Friday, June 1, 2012

Walt Disney World's Art of Animation Resort - Now Open!!

Photo by Susan Pazera

This past April when I attended the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration I had the opportunity to take a sneak peek at Walt Disney World's  Art of Animation Resort, the  newest value resort ( officially open as of yesterday!)  on Disney property.  Designed to immerse guests in the enchantment of Walt Disney & Disney Pixar's  animated films this Resort well..to use the words of Crush the Turtle..DUDE, this resort totally ROCKS! Walking into the beautiful landscapes and artistry of the films is truly a unique and magical experience for the whole family! The themed rooms include:


Finding Nemo Family Suites - ( This was the area I was lucky enough to have a preview of)
Cars Family Suites - Opening June1 8, 2012
The Lion King Family Suites - Opening August 10, 2012
The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms - Opening September 15, 2012


The magic starts immediately as you pull into the Resort. Larger than life images of beloved Disney characters adorn the outside entrance and continue into the bright and beautiful lobby area!
Photo by Susan Pazera

Photo collage of lobby area by Suzannah DiMarzio zannaland.com

The Pool area in the Finding Nemo section ( the largest pool of the 3 that are on property) is breathtaking. Your kids can splash and play in the "deep blue sea" and take a trip through the EAC with Crush, Squirt, and all of their favorite Finding Nemo friends!


Photo by Susan Pazera
Photo by Andrea Updyke lilkidthings.com

Photo by Suzannah Di Marzio  zannaland.com


The family suites ..oh my gosh..I have been waiting for a Value Resort to offer Family Suites for my large crew and these suites are absolutely fantastic! Starting at $249 per night they are designed to accommodate up to 6 Guests and include:

  • 2 separate bathrooms
  • A master bedroom
  • A kitchenette
  • 3 separate sleeping areas within the living space, that includes a generously sized dining or work table that easily transforms into a comfortable bed. ( pictured below)


Photo by Susan Pazera
Photo by Suzannah DiMarzio zannaland.com
 Photo by Susan Pazera
Photo by Suzannah DiMarzio zannaland.com
Kitchenette Photo by Suzannah DiMarzio zannaland.com

There are 1,120 family suites and 864 standard rooms to choose from. In addition there are 3 pool areas and 4 courtyard play areas, one for each themed area, for guests to enjoy! 

For more information and to book your room now. . ( I 'm going to today for our trip in September :) Visit http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/art-of-animation-resort/

Disclosure:  I paid a conference fee to attend the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at a deeply discounted rate. As a part of this conference, we were provided with complimentary items, special discounts and other benefits such as food and entertainment so that we could experience the magic of Walt Disney World. I was not asked to write about my experience. All thoughts in this post are my own.

Friday, April 13, 2012

Bounty "Bring It" Dinner Event with chef Michael Symon

Last week I was invited to attend the Bounty "Bring It" Dinner Event with Chef Michael Symon in NYC. I learned some really great cooking tips, how to make some delicious new recipes, and I was able to see firsthand how Bounty's improved trap & lock technology "locks in messes" with just one sheet!! I was very excited to try all of the recipes that Michael demonstrated so I ended up preparing them for my family's Easter dinner...with, of course, the  Bounty on hand for help with the prep and clean up!
Chef Michael Symon

