My Little Life's Journeys

I’ll be honest, it’s been awhile since I have seen the Toy Story movies so I wasn’t quite sure who might pop up in Toy Story Land. I knew I would probably see Woody and Buzz, but the others were a bit of a blur, however once immersed in the land, it all came rushing back. There was Jesse and Slinky Dog and the Green Army Men and those cute little green aliens, ooohhhhh! I was ready to play!

  There are three rides in Toy Story Land. I rode them all! (make sure you get your Fast Passes early).

Slinky Dog Dash

Alien Swirling Saucers

Toy Story Mania

Then there is the merchandise, which is so cute!

  Grab a bite to eat at Woody’s Lunch Box where they serve both breakfast and lunch. The food was excellent and great for sharing.

  As you can see, everything is so colorful and bright and so Instagrammable, even the restrooms!

  When you pass through the entrance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios just follow all the kids, they will lead you straight to Toy Story Land. And once you get close, you will know.

  The land adds even more excitement to Hollywood Studios. I honestly can’t wait to go back just to take more photos! So, even if you aren’t a fan of the movies, or simply don’t remember them, this land is well worth a visit.

Sofra is located in the Icon Orlando 360 entertainment complex and is the perfect dining spot before or after your visit to the area attractions.

                      We were welcomed into the restaurant by a friendly staff and then greeted by our server who reviewed the menu with us. Of course on a warm summer day, we started with cocktails. So refreshing!

 Cocktails: The Beirut Cocktail and Mediterranean Sunset

Enjoy drinks by the bar, or sit outside and people watch. Stop in during their daily happy hour for half off specialty cocktails beginning at 4 p.m.

It was hard deciding what to order to eat, everything on the menu sounded so good. Once again, our server offered some suggestions and pointed us in the right direction.

Appetizers: Cold Mezza Trio (Hummus, Babba Gannoush and Grape Leaves) & Flaming Saganaki

If you are a cheese lover like me, you have to get the Flaming Saganaki. Both a delicious and entertaining way to start off the meal. The flames turned some heads as onlookers passed by.

Appetizer: Makanek (Spiced Sausage, sautéed in garlic lemon sauce)

                            The portion sizes are generous, and most everything comes with homemade pita bread. Yum!

Main Courses: Chicken Kabob & Beef Shawarma Saj

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert. These homemade sweets are the perfect ending to a meal at Sofra.

Desserts: Knafe (cheese pastry soaked in sugary-syrup) & Baklava

Did I mention before how much I love that a majority of the items we ordered came to the table sizzling, even the dessert?

Such an enjoyable experience and one worth trying when you are in Orlando. Next time you walk by, don’t be afraid to step inside and be transported by the favors of the Mediterranean.

  *I was provided a complimentary meal in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. 

I don’t want to spoil anything, but overall the movie had enough drama and excitement to keep me interested throughout, plus the added love story didn’t hurt.  I actually became invested in the characters are found myself rooting for them scene after scene.

If your lack of Star Wars knowledge is holding you back from seeing the film, I recommend giving it a shot. You might become an overnight Star Wars fan like me, well maybe.

Disney Springs really knew how to hype us all up for the premiere. Characters from far off galaxies were waiting at every turn.

Have you seen Solo yet? What did you think?

If you answered yes to any of these, it might be your DNA that’s holding you back. Everyone has a different genetic makeup so diet and fitness plans should never be one-size-fits-all.

The Home DNA Healthy Weight Test can help provide answers and solutions for reaching your health and fitness goals. Home DNA tests are available for purchase at CVS and RiteAid drugstores.

Swab samples are mailed to the team of experts at DNA Diagnostic Center (DDC) and results are sent within a few weeks providing detailed information on your  1) Ability to Lose Weight 2) Food 3) Nutrients 4) Response to Exercise.

Overall, I would consider myself healthy. I try to eat well and exercise occasionally, but I also find myself tired almost all of the time. After reviewing my DNA results, I realized some of my vitamin levels are low or below average.

The first step in improving my overall health, stock up on nutrient-rich foods and take daily vitamins. And guess what, I already feel better. My energy levels seem higher and I haven’t been craving junk food in the afternoon. I also love the personalized diet and exercise plans they provided me.

I’ve started eating a more nutritious breakfast in the morning which I feel has aided in my overall energy and alertness throughout the day.

I will continue to comb through my results and make necessary changes to live the healthiest and best life possible. I’ll update my progress as the weeks, months and years go by, but you too should also see if your DNA could be holding you back from reaching your goals.

