The Wonderful World of Disney

Wondering why you haven’t heard from me in a while? I have been unleashing my “inner kid” at the happiest place on Earth, also known as Disney World! Every year, my family takes a trip to Orlando, Florida for the 14 and under travel baseball team National Championship at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports. Not only do we get to visit attractions at one of the largest baseball stadiums in Florida, interact with former major league baseball players, and meet legendary coaches, but we are also able to visit our favorite vacation spot!

This year, we visited a few places we have not been to in several years. On our first day, we learned about the magic of making movies at Universal Studios. A few of our favorite attractions were Shrek 4D, complete with moving seats! We also got to experience what it would be like to be outside during a category 5 tornado in the “Twister” attraction.

My absolute favorite attraction was the Men in Black roller coaster. The indoor roller coaster featured lots of twists and turns…all in complete darkness! We got to meet Frank the pug, the talking dog featured in the movies, and watch him interact with his trainers while learning new tricks!

We also spent a day at Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios’ high-thrill theme parks! Each area of the park is designed after a specific movie, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Dr. Seuss’s “Seussland”. I have always loved Dr. Seuss, so naturally, the colorful world of Dr. Seuss was definitely one of my favorite places to see!

I may be a college student now, but I will never be too old for One fish, Two fish, Red fish, Blue fish!

Poseidon’s Fury felt like we were really walking through the ruins of Greece!

We always make a trip to the Lego store at Downtown Disney. My brothers always like to make lego racecars and race them with other Lego fans. 

On our last night at Disney, we visited Chef Mickeys at Disney’s Contemporary hotel. During our Disney themed dinner, all of our favorite characters visited our table for a meet and greet. I always look forward to seeing Minnie Mouse, my all-time favorite Disney character. If you ever have the chance to visit Disney World, make sure to schedule a character dinner!

Visiting Disney World is always the perfect way to spend time with my family while having the time of our lives!

Caroline Crowley

Summer Fun in Orange Beach, Alabama

This past week, I got to kick off my summer vacation with a trip to a part of Alabama I have not spent much time in. I spent a week with friends in Orange Beach, Alabama! When most people think of beaches in our area, they think of Panama City Beach, Florida, because it the most popular Spring Break attraction in the United States. However, Alabama is home to some of the most beautiful beaches that are known for their family-friendly atmosphere. Orange Beach is the perfect spot for a family vacation!

We stayed at the Phoenix West hotel and resort. My favorite part was the lazy river! It was the perfect place to cool off when it got a little too warm. However, the view from our balcony was absolutely amazing! I loved watching the beautiful sunsets before dinner every night.

During our stay, we frequented several of the local restaurants. I don’t think I have ever eaten so much snow crab in my life!! We ate at so many delicious places, but my favorite restaurant was definitely The Hangout! The Hangout is a huge open restaurant that serves as a “hangout” for Orange Beach residents and visitors. After we were done with our delicious meal, (snow crab legs, of course!) we sat in huge over-sized beach chairs to watch local bands play on the stage outside. The Hangout is the perfect place to spend your entire night! I had such a blast!

Although I am a little sad that the end of this summer marks so many changes for my life, I know it will be one to remember! I hope you and your family have a fun, exciting, and safe summer!

Love,

Caroline