Chef Michael Symon Bounty "Bring It" Dinner Event
 " In the kitchen you can't be afraid to get a little messy, so this opportunity with Bounty seemed like a natural fit"said Symon. "Just as Bounty has upgraded its paper towel, I've shared my tips and tricks on how to "upgrade" traditional family meals to get the most out of every meal." As a busy Mom of  four children I sure needed the help in "upgrading" as I find myself cooking the same things over and over again. Cooking dinner each evening has become something I dread..especially when it comes to the clean up. Bounty makes this part easy since you can use these improved  paper towels to clean up all kinds of messes.." from mud puddles in the foyer, to art projects at the dining room table, to spaghetti sauce on kitchen counter tops!" Check out this link to see how Bounty cleans with two times fewer sheets than the bargain brand!
Yes, that's me ( behind all the hair) getting some tips while prepping
We learned how to make Zucchini Fritters ( recipe below), and Pork Milanese. When Chef Symon removed the pork from the pan and placed it on the paper towel to drain I was surprised to see how much of the oil just one sheet of Bounty soaked up!! The Milanese is such an easy go to recipe and can be made with either pork or chicken. I did both of them and the Zucchini Fritters for our Easter meal this past weekend and everyone loved it. Simple and delicious this is a perfect weeknight recipe! And don't forget the Bounty...this Mom's new best friend! Cooking and cleaning up was so much easier for me. Bounty knows how important great value and performance is to families and it shows. Their Trap & Lock technology helps the sheets soak up big messes and lock them in. Bounty was really thinking of busy Moms with this technology...big messes are cleaned up with less paper towels needed!! A time and money saver!
Look at what just one sheet of Bounty can do!


Argula Mix for Milanese. I made this! 
The finished result - Pork Milanese from the Bounty "Bring It" Dinner Event
Crispy Gnocci with Morels and Spring Peas.  This dish was served with the dinner Chef Symon prepared
and I made this with our Easter Dinner . YUM!
Here are some of the tips I learned from the Event:
1. If you are making food from scratch don't worry about salt. Unlike with processed foods when you are cooking with natural ingredients it's ok to salt as you'd like( kosher salt, sea salt) since you know exactly how much you are putting in.
2. When using fresh herbs it is better to tear them than to chop or cut them to better keep the fragrance and flavor. ( You can put fresh herbs in a slightly damp Bounty paper towel and put them in the crisper in your fridge..they'll stay fresh longer)
3. Always heat the pan first then put in your oil..let the oil get hot and then add the ingredients.
4. Put the meat or other ingredients you are cooking into the pan away from you so if any hot oil splashes up it will splash away from you.
5. When making a salad.. rim the dressing  (olive oil , lemon) around the bowl and then work the greens into the dressing.
6. Let the meal "rest before the guest". No one likes to eat piping hot food. Let the meal cool down a bit before serving.

Be sure to visit www.bountytowels.com for more information or follow Bounty on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Zucchini Fritters with Feta and Dill - Recipe courtesy of Chef Michael Symon - Bounty "Bring It" Dinner Event

2 medium zucchini
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill ( plus whole dill for garnish
1 large scallion, white & green parts, thinly sliced on the bias
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
Grated zest of 1 lemon
1 large egg
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Canola oil, for pan-frying
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Course sea salt for garnish

Grate the zucchini on the large holes of a grater onto a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle with kosher salt and let it rest while you gather and prep the remaining ingredients.
Wrap the zucchini in a Bounty paper towel and wring as much liquid out of it as possible, discarding the liquid. In a medium bowl, combine the zucchini, mint, dill, scallion, garlic, pepper, feta, and all but one teaspoon of the lemon zest. Stir in the egg and flour and mix well until combined.
Prep for the Zucchini Fritters
Add the canola oil to a large shallow pan: you want about 1/4 inch or enough so that when all the fritters are in the pan, the oil comes halfway up their sides. Place the pan over a medium-high heat. Form fritters by hand or using a 1/4 cup measure, and fry them in the hot oil in batches. Cook until fritters are golden brown on each side, 4 to 6 minutes. Drain on Bounty paper towels.

Transfer the fritters to plates and garnish with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkling of dill, the reserved lemon zest and some coarse sea salt. Makes about 8 fritters: Serves 4
Photo courtesy of Chef Michael Symon

Friday, December 16, 2011

New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show

This holiday season make sure you head to Brooklyn to see the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show! My family had the opportunity to attend the show this year and it was fantastic!  I highly recommend attending in the early evening so that you can appreciate the gorgeous light displays throughout the Garden. The Holiday Train Show is a display of many famous New York City landmark replicas that are showcased throughout the train tracks. The detail is absolutely amazing and as you walk through the the display you can see many different types of trains coursing through the tracks. There is also an area where you can see how the replicas are made. My kids really enjoyed the Gingerbread Adventures. You walk through a path of festive decorations and Gingerbread Houses that the kids can play inside. There is also a cookie decorating workshop and of course, you get to eat your creation! You don't want to miss this one of a kind display..get there before the season ends!





