Busy Summer
Michelle went to Walt Disney World and Jayne went on the Disney Dream - quite the busy summer! Listen in as we begin to unpack our experiences.
Summer is Looming
What travel plans do you have for the upcoming summer? Listeners will know that Jayne is taking a family cruise on the Disney Cruise Line, where as Michelle is heading to Walt Disney World.
Let us know where you will be going.
2024 Begins
Show 485 begins Michelle's unpacking of her December 2023 trip to Walt Disney World. Initially so discusses about the plus and minus points of staying at Walt Disney World Dolphin.
Meanwhile, our Patreon supporters were able to hear an exclusive review of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
Travel Minus 7 Days
How has it got so close so soon! Single digits and a mere week to my first taste of Walt Disney World at Christmas in person. The excitement is real in the household!
How is it almost Christmas?
Way back in February we booked a pre-Christmas trip to Walt Disney World. Suddenly, the countdown has shrunk to a staggering 27 days (as of typing). Our dates are 16th to the 24th December and we will be staying at the Dolphin hotel. The hotel part is very exciting, not only as it is classed as a delux, as it is only a short walk to EPCOT.
I have never been to Walt Disney World for Christmas so being able to enjoy everything to offer at EPCOT is a big must - of course I have to go to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party too!
More updates as the countdown gets smaller!
Princess Cruise Line - To Alaska
This was my second Princess Cruise (and to catch you all up I have cruised Royal Caribbean and Disney before also) and we were sailing from Seattle to Alaska.
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| Photo Credit Princess Cruise Line |
The food. Wow! We were travelling with our friend Tommy from The Cruise Dudes and were hosted to attend a 360 dining experience as well as Chef's table. These events took our breath away and left us with very full stomachs! We ate at two upcharge eateries and they were reasonable priced and tasty. This only left a few nights in the main dining room. The food was good but not amazing.
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| White Pass Railway |
Did I miss that it was not Disney - in some aspects yes. However, the fact it was a few thousand dollars made up for it as the trip was to a destination rather than a Disney trip - if that makes sense.
WOW!
As you will hear on the podcast, Jayne and I have been on our travels. Jayne had an amazing experience on the Disney Dream sailing Northern Europe with stops in Norway, Copenhagen and Bruges. Meanwhile, Stateside I visited Anaheim, Seattle and Alaska. You will have to stay tuned to the podcast to hear all about our trips!
Planning Begins
The countdown is hovering around 100 days until I set sail on the Discovery Princess from Seattle to Alaska. I had to pay my final balance and that meant it was time to finalise our excursion list. My oh my! From sled dog rides to walking on a glacier - the choice was endless! However, budget in mind, we chose 3 excursions. Plus we decided on some upscale dining options onboard. For $39 each I felt that this cost was great value - especially when compared to what I had paid on Disney Cruise Line
Meeting Tony Baxter
This starts with a flashback of around 5 years and I was delivering a lesson to my class about people I admire. I told them about a Disney imagineer called Tony Baxter, who had begun his career at Disneyland scooping ice-cream. Then I shared with them all the amazing theme park attractions he had been involved with.
On my April 2023 trip to Walt Disney World, we had the opportunity to attend a fundraiser for Give Kids the World, where the main speaker was Tony Baxter. I finally met the man, whose work in the Disney theme parks I had talked about for so long.
April 2023
Walt Disney World did not disappoint!
Whilst I was in Walt Disney World, Jayne had attended Star Wars Celebration in London. Again, there is a trip report awaiting for you over on the podcast.
Happy New Year! This year is going to be massive... In 2019 we booked an Alaska cruise with Disney Cruise Line - departing August 2020. Alas, Covid 19 came along and that got moved to August 2021. Again, it got cancelled. Maybe it is a thing of third time lucky: we wanted to visit Alaska so we have booked similar itinerary but not Disney.
In August 2021, we went on a staycation cruise with Princess Cruise Line from Southampton. This took us - well to nowhere; we didn't get off the ship until we landed back at Southampton.
Here you will find out more about the ship I will be travelling on - Discovery Princess
We loved it so when looking to book Alaska for 2023 we decided to go via Princess. The price was a lot lot less than Disney and we (in comparison) were getting a lot more such as Wifi, a drinks package and all cruise gratuities were included. So prepare for more more cruise chat!
December 2022
Anyways, we left Vegas a day early - we were done! More on the podcast :-).
August 2022
Travel month! Another Disney adventure awaits and boy what an amazing itinerary this one has. 10 nights at Pop Century with my amazing friend Caroline and then 3 at the Beach Club. During the WDW part of this trip, I have MNSSHP planned twice!
June 2022
What a busy month to be a Disney fan! The Disney Wish had its Christening and Star Wars Celebration tickets went on sale for 2023. We also saw an Adventures by Disney trip that took theme park fans to every Disney park - prices started at $109,000!
May 2022
Oh my! DLP - what a blast! The theme park is striving to bring fans the very best 30th anniversary ever! We have lots of audio to share with you this month from food to 30th offerings.
Also, we are nearly at half a million downloads - wow!