*I was provided a sample HomeDNA Healthy Weight test, and all opinions expressed are my own. 

*DDC ensures results and DNA data are not shared; all private information is confidential and protected. 

**Before attempting any of the recommendations offered within the DNA report, one should consult with a physician (all categories), licensed professional trainer (exercise category), and/or a dietitian/nutritionist (food/nutrients categories). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Genetics are just one factor in overall health—personal habits, environmental influences, and other factors are also contributors.

**Not sold in NY and MD due to state regulations

Let’s dive back in, shall we?

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s a place everyone should experience at least once. For me, this was my third visit to the islands. I had gone when I was younger, but I always enjoy revisiting spots as an adult. It’s as if seeing it for the very first time; it’s a brand new perspective and learning experience. Most know that the Statue of Liberty was a gift from France as a symbol of friendship, but it soon became a welcoming symbol to so many immigrants who crossed the ocean to make a new life for themselves and their families in America. 

Ellis Island

From 1892-1954 more than 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island. The audio tour begins in the Great Hall where the initial inspections took place. You can even sit on some of the original benches used at the time. The hall seems empty now, but I can only imagine how overwhelming it must have been for so many immigrants. 

To get there: Tickets can be purchased through Statue Cruises located in Battery Park. Your ticket includes ferry service to both Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as well as audio tours at both locations. 

*TIP* Go early in the morning. Like I said before, it is a touristy activity, and security lines can get pretty long. I would also allow at least 4-5 hours for your visit since you have to go through a security checkpoint and board the ferry which takes about 30-45 minutes depending on how busy it is.

Katz’s Delicatessen

Like pizza and hot dogs, you can’t visit New York without going to a deli, and Katz’s is part of New York history. It opened in 1888 and is still going strong. It’s crowded, noisy and you will likely share a table with strangers, but it’s an experience. Plus they have amazing pickles!

Broadway

Like experiencing a delicatessen in New York City, you have to experience Broadway. I’ve seen several Broadway plays and not once have I left the theater disappointed. My most recent play, ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.’ It’s an inspiring story, and you will no doubt be singing along at the end. I had no idea how many songs were written by Carole King.

The High Line

What do you do with an abandoned rail line in the heart of New York City? Make it a beautiful open-air park.  I always love grabbing a cup of coffee from a local coffee shop and walking down the High Line. It is a great way to start the morning or even end the day. Fantastic views of the city and sunset.

  Mastro’s Steakhouse

Butter Cake. Enough Said. Well, aside from the most incredible dessert on the planet this is a great spot to relax by the bar, listen to some live music and enjoy DESSERT!

Comment below if there are any sights or sounds I missed. Happy Travels. 

Sarabeth’s

Sarabeth’s on Park Avenue was quite possibly the largest restaurant I have ever dined in. I just didn’t realize how big it was until I had to venture to the restroom. A maze of stairs and long hallways finally led me there. It’s ok though; I needed that little bit of exercise after a fantastic brunch. We started with the muffin basket accompanied by various jellies and then shared items including the Avocado and Burrata Toast. YUM! Can you believe this was my first time trying Avocado Toast?

       Avocado Toast Photo Courtesy of @mslindsays

One World Trade Center and Oculus

One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and stands in the same area as the original building of the same name which was destroyed during a terrorist attack. Take some time to walk around the complex or visit the museum. And while I’m not a huge fan of shopping malls, the Oculus is worth checking out. It’s a combination of a shopping mall, eatery and train station and looks like a spaceship.

Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO

Take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, not far from the Freedom Tower or Wall St. area. You’ll get some beautiful views of the city, but WATCH OUT FOR BIKES! On the other side of the bridge is a super cute area known as DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). You’ve probably seen this area a million times on Instagram; it’s pretty picturesque. Originally used as a ferry landing, much of the architecture in DUMBO looks very industrial. I think it adds to the charm.

Sunday in Brooklyn

Since we are already in Brooklyn why not stop at this cozy and quaint restaurant for a cocktail or two…or three…or why not six. It’s tough to choose when they are all so delicious. Ask for head bartender Brian, and he will mix you up something yummy. It’s always Sunday Funday at Sunday in Brooklyn.

Grand Central Station

It’s a beautiful backdrop for many movies and TV Shows and also one of the busiest train stations in New York City. If you enjoy people watching, grab a drink at Michael Jordon’s Steakhouse and relax a bit.