 

About the Holiday Train Show

Within the enchanting setting of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, model trains zip over bridges and past replicas of New York landmarks made of plant parts such as nuts, bark, and leaves. Show favorites include the original Yankee Stadium, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge.

Artist’s Studio - NEW

This year visitors will get an insider’s look at how the replicas are constructed. Models in different stages of completion will show how a structure destined for the Holiday Train Show is framed and begins taking shape through the addition of plant material. Photos, interpretive panels, tools, and supplies help tell the story of how the magic comes together.

Gingerbread Adventures

Open during regular Garden hours for exploration
Children explore the spices that make up a classic gingerbread recipe. Kids can step inside a child-sized gingerbread playhouse and also decorate a gingersnap cookie with frosting and candies. All ages will enjoy viewing a display of gingerbread houses made by New York City-area bakers.

Holiday Film Festival

Fridays–Sundays, November 19–January 1
Enjoy holiday classics and cartoon favorites. Plus, get a behind-the- scenes look at the creation of the Holiday Train Show in a PBS documentary narrated by David Hartman and featuring exclusive interviews with designer Paul Busse.

The Little Engine That Could Puppet Show

Tuesdays–Thursdays, November 29–December 29, and Mondays, December 19 & 26
The classic tale of The Little Engine That Could ™ is brought to life in an exciting presentation by New York City puppet master Ralph Lee. The whole family can join the fun to get the determined train over the mountain!
(©Penguin Group USA)

NEW! All Aboard with Thomas and Friends at the Holiday Train Show

Daily, January 2–16
Thomas and Friends™ are pulling into the station! Join Thomas and Driver Sam on a fun-filled, sing-along, mini-performance.
(Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends ©2011 Gullane [Thomas] Limited.)

Get your tickets HERE

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Another Pixie Dusted Adventure at Walt Disney World



We just got back from another amazing Disney World vacation. (as much as I like talking about my Disney trips, I wish I was saying "One more day until Disney!") This trip was magical and special just like our trips in previous years but I was lucky enough to have some extra pixie dust sprinkled on me during our stay this time! We stayed at the gorgeous Animal Kingdom Lodge and had a beautiful room overlooking the Savanna.
Since it was my birthday & my youngest daughter's birthday we had a special treat waiting for us when we arrived to our room..YUM!
The Fall is a fabulous time to visit Disney World. It was a little hot our first few days but by the end of the week the days had a nice breeze and the evenings were cool and relaxing! And then there's Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party! So much fun and a "must do" if you are visiting in late September and the month of October! The Magic Kingdom closes at 7pm and park goers that purchased tickets for this evening full of tricks & treats are given wrist bands to stay in the Park until midnight. There's trick or treating, ( you have never seen so much candy!) character Meet & Greets, fireworks, and the parade..oh the parade! Disney Villians, the Haunted Mansion crew, Pooh Bear and the Gang, and so much more, it is truly a sight to see! Cinderella's Castle even gets in on the fun! Check out the Castle below and the special Halloween effects!
So, of course we had to dress up for this very special party and what could be a better way to prepare than a trip to the Bibbidy Bobbidy Boutique. The BBBoutique in Magic Kingdom is just behind the Castle and there you will find your fairy Godmother awaiting to take care of all your princess needs! From Snow White to the newest Disney Princess Rapunzel, they have everything you need to make a little girls fairy tale come true. My two Princesses chose Rapunzel and Tiana..the look on their faces when they got to see themselves made up as their favorite Princess, well, it was truly priceless. I'm getting teary all over again just thinking about it!

We had lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table earlier in the day so we wouldn't ruin the  make-up or outfits ( their idea, not mine. girly girls.. what can I say!) Truly a one of a kind experience, Cinderella's Royal Table is what every little girl ( and Mommies too) dreams of. Before you are even seated the magic starts with a greeting and picture with Cinderella! ( all photos are included in the meal price) Once upstairs Snow White, Ariel, Princess Aurora, and Belle stop by a visit each and every guest with hugs and smiles!