April 2022
Michelle can finally say she is going to a Disney theme park this month - the first time since 2019! So many changes have happened. No doubt post trip there will be a trip report.
Disneyland Paris was amazing! We stayed at the recently refurbished Hotel New York: Art of Marvel and was not disappointed. It was beautiful. The rooms were very much upgraded and the communal areas were light, bright and packed with amazing art pieces linking to the theme.
Also during April, we interviewed Len Testa about his experience on the Galactic Star
cruiser (currently only available to our Patreon supporters) as well as helping out some listeners with some data based questions.
February 2022
So travel is now starting to look like a reality so Michelle has booked a post Easter trip to Disneyland Paris!
During December, we were kept busy crafting and creating our own Disney trees at home.
Meanwhile, our podcast family kept us entertained and shared details and photos of their trips - which we are thankful for.
November 2021
The parks became resplendent and all ready for the Christmas season. Genie + and Lightening Lanes were yet further phrases we had to learn and fathom out how best to use them in order to get the most out of our trips.
We were fortunate to have so much content brought to us by our American friends, who have been able to get to the theme parks so make sure you listen !
October 2021
Our October shows brought news from the parks on their Halloween offerings - some good and some bad. Did you get to travel?
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, neither of us were able to make it to a theme park in 2021 however, Michelle did reveal her plans for 2022 so all crossed it happens!
September 2021
Well Michelle managed a touch of magic! On show 376 she talks about her UK Staycation on the Disney Cruise Line.
August 2021
Well over here in the UK everyone is really excited about the possibilities of Staycations! Who would have guessed that the Disney Cruise Line would have offered up to four night sailings, from the UK, where you just sailed! But they did and they have been selling like hot cakes!
July 2021
We kick off the month of podcasting, with a fabulous guest trip report, detailing what it was like in the park's as restrictions were being lifted.
June 2021
So far it has been a bumper month for the Disney fan. Disneyland Resort has been a hive of activity with the Avengers Campus opening. So far, we haven't had a guest on the show with a personal trip report but watch this space!
May 2021
Michelle, together with her good friend Caroline have taken the plunge and booked on the Disney Magic for a Staycation Cruise! Know, here's to hoping it is a case of third time lucky!
April 2021
Disneyland will be re-opening, The Cruise Line is coming to the UK and there is a real feeling of hope around Summer 2021! Have you been able to make any plans?
March 2021
At the end the month, Disney Cruise Line announced it would be sailing the Disney Magic around the UK shores. Whilst information is not due out until early April - this has definately got the fans of cruising in the UK excited - what about you? Would you be interested in this?
During this month, we were incredibly luckily to be joined again by Len Testa. Len graciously outlined his plan for upgrading the Walt Disney World transportation system. This was a fabulous show and if you haven't caught it yet - it's show 353.
January 2021
Who would have thought back in January 2020 that neither of us would have been able to visit a theme park? It sure has been the most unusal year. However, we have strived to keep bringing content to the airwaves to keep you entertained - well that has been our aim!
This year we will keep doing so - whether we make it to the parks personally - or not!
December 2020
Christmas for both of us was not what we had planned! Michelle was planning a Walt Disney World Christmas and Jayne at least wanted to be deep in trip planning. Alas this did not happen and again - Michelle caught Covid so really there wasn't much of a Christmas for her and her family.
However, we managed to get together and shared three shows reviewing our favourite WDW lobby's and shared Disney news and history. We hope you enjoy and we wish you a Merry Christmas
November 2020
We brought out 5 podcasts this month all with a slightly foodies focus - heck its nearly Christmas right? Hope you enjoyed them!
October 2020
Since November 2019, Michelle had been waiting for knee surgery. This had already been cancelled one (back in March due to Covid Lockdown measures in the UK) but the hospital rang with a date - right in the middle of her booked Newport Bay Club stay at Disneyland Paris. To be fair, the way the UK was going with quarantining it would not have happened.
So what does a Disney fan to to console themselves? Well focus on the merchandise and Aoctober brought both Halloween and Christmas! So our social media was filled with lots of images of things we had both bought. Jayne went one step further and did a house redecoration for the spooky season.
September 2020
September was an incredibly busy month for Michelle and Jayne as it saw them back to working - face to face - in their own education settings. As you can appreciate this was an incredible busy time and well unfortunately there wasn't much time for podcasting.
However, we did welcome to the show our wonderful friend Len Testa and he shared top tips for family member Athony's upcoming Walt Disney World trip.
August 2020
Well the amazing Disney cruise didn't happen for Michelle and Jayne didn't get to book a much needed trip to Walt Disney World. This was the pretty much the case for everyone. However, we do feel blessed that some of our podcast family managed to visit and share the magic with us.
On the show, we welcomed new guests Daniel and and Jamie and they shared a wonderful trip report from Disneyland Paris. MIchelle announced a trip to DLP due to the amazing feedback they gave us.
July 2020
As Covid ploughed on and many of us had to cancel trips, we endeavoured to keep the podcast going with lots of Disney escapism.
We did a couple of shows based around the mountains of the Disney theme parks, which we hope you all enjoyed. Also, our friend Seth Kubersky popped by to talk about his visits to the Orlando theme parks.
