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on May 22, 2020 · 2 Comments

Magic Kingdom Day!

Best Day Ever! Seriously, let’s say that again … Best. Day. Ever!!

There is no feeling like returning ‘home’ again and walking into the Magic Kingdom. My husband even turned to me as we walked through the gate and said, “Welcome home!” Let’s face it, the Magic Kingdom has that effect on most of us. Home. Finally. After 19 years of being away, I was back. Best Day Ever!

We were, once again, up early and out the door! I didn’t think I could get there fast enough! I had waited all week for this and I was going to make sure we all enjoyed every single second of the day. This was my boys’ very first visit to the Magic Kingdom; it had to be special in every way. My husband had been there when he was a teenager and it didn’t have quite the same magical effect on him as it had me. I felt the need to make sure he left that park feeling differently then he had so many years ago. Looking back on our time at the park, I can definitively say, “Mission accomplished!”

To be honest, I couldn’t even remember the entrance or the way to get in the park. I had forgotten all about having the choice of the monorail or ferry. We decided to take the ferry and it was my first time doing so. I loved it. There was a nice breeze, everyone was smiling and there were ears everywhere! We did have to wait to get on the ferry, but it wasn’t too bad. I could tell the moment we got outside it was going to be a hot one! I think it was the only day we had that was really hot and humid.  

As we made our way off the ferry and into the park, I was tearing up. Seriously, I’m tearing up writing this! LOL! I tried to take as many pictures as I could. I obviously failed. LOL! I thought I was taking enough but I think I was so distracted that, at times, I just forgot. I also knew we had the memory maker and there would be a great selection of photos from that too. 

The park was beautifully decorated for Christmas. Hearing the holiday music in the background made it even more magical. As we made our way down Main Street, taking in the sights, I looked up and there she was – the beautiful Cinderella Castle! Just breathtaking! We were able to get in line for our castle pictures right away and the wait wasn’t long at all. The only complaint I had (and heard from the peanut gallery) was the sun glare! It was difficult to smile and keep your eyes open, but we did the best we could. It was still a great picture and now I have it as my wallpaper on my phone. It’s a great reminder of the best day ever. 

We headed over to Adventureland and made our way towards the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse. I remembered loving this as a kid and I was pretty sure my boys were going to feel the same way. Seriously, how much fun is walking up 116 steps to peek into the best tree house ever?!  I know it’s not the most exciting attraction in the Magic Kingdom but, for me, it’s one of my “must do” attractions. It brings back memories of my mom and the first time we visited the Treehouse. She loved it and so did I.

From there we headed to one of my favorite rides, Pirates of the Caribbean. The very first time I went on this ride, I was 14 years old. I had no idea what to expect and, after that first dip, I was nervous. I turned to my dad and said, “Is this a log flume ride?” LOL, he said, “Calm down and enjoy the ride!” I did and I’m happy to report that I now love that dip in the ride!

One of the best things after getting off a ride is how it leads you right into the gift shop. Okay, parents. Don’t come after me! I know it could be a disaster too. I get we don’t want to spend millions of dollars on the merchandise, but I love the merchandise! Apparently, so does my son Alex. He immediately made his way over to the swords and had to have one. I was more than happy to let him take a piece of my favorite ride home with him. I had no idea that in the next half hour, I would have to be in a picture staged to look like I was in a sword fight! He had to get the perfect picture so, while we were waiting for our lunch, Alex coordinated these fight scenes with the sword! 

After lunch at Tortuga Tavern, we made our way over to Frontierland. My dad and his girlfriend, Cheryl, had a fastpass for Splash Mountain, but the standby line was so long. We decided to jump on the raft over to Tom Sawyer’s Island. It’s another favorite and probably one of my favorite kids’ books ever. It was a nice ride over to the other side. The sun was shining and it was perfect for exploring. We went through all the caves and the boys really enjoyed it. Alex asked if we could stay there for awhile or come back at night and “hang out.”  

As we returned to Frontierland, everyone except me and my sister wanted to take on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I know, no surprise there. I wasn’t sure about the boys but, considering this was the last park of the week and they enjoyed all the other roller coasters, Gabe and Teddy grabbed the boys and waited in line. Patty and I walked around and did a little shopping before heading back. We got there just in time to watch them go by! They loved it! Who knows, maybe next time I’ll join them! 