One of the highlights of this trip was attending the second annual Disney Mom's Panel Meet Up. I can't tell you how thrilled I was to get the chance to meet all of the amazing Moms (and Dads too) that make up this Panel. I have been to Disney World so many times that I know the Parks and Resorts inside and out...but these ladies and gents... well, they have the scoop on EVERYTHING...Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruises, Run Disney, you name it, they know it, and are happy to share it! Held at the Odyssey in Epcot, the Hall was transformed into sea of sparkling pink trees & pixie dust. Delicious food, Face painting ( and arm painting as well!) balloons, ( we even got to meet that ever elusive Daisy Duck) and best of all connecting and meeting this terrific group of Moms & Dads. It felt like hanging out with family, they are warm and friendly and have such an enthusiasm and excitement for all things Disney, you can't help but love the whole entire bunch!

The last day of our vacation began with a Sunrise Safari. The Sunrise Safari is a tour experienced offered only to guests staying on Club Level at AKL, It does cost extra but it is well worth every penny! We left bright and early from Animal Kingdom Lodge ( be sure to have something to eat in your room beforehand since the tour starts prior to the breakfast hours at the Kilimanjaro Club) and were taken over to Animal Kingdom Park for a behind the scenes Kilimanjaro Safari tour. To be up close to these beautiful exotic animals...what an unbelievable experience. We witnessed giraffes in full sprint enjoying the cool weather, mama and baby Elephant lounging by the water hole, warthogs ( Hello Pumbaa!), and so much more. Breathtaking, awesome, magnificent...those words do not even begin to describe our morning. The tour ended with a fabulous breakfast buffet at Pizzafari . The food was delicious and the staff was very accommodating. Our tour guide stayed and dined with the group and answered the many questions my little ones had for her about all of the animals. One of the BEST experiences of the many we have been able to take part in. We ended our day with dinner at Sanaa. ( and what a way to end a vacation!)  African cuisine with Indian flavors,  the food is as beautiful as it is delicious which is no surprise since "Sanaa" means artwork in Swahili.  I can't wait to go back again and enjoy more of Sanaa's fabulous menu..and we will be going back again..soon! ( February to be exact since I will be running the Disney Princess Half Marathon! )


I have been asked many times why I keep going back to Disney World time and time again. I hear " Don't you want to do something new?" My answer is always the same:  Each time we go to Disney World it IS something new. There is so much to see, and experience that it is never the same vacation twice. Whether it's a new Resort, a tour, parades, parties, a new restaurant, character experience,..each time is special and different. There is a comfort for me in going to Disney World, I know that anything is possible there and all of the cast members go out of there way to make it so! When I walk down Main Street at Magic Kingdom I am genuinely moved..you see..I get to be a little girl again and experience magic and make believe for myself and  with my children. I am a Princess and a Pirate with them and I get to feel their joy! Is there anything that is more precious? So when you are greeted at Disney World with a "Welcome Home"...it absolutely feels that way because the memories made there are forever part of the "home" in your heart... and as they say.."There's No Place Like Home"...especially when it's Disney!

Friday, October 7, 2011

OXO - Cookies for Kids' Cancer - Making a Difference




I recently held a "Bake and Bond" Cookie party at my house to support OXO and their Cookies for Kids' Cancer organization. We had a great time mixing, mingling, and of course, eating the cookies afterward. It is a great way to spend time with family and friends and all of you can help out this wonderful cause with something as simple & delicious as a cookie! Host a Bake Sale, Find one near you, Buy some cookies or Send a Virtual Cookie to someone special! OXO provided me with some fabulous baking tools to help in preparing our cookie batches! AND, I have 2 sets of these amazing OXO tools to giveaway! Comment below this article and let me know what your favorite Cookie is and you will be entered to win an OXO prize pack! Winner will be drawn at random and announced in next week's newsletter! Must be a SUBSCRIBER to be eligible!

