Why I Think Family Vacations Are Worth Missing School For

Every year, when my kids were younger and it was time to plan our family vacation, my husband and I faced the same dilemma: do we take the kids out of school, or try to squeeze in a trip during a holiday or summer break? For us, the answer has almost always been to go ahead and take the kids out of school. While some might argue that missing class time is a bad idea, we've found that the benefits of taking our kids on these trips far outweigh any potential downsides. In this post, I'll share why I believe taking kids out of school for a vacation can be a good idea, based on my own experience as a parent. From bonding as a family to experiencing new cultures, there are plenty of reasons to consider taking a break from the classroom for your next family adventure.

Benefits of taking your kids out of school for a family vacation

Taking kids out of school for a family vacation may seem like a risky choice, but the benefits can far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Here are a few reasons why I believe it's worth considering:

A. Time to bond as a family - Family vacations provide a unique opportunity to spend quality time together, away from the usual distractions of work, school, and other obligations. - By exploring new places, trying new things, and making memories together, families can strengthen their bonds and create shared experiences that last a lifetime.

B. Opportunities for experiential learning - Traveling to new places can be an incredible learning experience for kids, offering a chance to explore different cultures, cuisines, and ways of life. - Visiting museums, historical sites, and other educational attractions can be a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about history, science, and other subjects.

C. Chance to recharge and relax - School can be stressful for both kids and parents, and taking a break from the daily routine can be a great way to recharge and relax. - Getting away from the usual responsibilities and stresses of daily life can help everyone feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

D. Exposure to different cultures and ways of life - Traveling to new places can broaden kids' horizons and expose them to different cultures and ways of life. - By experiencing new foods, languages, customs, and traditions, kids can gain a greater appreciation for diversity as well as an appreciation for where they live.

E. Other advantages - Visiting places during off-peak travel times means less crowds, cheaper rates and easier availability of flights and accommodations. - Visiting friends and family with different school calendars may offer an opportunity to connect more closely with them.

Overall, I have found that the time spent as a family during a vacation is much more important than the time missed from school. By taking advantage of the unique opportunities that family vacations offer, parents can create lasting memories and strengthen their relationships with their children.

How to manage schoolwork during a family vacation

One of the biggest concerns parents have about taking their kids out of school for a family vacation is how to manage schoolwork while they're away. Here are some strategies that I've found helpful:

A. Take advantage of travel time - If you're flying or driving to your destination, use the time to work on assignments or study. - Pack laptops, textbooks, or other materials that your child may need to complete assignments.

B. Communicate with teachers ahead of time - Let your child's teachers know about your travel plans and discuss any assignments or tests that will be missed. - Ask for assignments or readings that can be completed during the trip.

C. Keep a journal or document the trip - Encourage your child to keep a travel journal or blog, documenting their experiences and observations during the trip. - This can be a fun way to engage with the destination and provide a record of the trip that can be shared with teachers and classmates.

D. Plan ahead - Try to schedule your trip during a slower period of the school year or during a school break. - Get assignments and readings ahead of time, so that your child can stay on track while away.

E. Talk to the school administration - If you're concerned about missing school, talk to the school administration or your child's guidance counselor. - Explain your reasons for taking the trip and discuss any concerns you may have about how it will affect your child's academic progress.

Overall, I've found that most teachers and schools are supportive of family vacations, as long as parents communicate with them ahead of time and make an effort to keep their children on track with schoolwork. By being proactive and planning ahead, parents can help ensure that their kids don't fall behind academically while still enjoying the many benefits of a family vacation.

Opportunities for learning during family vacations

One of the most rewarding aspects of taking our kids out of school for family vacations has been the opportunities for learning and cultural enrichment that these trips have provided. Here are some examples of the educational experiences our kids have had while travelling:

A. Experiencing different cultures - Our kids have had the opportunity to travel to different countries and experience new cultures, including those that are less fortunate than our own. - They have seen firsthand the struggles of children who have to work instead of attending school, and those who are begging on the streets. - These experiences have helped them to appreciate the opportunities and privileges that they have in their own lives, and to develop empathy and compassion for those who are less fortunate.

