#also this is just OG EPCOT again

[samuelturn]

The community is called “Cotino” and the houses start at $1.5 MILLION AND UP JESUS FUCKING CHRIST

[spiritsofprogress]

Here’s how Figment can still win | updating the attraction

I envy those who got to experience the ride in its original form with dream finder and all, I really do. I remember being a kid In the early 2000s and my grandpa was excited to take us on it as it was his favorite ride, only to find it completely different. However, what you might not expect me to say is that I don’t think the current iteration of journey into imagination is bad! Do I think it lives up to the original? No, but Dr.Channing is decent and the concept is quite cute.

The problem is this iteration is a clear patch job done nearly 20 years ago and they’ve let it sit ever since. This sucks. Especially considering Disney and Epcot clearly realize how much pull Figment has as a character, people adore this purple dragon years after his debut (remember the popcorn bucket?). They’ll slap him on anything and everything for festivals… but his ride? Actual non festival attraction related merch? You get a shirt or two if you’re lucky! When I went recently there was a single shelf reserved for figment related items. A single shelf in a decently sized gift shop that was mainly filled with the same Toy Story summer line they overestimated in popularity. (I’ve never seen anyone buy or have something from this line). The state it’s in is sad, especially considering Disney pulls on figments popularity! He’s getting a meet and greet again so can we finally update the attraction! … I’ve also heard rumor of the rainbow tunnel returning….

My solutions-

As much as I wish it could, I don’t know if we’ll get the dream finder version of the ride back, but here’s my idea on how to update the ride with the storyline we do have. It’s a cute concept but they’re not doing it to the best it can be.

1. Make it longer! To say they shortened journey into imagination is a understatement, I have no idea what they’re using half of the building for. Make it longer- maybe do go into the smell and taste labs. Make some more elaborate scenes- show that chaos figment has brought to the institue! One of the best gags is in the queue and the poor secretary of Dr.Channing answering the phone every few seconds - give me that energy! Give me… imagination running wild! That’s literally the storyline with figment but he feels so… constrained? Lack of space as it’s so short.

2. 2D figment. I beg of you. I know when the ride was redone 3D animation was new and all the rage but… I’m sorry 3D figment is terrifying and super dated. Soft, cuddly and cute 2D figment is timeless. It wouldn’t be that hard to go over the same scenes just with a drawn model instead, this is a quick fix to Rodger rabbit it.

3. More characters. I’m not even asking for animatronics but you need to give us something more. Again, that secretary is just a gag but its such a good show of story we don’t get on the actual attraction. A fun idea you could do is have ���Dean Finder” come out and be the only one to be able to calm figment down/understand him? Sort of nod to the OG besides just a door THEN they open Channings mind to imagination as something to be free. This equally lengthens the attraction.

4. It just makes me sad as they have a really good concept here and ERIC FLIPPING IDLE but don’t utilize such a great comedic actor to the potential I know they could have. Another thing I’d request is the return of a good imageworks that’s not 99% photo opportunities with random characters not seen anywhere else. Additionally if you don’t want to make a lot of merch for the ride that’s fine… make the gift shop smaller, which shouldn’t be a issue if you make the ride longer again.

It’s fascinating to me that Disney consistently lets such a beloved attraction down despite using it for merch and festivals. It’s also fascinating that despite getting a whole makeover the park is leaning into a retro futurism feel and a “Epcot center” vibe (this is a good thing). But again ignores this ride- It’d be costly, sure, what isn’t, but I think it’d be worth giving just a bit of attention.

[thedisneychef]

School Bread – Kringla Bakeri Og Cafe

I know this is almost sacrilegious to say, but I’ve never had the school bread in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion.  I know it’s got a loyal, nearly fanatical fan base and I know saying I’ve never tried it is like saying I’ve never had the turkey leg or a Dole Whip…  But for some reason, I’ve never made space in my stomach to give it a shot. The recipe is all over the place online and I’ve been saying for months that I’d try it, but like when it’s at Epcot, I never got around to adding it to my “bake” list until now. Doing a yeast bread that involves icing and custard, no matter how delicious it sounded, it seemed like it was a major investment in time… And it was. It’s not a hard recipe, just one with a lot of steps that takes longer than your average baked good. I did follow the recipe exactly, but as anybody who’s read this blog knows, making custard seems to never work out for me (as we can see here and here) and I was yet again defeated with this recipe. While I got so, so, so close, I cooled it off too early, it was ever-so-slightly too runny still so I added whipped topping to thicken it off. Brilliant solution that tasted fabulous, but I’m sure it made it taste less like it does in the parks. Next time, I’ll get pre-made custard or I’ll just make pudding… Which I mess up only about 50% of the time as opposed to 100% of the time. Also, I ended up way more flour than the original recipe called for.  I’m not sure if it’s because I might have used an extra half a cup of water, or if it just really needed the extra flour…  As written, the dough was so sticky and watery it was completely impossible to handle. And this makes a lot of school bread. I ended up with 14 pastries. I tasted this as it went along and it was really neat to see how each of the components came together to change it from being a regular yeast bread that was maybe even a little savory, like a dinner roll, but ended up being the right level of sweet and hearty. I actually thought this would be like a doughnut when I decided to do this recipe. It’s more like Norway’s answer to a sweet breads like cinnamon rolls, without the super sweet overload. I really liked it and will go out of my way to have it next time at Epcot. This post was featured in the Februrary link party “Ride the Rails” featuring topics related to Disney’s “Frozen” in the Disney parks, hosted by “The Magical Blogorail.” Read the full article

[tinyhockey]

hello friend! it’s your fic exchange writer again and i’m back with a few more questions

do you prefer disney world or disney land?

if you’ve gone to the park you prefer, what’s your favourite ride, activity, character to meet, snack, etc. just need anything you see as a must do at that park

ooohhhhhh my dear you just opened a vault you may not recover from. i'm putting this below the cut because i'm just gonna like completely go off. apologies in advance

so i've been to walt disney world in florida i think... 20 times? almost? something like that? i did go to disneyland once when i was 19 and i really liked it but i definitely know less about that.