It was exciting to see Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris open but sadly the plans for Disneyland were cancelled.
June 2020
This month brought the news the Splash Mountain would be re-themed around the Princess and The Frog Franchise and we pondered about the other films that could have been used.
Michelle cancelled her Disney Cruise Line trip and Jayne threw all plans to book a trip out of the window. Like many others, we were realising that Disney travel was not going to happen for quite a while.
May 2020
Towards the end of May, Michelle began to feel ill with the symptoms of Covid-19. Luckily testing had just been expanded to those working in education so, on the advice of her doctor, Michelle had a test. The result didn't help the symptoms but at least it meant she could isolate and not pass the illness on to others. Whilst she was unwell - she avoided hospital - her symptoms were classed to be of a moderate level. She is recovering and is hoping that through May she will get back to full health.
This is an awful disease and if you find yourself with it or just suffering through isolation - reach out using technology. Many more people recover from this and the majority will have very mild symptoms. Just keep yourself safe and ride it out as we will get to a new normal in time.
We are here for you so please get in touch if you just fancy a bit of Disney escapism.
Lots of love
Michelle and Jayne xxx April 2020
Since last month, there has been so much change. We both now work from home, we are social distancing and furlough is a word we have added to our vocabulary. Travel plans hang in the air and despite desperately longing to go back to our happy place; we know we can not and that there are bigger matters at play.
On the show, we have decided to keep doing our bit. We record as often as we can to bring our Dream Girl family some entertainment and escapism but also we are reaching out to everyone in our family to say that during these difficult times you will always have a friend in us. So if you are having a bad day; reach out via our social media outlets.
March 2020
This month sees Michelle having to pay her balance on her Disney cruise trip to Alaska so we invited Erin Foster from the Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line on to the show to share some top cruising trips. If you have any cruise line questions - why not get in touch - info@Disneydreamgirls.com
A busy month ahead on the podcast! We released shows 298 to 301 with a vast array of topics from love in the theme parks to festival chat! What are you looking forwards to the most?
The weather may be bleak but there are so many things to look forwards to as a Disney theme park fan this year. New attractions, new parades and a fabulous nighttime spectacular coming for EPCOT! Roll on this year!
December 2019
Our podcast has always had close links with our friends over at Dis After Dark so when they asked us to join their podcast network, we were very interested. However, we did not want to change anything about where the show was found. So whilst we are part of this network, nothing changes for you. The show is in the same place as it has always been. So why do this? Well, podcasting is a niche market - still today not many people even know they exist! So by joining a network, we are able to get exposure to a wider audience and that is why we are now part of the Dis After Dark Podcast Network.
November 2019 - Sugar Cookies
Today I made a batch of the most delicious cookies and I knew I had to share the recipe! Firstly, because they were so easy to make but also due to them being virtually the same in taste as the ones I had previously enjoyed in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World!
225g unsalted butter
225g sugar (I used granulated)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg
2 tsp baking powder
330g plain flour
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C (gas mark 4).
Melt the butter to a softened state in a microwave.
Add the sugar and cream together - I used a hand blender.
Add the vanilla extract and egg.
In a separate bowl mix the baking powder and the flour together.
Add the flour mix to the butter mix in three separate batches.
The two mixes should form a soft dough.
Roll out til around 1cm thick.
Cut out and place on a baking tray (I covered mine with greaseproof paper).
Bake for around 8-12 minutes - this will depend on the size you cut your cookies to.
Cool and decorate if you wish.
October 2019
Happy Halloween! What ghoultastic plans have you got? Have you been in a Disney park actually on Halloween?
Will you be around Anaheim next August? Let us know it would be great to meet up!
August 2019
What a month! I managed to have my trip to Walt Disney World but it also turned into into a Disneymoon! But more on that later on the podcast.
This month, I thought I would look at an unusal Disney dining event that many may not of heard of - Delicious Disney: A Chef's Series.
May 20th and 21st - A Tribute to Aladdin
June 24th and 25th - A Culinary Journey Into The African Savanna
July 29th and 30th - A Culinary Tribute to the EPCOT Festivals
Interested? The cost is $349 per person and includes tax and gratuity. Call (407) 939-5773 to check availability.
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
February saw us welcoming Liz Read to the team. Liz is an annual pass holder for Disneyland Paris but she has also visited Walt Disney World. Liz is a self-confessed character obsessive and thinks nothing of hopping on the Eurostar for a character meet. Hear Liz on show 249 as well as our Patreon shows and she will be providing us with first hand DLP content each month.
Christmas has been and gone and it is time to ramp up thoughts of getting in some Disney this year! As yet, Jayne has not been able to commit to a trip (not from lack of wishing) but Michelle has her outstanding placeholder cruise and a Walt Disney World trip planned.
Sadly, the cruise does look like it will be pushed back to 2020 due to commitments with the Army Cadets but at least it isn't cancelled! Another plus, there is a fabulous 17 day trip to Disney to plan!
December 2018
Santa has been! Well this year both Jayne and I have been blessed by the friendships extended to us by our Disney Dream Girls family. Surely this alone is the greatest gift you could wish for!