I’ve always loved Liberty Square! It’s very reminiscent of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. Because that is where I spent my childhood summer vacations, it brings back warm feelings. However, as much as I would have loved to see the Hall of Presidents, it just wasn’t going to happen this trip. It’s ok because Liberty Square has the Haunted Mansion! The best! If you remember me explaining how I was deathly afraid of this attraction on my first visit back in 1980, it is now my #1 favorite attraction at the Magic Kingdom. If you missed it, I’ll link it here. The funniest thing about returning is being in the position to help someone in our party who was a little scared as well. I was more than happy to tell him the story of my fears and how he could easily relax. Happy to say, he enjoyed it too!

Next stop, Fantasyland. I’m sorry to repeat myself, but I love Fantasyland! I noticed so many changes right away. That, or I just don’t remember, but the entrance from Frontierland into Fantasyland – with the castle walls along the side are just beautiful. It’s so pretty!

Okay, confession time. I’m not a fan of Alice in Wonderland. I find it strange, but it won’t stop me from enjoying the Mad Tea Party ride! We waited in line but, luckily, it was moving quickly. My sister and I hopped in one together as the rest of my family members found their own teacups to ride in. It was so much fun!

Our next ride was It’s A Small World. We didn’t have a fastpass for this, but I have to say that using Michael’s DAS pass really helped with the wait. When it came to working with guests with disabilities, Disney did not disappoint. They really made it very accommodating for Michael. We all enjoyed a nice cool ride through It’s a Small World. The music, air conditioning and all the smiles were priceless. 

Somewhere around this time, the discussion of everyone returning to the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train came up, including my sister and I getting on the ride as well! I don’t know what happened, maybe it was the heat or maybe the magic of Disney, but I decided that I was going for it! We made our Fastpass and I bit all my nails off waiting for our time. 

While we waited, we continued our way through Fantasyland riding Journey of the Little Mermaid, Peter Pan’s Flight and Winnie the Pooh. Every ride was so much fun, but the best thing was being able to see how much my boys really enjoyed it. Michael smiled at everything and laughed. You could tell he enjoyed everything we did. Alex was having a blast spending time with his family, experiencing the rides and picking out all kinds of souvenirs to take home! 

It was time for the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. I nearly peed on myself! I’ll admit it; I was so scared! But, I was determined to get on it! And I did! I did it! I was crying, laughing and shaking by the time the ride ended but it was so worth it. I took a picture of me and my sister right after and you can tell I was excited. Everyone was smiling and laughing but I did it! I can’t wait to go back and get on it again! I can’t wait to try Space Mountain next! Well, maybe. LOL! I wanted to remember this moment forever, so I made sure I picked up a Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Christmas ornament. I love it! 

It was getting late in the day and finally starting to cool off. It was a welcome relief. My dad and his girlfriend were going to head back over to Epcot to meet some friends for dinner. Before they left, I knew I had to get a group picture of all of us together. I only wish that I had thought of getting a picture of my boys with my dad in front of the castle. Before they took off, we all got together and squeezed in everyone for our picture. It’s the only group picture I was able to get with all of us in our Disney Family t-shirts. It’s one of my favorites! 

As we made our way back to Fantasyland, it was starting to get dark. That only meant one thing to me. It was time to head over to the Rapunzel restroom area for the Memory Maker’s Tangled Lantern photo. I had already told everyone, ‘I’m not leaving this park until we have those photos taken!’ It’s my absolute favorite! We waited almost an hour and it was worth every minute! Thankfully, the boys were patient and we took turns getting in and out of the line for breaks. 

After finishing up with our pictures, it was time to head over to Tomorrowland. We had a fastpass for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. That was so much fun and (Surprise! Surprise!) I had the best score! Believe me, no one was more surprised than me! I can’t believe I hit that many targets! 

As soon as we finished, we headed over to the People Mover! What a great way to experience all the lights and Cinderella’s Castle all lit up! It was the perfect last real ride of the night and I took as much video footage as I could. It was always my mom’s favorite thing to do at the Magic Kingdom. I imagined her sitting next to me, smiling and pointing to everything along the way. How I wish my mom could have been there with us.

We spent the rest of the night working our way towards Main Street, shopping along the way.  I’m not kidding, but I went in every single shop. I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss anything. I didn’t go crazy buying Disney souvenirs; although, I did have some regret about certain items I didn’t purchase after returning home. The good thing is I can always return! 