my favorite park within walt disney world is definitely epcot! my girl my shining star. attractions: soarin' is one of my favorites, i also like test track and slower rides like spaceship earth and living with the land. but honestly the rides are less important to me than the general vibe of the place! i love strolling through all the countries, seeing all the shops, and just sitting beneath a shady tree and people watching. characters: i love to meet my favorite princess aurora over in france!! she's my number one girl. sometimes prince phillip meets with her and i CRY. snow white meets sometimes too and i love her! food: epcot is SOO good for food - i love the rice cream and pastries from kringla bakeri og cafe over in norway, the ice cream and sweets in france, basically everything in japan, like... it's so good fr. i would eat anywhere in epcot and love it. oh and canada has poutine so like?? iconic.

all the other parks are pretty equal in my mind so i will list them all below.

for magic kingdom attractions, haunted mansion is my number one forever i looooove me some spooky fun (even if i always get jump-scared by the popup ghosts in the graveyard). carousel of progress is pretty close behind - it's such a vibe, i love it sm, you should've seen me scream when i found out john and sarah were meet and greet characters at disneyland's throwback night. i also love pirates of the caribbean, the tomorrowland transit authority peoplemover, seven dwarfs mine train, and mickey's philharmagic! characters: allll the princesses!! tiana and rapunzel are my second and third favorites (after aurora) but i also love to meet cinderella and ariel, and all of their princes! tinker bell and peter pan are also really fun even if i don't love the movie oops... food i am a dole whip hater oops but i love a citrus swirl! and a lefou's brew is so good. the grey stuff is really delicious (lmfao). you also can't go wrong with the classics like popcorn and mickey ice cream bars - but no turkey legs ew ew. i like the plaza restaurant on main street and liberty tree tavern for sit down places but sometimes i'd rather just leave and go to the hotels nearby. oh and i loooove the parade festival of fantasy!! i sing the soundtrack constantly. the fireworks are sweet too!

hollywood studios attractions, i love rise of the resistance so so so much it's ridiculous. smuggler's run is fun as well! i miss the great movie ride but i love mickey and minnie's runaway railway too. twilight zone traumatized me the one time i went on it but the theming is so good i might pluck up the courage to go again someday... i also love toy story mania and muppet vision 3d (because everything is better with muppets!) but my number one thing is probably fantasmic. it's the nighttime show there and i cry EVERY TIME I WATCH IT when mickey appears at the top of the mountain... i lose it. i don't usually meet a lot of characters there, but ariel from the live action little mermaid is meeting there now and i'd love to see her! food is kinda iffy at HS but i do love the lunchbox tarts at woody's lunch box and it's a legal requirement that you have to have popcorn and strawberry lemonade at fantasmic.

animal kingdom attractions, i used to love flight of passage until they said i wasn't allowed to go on bc my calves wouldn't fit (which happens to a lot of people but yes i did cry about it). so i like kilimanjaro safaris, kali river rapids, dinosaur, and just like hanging out and looking at all the different animal exhibits! oh and finding nemo the musical AND festival of the lion king slap so much harder than they need to. again i don't really meet characters there. food, you gotta go for tusker house for breakfast and satuli canteen for lunch or dinner. they both are so damn good. plus you get pog juice (passionfruit, orange, guava) at breakfast which, inject that shit directly into my veins thank u.

outside of the parks, i really love all of the different hotels on property! the yacht & beach club is my first home, but the riviera has grown on me so so much, it's gorgeous (and my laptop background). i've always wanted to check out the polynesian too! the grand floridian and port orleans are also so so pretty. disney springs is fun too for an afternoon or evening, i'm not big into shopping but i like to browse around (and look for dolls and plush whoops).

generally i'm not a big roller coaster or scary rides person, i much prefer slower paced rides or ones like soarin' or test track where it's thrilling but doesn't make me scream super loud (ok, test track does, but besides the point). i’m more than happy to hold the backpacks and stuff and find a shady spot to drink a Diet Coke while other people go on! i also love seeing characters and shows, and taking in all the little details of the parks. i know sooo much trivia it's kind of ridiculous. i usually have a plan of what park we're going to, where we're sitting down to eat, and what rides are our number one priorities, but other than that i'm fine just going where the vibe takes me. i usually wear capris and a themed shirt to the parks, plus a backpack and my silver minnie ears with an aqua bow <3 but I’d love to dress up someday, in a way that wouldn’t make me sweat even more rip

i really really love disney if you couldn't tell, i usually have the ambient soundtracks playing or old parade soundtracks, my phone case is disney parks, I’ve seen every Disney and Pixar movie 3 times at least… do I always support them as a company? fuck no! but their movies and music and theme parks comfort me, and everyone in the parks is so nice! I end up complimenting a ton of people or helping them find their way to the star wars rides (my dad always has to tell me I don’t work there!!). it’s really special and I can’t wait to someday share it with a special person <3333

apologies for this complete essay!!! I hope at least some of this could be useful to you or at least interesting. if you have any more questions please let me know!! thank u so so much :3

[chelleztjs18]

Hello you mrs. oldie lefty eyebag honey nut cheerio 😅

I am good, just cold and working. It's snowing here, I'll whisper to the sky to go to Oklahoma so you can have some snow 🤣😁

You don't have to apologize for replying late, it's fine if it takes you awhile lol but I am sorry that you are having your visitor, it always dampens my mood the day before it arrives. I hope you don't mind me asking, how often do you do intermitten fasting? Do you get mad when you see pictures of food that you can't have while fasting?

I hear you on that, growing up in the Philippines, it's always humid and hot. But it is different from the heat here, I've noticed.

Maybe someday you will go there with the family 😃 I want to go to Disney world too, and Legoland and Epcot. The tickets are just so expensive. But I want to go so I can check out the food and some of the rides!

For my birthday last year, I went to a small lego land in KS, I could've stayed in there the whole day 😅

Yeah, I am going there this March. I think if we're timing it right, I will be gone for almost 2 weeks! It's not enough time but we will make the most of it. Don't miss me too much when I'm gone hahahaha just kidding

Of course I remember your birthday. It's close to Elizabeth's birthday! Do you at least have cake or something for your birthday?

Have you ever collected little trinkets that hold a sentimental value?

-CuriousGeorge

Corn-punn! Heeeyy! How r u? Again, sorry for the late reply..

Hows ur day so far?

Yes please blow the snow to come here..😅🤣 but dont use straw, it takes too long.lol.

I just found out im not gonna have a visitor this week. His cousin will come next weekend.

I just started the fasting yesterday.. i did it for a week last month but then i got sick of bronchitis so i stopped until i feel better.. n i just restarted it again yesterday. No, i dont get mad when i see picts of food when im fasting.😅 it just make my stomach growl though.lol.