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| Disney Minnie Mouse heels from listener AJ to Michelle |
So this is the time I truly start my Christmas prep! Alas there is no Christmas trip planned for either Jayne or myself this year but it still means we can put up the Disney tree and purchase lots of Disney gifts for our Disney friends and family.
October 2018
The spooky season is here! Did you manage to enjoy any of the Halloween offerings in the Disney parks?
September 2018
Wow! What a holiday! Nearly weeks of Disney literally flew by. As you recall, I have 6 days in Walt Disney World, a 7 night cruise on the Disney Fantasy and finally a further 7 days in Walt Disney World. I feel blessed and very fortunate to have been able to do this. So, over the next month or so, I will be sharing lots of reviews, reports and information about this trip - so stayed tuned!
It is here! Holiday month! So as I write this, I am one day away from getting on the plane to Orlando. This trip has had literally hours of planning! Because I am meeting friends from Canada and Australia there has been lots of Skype calls and Facebook conversations to fine tune things.
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| Smores Baked Alaska at The Boathouse |
July 2018
One month to my big Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line trip so I decided to take a look of the outfits that I wanted to take with me. Following my substantial weightloss, my favourite shirt from the Polynesian Resort did not fit me. So I decided to upcycle it into a skirt - waste not want not and all that. Plus, it was a very expensive shirt!
June 2018
The month of June began with Michelle being asked to be a guest on the Dis Down Under Podcast to talk about the dining highlights of The Disneyland Resort. So we thought we would share our top Disneyland foodie tips with you. However, to listen to the podcast and hear food recommendations for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure go on over to - Dis Down Under.
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| Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron |
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| Matterhorn Macaroon |
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| Close up of the Macaron |
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| Chicken salad from Jolly Holiday |
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| Panko Coated Deep Fried Pickles from Carnation Cafe |
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| Mickey Waffle with Sausage |
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| The Monte Christo Sandwich |
We hope you have enjoyed this trip through the food of Disneyland and if you have a favourite - why not get in touch and let us know!
May 2018
May brought forth Star Wars Day on May 4th. To celebrate, Jayne trouped with the two costuming groups that she belongs to.
April 2018
April saw two fantastic trip reports. The first from Paul Barrie of Window to the Magic Podcast. On show 204, Paul shared with us the details of his first trip in over eight years to Walt Disney World. Then the following show, 205, we were joined by John Saccheri (aka Big Fat Panda) to discuss his recent Adventures by Disney trip to California and his first trip to Disneyland. It was a busy month with three other shows crammed in between! 203 and 206 Michelle and Jayne chatted through their Disney life, news and stories whereas show 207 ended the month with Erin Foster, co-author of the Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise line, talking all about Disney Cruises.
In March, Terri Hardin popped by to talk Disney with us on show 201. Terri is such a great friend to the show and we can also guarantee her appearances will delight one and all. We also shared on show 202 our guide to Disney's Animal Kingdom and it is full of top tips for you!
Busy month on the podcast! Show 195 shares our top tips for planning a trip to the Magic Kingdom - you will not want to miss this one!
Happy 2018 one and all! Here is to a happy year ahead for everyone and lots of fabulous Disney news!
December 2017
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| Available to order via their website |
To showcase the monolithic, fierce power of The First Order, salted dark chocolate ice cream represents relentless villainy, while cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate and a dash of powerful espresso reinforce the dark side.
Resistance
A celebration of the spirit and determination of the Resistance fighters who stand against the First Order, The Resistance is a brown sugar and vanilla bean ice cream with an assortment of mix-ins: passionate, fiery red-velvet ooey gooey butter cake, hard-edged toffee pieces and spirited, hopeful mini marshmallows.
The Force
Inspired by the harmony and peaceful nature of the Jedi, The Force illustrates the precarious balance between the dark and light side with sweet cream ice cream, swirled with rich chocolate fudge, and set against a galaxy of white and dark chocolate pearls.
If you manage to go and try - let us know! But don't forget to ask for the toppings!
November 2017
This November, the multi talented Terri Hardin has created the most gorgeous Jiminy Cricket figure. The piece is entitled - A Cricket Can't Be Too Careful, You Know and the first few will be dispatched in December, with further figures available in January 2018. So read on to find out more on how you can acquire one of these stunning figures.
Jiminy stands at approximately 3 1/2" tall and each and every one has been hand painted in a staggering 35 different colours. He has been styled with his iconic hat, long coat and scarf in a thoughtful pose.
Each figure arrives in a special box designed by Terri and inside there will be, carefully wrapped in When You Wish Upon a Star tissue paper, the Jiminy figure. This figure is an edition of 100 and comes complete with its certificate of authenticity.
This will make an amazing gift for the Disney fan in your life. Jiminy costs $125 including tax.
To order, visit https://squareup.com/store/terri-hardin-designs-inc/item/jimmy-cricket-new-pre-order-now
For clarity, we have in no way been given any financial reward from Terri Hardin for writing this. It has been written because Michelle is a massive fan of her work .
October 2017
This October saw Michelle with a bad case of Disney blues so she decided to book a trip (as you do) and this time it is to Disneyland Resort! So arriving 23rd December she will be there for 10 whole amazing days!