Bread & Tulips

After all that walking (and drinking) let’s eat at an incredible restaurant. Atmosphere, service, and food are some of the best in the city in my opinion. Make sure you try the Bucatini, it’s incredible! And now I’m starving!

Don’t worry, we’re not done yet. I’ll be taking you to more places in my next post. Stay Tuned!

I began writing this post after returning from a two-week adventure in the Big Apple. It was the longest I had ever spent in New York but still didn’t feel like enough. The energy of the city is so contagious, and it is hard to run out of things to do. I’ll break this blog up into parts so you aren’t tirelessly reading on and on, but I promise I’ll get to everything, just stick with me. Here we go…

The Met Cloisters

Can I just begin by saying how much I love New York City public transportation? I’m being 100% honest here; it is so easy to get from one end of the city to the other. I put my MetroCard to good use the day I went to The Cloisters, located off 190th street near Fort Tryon Park. Suddenly I was transported from New York to Europe, browsing rooms filled with century-old works of art, beautiful stained glass, and exquisite architecture.  If you are a history buff, The Cloisters is worth a visit.

Central Park

It was not my first, nor last visit to Central Park. I’ve been so many times, yet it is always a brand new experience depending on the time of year and what area I choose to roam. During this trip, I explored three very different areas of the park and finally found the waterfalls.

Street Food

You can’t go to New York without trying these two staple street foods of New York: Pizza and Hot Dogs. Yum!!!

Rockefeller Center

Even though it’s touristy, I love visiting because it always feels so festive. It was especially fun to watch the ice skaters below, almost felt like watching the Winter Olympics all over again, almost.

Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building is so unique; I can’t help but visit each time I’m in the city. It’s also a nice place to give your legs a rest after lots of walking. Madison Square Park has some great views of both the Flatiron Building and Empire State Building, and you might even catch some film crews. Seems like they are always filming commercials in this area.

Gallaghers Steakhouse

This historic spot opened in 1927 as a speakeasy and became Broadway’s first steakhouse after prohibition ended. The menu still features an item called “The Other Soup,” a joke dating back to prohibition when it meant alcohol.

The View

There are few things greater than a rooftop view of New York City. At The View, located on top of the Marriott Marquis in Times Square, not only are the views great but it’s New York’s only revolving rooftop restaurant and bar.

This is just scratching the surface of things to do in New York City.

My next blog post will feature The High Line, Ellis Island, Grand Central Station and more. Stay Tuned!

Our day began with a kayaking tour on the Nyami Nyami River, an expedition through Africa.

As we paddled down river, we passed cheetahs, rhinos, zebra, lemurs and more.

Did you know Lemurs cannot swim?

I didn’t know that. Our guide said it was a good thing or else they would quickly become our boat companions, grabbing anything and everything we had in hand.

The main attraction: Giraffes.

What a thrill to be so close to such graceful animals. Such a fantastic experience and one I recommend for everyone. The kayaking tour is about 30 minutes long and moves at a leisurely pace.

If kayaking is not your thing, you can still get a good view of the giraffes on the viewing platforms. I felt transported to another continent.

Bye bye Africa!

Our journey continued on through Australia and Beyond. For this close encounter, we were greeted by birds, lots and lot of birds.

For $1 you can get a cup of nectar or bird seeds to feed the little guys, and they are ready to eat. They will also come from out of nowhere to get some nectar.

This bird flew onto the tree branch, obviously not sturdy enough to hold him, and smacked me right in the face.

Luckily, I made it out without being pooped on. My husband, not so lucky, or is it lucky?

*Sidenote: If you are afraid of birds, which I heard several times while we were in this exhibit, this is not for you. They are everywhere and are not afraid to land on you.

Onward we go. Kangaroos, Swans, and Warty Pigs, oh my.

And a vocabulary lesson.

Chris Hemsworth, if you are reading this, I promise when we meet I will speak fluent Aussie 🙂 

Continuing on through the rainforest and then back to Florida. What an adventure!

There is so much to see and do at the Brevard Zoo, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring.

Cave diving is popular at many of the Florida springs, but Florida Caverns State Park is the only dry cave open to the public. Behind a heavy metal door awaits exploration into another world.

How did these caves form?

Millions of years ago, sea levels were much higher leaving a majority of the coastal areas underwater. Over the years, as sea levels fell, debris on the sea floor hardened into limestone which was dissolved by naturally acidic groundwater, thus creating crevices large enough to walk through. The process is still occurring today when rainwater drips through the cracks forming beautiful stalactites, stalagmites and other various formations.