I been to phlipine's airport for transit and i could feel the heat n the humidity even when i didnt get out og the airport. Same like indonesia..

I hv been to legoland, for me it was okay.. 😁 but i was amazed with all the things that they built with lego pieces.

What is epcot?

Yeah disneyland is expensive. I used to have season pass for disneyland n included parking n no blackout dates i think, n it's like 500 or 600 a month.. but still it's a better deal.. because u can come anytime n not worry if it's too busy n cant ride anything then u will just go home.haha.

I also used to have universal studio season pass as well. So i went there pretty often with my bestfriend, usually on mondays because we have the same day off.hahah.

Now i have the diamond elite member season pass for six flags. It's way cheaper than disneyland.. i think it's only 50 dollar a month n it's included lunch n dinner plus a snack everytime i go n i can go to any six flag in other states. Including the waterpark.

Oh wow, that sounds fun.. any plans u gonna do or place of food u gonna go? What food that u crave the most that u cant find it here?

Haha i will miss talking with u.. u probably miss me more 😅🤣 so u wont be online here while u r there?🥺

Aaaw thats so sweet u remember my birthday! Thank you! Yeah sometimes i get cake for my birthday. I usually eat noodle on my birthday. It's a tradition since i was a kid, my mom always try to make me some noodle or buy somewhere, for a symbol n good wish of long life, she said. Haha.

Yes, sometimes i collect small sentimental trinkets. What abou u?

Next question?

Cheerio!

[avaloniaofficial]

avalon/avi ✨ frankie [he/they/it] ⭐️ queer ⭐️ worlds first nia worn kinnie ⭐️ resident robobitch

[not a kin or rp acc!!! sorry y’all :///]

more under the cut✌️

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general/rambling/shitposting tag: #az says all OR #avi says all [POST 9/9/23]

personal tag: #avi moment

irl photos: #avi life

partner posts: #written in the stars

⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~⭐️

[ WE MAKE SEX JOKES AND THIRSTPOST ABOUT BEARS. i use the term ‘faggot’ liberally, especially referring to myself. 18+ content is basically guaranteed to come up at some point. use your best judgement. browse at own risk!!!]

⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~⭐️

✨ABOUT ME!!!✨

🪐 im autistic as fuck and relate to aliens too much :]]] i dont really see myself as human

🪐 im queer and love my bf and partner in crime so much aug [I LOVE YOU INK!!! 💖💖💖 follow inkwell13 now bc hes hot and funny and wonderful.]

🪐 my interests include [game of the week], theme parks, sewing/costume design, rhythm games, and birds!!! B]

🪐i love you amory wars. I LOVE YOU VAXIS. i am so normal about them. this user kins nia worn /hj

🪐im a big diy cosplay/fashion dude!!! AGAIN I LOVE SEWING/COSTUME DESIGN!!!

🪐the littlebigplanet series is one of my all time favs !!! im also hella into destiny [vanilla d1 vet!!! since the very beginning]. any game with interesting visuals [i.e. bugsnax, smile for me, psychonauts] gets me. also PROSEKAI 🎀!!!

🪐learning guilty gear strive!!! 🩺faust main

🪐 epcot, [and more specifically the og epcot center] is one of my longest running special interests!!! i love learning about the technology, statistics, psychology, etc behind themed entertainment!!! [i love u ball :]] I DO NOT CONDONE OR ENDORSE DISNEY AS A COMPANY… >:[[[

🪐my fav movies are space sweepers, repo! the genetic opera, hitchhikers ‘05, and tron [both ‘82 and legacy]!!! hitchikers guide 81’ tv series also.

🪐 i really like twrp, the protomen, daft punk, röyksopp, starcadian, the aquabats! and ofc, coheed and cambria!!!

🪐 i follow the vocaloid scene heavily and have for a long time!!! nayutalien, hachi, and pinocchio-p are my favs!!!

🪐not so secretly a kinnie… but i wont tell you who for :]]]

⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~ ⭐️~⭐️~⭐️

🛰if you demonize personality disorders love armchair diagnosing real people or uwu-ify my or others problems i am fucking blowing you up with my mind. in case no one reminded you, you suck balls dick and ass.

🛰i have no time for any shit so i just block who i dont vibe with and move on. that being said, this blog is pro kink, pro sex worker, anti-zionist, thinks policing labels is bs, and that all lives dont matter until black lives do. this blog is also transmed-hostile! die. dont tell me what to do with my body you stupid fuckers.

🛰if you come into my inbox to debate me Dont. im busy enjoying the sky and the grass and the trees

ALSO vivziepop fans are a hard block 💙

🛰just dont be a piece of shit and we should get along fine!!! :]]]

[dabblesindrabbles]

Pjo/Hoo Disney Parks AU

Inspired by @son-of-rome and his work A Kiss From A Prince which was originally inspired by this ask.

Okay, so, the Disney College Program is about as close to a Camp Half-Blood or Camp Jupiter sort of experience as I’ve ever had? So I’m placing the Seven + Nico/ Reyna primarily in College Program (CP) or Internship roles. 

The Greeks = Walt Disney World. The Romans = Disneyland. East Coast vs. West Coast. The Most Magical Place on Earth vs. The Happiest Place on Earth. Similar, related, but absolutely not the same thing. Yes I know Disneyland predates Walt Disney World but let’s not talk about that.

Annabeth. Magic Kingdom - Main Street West Merchandise. Sorry East side, no hate, but I felt like it was a good nod to Annabeth’s ties to the West Coast. The OG Disney park in Florida, The Magic Kingdom is one of the most visited theme parks in the world. Cast members brave large crowds, crazy late hours, and traverse the Utilidors on the daily - a Labyrinth if I’ve ever seen one. Annabeth obviously has a perfect attendance record, at least three “4 Keys Cards” and has extended for a full year in the hopes of later returning for an Imagineering Professional Internship in Architecture. 

Percy. Typhoon Lagoon - Lifeguard/ Magic Kingdom - Quick Service Food and Beverage. A lot of people don’t know that the waterparks close for refurbishment in shifts during the winter months, meaning that CPs are often moved to Quick Service when their respective waterpark is closed for refurbishment.  Percy’s cool with it. I put him in Typhoon Lagoon because that wave pool is sick. Percy started during Annabeth’s extension, has a point or two on his record for sleeping in or running late, but definitely has a few Cast Compliments on social media. No plans for a future with the Company, just there for a break from school and a good time. Sends his sister all kinds of fun stuff from the parks and can’t wait for his family to visit. 