August for educators like Michelle and Jayne means one thing: holidays and no work! This year, Jayne holidayed at home and Michelle planned to go to WDW.
During Jayne's staycation, she made a trip to Star Wars Identities exhibit at the O2 and her review can be heard by our $5 and above patrons on our Patreon page. Additionally, Jayne visited her tattooist, Simon, and he did some final touches on her Disney sleeve. Whilst the picture below was taken awhile back, she will be updating her own blog with images very soon.
July 2017
D23 Expo was held in Anaheim and brought lots of Disney news with attractions closing and details of those coming in the future. It is always sad to hear a favourite attraction is going away but here is hoping to the new attraction being amazing. We reviewed some of the best bits of the theme parks news on show 167 and 169.
Alas on the 27th July, there was sad news. Marty Sklar, former vice chairman and principal creative executive of Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), died. For 53 years he worked for Disney and his touch has been on many of the things we love and cherish about Disney today.
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| Photo Credit D23 Website |
Busy month on the Podcast as we reviewed our Paris trip, as well as talking about the many incarnations of Big Thunder.
May 2017
A joint trip to Disneyland Paris! Hear all about it on our podcast number 162.
April 2017
After podcasting together all these years, we are finally going to have a Disney Dream Girls trip to a Disney park! 31st May will see Michelle and Jayne make their way to spend four days in Paris to check out everything for the parks 25th Anniversary. We aim to record some audio and live shows to share with your all. Listen in to podcast 155 to find out more!
March 2017
Where has the year gone? I can't believe we are nearly into April! So, for this udate I would like to share with you details of an amazing project our good friend Terri Hardin is doing.
If you follow the link, you will be able to watch a video where the team explains what they are upto Kickstarter Mrs Mifrens
January 2017 by Michelle Young
So what lies ahead for the Disney Dream Girls in 2017? We started the year with a podcast with the wonderful former Disney imagineer Terri Hardin. She talks about her trip to Disneyland Paris and what it was like to visit attractions she had worked on. To listen to the show click blog notes for show 139.
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| Terri Hardin in DLP - Photo Credit L Jackson |
Then we looked ahead to what movie, theme park fans and Disney runners can expect this coming year, on show 140 and you can check that out by using this link blog notes for show 140.
In upcoming shows you can expect trip reports from Shanghai Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Paris plus more from our wonderful guests such as Jim Korkis and Terri Hardin. This is the start of our fourth year of podcasting and it makes us very excited to what is ahead for us and our Disney family of listeners. We can't wait to share it all with you! So please, if you haven't already, leave us an iTunes review, share our podcast with your Disney loving friends and contact us to share your Disney with us!
December 2016 by Michelle Young
Christmas season in the parks is always a feast for the senses and if like Jayne and Michelle you don't have a trip planned, you somethimes have to make do with what you can. Both Jayne and I decorate our homes with Disney ornaments and treasures from past trips. Jayne has a fabulous Studio 56 collection and I set up my twin-track Monorail. Alas by smaller home meant I wasn't able to operate the EPCOT loop but well sometimes the resort loop alone will do the job!
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| Photo Credit - Michelle Young |
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| Ready to record - Photo Credit Jayne Phipps |
Alas there wasn't the time for Minxmas this year but we did celebrate three years of the Disney Dream Girls Podcast!
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| Merry Christmas Listeners! Photo Credit Michelle Young |
November 2016 by Michelle Young
A highlight for November was chatting to Dave Tupper and being able to share his families trips they had taken on the Disney Cruise Line. As yet, I haven't had the opportunity to take any cruises, so being able to live vicariously, via The Tuppers, made me very happy.
Show 133 for 13th November 2016 can be read by clicking the link blog notes for show 133.
October 2016 by Michelle Young
Another thing ticked off my Disney to do list, I visited Disneyland Paris during the autumn season. The park was dressed sensationally! Plus all the characters were meeting in their Halloween finery. Show 132 released on 6th November 2016 gives my full review and there are photos on the blog too! Use this link to find it Blog notes for show 132.
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| Photo Credit - Michelle Young |
September 2016 by Michelle Young
Nothing is as depressing as returning from a fabulous two week stay in Walt Disney World and have to return to reality! We have all been there but know I haven't a trip booked led me to having itching feet... so I managed to sort a trip over to Disneyland Paris for the pre-Halloween season - a massive first for me.
My August trip to Walt Disney World fed into many shows throughout the end of 2016 but my main trip report is on show number 124 dated 11th September 2016 which can be listen to by using this link blog notes for show 124.
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| Photo Credit Michelle Young |
August. Summer arrived for us Brits on the 16th. Yup that seemed to be the day we had sunshine! As I am writing this, I am literally two days away from my trip to Walt Disney World. Over the past three years I have visited other Disney parks and left, my once favourite, neglected The 19th will rectify that! There will be all sorts of tours, meet ups, dining, attraction riding and parade watching. I really hope you will follow along, using our social media links @disdreamgirls or Disney Dream Girls to do so.
