mayor of Main Street opened the park and away we went. I grabbed a times guide that did come in handy. The first stop was the Emporium to purchase the men’s version of the shirt. I liked the colors better than the women’s shirt. A watch was available at both parks and Disneyland also offered a jacket. The items were also made available online at DisneyStore.com from February 29th – March 1st. The Emporium was a madhouse and long lines to check out. Despite that people did appear in a good mood. My group was taking pictures and tweeting.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
I took it easy in the park. I mean, I had 24 hours. The group ate breakfast at Crystal Palace and the rest of the day we had counter service. Lunch was mostly snacking and drinking to stay hydrated. Dinner consisted of a BBQ Slaw dog from Casey’s Corner. I had fun playing Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom. I am hooked on collecting the cards. Sara and I went back to Magic Kingdom to get another set of cards. Splash Mountain stood out because we took a “nap” on it.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: Disney/SC/SM
Photo Credit: EH
I began to feel the pain of being up since 4am around 10pm. I was moving slow, but determined to not be that adult crying because I was so tired. I will say another motivation for remaining awake was having my friends, including my sister, take bets of when I would fall asleep. The times were from 7:01pm to 11pm. I showed all of them. It was hard between the hours of 12am – 4am. There was a dance party in front of the castle called Disney Dance the Night Away Party from 1am – 5:30am. Dancing and laughing did help keep me awake. The chocolate and caramel covered cashews did give me an energy burst at the very end.
I walked out of Magic Kingdom exactly at 6am. I was so proud of myself. However, the celebration could not take place until I got some rest. I finally got settled around 8am. I got back up after 12pm and due to being so tired I did not know where I was.
I am still feeling the effects of One More Disney Day as I type this. I hope to be back on track by Monday. Would I do it again? When walking out of Magic Kingdom at 6am on 3/1…NO!! After some days have passed, that has changed to a YES!! There was nothing like being with friends in the Magic Kingdom for 24 hour. What a way to spend an extra day of the year.
Photo Credit: EH
Blog Contest Winner of my One More Disney Day Contest
Photo Credit: EH
Fabulous Find Friday
The item I am presenting this Friday is a Mickey Mouse journal. I was drawn to this journal based on the multicolor hardcover and of course the different “moods” of Mickey Mouse. The pages are lined and Mickey Mouse is at the bottom of each page. The journal can be found at the Disney Parks and DisneyStore.com . It retails for $14.95.
Photo Credit: EH
Photo Credit: EH
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