Piper. Magic Kingdom - Main Street West Merchandise. Piper thought about the program in California, but living expenses were so much more and she didn’t want to ask her dad for help with the bills. Lowkey prefers the more regular phone calls she gets being so far from home. Randomly matched with Annabeth in CP housing during Annabeth’s extension, though their assignments usually send them to different sections at work. Always able to talk her fellow cast members into trading shifts and is a wonder with upset guests. Annabeth is trying to convince her to apply for a Guest Relations Professional Internship, but Piper thinks the points on her record would be an issue. She’s considering going back to California anyway and is rethinking the program in Disneyland in order to be closer to her dad. Couldn’t stand the character performers at first, but is starting to realize that they really aren’t so different from any other cast members. 

Jason. Previous: California Adventure - Park Greeter/ Trainer and Coordinator. Current: Epcot - Guest Relations Professional Intern. Jason isn’t quite sure how he ended up in Florida persay, as he was on track for a leadership role in California, but curiosity, a desire for change, and perhaps a strange twist of fate sent him across country and pulled him out of his comfort zone. He’s always felt bound by procedure in his previous role, but now gets to bend the rules for the right reasons, solve problems, and help guests in a number of ways. Though he can pick up shifts at any park and often does, he feels most comfortable in his home location, as the park promotes ideas of unity, understanding, and exploration. Jason’s attendance record is flawless, and he has received a number of recognitions from fellow cast and guests for his eagerness to help and his compassion.

Leo. Hollywood Studios - Attractions, The Great Movie Ride before it closed forever rip. With Leo’s energy, his quick wit, and knack for corny jokes a spieling role seemed fitting. He has no problem improvising in front of guests though his leaders have scheduled meetings with him repeatedly to discuss when it is appropriate. Of course operating the ride vehicles, animatronics, and cueing the pyrotechnics are his favorite parts of the job and he hopes to return to the company for an Imagineering Professional Internship in the future. There are surprisingly no points on his record of attendance, but then again, there’s no place he’d rather be.

Frank. Disneyland - Character attendant. Frank’s compassion and gentle nature makes him a natural fit for the role, and his fierce protectiveness of his fellow cast members and friends keeps them safe on stage with guests. Frank enjoys his role, but is dreaming of a Professional Internship with Animal Programs where he can share his passion for and knowledge of animals with guests looking to become wilderness explorers. He has one single point on his record for stopping to give directions to a guest, which resulted in him clocking in late.

Hazel. The Grand Californian - Conceirge. Surrounded by luxury but also silence, Hazel doesn’t see much guest interaction working third shift - or the graveyard shift as some might call it. She doesn’t mind. Hazel enjoys the quiet and occasional call down to the desk where she is happy to assist any guests with their needs. She holds her few Applause-o-grams near to her heart and loves that her role allows her to build relationships with guests over the course of their stay, even if goodbyes are difficult. She has no plans to continue with the Company as of yet, instead ready to see where fate takes her next.

Reyna. California Adventure - Park Greeter/ Trainer and Coordinator on a Temporary Assignment in Operations Management. Reyna was a shining star from her first day on the job, executing her role in compliance with the 4 Keys while also doing well to assist her fellow cast members. She’s worked hard to grow in her role with the Company and has done well to find herself in a management role so young, though it speaks to her capabilities, passion, and drive. Her flawless attendance record is a credit to her goal of continuing to rise in the ranks of the Company, and while she has no recognitions to her name, she knows she has done her job well.

Nico. Disneyland - Custodial / Magic Kingdom - Custodial. Somehow a seasonal cast member on both coasts, no one is quite sure if it has ever been done before, though Nico hardly boasts of his travel from coast to coast. He doesn’t particularly like cleaning up after guests but he enjoys the independent work, the freedom to roam around the parks at his own pace, and the ability to pick up shifts wherever he pleases. Cast members are often unnerved by how quickly he is able to cross the parks at a moment’s notice when he is called over the radio, and they sometimes miss the way he smirks when he overheares them whispering about it. No points on his record, no recognitions to his name, and no plans for a future with the Company, he’s happy to come and go with the seasons.

[reyhaninwonderland]

I’m back!

On our third day of Disney, we traveled the world!… kind of.

We went to Epcot that day and it was epic! (except for the fact that I didn’t wear the birthday pin that day, so i didn’t get any special treatment.. I regret that decision terribly)

This day was a lot more chill than our first two days, maybe because Epcot doesn’t have as many rides and there were more adults here. I looked forward to Epcot a lot and it did not disappoint! When i was here back in 2003, I was too little to appreciate the countries. Now, as an adult (ahem! believe it or not i am adulting), I’ll be able to look at each country with a better understanding and appreciation.

But before we went country hopping.. we went on a couple rides, like Soarin’, Nemo & Friends, and Mission:Space.

We loved Soarin’. It was AWESOME. 

And also:

We were cheesing so hard when we met Pluto! 😀

We met Disney Pals!

This… was the happiest 10 minutes of my life. It was a whole bunch of squealing and fangirling.

Coincidently in our time in Epcot, Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival was happening. It actually just started the day before we were here, so that was very convenient for us, to be able to see the very cool decorations and artwork.

It was throughout the park in all the countries! The amount of detail (again, we were so into the detail) put into every single character was incredible.

Wow.

So we started off in Mexico!

I was so happy to see so many things in Mexico related to Coco! I love that movie. We ended up having lunch in Mexico, yummy. 🙂

We didn’t spend much time in Norway next, but I thought this was very nicely done. I do like Frozen, but the Frozen related attractions had a very long wait! I bet lots of kids want to see Anna and Elsa here. (I’m excited for Frozen II! It’s coming out soon!)

Next stop: China. Where i met:

Fa Mulan. On international women’s day too, how iconic is that? She is so beautiful. Ugh i love her. Mulan is one of my favorite movies of all time. “I’ll Make A Man Out Of You” goes hard.

Our next country was Germany. We actually spent quite some time in Germany. We got caught up in this one store that was selling beautiful glassware.

Of course, when in Germany, we waited in line to meet the OG princess!

The very first one that started it all ❤ Snow White (my mom’s favorite princess actually). This girl was literally Snow White.. like as if she walked right out of the Snow White movie and just came to life. She talked just like her too! Her makeup was flawless. And she said the dwarves are going to bake us a cake at the castle so it’s gotta happen now.