Additionally, over the next few weeks, we wont be leaving you without podcasts. We have recorded shows for you as well as re-sharing a past set of interviews we did when we just began with the wonderful Jim Korkis. So happy summer and see you soon!
July 2016 by Jayne Phipps
July saw Star Wars Celebration Europe. As the Star Wars fan of the duo, Jayne couldn't wait to attend. However, Jayne didn't just attend as a usual day guest, but as part of the Mandalorian Mercs Vok'Chi Clan. On the podcast, Jayne shared her experiences of attending and the legnths that her amazing husband went to, to ensure their outfit was stunning. I am sure you will agree, when you look at the amazing pictures below.
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| Jayne meeting Chewy! |
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| Simon's outfit |
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| 'Working' at the booth |
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| Jayne's outfit |
June 2016 by Michelle Young
June brought around a crazy weekend trip to Disneyland Paris. Yes that's right - a weekend trip. In fact it started off being a trip just to attend the amazingly fabulous Inventions Brunch. Whilst we spoke about this on the show, this is the sole place I will share all the pictures from the mini trip Michelle took with the Petar family.
Arriving later on the Saturday morning, we spent Saturday enjoying our favourite attractions and funningly enough, having our evening meal at Inventions also. But the big highlight of the day, was to go the Snow White themed brunch in the Disneyland Hotel. Alas, this did not come to fruitition, a last minute theme change left a few people with tears. But the food and the characters in pirate attire did make up for it (well just a little). Here are some photographs from the trip.
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| The new pineapple whip! |
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| Stunning castle |
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| Pirate Mickey |
Finally! We are able to share some pictures from the opening day of the town centre at Disney Springs! Our wonderful princess made the trip, arriving just before the official opening ceremony.
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| Opening ceremony - Photo Credit J Gallo |
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| Disney Springs Map - Photo Credit WDW Website |
Firstly, there are 129 venues. Yes... 129. I was a little taken back by that figure. Shopping, entertainment, bars and eateries, in fact there is a little of something for everyone. Want to check out the store list, here is the list.
Chef James of Disney's Creative Development Team said that they have some amazing food offerings coming our way. We will have more information on podcast 108, which will be released on Sunday 22nd May 2016.
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| Disney Springs By Sprinkles Cupcakes - Photo Credit J Gallo |
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| Menu for B B Wolf's - Photo Credit J Gallo |
April 2016 by Michelle Young
For this post, I would like to take you to Walt Disney World. From 2nd March 2016 to the 30th May 2016, the EPCOT Flower and Garden festival brings a visual treat for the eyes and now for the palate. The introduction of food booths has been a massive hit, making this time of year a must do. Additionally, the weather is incredibly pleasant too and midweek crowds are at a very agreeable level. If you haven't visited at this time, read on and find out what you can expect.
Firstly, it is a floral and topiary treat. EPCOT surely looks its best. As the pictures show, the horticultural team work extra hard to ensure the park is ablaze with colour and variety. Not only that, it is a celebration to diverse wildlife habitats.
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| Mickey and Minnie Topiary (Photo Credit - Disney World Website) |
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| England Pavillion - (Photo Credit - Jeanie Gallo) |
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| Nighttime and some Topiaries come to life (photo credit Disney World Website) |
There are lots more of things to do other than admire the scenery. There are exhibits, seminars and demonstrations to be enjoyed. Additionally, children can be entertained in the event only special playground. Still want more? Well every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening you will find in the Garden Rocks series in the America Gardens Theatre. To further enhance your experience, you can - for an additional cost - do the Gardens of the World Tour. This three hour tour is $69 plus tax and will give you a greater insight to the landscape and changing designs. For me personally, The English Tea Garden (presented by Twinings) is a must! Firstly, this is free of charge - something we all love - but being English and a tea drinker this fact filled tour sounds perfect.
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| Twinings Tea best enjoyed in the garden! (photo credit - Disney World Website) |
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| Always starting with the sweet offerings (photo credit - JGallo) |
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| Great value and some portions are very generous (photo credit - JGallo) |
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| Then refreshments alcoholic or not (photo credit - JGallo) |
March 2016 by Michelle Young
A quarter of the year is nearly over and there are so many things in 2016 I am excited about. Firstly, in a few days I will get to experience Disneyland Paris for the second time, this time with my son. I think sharing such experiences with others who 'get' the magic makes a trip definately more enjoyable. Paris does a celebration of Springtime called 'Swing Into Spring' and its bright, colourful and on a sunny day there is nothing better.
So that is it for the March update, make sure you are following us on Twitter @DisDreamGirls Facebook - Disney Dream Girls, Periscope - Disney Dream Girls, Meerkat @DisDream Girls and in whichever podcast catching option you prefer to ensure you do not miss anything.
February 2016 by Michelle Young
February has seen me book not one but two trips to a Disney park. I am so excited about both of them!
First, I am travelling to Disneyland Paris for five days, just after Easter. I am so excited about this and can't wait to share live audio and video feeds from this beautiful park. As a bonus, my son Ciaran is travelling with me and this is great as I will have a teenagers perspective on the park - so look forward to lots of content on Paris!
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| Photo Credit Disneyland Paris Website |
I visited DLP last Spring, so I am really looking forward to going again to see their Spring offerings.