ABOUT COOKIES FOR KIDS CANCER

Cookies for Kids' Cancer, a non profit organization , was founded by parents inspired by their son Liam's battle with cancer. They were shocked to learn that the main reason over 25% of kids diagnosed with cancer do not survive is because of a lack of effective therapies. And the reason for the lack of therapies was very simple: lack of funding. They pledged to support the development of new and better treatments by giving people a simple way to get involved.

It all started with 96,000 cookies...
Gretchen had a crazy idea for a larger-than-life bake sale with the goal of baking 96,000 cookies with friends and volunteers. Dozens of other families whose children were also battling Neuroblastoma got involved and began to take orders for cookies from friends, co-workers, and neighbors. All 96,000 cookies were sold in three weeks, thanks to the work of over 250 volunteers. The event raised over $400,000 for pediatric cancer research, but it was soon clear that something bigger than a bake sale had begun. Even weeks after the event was over, requests for cookies kept coming in. What started as a desperate act to raise money and awareness for her child's own cancer blossomed into something much bigger than any had planned. The event caught the eye and the hearts of the media and people all over the country. Emails from across the United States started flooding in asking the same simple question "what can we do to help?"
Be a Good Cookie
Make a difference by joining the mission to find a cure for pediatric cancer. There are many ways to support Cookies for Kids' Cancer. Hosting a bake sale is a sweet and simple way for people everywhere to get involved in the fight against pediatric cancer. Send our cookies for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because. Our cookies taste as good to eat as they feel to give.

And you don't have to eat or bake cookies to be a Good Cookie. Other supporters have run marathons, held tag sales, organized golf tournaments, collected spare change, and hosted car washes to support Cookies for Kids' Cancer. We've even made it simple to donate online once or once a month with online giving. The ideas are only limited by your imagination. No effort is too small and every penny counts.
Their mission:
Cookies for Kids' Cancer is committed to raising funds to support research for new and improved therapies for pediatric cancer, the leading cause of death by disease for children under the age of 18. Through the concept of local bake sales, Cookies for Kids' Cancer provides the inspiration and support for individuals, communities, and businesses to help fight pediatric cancer.
Facts about Kids' Cancers
Cookies for Kids' Cancer is not about one child or one type of pediatric cancer. It is about changing the facts of pediatric cancer for the better, forever. Important statistics to know:
  • Cancer claims the lives of more children annually than any other disease " more than asthma, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis & AIDS combined.
  • 46 children per day are diagnosed with cancer totaling nearly 13,000 new cases per year.
  • Cure rates have improved dramatically and advances in childhood cancer research has provided seminal insights into the cancer problem in general. Today, 4 out 5 children diagnosed with cancer can be cured.
  • While long-term goals for the pediatric cancer community will focus on securing more federal funding for childhood cancer research (more than the 1-2% of the National Cancer Institute budget that is current expended), philanthropy plays a critical and essential role in the ongoing battle against childhood cancer.








Friday, July 29, 2011

Grand Hyatt San Antonio - One of Texas' Shining Stars


The chic and trendy Grand Hyatt San Antonio located in downtown San Antonio, Texas offers 37 stories of luxury and an amazing view of the city's beautiful skyline. The Grand Hyatt SA is the place to stay if you want to  experience the culturally rich area of San Antonio. With it's history and local attractions like The Alamo, The River Walk, Sea World, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, you can enjoy a variety of vacation options in this vibrant and friendly City!


Upon entering the lobby of the Grand Hyatt San Antonio you are greeted by the stunning decor, modern with a Latin flair, the bold colors and gorgeous light fixtures give it the feel of an art gallery.  The staff is attentive and cheerful and call you by name from the minute you check in ( and they don't forget it, I love that) My room was spacious, beautiful, and spotlessly clean with the most comfortable bed I have slept on in years..I seriously had the best nights sleep while there!