Italy gave me major Lady and the Tramp vibes. They’re so cute! Love this classic as well 😀 made me want some spaghetti 😛

After Italy was America.

………….

After America, was Japan, my ultimate favorite! 😦

Oh Japan, I miss you so. This brings me back to Hakone 😦

I did talk Japanese there with a couple of people! It was good practice for me. Some of the employees there even recognized my mouse ears because i got it in Disneyland Tokyo! One girl even told me that my Japanese was pretty good and my pronunciation was good, so at least I know I’m getting somewhere! My heart.. だいすき ❤

After we left Japan, we went to our people in Morocco ;D haha

It reminded me a lot of Turkey, our cultures are so similar. I love the design in the buildings here. One of the photographers told us that the Prince of Morocco came here when the park was still being built and designed Morocco himself because he wanted it to be similar to the country. I thought that was a very interesting fact! It made me appreciate this part of the park even more.

We met Princess Jasmine too! It was a little awkward because when we approached her, we said “As-salāmu ʿalaykum”… and she had no idea what we said. But it’s ok! We talked a bit about the genie and the magic carpet!

Bonjour! We arrived in France!

I feel like I am most similar to Belle out of all the princesses because we both like to read and we stop paying attention to our surroundings when we’re immersed in a story! We’re too caught up in our characters’ lives! We met Belle by chance, she was just walking and then stood nearby where we were sitting! Lucky us 😀

In United Kingdom, we saw these tea cups and i thought that was cute! I wouldn’t mind having this on our own lawn haha.

It was so nice talking to the employees here because they all had a English accent. I could just melt. 

Finally, our last location: Canada.

I’ve been to Canada before! I like how they did the mini Niagara Falls here. By the time we reached Canada, the sun was starting to set so it looked very beautiful with the sunset.

Before the night came to an end, we of course went on the ride Spaceship Earth! I actually remember that ride when I first went on it.

At 9 o’clock, the show Illuminations: Reflections of Earth started.

It was a sweet show. It wasn’t Magic Kingdom level, but it was still a good one!

That night, we ended going to Disney Springs (used to be called Downtown Disney back in the day), but we went so late, everywhere was closed!

So we went back to our hotel and called it a night xx

Bye from me and my bestie, Mickey ❤ Disney Diary 4 is coming soon xx

Disney Diary 3: All Around the World in Epcot I'm back! On our third day of Disney, we traveled the world!... kind of. We went to Epcot that day and it was epic!

[aphotobymia]

Colorism is the New Black

col·or·ism

ˈkələrˌizəm/

Discrimination based on skin color, also known as colorism or shadeism, is a form of prejudice or discrimination in which people are treated differently based on the social meanings attached to skin color.

You may have heard the phrase, “don’t judge a book by its cover.” The phrase doesn’t actually just pertain to literature but, also new things, new people, and even those that chose to clothing as self-expression. In a previous post, I discussed the racial disparities within Jean-Michel Basquiat’s artwork and referenced the homicides of several African American men in the United States over the past several years.

I want to discuss the importance of the phrase:

“Don’t judge a book by its cover”

Last month the Museum of Modern Art in New York City opened an exhibition titled,  Items: Is Fashion Modern? The show represents several eras of fashion through the last few generations and its impact on society. The show connects, “the history of these garments with their present recombination and use… the exhibition considers the many relationships between fashion and functionality, culture, aesthetics, politics, labor, identity, economy, and technology.”

Museum of Modern Art, “Items: Is Fashion Modern?”, Champion Sweatshirt, October 27, 2017

NPR (National Public Radio) released an article discussing the recent show and briefly mentions the political significance of the hooded sweatshirt. Susan Stamberg, the writer of the article, shares a quote from MoMA Curator Paola Antonelli, “"When Trayvon Martin was wearing it in Florida a few years ago — he was walking at night and buying candy — George Zimmerman thought that he was suspicious because he was wearing the hoodie,“ she says. “So this disconnect and this misinterpretation transformed the hoodie into a tragic symbol, and also a political symbol.” There is no other way to say this other than using a direct quote from the curator herself. At what point in time did the association of a hooded sweatshirt and a young black male become a threat or “suspicious?” If we fast forward to 2017, the actions of NFL free agent Colin Kapernick caused an outrage of attack from many conservative supporters claiming that by kneeling during the National Anthem was disrespectful to the country and the United States military. Kapernick’s simple response was to not disrespect neither the military or country but to use his platform as a multiracial “celebrity” as a way to call attention to the uprise in police brutality towards the African American community. His jersey is also on display at the MoMa standing tall in a deep red with his number 7 shown. Unfortunately, the black community is not the only group under fire. It’s no secret that religion in America is up for debate on “acceptability”, so when I noticed that hijab’s (a scarf used to cover the head and neck of a Muslim woman in order to preserve modesty) were up for display I came to realize that these two things, a hooded sweatshirt and a hijab, that were used to “cover” were viewed as negative specifically when it came to a person of color.

Museum of Modern Art, “Items: Is Fashion Modern?”, Colin Kapernick Jersey, October 27, 2017

I want to make sure that it’s known that this is completely up to interpretation, however it’s hard to argue when just a few short years ago some New Yorkers were outraged at the idea of building a mosque near the 9/11 memorial because “all Muslims are bad” (Yeah, just like I can say all white teens with a bowl haircut are bad for murdering African Americans in a black Baptist church in Charleston, South Carolina or a white middle-aged men are “bad” because one man had a mass murder in Las Vegas during a country music festival, let’s not get into that debate).

Museum of Modern Art, “Items: Is Fashion Modern?”, Hijabs, October 27, 2017

I raise the question again, at what point did conservatism from a hoodie or religious belief become a threat to American society? Are we in fact,” judging a book by its cover” when it comes to those with different cultural or religious beliefs than our own? Why so? Just for the record, I am grinding my teeth not to discuss another Basquiat painting, but he is the original OG to calling out racial injustice, aka American bullshit. Saying that a hijab or a black man wearing a hoodie is equivalent to me saying that the French wearing a Beret offends me so deeply that I will never go to a French-themed bakery again, matter of fact every religious and cultural belief other than my own offends me so much that I will never go back to Disney World’s Epcot because celebrating diversity and inclusion in America is just absurd! (Please hint at my sarcasm)  It saddens me to say that colorism still is prevalent if not more than ever today, I might say this because I am the new generation, the millennial that grew up with social media and the right to speech without getting hosed down by police. I also can say that as a young Latina and being relatively light skinned I have something called, “white privilege” you may not think it, but I do.