B. Exploring historical sites - We've taken our kids to historical sites such as Washington DC, Gettysburg, and Mt. Vernon, where they've been able to learn about important events and figures from American history. - These trips have helped bring history to life for our kids, making it more real and tangible than just reading about it in a textbook.

C. Trying new foods - One of the fun things about travelling is trying new foods from different cultures. - Our kids have been able to sample foods from around the world just by visiting places like EPCOT, where they can taste authentic cuisine from different countries.

D. Engaging in educational activities - We've printed out puzzles and word searches that relate to our destination for road trips, which have been a fun way to engage our kids in learning while on the go. - We also encourage our kids to journal their experiences, take photos, and make videos, which helps them to remember what they've learned and share it with others.

Overall, we've found that family vacations can be a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about the world and broaden their horizons. By taking advantage of these opportunities for cultural enrichment, parents can help their kids to develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them and become more informed, empathetic, and compassionate individuals.

Conclusion: Traveling with your family is priceless

In conclusion, taking your kids out of school for a family vacation can be a wonderful decision with many benefits. By spending quality time together as a family, visiting less crowded locations, and experiencing different cultures and historical sites, you can create lasting memories and deepen your family bond. Additionally, many teachers are understanding and supportive of family travel, and students can often keep up with their schoolwork while on the go.

Most importantly, family travel can be a priceless opportunity to learn about the world and gain a greater appreciation for the people and places around us. By exposing our kids to different cultures, historical sites, and new experiences, we can help them develop empathy, compassion, and a broader worldview.

As a parent, I've come to cherish the memories and experiences that family travel has given us. From exploring new places and cultures to spending quality time together, these trips have brought our family closer and helped us appreciate the world around us. I hope that my children will continue this tradition when they have families of their own, and that they too will see the value in taking time away to explore, learn, and grow together. And now that my oldest is taking trips with his friends and chatting with me about the places he hopes to visit, I can see that I have instilled a love of travel in him, which makes my heart incredibly happy.

So, if you're considering taking your kids out of school for a family vacation, my advice is to take the leap and go for it. You won't regret it, and I guarantee that you'll come back with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's exploring new cultures, experiencing history firsthand, or simply spending quality time together, family travel is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. So why not start planning your next adventure today?

Beat the Heat: Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Visit Disney World

Summer is just around the corner, and for many families, that means it's time to start planning your annual Disney vacation. I know that traveling to Disney World during the summer months can come with some challenges, such as the heat and the crowds. But fear not! I'm here to show you why a summer trip to Disney World can be an unforgettable experience that's worth braving the heat for. From exclusive events to unique dining experiences, there are so many reasons to visit Disney World this summer. So, grab your sunscreen, a hat, and your sense of adventure, and let's explore why you should visit the most magical place on earth during the summer season.

Here are just 5 reasons to visit Disney World during the summer:

1. Longer park hours: Disney World typically extends its park hours during the summer months, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in the park. This means that you can enjoy your favorite rides, shows, and attractions for longer periods.
2. Fun summer activities: Disney World offers a variety of summer-themed activities and events that are perfect for families and children. These activities include water parks, pool parties, outdoor movies, and other seasonal experiences.
3. Great weather: Although it can get hot during the summer months in Florida, the weather is generally pleasant and sunny, making it perfect for spending time outside and enjoying the park's many outdoor attractions.
4. Special events: Disney World hosts several special events during the summer, including the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney After Hours at EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. These events provide visitors with unique experiences and opportunities to explore the parks in new and exciting ways.
5. Summer discounts: Disney World often offers special discounts and deals during the summer months, making it an affordable time to visit the park. From discounted hotel rates to park ticket packages, there are many ways to save money on your Disney World vacation during the summer.

Disney's H2O Glow Nights

First let's focus on the different events offered in the summer. Disney H2O Glow Nights is a separately ticketed event that takes place at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park during select nights in the summer. The event features a special glow-in-the-dark theme, inspired by the Pixar short film.