Then, I have not been to Walt Disney World for quite awhile. However, I have just booked a split stay for August. During that trip, hoping to arrange a few tours, meals in some of the newer restaurants and meeting lots of my east coast friends!
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| Photo Credit Walt Disney World Website |
January 2016 by Michelle Young
2016 has begun and my first blog is a reflection on my recent trip to Disneyland. It seems an eternity since I flew out on the 24th December 2015.
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| Final Picture of the Trip |
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| Candy Cane Beignets - Cafe Orleans |
Another highlight was the Christmas Tour, although I was a little disappointed that some elements had changed from the previous year it still is a great tour and the pin this year was amazing.
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| Special Pin from the Christmas Tour |
December 2015 by Michelle Young
Busy month for the Dream Girls as we have launched for its third year in a row - Minxmas!
We have a whole host of amazing Disney daily delights for you. Here is the full schedule:
076 14th December Launch show with WDW Happy Place
077 15th December with Enchanted Tiki Talk Podcast
078 16th December with Creepy Kingdom Podcast
079 17th December with the music of Tom Ameen
080 18th December with an audio adventure from Window to the Magic Podcast
081 19th December with TDR Now Podcast
082 20th December we release our version of the 12 days of Minxmas
083 21st December with the Mighty Men of Mouse podcast
084 22nd December with the Disgeeks Podcast
085 23rd December with the Disney Dream Girls Podcast
086 24th December with Dis After Dark Podcast
087 25th December with Disney Dream Girls Podcast
October 2015 by Michelle Young
This month has been incredibly busy! And as usual our shows have reflected this. However, today we are going to whet your appetite to the next show as the Princess Papers blog, very kindly offered to attend the 2015 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic on 31st October 2015 on our behalf. So prepare your appetite for some mouthwatering pictures!
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| Photo Credit - Swan and Dolphin Hotel |
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| Photo Credit - J Gallo |
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| Photo Credit - Swan and Dolphin Hotel |
DESRT
Presentlloted by Laurent Branlard, Executive Pastry Chef, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel
LIME PANACOTA, LIE ELEE, COCONUT LEMONGRASS PINEAPPLE SOUP
CHOCOLATE ALMONDRUNCH CAKE ÉCLAIR, COFFEE CARAMEL PECAN
S
’
MORE SU AE ACTION STATION: WHITE CHOCOLATE VANILLA ICE
CREAM, GRAHAM CRACKER
STREUSEL, RASPBERRY COMPOTE, RASPBERRY MARSHMALLOW, VANILLA WHIPPED CREAM, CARAMELIZED HAZELNUT
Well apart from the s'mores sundae action station, there was a bevy of delicious desserts. Above you have eclairs with coffee caramel pecans and then an incredibly decadent raspberry and dark chocolate fondant cake with raspberry mousse and finally on the far right is a boozy vanilla rum baba. Plus there was lots more! Having eaten desserts at the Swan and Dolphin restaurants, I can confirm the quality and originality of them is second to none. I recall one of the creations having a flame effect as it was presented in front of me!
I guess we had best look at some of the main courses! As mentioned before, the foods offered give a taste of what you can expect if you ate at one of the hotels restaurants. Whilst not necessarily menu items, they give a fabulous insight to the quality of ingredients, the flavours and style of each place. Personally, it is the attention to detail that struck me in both the food at the event and in the restaurants; every element is right so that each mouthful delivered visual impact and maximum flavour.
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| Jalepino Roll (Kimonos) Photo Credit - Swan and Dolphin Hotel |
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| Carved Prime NY Strip, Garlic Mash and Sauce Bordelaise (Shula's) Photo Credit - J Gallo |
September 2015 by Michelle Young
For my past three trips I tried, in vain, to ride in the Lilly Belle car that runs on the Disneyland Railroad. This trip I was determined I would achieve this 'bucket' list item. Allow me to share some details on the what and the how of this.
What is the Lilly Belle?
It is a carriage that runs as a caboose on the Disneyland Railroad. Inside you will be transported to a time gone by. Once inside, the first thing you will notice is the very ornate, decorated in Tibetan mahogany and plush burgundy velour. The carpeting is the same as that found in Walt's apartment above the firehouse.
The history of the carriage reverts to its original use as a general carriage. However, in 1974 it was retired. Imagineers wanted to realise Walt Disney's idea of having a presidential car. So they decorated it in wicker but Lilian Disney did not like it so she gave instructions on how she envisaged the carriage. Then in her honour, the carriage was named after her.
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| The Original Carriage Photo Credit - Lilly Belle Album |
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| The 'Revamped' Interior Photo Credit - M Young |
Firstly, the Lilly Belle does not run every day. Schedules for the days trains are only finalised on the morning of operation. For it to be running, it requires sufficient staff and the weather to be dry.