While the MoMA’s message behind these articles of clothing maybe something completely different than my own, I would like to remind you all that art is SUBJECTIVE. (Even though my college professor would murder me for saying so, not all art is subjective some if it is actually literal and meant to be without interpretation) Colorism has become “the new black” in the recent news due to the considerable amount of media coverage it receives, not to say that the 1960s were underrated. 

I want to lean over to other forms of art,(not clothing) New Orleans based artist Ti-Rock Moore has a piece titled, “Profile This” here the artist is referring to racial profiling as a direct extension of slavery within the United States. The iron rings that are shown on display are the typical chains that would have been seen to be worn by African slaves and the artwork as a whole is representative of a “trophy” to depict the common police practice or irrationally targeting black men and women. (direct from her Instagram) Here is a link to her Artsy page that shows just a few of her other work and her background, https://www.artsy.net/artist/ti-rock-moore/works

Profile This, mixed media, Ti-Rock Moore

I would love to complain more about racial and religious and other injustices, but I primarily want to use this post for people in the tri-state area to check out MoMa’s new exhibition and also bring attention to Ti-Rock Moore’s artwork. Just for kicks, I’ll leave some of her relevant artwork to this post below. Enjoy!

I encourage everyone to read up on this new exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.  Please leave feedback and comments, links to the original articles are below.

As always, enjoy the art of complaining

Items: Is Fashion Modern: https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/1638?locale=en

We Are What We Wear: Exhibition Examines Clothing That Changed The World: http://www.npr.org/2017/10/05/555403457/we-are-what-we-wear-exhibition-examines-clothing-that-changed-the-world

Ti-Rock Moore: https://www.artsy.net/artist/ti-rock-moore/works

Vile, neon, Ti-Rock Moore, 2016

‘Merica, mixed media, Ti-Rock Moore, 2016

[shortsrifle7-blog]

The Essential Guide to Breakfast at Disney World

At Walt Disney World, nearly everything qualifies as a breakfast. Hot dogs are slung by 10 a.m., last night’s desserts double as sugary morning fare, and the Dole Whip stand opens earlier than your usual workday begins. Truly, there are no rules.

But while the options are boundless, sitting down to a full meal of eggs, bacon, and toast here can be a merciless catch-22: You either cannibalize your early-morning park time (precious hours when ride lines are shorter than usual) with dining, or forego the serious sustenance required for the long day ahead.

There are, in fact, some fantastic eye-openers on the property, but you’ll have to know where to find them. Which is why we’ve highlighted the best breakfast tacos to scarf on the run, specialty foods worth taking a break for, and when you should just rely on the emergency granola bars in your backpack.

Desperate for caffeine? The most obvious options are called out below, but refer to Eater’s comprehensive guide to coffee and tea across the property for info on where to get hopped up throughout the day.

The famous Cat Tail pastry at the Cheshire Café

Magic Kingdom

With an updated park entry procedure, having a reservation no longer gets you into the park as early as it used to. Character dining options are either the Crystal Palace buffet with Winnie The Pooh & Friends (don’t knock it, Eeyore is a delight) or the iconic Cinderella’s Royal Table, with tableside princess visits inside the castle’s upper towers. The only other sit-down options are Plaza Restaurant, which just introduced breakfast, and Be Our Guest (more on that below).

Signature morning sweets include Cheshire Café’s eponymous “cat tail,” a pink and purple icing-drizzled Danish log, and the warm jumbo cinnamon roll at Gaston’s Tavern; both are fine, not great. If you prefer to start the day with a macaroni-and-cheese-topped hot dog, you’re in luck, because Cosmic Ray’s, Lunching Pad, and Casey’s Corner all start serving lunch fare bright ’n’ early at 10 a.m — with the frozen pineapple favorite, Dole Whip, up for grabs as early as 9 a.m.

Top Pick: Sleepy Hollow, whose freshly made sweet and savory waffle sandwiches hit the spot, unless you indulge in a Mickey-shaped one instead. (Late risers, take note: the ham, egg, and cheese waffle sammy is served ’till noon.) Avoid: Be Our Guest. The hottest ticket in town is a travesty at breakfast time, when a chaotic pre-order format ruins its delightful Beauty and the Beast-themed interiors. The food isn’t terrible and comes out lightning quick, but it remains a pricey breakfast that’s not entirely worth it. Coffee: The Main Street Bakery (halfway down the main drag, right-hand side) hides the park’s very own Starbucks, while a Joffrey’s Revive stand in Tomorrowland (by Space Mountain) serves solid coffee without the long lines.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Morning options are tough to come by inside this timeless take on Tinseltown, with most quick-service locations opening early with lunchtime foods in busy months, but grab-and-go eats, such as the whoopie pie-like carrot cake cookie, at the Trolley Car Café Starbucks are a reliable choice. That is, if you’re not eating omelets and Mickey waffles with familiar Disney Junior faces at Hollywood & Vine, the only spot in the park offering character dining.

Top Pick: Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land. The strange delights at this quick-service stand are worth stopping for, particularly the indulgent scrambled-egg bowl with smoked brisket, gravy-smothered tater tots, and a s’mores French toast breakfast sandwich with graham-crusted brioche. It’s less sweet than it sounds, and you can even use Disney’s mobile-ordering service to skip the line. Avoid: ...eating lunch fare at 10 a.m. It won’t end well. Coffee: Starbucks is located within the Trolley Car Café (at end of the entrance’s central stretch, right-hand side), but a Joffrey’s Coffee stand is conveniently lurking at the entrance of Toy Story Land.

Cheesy stuffed croissants at Les Halles Boulangerie

Epcot

Epcot’s World Showcase is the place to chow down on international cuisine within themed pavilions during the day, but only Mexico, Norway, and France are open pre-11 a.m. If you’re back there — most likely for a morning ride on Frozen Ever After — there are sweet Scandinavian pastries and a salmon-and-egg bagel at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, or Mexican specialties like chilaquiles and pambazo de chorizo con huevo at Cantina de San Angel.

You won’t totally destroy your plans by sitting down for breakfast, so munch on a family-sized platter of hearty staples with Chip ’n’ Dale, Pluto, and Mickey Mouse at Garden Grill or with a bevy of princesses at Norway’s part-buffet, part-restaurant Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, the park’s two character dining locations. If you’re just putzing around Future World between morning Fastpass reservations and need a quick bite, Sunshine Seasons, with its souffle, croissant egg sandwich, and healthy options like a tofu wrap and overnight oats, is your best bet.