"Partysaurus Rex". By the way, I love this song! The entire album is fun to listen to, DConstructed.

During Disney H2O Glow Nights, guests can enjoy shorter wait times for popular water park attractions, as well as special entertainment, including a DJ dance party, and character meet-and-greets. There are also special food and beverage offerings, including a limited-time menu and glow-in-the-dark drinks.

Overall, Disney H2O Glow Nights is a fun and unique way to experience Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park, with a special theme and entertainment offerings that are not available during regular operating hours.

Disney After Hours

Next up, Disney After Hours events at both Hollywood Studios and Epcot can be a great option for guests who want to maximize their time in the park, experience popular attractions with shorter wait times, and enjoy unique entertainment offerings that are not available during regular operating hours.

During Disney After Hours events, guests can enjoy exclusive access to the park after it has closed to regular day guests, meaning that wait times for popular attractions are significantly reduced. In addition to shorter wait times, guests can also enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, as well as special character meet-and-greet opportunities and entertainment offerings.

At Hollywood Studios, attractions may include rides like Slinky Dog Dash, Tower of Terror, Star Wars Rise of the Resistance and Smuggler's Run with shorter wait times. Meanwhile, at Epcot, guests can enjoy attractions like Test Track, Frozen Ever After, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind and Soarin' with shorter wait times and exclusive access to select restaurants and snack locations. Tip: check walk up availability for Oga's Cantina. 

Disney After Hours events officially begin at 10:00pm but with your event ticket you can get in as early as 7p. Tip: if you arrive early at EPCOT, you can watch EPCOT Forever. And let's not forget a tip or Hollywood Studios: arrive early and try and catch Fantasmic. Please note that offerings can vary from year to year. After Hours events are only offered on select nights throughout the summer. They can sell out so it's best to buy your tickets in advance.


Attending the Disney After Hours events at Hollywood Studios and Epcot can provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the parks in a whole new way and maximize your time there during the summer. With the added benefit of the events taking place in the evening, after the sun has gone down, visitors can enjoy a cooler and more comfortable temperature than during the daytime.



EPCOT Food and Wine Festival
One of my favorite festivals at Epcot is the Food and Wine Festival. This event runs from late July through mid-November. I love the opportunity to try new foods and rediscover some of my past favorites. During the festival, guests can enjoy a wide variety of food items from around the world, showcasing different cuisines and flavors.

In addition to the food offerings, the festival also features live concerts that are included with park admission, located at the America Gardens Theatre. This is a great way to experience some great music while enjoying the festive atmosphere and delicious food. Some of the performers this year include. Hoobastank, Boyz II Men, Ray Parker Jr., and Sugar Ray to name a few.

All in all, the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is a must-visit for foodies and anyone who loves to explore different cuisines and flavors. It's a great opportunity to sample dishes from around the world, enjoy live entertainment, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Epcot during this special event. 

Over the years, I have attended Food and Wine Festival several times. I really enjoy sampling the beer or wine flights in the different countries. Some of my favorite dishes are the Maple Bourbon Boursin Cheesecake with Maple Bourbon Cream, Caramel and Pecan Crunch, and the La Passion Martini Slush made with Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, Cranberry, and Passion Fruit Juice. Additionally, my family loved the Loaded Greek "Nachos" made with Pita Chips, Meatless Sausage Crumbles, and Vegan Tzatziki so much that we developed our own recipe and make it often at home. We also enjoy the Teriyaki Chicken Bun, which is a steamed bun filled with Chicken, Vegetables, and a Sweet Teriyaki Sauce from Japan.


Disney Springs
While the after-hours events at Disney World and festivals offer a unique way to experience the parks, there's another destination at Disney that offers a different kind of fun and entertainment. Disney Springs, located just outside the theme parks, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience some of the best of Disney dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Visiting Disney Springs in the summer can be a great option for guests who want to take a break from the theme parks and enjoy some shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings in a more relaxed atmosphere. For the best experience, I suggest visiting Disney Springs early in the day to avoid crowds or taking advantage of the cooler weather in the evenings by visiting later in the day. 