As the best day ever was winding down, we found a good spot to wait for the Happily Ever After Fireworks show! To be honest, everyone was tired and getting a little cranky. I wasn’t sure we were going to make it through, but I’m happy that we did. It was breathtaking! To me, it was almost like watching the Electric Light Parade when I first visited in 1980. It was amazing! The colors, lights and the music! It was the perfect way to end a very Magical day!

It was difficult to leave. After a year and half of planning, it was time to say goodbye to my ‘home’ – the home that took me so long to return to. After almost two years of planning, our first family trip to Walt Disney World had come to an end. Believe me when I say I was holding back the tears as I left the park. I kept looking back trying to take everything in. 

There was one last thing I wanted my boys to experience before leaving – the monorail. From the first time I stepped on that monorail in 1980, I became obsessed with it. I remember passing through the middle of the Contemporary Resort in amazement! At 14 years old, it’s a memory that has stayed with me. I remember my dad saying to my sister and me, “Watch girls. We are going right through the hotel!” I thought to myself, ‘One day I will stay in that resort!’ Today, I want to stay in every resort! LOL! The boys loved the monorail but, between you and me, I think they liked the ferry better. Oh well. 

Although we had finished visiting all the parks, our vacation was not over. We still had one more day to enjoy and I’ll tell you all about it in my next Disney Blog post!

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Filed Under: Disney, Disney Vacation 2019 Tagged With: Disney, Disney Planning, Disney vacation, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

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Comments

  1. CArnone says

    May 27, 2020 at 3:57 am

    Joanne you write so beautifully I feel like I was there with you. I’m so happy
    that you were all able to go especially Michael & Alex it will stay with them forever. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

    Love, Aunt Chris

    Reply
    • Joann says

      May 27, 2020 at 12:45 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply

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lovealwaysjoann

Lovealways,Joann
Yesterday on my YouTube channel I posted a video t Yesterday on my YouTube channel I posted a video talking about how I handle stress associated with being an autism mom.  Thank you so much for those of you who have watched and for your kind comments.  Thank you to everyone who also reached out to  me privately. It’s nice to hear that something I said either resonated with you or has helped in a small way.  I love the feedback as it’s a way for me to know if I should continue with autism related content or not.  If you haven’t had a chance to watch yet, I hope you will consider adding it to your watch list.  Thank you for your support, it’s truly appreciated. 

.
#autism #autismmom #autismfamily #autismawareness #autismlife #autismlife #autismheros #autismadvocates #autismeducation #specialneedsmomlife 
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Did you know that during a typical day an autism Did you know that during a typical day an autism  mom can experience more than two stressful events? Autism moms  are more likely to experience fatigue, depression and isolation.  Mother’s of children with autism have stress levels comparable to combat veterans. 
I do not handle stress well, but I am consistently trying to get better at managing it.  If you watched today’s YouTube video, and you are an autism mom, I hope you know you are not alone.  I hope I was able to help in some small way.  My way of handling stress may not be the way for you, but I encourage you to find something that does. ❤️ #stress #stressrelief #stressmanagement #autismstress 

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It’s not often I get to spend time with Alex as It’s not often I get to spend time with Alex as much as I like to.  It’s not easy having a sibling with autism but Alex loves his brother.  Today, Alex and I went to the movies to see Sonic 2.  We had a great time together but the best part of my day was him thanking me for going with him.  He said,”I really appreciate it Mom!” This picture is from his last year’s birthday party.  I can’t believe it but in a few short weeks my twins will be 10 years old! ❤️ #autismsiblings #sons #momsofinstagram #momandsons #theboywhostolemyheart #autismmom #autismlife
Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video this Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video this week? In this week’s video I’m sharing 3 easy Brunch recipes! Each one is easy to make and can be made-ahead  of time. 
The last recipe I shared is the Blueberry French Toast.  French Toast is one of my favorites for breakfast. When you mix  it with the blueberries and the eggs, it just takes it up a notch.  Don’t forget to sprinkle some powdered sugar on top! Direct link in bio.  #brunch #brunchrecipes #breakfastideas #frenchtoast #blueberries #frenchtoastcasserole
Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video this Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video this week? In this week’s video I’m sharing 3 easy Brunch recipes! Each one is easy to make and can be made-ahead  of time. 
The second recipe I share is the Hawaiian Breakfast Sliders.  Ever since I watched my friend Jess over at @blessedjess86 share her Baked Hawaiian Rolls recipe, I’ve been really obsessed with the Hawaiian Rolls!! Out of the 3 recipes I made, this one is my favorite! These are perfect to wrap up individually and take your breakfast to go.  Direct link in bio.  #brunch  #brunchrecipes #breakfastideas #hawaiianrolls #hawaiianrollsliders
Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video yeste Did you happen to catch my new YouTube video yesterday? In this week’s video I’m sharing 3 easy Brunch recipes! Each one is easy to make and can be made-ahead  of time. 
The first recipe I share, “Sweet Potato Hash,” is from @ww.  Whether you are currently on the program or not, If you’re a fan of sweet potatoes,  this one is for you.  Direct link in bio.  #brunch #brunchrecipes #breakfastideas #ww #wwrecipes #sweetpotatohash
When your child is first diagnosed with autism, it When your child is first diagnosed with autism, it is difficult to wrap your head around the amount of information given to you. It’s so important to have people in your child’s life that you can connect to.  Develop a comfortable connection  with the pediatrician, neurologist, the early intervention team, as well as your immediate family. You should be able to know that you have respect, trust and compassion in these relationships. I talked about our early relationships with Michael’s team in my “Let’s talk autism - Early Intervention - Pediatric Neurologist- O.T.  Therapist” YouTube video in March.  If your child was recently diagnosed with autism, I hope you find this helpful. Direct link to my channel in my bio. New autism videos coming soon.  #newautismdiagnosis 