Start your day with a quick trip to Perks Coffee & More located in the lobby. Delicious frappucinos, lattes, fresh brewed coffee, juice, muffins, and lots of prepared snacks you can grab and go as you head out to explore the many sites and sounds of San Antonio that are right outside your door! Literally, all you have to do is walk outside and you are right on San Antonio's famous River Walk. The best way to describe the River Walk is "full of life"! A 5 mile network of walkways along the San Antonio River, River Walk is lined with shops, restaurants, tranquil gardens, local craftsman selling unique jewelery, clothing, and decor, music, and much more. Take your time and stroll the Walk or hop in a water taxi and float along the river as you listen to mariachi bands, admire the architecture, and hear about the history and landmarks of the area. Other local attractions like the San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World, Market Square, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden are located just a short distance from the Grand Hyatt San Antonio. This City has so much to offer you are sure to find the vacation experience that fits your family's needs!



The hotel's heated roof-top lap pool has a breath taking view of the City. Spend the afternoon lounging poolside or end your busy day with a quick dip as you take in the sites of the skyline. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the 3 fabulous restaurants at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio. The Achiote River Cafe located on the River Walk offers an exciting Pan Latino menu. Treat yourself to a mojito and some ceviche as you overlook the San Antonio River at Terrace Bar  or have some sushi and cocktails at Bar Rojo.


My family had a great time at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio. The location was perfect for us with all of its marvelous amenities and easy access to all that San Antonio has to offer. San Antonio and the Grand Hyatt will see us again soon! For more information on the Grand Hyatt San Antonio visit www.grandsanantonio.hyatt.com or call (210) 270-8498.


The Smurfs in 3-D


Our little blue friends the Smurfs are back and taking on the Big Apple! Only 3 apples high themselves, the Smurfs need to figure out a way to get back to their mushroom village after being chased out by the evil wizard Gargamel. Transported through a magic portal they find themselves on the busy streets of New York City. Join Papa Smurf, Smurfette ( voiced by Katy Perry), Clumsy, Grouchy, Brainy, and Gutsy Smurf as they meet new friends Patrick & Grace ( Neil Patrick Harris & Jayma Mays), expectant parents whose lives are turned upside down by the arrival of these tiny blue beings. With Gargamel ( Hank Azaria) in pursuit they have to find their way home before they end up in his clutches. 

I had the opportunity to preview The Smurfs 3-D with my family in tow and we all enjoyed it. The movie had many of the familiar elements of the Smurfs TV cartoon that was on while I was growing up; the Smurfs theme song ( remember "la-la la, la, la la sing a happy song"?), the cute little mushroom village & teamwork of all the Smurfs together, and, of course, Gargamel and his sidekick Azreal the Cat, still trying to capture the Smurfs! Watching the Smurfs as they navigated their way around famous NYC landmarks ( Central Park, FAO Schwarz,Times Square, etc.) was very entertaining!  It's hard enough to make your way through the City as a "human" let alone as a Smurf and the director, Raja Gosnell,  had us laughing all the way through the "smurfy" dialogue as we get to experience the Smurfs in modern day. We had so much fun following the Smurfs on their journey back to Smurf Village. It was wonderful to share something that I grew up watching with my own children. ( I confess, I still have my Smurfette doll tucked away in a keepsake box). Clever with just the right amount silliness mixed in, The Smurfs 3-D is a great movie for the whole family! And at just under just under an hour and a half, the movie is the perfect length to keep the attention of  little ones. 

A heart warming story about Family and sticking together, the Smurfs 3-D, will charm parents and a whole new generation of children! Welcome back Smurfs! The Smurfs 3-D opens this Friday 7/29. ( Be sure to stay tuned through the credits to see how the Smurfs NYC experience influences the rebuilding of their Village :) )

Some Fun Smurf Facts:

  • The Smufs have been around since 1958 and were originally called the "Schtroumpfs"
  • Hank Azaria, who played Gargamel, shaved his head for the role. He spent over a 130 hours in a make up chair during the process of making the movie.
  • Smurfette is the only female Smurf (see the movie to find out why)
  • Three new Smurfs are introduced in the movie: Crazy, Gutsy, & Panicky.
  • Smurfs are vegetarians
  • For many years the Smurfs were part of the Ice Capades shows
  • It took 3 years to develop the script to the Smurfs movie