As an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, Disney Springs offers guests a wide range of experiences, from luxury shopping to family-friendly activities. During the summer months, guests can enjoy live entertainment like street performers and musicians, as well as special events and limited-time offerings.

Disney Springs is home to a wide range of dining options, from quick-service eateries to upscale restaurants. Guests can enjoy everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, with options for every taste and budget. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that dining reservations are often necessary for the most popular restaurants at Disney World. If you have your heart set on a particular dining experience, be sure to make a reservation well in advance to ensure availability.

The Springs also offers a variety of unique shops and boutiques, offering everything from Disney merchandise to designer fashion. Whether you're looking for souvenirs to bring home or simply want to browse and shop, Disney Springs has something for everyone. Visiting the Springs in the summer can be a great way to take a break from the theme parks and enjoy some shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings in a more relaxed atmosphere. You may be wondering if I have any favorites at Disney Springs. I do! My top favorite eateries are Wine Bar George, Hangar Bar, and Gideon's. And here's something you may not know: many times you will find George, the owner of Wine Bar George, working at the restaurant, ensuring every guest has a memorable dining experience. So, whether you're in the mood for wine, craft beer, or mouth-watering cookies, you won't be disappointed.




Staying in the middle of the magic
Staying on-property at Disney World is the best option for experiencing the magic bubble that Disney World has to offer. When you stay at one of Disney's on-site hotels, you're not just getting a place to sleep - you're immersing yourself in the full Disney experience from the moment you arrive.

One of the biggest advantages of staying on-property is the convenience factor. Disney's on-site hotels are located just a short boat, bus, monorail or Skyliner ride away from the theme parks, which means that you can easily come and go from the parks throughout the day, without having to worry about driving, parking, or navigating unfamiliar roads. This is especially valuable during the hot summer months, when you may want to take a mid-day break and retreat to your hotel for a nap or a swim. With complimentary transportation options available throughout the day and evening, you can rest assured that getting to and from the parks will be a breeze.

  

Another advantage of staying on-property is the level of theming and immersive storytelling that Disney is famous for. Each on-site hotel has its own unique theme and design, from the grandeur of the Grand Floridian to the whimsy of the Art of Animation resort. When you stay on-property, you're not just staying in a hotel - you're entering a world of Disney magic and imagination.

Staying on-property also comes with a number of perks and benefits, such as early access to purchase Individual Lightning Lane Entry, complimentary transportation throughout the resort, and early theme park entry. These perks help to create a truly seamless and immersive Disney experience, where every detail is taken care of and every moment feels like magic.

Sometimes, after a long day at the parks, there's nothing better than taking a relaxing evening in your hotel room. With so many great dining options available at Disney World, you can easily pick up some delicious meals to go and enjoy them in the comfort of your own room. Whether you're in the mood for a pizza, a salad, or some sweet treats, you're sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. As you dine, you can catch up on your favorite movies or TV shows, or even watch a recording of the park's nightly fireworks displays on your hotel room's TV. It's the perfect way to unwind after a busy day and recharge for the next day. 

Art of Animation Resort

Grand Floridian

Ultimately, staying on-property at Disney World is the best option for fully immersing yourself in the Disney experience and enjoying the magic bubble that Disney is famous for. From convenience to theming to exclusive perks, there are countless reasons to choose an on-site hotel for your next Disney vacation. Disney World is currently offering a special room offer for summer 2023. Guests who book a stay at select Disney Resort hotels can save up to 25% on their room. Restrictions apply and discounts are based on availability. I am happy to put together a personalized, no-obligation quote based on your preferences and needs. Simply click here to fill out my Disney Vacation Inquiry form and provide me with some basic information about your travel dates, party size, and any specific requests or interests you have. From there, I will use my expertise and insider knowledge to create a tailored itinerary and quote that suits your unique needs and budget. So don't hesitate - take the first step towards your dream Disney vacation today!