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Good evening friends! Last month I had posted abou Good evening friends! Last month I had posted about a question from another special needs mom asking me to talk about how I handle stress.  I also asked if anyone wanted to share as well to please let me know so I could pass those suggestions and ideas along.  I didn’t receive much feedback and I’m not surprised at all.  This tells me that there are many of us who are still trying to figure out how to handle their stress or maybe you’re not comfortable sharing.  Either way I can understand, I’m still struggling to figure out what works best for me. 
It’s been awhile since I sat down to talk autism but this week I will film my next autism video.  Any guesses as to what that will be about? 😂 As always please feel free to DM me if you prefer or aren’t comfortable sharing in the comments about anything related to autism.  I know it’s hard to put yourself out there when you’re never sure how you will be received, but always remember you have a friend in me.  #stressmanagement 

.
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A very happy 50th birthday to my husband Gabe! We A very happy 50th birthday to my husband Gabe! We ❤️ you! #birthday #50thbirthday #family
My sister and I wanted to wish a very Happy Mother My sister and I wanted to wish a very Happy Mother’s Day to our dad’s girlfriend Cheryl.  A few months ago I shared that my dads cancer had returned and asked for you all to keep him in your thoughts and prayers.  He’s getting better every day but we know it’s because of the excellent care Cheryl has been giving him.  We just want to thank you for taking amazing care of our dad during these last few months. We are truly grateful to have you in our lives. #thankyou #grateful #mothersday
Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful Moms out Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful Moms out there! Enjoy your day! A very happy heavenly Mother’s Day to my mom. I’m so happy for all the years you were a part of my life, I just wish we could have had more time together.  I miss you so much, I love you and until we meet again, you’ll be in my heart. Love always, Joann 🥰❤️🙏 #mothersday #imissmymom #heavenlymothersday
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Have you checked out my YouTube channel yet? Over Have you checked out my YouTube channel yet? Over the last year and a half, I’ve made 35+ Disney food and snack recipes! Please consider subscribing and become part of the family! #smallyoutuber #smallyoutubersupport #smallyoutubercommunity #disneykitchen #disneysnacks #disneyfoodies #disneyrecipes #baking #bakingfortheinsta #disneylover #disneyfood #disneyhungry
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On our final night in Florida, we surprised my hus On our final night in Florida, we surprised my husband Gabe with a small  50th birthday party.  He turns 50 in May, but I wanted him to be able to celebrate with his family.  We are heading back to New Jersey.  Although we had a few rough days it was nice to get away and see our family.  Now we countdown until August when we visit again.  #homewardbound  #family #vacationmemories
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Wishing you and your family a very Happy and bless Wishing you and your family a very Happy and blessed Easter! #happyeaster #hehasrisen
Good evening friends! We finally made it to my mot Good evening friends! We finally made it to my mother-in-law’s house about an hour ago.  We are all tired but happy to be here.  I hope you all have a great evening.  #floridalife #saturdaynight #autism #autismmom #autismfamily #autismawareness #autismlife #autismlife #autismheros #autismadvocates #autismeducation #specialneedsmomlife 
#autismacceptance #autismstars 
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