Top Pick: Les Halles Boulangerie in the World Showcase’s France pavilion for a tempting bakery case of croissants and chocolate-filled pastries, along with ham- and cheese-stuffed croissants, quiches, and croque monsieurs. Avoid: Waiting until World Showcase opens at 11 a.m. Have a little something, even if it’s a piece of fruit — you’ll want to pace yourself once the real eating begins. Coffee: Here, Starbucks is called Fountain View; walk past Spaceship Earth and it’ll be on your right-hand side, across from the fountain. Can’t wait? There are Joffrey’s Coffee kiosks beneath the monorail station, over by Test Track, and within the World Showcase.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Given that your morning plans likely include waiting for the immensely popular Avatar: Flight of Passage ride, skip the sad pastries sold at pop-up stands nearby and send a family member to retrieve French toast sticks, sausage-and-egg biscuits, or sweet pineapple lumpia from Pandora’s nearby Pongu Pongu stand. (The line now snakes through an outdoor walkway between Pandora and Africa, alleviating any difficulty of shimmying through a proper queue to find them — a big Disney no-no.)

Your only true sit-down options are Tusker House, a character breakfast buffet with good food and a few African options (mealie pap, beef bobotie) or, gulp, Rainforest Cafe, so opt for the former if you’re inclined. It’s got the core characters — Mickey, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy — and some of the best grub, too.

Top Pick: Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe. The quick-service counter in Asia has an array of made-to-order sunrise sandwiches — bacon and egg on challah toast, sausage and egg on an English muffin — as well as a breakfast burrito and tacos, all served with herbed hash-brown bites. Avoid: Kusafiri Coffee Shop, the kiosk in Africa whose oversized Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll is not as good as Instagram would have you believe. Coffee: Creature Comforts houses the park’s Starbucks (take the left at the park’s emblematic Tree of Life; it’ll be on your left-hand side), but if you’re headed toward DinoLand U.S.A., Isle of Java is more convenient.

Tonga toast at the Polynesian Village

Around the Resort

All Disney Resort hotels offer breakfast, but only some are worth changing your plans for:

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Kona Cafe offers loco moco and macadamia-nut pancakes, but is most famously known for the cinnamon sugar-crusted, banana-stuffed sourdough loaf that is Tonga Toast. Reservations can be tough to nab, so you can also grab the toast to go (sans strawberry compote) at Capt. Cook’s.

Disney’s Yacht Club: Ale & Compass offers one of the best breakfast buffets in the park (they’ve even got whitefish salad!) as a small upcharge to its selection of inventive entrees that are, for the time being at least, priced competitively.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Sanaa’s limited but substantial breakfast menu, paired with up-close views of animals, makes it a top choice time and time again.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: If you’re looking to give your kids some princess magic and yourself a table-service breakfast (poached eggs with fennel sausage; sopressata-stuffed breakfast calzone) far superior to the character buffets, Trattoria al Forno is the spot.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: 1900 Park Fare is the ol’ standard when it comes to character dining, but Grand Floridian Cafe not-so-secretly has one of the best breakfast menus (and calmest atmospheres) on property.

Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort: Fuel is the ideal lobby pit-stop, with a full espresso bar, egg sandwiches, and endless packaged snacks ideal for scarfing while waiting for the Magic Kingdom bus.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort: Ravello not only has a superior breakfast buffet, but hosts character dining a couple days a week, giving you quality time with Goofy, Mickey, and Minnie alongside a gourmet spread of charcuterie, house-made granola, and eggs made to order.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: The perk of staying at a Disney hotel that recently underwent renovations is an updated quick-service menu that almost always includes unexpected surprises. Enjoy breakfast Cubans, coconut waffles, and a chorizo tostones Benedict at Centertown Market or try the cream cheese-guava French toast and yucca hash at the hotel’s Spyglass Grille.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter: Load up on breakfast po’ boys, baguette French toast, breakfast shrimp and grits bowls, and beignets from the quick-service counters at Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory.

Disney’s Art of Animation: Long heralded as the best quick-service food of all value-tier hotels, Landscape of Flavors delivers a strong and varied bounty, with breakfast sandwiches on naan bread, challah French toast, and vegan seitan scrambles.

Source: https://www.eater.com/2018/12/21/18138029/best-breakfast-restaurants-walt-disney-world-florida

[anachef]

What’s New in Epcot: Construction and Tram Updates, Paper Straws, and Menu Updates

Greetings from Epcot! Between enjoying the Flower and Garden Festival, seeing construction progress (on SO many projects), finding new paper straws, menu updates, and so much new merchandise… well, we were pretty busy!

Hello from Epcot!

Let’s start our update in the parking lot this week.

What’s New with Epcot’s Parking Lot Trams

You will be walking a little more than you’re used to when you take a parking lot tram to the park entrance for a bit while work is being done on the entrance of the park. Get all the details on the Epcot parking lot tram stop locations here.

Heading to Epcot

What’s New in Epcot’s Future World

Work continues on transforming the former Universe of Energy building into the queue area for the new Guardians of the Galaxy ride opening in 2021.

Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Construction

Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Construction

Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Construction

The actual ride will be in a new purpose-built ride building. Learn more about the new Guardians of the Galaxy Ride here.

Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Construction

Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Construction

A new space-themed restaurant will be opening next year between Mission: Space and Test Track. Learn more about the new space-themed restaurant here.

Space-Themed Restaurant Construction

Space-Themed Restaurant Construction

Space-Themed Restaurant Construction

What’s New around Epcot

We found paper straws in Magic Kingdom earlier this week, and now we’ve found them in Epcot as well. The move to paper straws is one part of Disney’s commitment to reduce the use of plastic bags and single-use straws in their parks.

Learn more about the paper straws in Epcot here.

Learn more about Disney’s commitment to reduce the use of plastics in the park here.

Paper Straw at Fountain View

What’s New in Epcot’s World Showcase

Epcot is preparing to say “goodbye” to IllumiNations on September 30, and “welcome” to Epcot Forever on October 1. As the park prepares for the new nighttime show, you will see construction in the World Showcase Lagoon and on its islands.