In conclusion, despite the hot temperatures and crowds, there are plenty of reasons why visiting Disney World in the summer is a magical experience. From the exciting after-hours events to the delicious food festivals and everything in between, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And with the convenience of staying on-site, you can easily take a break from the heat and crowds whenever you need to. As a travel agent, I highly recommend considering a summer trip to Disney World for a truly unforgettable vacation.  

Ready to plan your dream summer vacation to Disney World?
So, do you think you're ready to experience the magic of Disney World this summer? From thrilling attractions to unique dining experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. As a travel agent, I'm here to help you plan the perfect summer getaway that's tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing resort stay or a jam-packed park adventure, I can help you create a vacation that's unforgettable. So why wait? Contact me today to start planning your summer Disney vacation, and let's make your dreams come true!

Thanks for reading my blogpost! Be sure to follow my travel adventures on Facebook and Instragram @GwendolensTravels. Or click here to learn more about me and to start planning your magical vacation.

From Raptor Encounters to Butterbeer: Just two of the things I love at Universal Orlando Resort

 

Looking for a fun Vacation!

Looking to plan a thrilling family vacation? Look no further than Universal Orlando Resort! With the choice between Hogwarts and the Velocicoaster, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable adventure. Skip the lines on almost every attraction with an Express Pass, which can be included with your hotel stay. Need help planning? Don't hesitate to message me for tips on making your family trip a spontaneous and exciting one!

From Raptor Encounters to Butterbeer: read about my experience on Velocicoaster and why I love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Are you a thrill seeker?

The Velocicoaster at Universal Orlando Resort is an incredible ride that left me feeling exhilarated and amazed. The ride is thrilling from start to finish, with incredible speeds, twists, turns, and inversions. What I loved most about the ride was how smooth it was, despite all the intense maneuvers. The seat technology is different from other roller coasters, with no shoulder restraints which made me feel so free when going upside down. Overall, the Velocicoaster is an amazing roller coaster that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an exciting and thrilling experience at Universal Orlando Resort.

One of the great things about the Velocicoaster is the queue experience. From the moment you step into the queue, you're transported into the world of Jurassic Park and the Jurassic World franchise. There are many Easter eggs and references to the movies throughout the queue, which is a treat for any fan.

A highlight of the queue is the containment room, where you get to see a raptor up close in its cage. For me, it is the most impressive part of the queue. Getting to see a life-sized raptor animatronic up close. The raptor is incredibly detailed and realistic, with every detail of its skin and features expertly crafted. It's an amazing experience that makes you feel like you're right in the middle of the action.

Overall, the queue for the Velocicoaster is an amazing journey in itself, and it's definitely worth taking the time to explore and appreciate all the details that have been included. It's just one more reason why the Velocicoaster is one of the best rides at Universal Orlando Resort.

Do you love getting lost in a fictional world?

On the other hand, when I visit Universal Orlando Resort, I also love spending time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It's a completely different experience from riding the Velocicoaster, but equally enjoyable in its own way. I love people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere, and there's no shortage of incredible details to admire in this immersive world. One of my favorite things to do is to try the different foods and drinks, including the famous butterbeer. It's also great fun to wear my Hogwarts robes and use my interactive wand to cast spells and explore the shops and attractions. In the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I feel like I'm transported to my favorite fictional world, and I can easily get lost in the experience for hours on end. It's a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan or anyone who loves immersive theme park experiences.

When it comes to total immersion, the queue for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey has to be the best you'll ever experience in a theme park. As you wind your way through the castle, you'll feel like you're really at Hogwarts, with incredible attention to detail and theming that makes you feel like you're part of the wizarding world.

From the moment you enter the castle gates, you'll be surrounded by incredible architecture, statues, and artwork, all designed to transport you to the world of Harry Potter. You'll walk through the Hogwarts Dungeon, past the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and even through Dumbledore's office. Along the way, you'll encounter various interactive elements, such as the talking portraits, that add to the immersive experience.

One of the highlights of the queue is the sorting hat ceremony, where you'll be sorted into your Hogwarts house before boarding the ride. It's an amazing experience that really makes you feel like you're a part of the story. 