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| Interior Photo Credit - M Young |
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| Souvenir Ticket Photo Credit - M Young |
August 2015 by Michelle Young
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| Anaheim Convention Centre Photo Credit D23 |
The seat I had was very near the back so I was thankful of the large video screens. Then Bob Chapek (chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts) , came to the stage to open the presentation. Then he introduced an imagineer to present the project they had been working on and the next and so on. Whilst it was great that it was the lead imagineer on each project that presented each parks update, it was lacking a little of the WOW factor. It reminded me of the Apple keynote presentations, rather than a company known for its pixie dust.
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| Lead Presenter, Bob Chapek Photo Credit D23 |
Now on to what we actually found out about the USA theme parks:-
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue – Later this year, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and Disneyland park in California will include a new adventure featuring locations and characters from the upcoming film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
- Season of the Force – This new seasonal event, beginning early 2016, brings new experiences to both coasts this includes special entertainment, themed food locations and Hyperspace Mountain – a reimagining of the classic Space Mountain attraction in which guests will join an X-wing Starfighter battle. Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS) will feature a new fireworks spectacular set to the iconic score of the Star Wars movies on weekend nights.
- Star Wars Launch Bay – Opening later this year, this interactive experience will take guests at DHS in Florida and Disneyland park in California into the upcoming film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, as well as the first six films in the Star Wars saga.
- Both east and west coast USA parks will have a Star Wars Land.
- An all-new 11-acre Toy Story Land will be created at DHS. Guests will become part of the adventurous outdoors of Andy’s backyard, including two new Disney Parks attractions (a slinky dog roller coaster, an alien flying saucer spin ride and a Toy Story Midway Mania expansion).
- Some details were given about the construction of the new land at Animal Kingdom - Pandora – The World of AVATAR, with the lands name being confirmed. Details were given on of the flying ride 'AVATAR Flight of Passage' and “Rivers of Light” – Expected to open next spring, “Rivers of Light” will be an innovative show unlike anything ever seen in Disney Parks, combining live performers, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery.
- Also Kilimanjaro Safaris will be extended for a new nighttime adventure next spring, where guests will travel through the African savanna amid the magically extended orange glow of the setting sun and discover two species new to the attraction: African wild dogs and hyenas.
- Finally, Soarin' Around the World will debut at Epcot in Florida and Disney California Adventure in California and guests will journey to far-flung lands, fly above some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes and soar over man-made wonders.
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| Star Wars Land Photo Credit D23 |
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| Toy Story Land Photo Credit D23 |
Was it worth the wait, I guess so. However, it was nothing that I couldn't have found out via social media and perhaps even had a better view from the comfort of home. Friends at WDW Happy Place Podcast suggested, that Disney should stream D23 live, whether on a pay per view or freely available basis - that I would be interested in! Would I attend D23 again? Probably not, but it was nice to say that I had done it.
July 2015 by Michelle Young
June 2015 by Michelle Young
I recently interviewed the well known Disney artist, Dave Avanzino and thought I would share some of what we talked about (and glorious pictures of his work) with you. However, if you wish to listen to the full interview search for it on iTunes ‘Disney Dream Girls’ episode 45.
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| Photo Credit Dave Avanzino |
The style of Dave Avanzino
This is tricky! Dave himself finds it difficult to describe his work although he does say its a type of paper sculpture. However, it’s not true paper sculpture as that is when an artist gets a red piece of paper and cuts a shape out, airbrushes then bends it. The way he work is that he uses paper but typically as digital prints that have come from an original painting. Then he does reproductions of them, cuts the pieces apart, layers them into a dimensional pieces before finally placing them in a shadow box. He additionally, may use other materials alongside this with the paper such as metal and wood.
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| Photo Credit Dave Avanzino |
Recent Projects
Above, is a series that was originally created for Disneyland’s 50th, which Dave has just announced, via the Disney website, that it will be re-released for the 60th along with the official 60th diamond marking.
Additionally for Disneylands 60th, he created an image of the iconic park. However, to the left you will see a similar piece that he created for Walt Disney Worlds 40th anniversary.
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| Photo Credit Dave Avanzino |
During our interview, Dave also spoke about many other Dave also spoke about many other projects including visiting the Disney vaults. Boy! How jealous was I! Recently, Dave had the pleasure to take a piece of work to show Rolly Crump and spend some time in his company talking about his role at Disney imagineering. How amazing is that?
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| Photo Credit Dave Avanzino |
Have you any Disney artwork by Dave? What do you think to his work? Remember to hear more, track down our podcast (Disney Dream Girls) in iTunes or any podcast catching places.
May 2015 by Michelle Young
The 60th celebrations for Disneyland have begun and I just had to fly out to go and take a peek look at what Disney had in store for everyone.
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| Train Station Photo Credit - M Young |
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| Partners Statue Photo Credit - M Young |
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| Hat Box Ghost Photo Credit C Allison |
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| Raspberry Rose Macaron Photo Credit - M Young |
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| Paint The Night Parade Photo Credit - M Young |
2nd April 2015 by Michelle Young
In a few days, Michelle is going to Disneyland Paris for the first time... what can she expect to see there? Well Spring is in full swing for a start! Listen to upcoming shows for more information!
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| Photo Credit Mark Petar, Dedicated to DLP |
Also, looking ahead to the latest show, 5th April 2015 sees a foodie challenge and talk of Disney Cruise Line coming to the UK!