How were they discovered?

Funny story. A tree is uprooted in the forest, leaving a large hole in the earth, do you climb down that hole? That’s exactly what Oliver Chalifoux, a National Park Services geologist, did, leading to his discovery of the incredible the cave system below.

The area was already being developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, who are responsible for many of the Florida State Parks. It was then that their efforts moved underground, working tirelessly in dark, damp and cramped conditions to open the park to the public.

Dazzling stalagmites rise from the floor meeting stalactites hanging from the ceiling. It’s easy to maneuver around them now, but can you imagine doing it in the dark? These were just some of the hazards facing the workers. To help reflect light, they plastered porcelain dishes to the ceiling. They are still there to this day.

Guided tours are offered throughout the week and last about 45 minutes. Be sure to call ahead, as tours do fill up quickly.

It was a fascinating tour providing an educational history of the area, state parks, and Florida cave system. The guides also have names for many of the different formations from ‘cave bacon’ to ‘Titanic’ to ‘The Cathedral.’

Do you see why?

Once you emerge from the underground cave, walk around the grounds; the scenery is beautiful.

Pro Tip: Bring a jacket or sweater, it can be a bit chilly. Don’t you love my husband’s Florida Caverns State Park hoodie 🙂

It's a sinkhole, what more is there to say? A lot actually...#DevilsMillhopper #LoveFL

It’s a sinkhole, what more is there to say? But here are some pretty pictures…

Actually, it is quite interesting. The sinkhole is believed to have formed more than ten thousand years ago and has become a valuable resource in providing researchers information on Florida’s natural history.

As you descend 120 feet to the pond below, you will notice the scenery and temperature change. It begins to…

While I love our hikes through Florida, sometimes it is nice to see it all from the well air conditioned car, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach well into the 90’s.

This area was originally designed as a mosquito control impoundment. Water levels could be managed for the purpose of mosquito control. Now it’s a beautiful marshy area perfect for birding and wildlife viewing.

Keep a lookout for alligators in the water.

There are two hiking trails and several spots you can pull over and walk around a bit.

A self-guiding brochure can be picked up at the entrance and provides information on many of the plant and animal species you might see along the drive.

The drive is approximately 40 minutes through the park but will vary based on stops.

Here are my Top 10 favorites at Epcot’s Festival of the Arts:

*Warning: This post may induce a sugar coma*

Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts:

Whipped Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese with Fresh Herbs

Chicken Salad with Shaved Fennel and Fresh Herbs

Spicy Tuna with Wasabi and Seaweed Salad

2. Pomegranate Mule featuring Van Gogh Vodka

3. Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: Whipped New York-Style Cheesecake with Fresh Florida Strawberries, Sugar Cookies, and Micro-basil

4. Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Callebaut Belgian Chocolate

5. Pop’t Art: Modern-designed Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling

6. Frida Guava Margarita

7. Frosé: Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé wine with Grey Goose Vodka and Peach Purée

8. Artful Photo Ops

9. Expression Section: Help paint a larger than life mural

10. World Showcase Sunset

Be sure to pick up your festival guide at the entrance of the park, or at various kiosks throughout. Epcot International Festival of the Arts runs through February 19th.

Will you be attending Epcot’s Festival of the Arts or any other annual Disney festival this year? What are your favorites?

Just north of Orlando, near Longwood, keep an eye out for the Big Tree marker. A short path will bring you to The Senator, a 3,500 year old cypress tree.

A tree covered boardwalk leads led to one of the most impressive sights, “The Senator,” a 3,500-year-old Cypress Tree. Unfortunately, it was lost to fire in 2012, and I was even more heartbroken to learn it was an act of vandalism.

“The Senator” was one of the oldest and largest cypress trees in America. The Native Americans living in the area used this tree as a landmark while making their way…

Welcome to De Leon Springs State Park. Believed to be the where Ponce de Leon discovered the Fountain of Youth, but in reality was just a marketing ploy to bring tourists to the area. The name was even changed from Spring Garden to De Leon Springs to add to the hype.

By the late 1800’s tourists were traveling to the springs by railroad and steamboat believing in the anti-aging and healing properties of the waters.

I even gave it a go. It obviously worked since the Google Arts & Culture app matched me with a portrait of a baby.