After you exit the ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, you'll find yourself in Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods, a gift shop filled with all sorts of wizarding world goodies. The gift shop is a treasure trove for fans of the Harry Potter books and movies, with plenty of nods to the characters and stories throughout. You'll find all sorts of items for sale, from Hogwarts robes and house scarves to wands, magical creatures, and Quidditch equipment.

Pro Tip: Want to experience the immersive theming of Hogwarts Castle without riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey? Let the ride attendants know you do not wish to ride, and they'll direct you to a bypass line that takes you straight to the castle entrance. From there, you can explore the queue and its many immersive elements, including Dumbledore's office and the talking portraits, without going on the ride.

 

Ready to Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime? Check Out What's Included in Our Universal Package!

A Universal Orlando Resort package is a convenient way to book your vacation and often includes:

1. Accommodations: The package includes a stay at one of Universal Orlando's on-site hotels or a nearby partner hotel.

2. Park tickets: The package includes admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and Universal's Volcano Bay water theme park.

3. Express Passes: Depending on the package you select; you may receive complimentary Universal Express Unlimited Passes that allow you to skip the regular lines at most attractions.

4. Early park admission: Many packages also include early park admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or select attractions at Universal Studios Florida or Universal's Islands of Adventure.

5. Airfare: a variety of flight options are available.

6. Transportation: Some packages may include transportation to and from the airport and between the parks and hotels.

As you can see, there are many benefits to booking a Universal Orlando Resort package, including accommodations, park tickets, Express Passes, early park admission, transportation, and dining plans. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right package for your family's needs and preferences. That's where a travel agent can help! As your travel agent, I can work with you to help you choose the best package for your family, taking into account your budget, travel dates, interests, and more. Plus, I have insider knowledge and can provide you with tips and advice to make the most of your vacation. So why not let me help you plan a fun and memorable vacation to Universal Orlando Resort? Contact me today to get started!

Thanks for reading my blogpost! Be sure to follow my travel adventures on Facebook and Instragram @GwendolensTravels. Or click here to learn more about me and to start planning your epic vacation.

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The scary season is upon us!

Do you love being scared out of your mind? I can assure you that I Do Not. I am a big chicken and at 40 something years old, I'm still afraid of the dark. The haunting season is fast approaching with Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights beginning September 3 and running through October 31, 2021.  A couple years back I had the opportunity to attend Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Orlando.  Here is a little background on my specific experience. A group of fellow agents and I did the RIP Tour. The RIP Tour comes with several benefits that included:

• VIP Entrance to Universal Studios
• RIP Tour guide
• VIP access to each haunted house
• Reserved seating to live shows
• Unlimited Express Pass to all other attractions and rides
• RIP Lounge access
• Complimentary valet parking

    Our evening started by entering Universal Studios through the VIP entrance and heading right over to check in for our tour. From our vantage point on the second floor we could see the crowds of people waiting to get into the park for an evening of frights. Having the VIP entrance, we were able to skip waiting in the long lines at the gate. Once all the day guests had exited the park it was time for the scaring to begin. Our guide escorted us through our first scare zone over to Cafe La Bamba for some complimentary food and beverages. This dining location is exclusive to RIP tour quests. The food consisted of tiny bites. There were Swedish meatballs, mac & cheese bites, mini beef wellingtons, mini quiche, and Asian chicken satay. For dessert options there were mini pies, cupcakes, and cookies. There was also a cash bar if you needed to purchase a some liquid courage. I didn't feel I needed any courage right off but did get some later in the evening at one of the RIP exclusive cash bars located inside the park. 

    The first scare zone we walked through was Revenge of Chucky. This zone featured possessed toys from your youth. I was dreading this one the most. I am not a fan of taking cute toys and making them scary. I mean why would you do that? To my surprise this scare zone was a piece of cake to walk through. Most likely because it was still light out. Now, had it been later in the evening I probably would have felt differently. After our first scare zone we headed out into the thick of things. All I could think was, "OMG, what have I gotten myself into?"

    Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) 2018 consisted of 10 houses and 5 scare zones. There were only two houses I was interested in. Poltergeist, cause I had seen that movie several times as a kid. And Stranger Things, as it was very popular at the time. I sill hadn't seen the show but once I returned home  I binged watched the entire series. That leaves 8 houses that I new nothing about. But this is where having an RIP guide really pays off. Before entering each house our guide would pull us off to the side and give us some background on the story and what we could expect to see inside. We would then be escorted to the express line and off we marched into the unknown. Our guide would be waiting for us, along with anyone in the group that chose not to enter the house, at the exit. 

    For each house I had my own protocols. First, I refused to be at the front or the end of the line. Second, I needed a buddy. Someone to guide me through the house because for 8 of the 10 houses my eyes were either closed or I was looking at the ground. If my buddy screamed I would immediately close my eyes. I wasn't taking any chances that I would have nightmares. Yes, I know. I'm a big chicken. 

   Now, how about a house that I did see with my own two eyes, the Poltergeist House. I was so impressed with how Universal was able to recreate the scenes from this 1980's movie. The outside facade was the inside of the pool with the house above you. You enter the house through the graveyard that house was built on. Then you walk into a room with Carol Anne putting her hands on a TV. And who doesn't remember the steak crawling across the counter? You also got a chance to see Marty looking at his reflection with his face peeling off. Eww! Then you entered the bedroom where a giant tree had smashed through the window and Robbie is being strangled by that scary clown doll. Next you walked into the closet and followed the blue light where Tangina would pop out. From here it was a series of other world rooms with scare actors, a giant skeleton head, and more scares from the clown. The last room featured a tv, but this time Carol Anne's hands were on the other side. I'm still amazed at what a great job Universal did with this house. 

    You move through the houses rather quickly so I'm sure there were things that I missed inside the Poltergeist house. If you love attention detail and don't want to miss any of it, I'd suggest attending Halloween Horror Nights more than once in a season. They do offer passes for multiple nights. And if you really want to see how they create the scares you should consider the Unmasking the Horror Tour. This a a daytime, VIP tour of multiple houses with the lights on (separate theme park admission required). This tour is definitely on my must do list for next time.

    After we completed all the houses we had the rest of the night to ourselves. We did take a little break from being scared and wandered around Diagon Alley. There are no scare actors in here so it's a great place to compose yourself before heading back into the scare zones or houses. When we were ready to call it quits we walked out a as group through multiple scare zones. Pro Tip: If someone in your group is terrified of getting caught off guard by a scare actor consider having a safe word. Ours was, "BANANA!" Anytime one of us saw something approaching our group we would shout that out.

    Halloween Horror Nights is a great event and is a lot of fun with a group of friends. If you would like more information on attending message me at gwen.dupuis@mei-travel.com. The first Halloween Horror Nights 30 is September 3, 2021. That's just around the corner.

Cricut Cake

What a great tool. I would love to win one of these. I enjoy making cakes and this would make my cakes so much nicer. Check out the DIY Dish at www.thediydish.com/2010/04/episode-4-a-birthday-for-your-tweetheart-big-giveaway-too/ If I could figure out how to embed the video I would but I just can't get it to work.

Two Mom's Disney Getaway!

Our trip is getting closer. Only 25 days now. I have been working on my lists of what I want to see and what I want to shop for. Hoping to see Wishes from the Poly and maybe the electric water pageant. We also are considering having tea at the Grand Floridian. Some of the hotels we would love to walk around are the Boardwalk, Yacht & Beach, Port Orleans, & Wilderness Lodge. Just to name a few. It's so exciting to make all these plans and not have to worry about what the kids want to do. It is also our mission to get pictures of each of us. Being mom's we're not usually in any of the pictures. We're always taking the pictures. I'm going to guess that I'm going to take at least 800 pictures in the three days I'm at the World. Now to work on my to do list so I'm ready for my trip.

A New Plan

Well I'm not going to Disney with my sister. There were a bunch of factors and it just wasn't going to work out. It was a downer but I have good news. I'm planning a new trip with one of my best friends. I'm very excited. We are going to go to the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival, some shopping in Downtown, and resort hopping. This is so exciting. I can hardly contain myself.