De Leon Springs was also home to the first water-powered sugar mill. This structure is now the popular Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House which features a cook-your-own pancake griddle at each table. The restaurant is located in a replica of the original 1830’s mill which was destroyed by the Seminoles in 1835.

Swimming, canoeing, fishing and hiking bring people to this area now.

Now it’s your turn to test out the healing and anti-aging properties of these waters. Will you too soon resemble a baby from the 17th century?

It has stood in this very spot for over 400 years; just imagine the things it has seen, hurricanes, wars, floods, fires, and droughts, oh my.

The Fairchild Oak marks the beginning of a 6.8 mile hiking trail, leading to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park. While I love hiking trails, 6.8 miles seems a little daunting, but maybe someday.  Instead, I chose to drive. It’s a scenic drive with plenty of spots to stop and walk around.

  There are even some sugar mill ruins along the way. Like Dummitt Plantation Mill.

  This mill, like many others in the area, was burned down and partially destroyed during the Second Seminole War in 1836. You can’t get as close to these ruins as Bulow Plantation Ruins, but it’s still a spectacular sight you can see from the Old Dixie Highway.

Old Beach Road, as it is called now, was the original road leading to and from the Bulow Plantation.

  This one wagon road was used to transport goods produced at the plantation to  various locations in Florida. I could tell the road hadn’t been widened since; it was a struggle driving our compact car down it. Luckily, no one was trying to leave the plantation as we arrived.

Bulow Plantation prospered until the Second Seminole War.

In 1836, ‘Bulowville’ was burned down. After that, the plantation was abandoned and all that was left is what stands today.

  The coquina ruins of the sugar mill, some wells, a spring house, the crumbling foundation of the mansion and lots and lots of mosquitos are all that remain.

I’m serious about the mosquitos, and you should take this as a warning if you plan to visit.

On our way back home, we took the scenic route through Bulow Creek State Park.

As you can see, the drive was worth it.

Now I’m off to my next adventure. 

I’m sure you probably saw the memes floating around social media: Floridians can handle category 4 hurricanes, but not winter. But hey, human beings weren’t the only ones struggling. Iguanas were literally falling from trees it was so cold, and manatees were making their way to warmer waters to get some cuddle time in.

Blue Spring State Park is a designated manatee refuge. When temperatures drop, the manatees make their way into the natural springs to stay warm. Water temperatures in the springs are a consistent 73 degrees year round.  During my visit, there were 495 manatees in Blue Spring.

That’s a record!!!

It sure was an amazing sight, seeing them slowly swimming along the banks, seeking out sunlight. Some were even playing in the waters.

These manatees were putting on a show for us, rolling around, doing flips and even flopping their flippers in and out of the water.

If you plan on visiting Blue Spring State Park, keep in mind, it can reach capacity quickly so try to go early. Besides manatee viewing, there is also a boat tour and museum.

The guided St. John’s River Cruise is both relaxing and informational, plus you’re sure to get a glimpse of even more wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Again, try to get there early.

Then take a self-guided tour through the Thursday House, built in 1872. The Thursbys left New York and arrived at Blue Spring by steamboat and became the spring’s first permanent settlers.

They sure had an amazing view, one you should check out for yourself.

Camping, scuba diving and nature trails are also available at Blue Spring State Park.

The holidays sure did fly by this year; I think because in general, we are just getting busier and busier. I think that’s why I enjoy TopGolf so much, and the fact that I’m actually pretty good at it. But, honestly, it gives you a chance to simply enjoy the company of friends and family while playing a competitive leisurely game of “golf.”

If you are not familiar with TopGolf, it is basically a multi-level driving range. You nook, called a Bay, can accommodate up to 8 people and bar and table service are available throughout the game play.

There are a variety of different games you can choose from, based on your expertise. I prefer just the original TopGolf mode, but there is something for everyone whether you are looking to test your skills or just practice your swing.

It’s mini golf with a twist and will easily become your local hangout. Once you purchase a Lifetime Membership to TopGolf (only $5) you will receive a card which holds all your previous scoring information; it also allows your balls to know who is hitting. The golf balls at TopGolf are microchipped with a Toptracer which measures the carry, ball speed, height, hang time and curve of the ball. You’ll feel like a pro during the replay.

It’s one of my favorite new attractions in the Orlando area.

Check your local TopGolf location for reservation information. Walk-ins are always welcome, but if you are in a time crunch look into making a reservation. *Reservation fees will apply.

Who’s ready to challenge me to round?