World Showcase Lagoon Construction

World Showcase Lagoon Construction

World Showcase Lagoon Construction

Norway’s Akershus Royal Banquet Hall has updated their Princes and Princesses (Kids’) Menu and made it more of a create-your-own format. Before the change, the main dishes came with set sides. But now your kiddos get to choose two of their own their sides. Also, the Junior Beef and Traditional Pasta on the menu have been replaced with Grilled Beef Medallions and Traditional Pizza, respectively.

Akershus Menu

The specialty dessert at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe is still the Easter Cheesecake — be sure to get this quickly as it is likely to change soon! Read our review of the Easter Cheesecake here.

Kringla Bakeria og Kafe Easter Cake

If you want the crazy-fun, Instagram ready, popular Cotton Candy from Lotus House be sure to check the hours at the Outdoor Kitchen! The cast member we spoke with said the hours do change depending on the day of the week. Learn more about the Cotton Candy here!

Lotus House Cotton Candy Hours

Lotus House Cotton Candy Options

5-Layered Spring Fantasy Cotton Candy

We found Bruce Cost Ginger Ale in Pomegranate or Blood Orange flavors in the House of Good Fortune, perfect to cool off on a warm Florida day!

Bruce Cost Ginger Ale

Bruce Cost Ginger Ale

Bruce Cost Ginger Ale

The pop-up wine bar in Italy has disappeared again! But, fans of the Limoncello Spritzer from the pop-up bar can find it in the wine shop in the Italy pavilion.

Italy Pavilion Wine Shop

The construction walls are still up in areas around the entrance to the American Adventure building. 

American Adventure Construction

They are working on updating the sidewalks in the area and adding brickwork to some sections.

American Adventure Construction

American Adventure Construction

American Adventure Construction

Japan’s Katsura Grill has removed the Spicy Miso Seafood Ramen from the menu.

Katsura Grill Menu

A new signature restaurant is coming to the Japan pavilion. An opening time frame has not been announced for the new location.

Japan Signature Restaurant Construction

Japan Signature Restaurant Construction

This new location will be in addition to Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining.

Japan Signature Restaurant Construction

Japan Signature Restaurant Construction

France is busy with construction for the new Ratatouille ride, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure opening in 2021, a new creperie, and a new Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along opening soon.

France Construction

France Construction

France Construction

Learn more about the Ratatouille ride, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure here.

Learn more about the new creperie here.

Learn more about the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along here

France Construction

France Construction

France Construction

Construction is also going on in the International Gateway area, and the entrance to the park at this location has been moved further into the park.

International Gateway Construction

International Gateway Construction

International Gateway Construction

There are some new construction walls up on the sidewalk and path between Refreshment Port and the Flower and Garden Festival play area.

World Showcase Construction Walls

World Showcase Construction Walls

What’s New in Epcot’s Shops and Stores — New Merchandise!

We found these new Baloo and Rafiki shirts. The Baloo shirt is a t-shirt, and the Rafiki shirt is a short-sleeve hoodie.

Baloo and Rafiki Shirts

Rafiki Shirt

Baloo Shirt

If Baloo and Rafiki aren’t your favorites, how about Flower from Bambi?

Flower Shirt

This Minnie Mouse purse seems to have been put under the Purple Potion spell, since this was available in Rose Gold before! We didn’t see any Rose Gold versions in the shops on our visit.

Purple Potion Minnie Mouse Purse

Purple Potion Minnie Mouse Purse

We found the perfect sleep shirt for fans of Minnie Mouse. Plus, the perfect accessories, those fuzzy yellow slippers, are right next to it.

Minnie Mouse Sleep Shirt

Minnie Mouse Sleep Shirt

Of course, we had to share these Disney Snacks socks with you!

Disney Snacks Socks

Sticking with snacks, we spotted this fun magnet.

Love Your Life Magnet

We’ll close this post with an inspirational message from Walt on this magnet!

Today We are Shapers of the World of Tomorrow Magnet

Which updates are you most excited about in this week’s What’s New? Be sure to catch up on What’s New in the Magic Kingdom here!

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun!

The 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is now available!

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With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2019 to save 25% today!

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Related posts:

What’s New in Epcot: Construction Updates, New Treats, New Menus, and Lots of New Merchandise!

What’s New in Epcot: Menu Changes, Construction Updates, New Merchandise, Paper Straws, and Flower and Garden Fest Prep!

What’s New in Epcot: New Smoothie, New Movie, Construction Updates and More!

from the disney food blog http://bit.ly/2viU2jQ via http://bit.ly/LNvO3e

[jessicakehoe]

What Made the Valentino Couture Show so Emotionally Moving?

After yesterday’s Valentino Haute Couture Spring 2019 show, Celine Dion was captured wiping away tears in the front row and British Vogue editor Edward Enninful captioned an Instagram that it was, “Possibly the most emotional show I’ve ever watched. I feel like my late mother would have loved it.” A non-fashion friend even texted me afterwards to say, “I’m SICK watching this show” suggesting the poetics of the clothing were immediately apparent no matter one’s proximity to the fashion industry. So what exactly made this parade of artfully-crafted ball gowns so brilliantly moving?

A few things, really.

View this post on Instagram

Possibly the most emotional show I’ve ever watched. I feel like my late mother would have loved it 🙏🏿❤️ @naomi, @pppiccioli & @maisonvalentino #Love #Magnificence

A post shared by Edward Enninful, OBE (@edward_enninful) on Jan 23, 2019 at 11:01am PST

Pierpaolo Piccioli, who has been the sole creative director at Valentino since 2016 when creative partner Maria Grazia Chiura left to head up Dior, based the collection on the juxtaposition of a 1948 Cecil Beaton photograph��depicting white women in Charles James couture gowns beside a similar photograph of sharply-dressed Black women taken a decade later. “What if these women,” Piccioli said, pointing to the photograph of Black women, “were dressed like these women?” His answer was delivered brilliantly in the form of a couture collection that brimmed over with exuberant, roiling decadence.

Dresses were devoured by propagating ruffles, and as many variations of florals were on display as one might find in the Queen’s private gardens at Buckingham Palace. One particular dress, a puffball of tulle enveloped the torso to create a silhouette not unlike the Epcot Centre; another featured a head covering that resembled a beatific Orthodox saint. The clothing bore all the classic hallmarks of femininity but rendered in such oversize proportions, they exuded the commanding presence of a grande dame as opposed to a little girl.  Couture, recently seen as a lagging relic of a prior era, was completely revitalized.

It was also the first time perhaps in fashion history, where inclusivity/diversity didn’t feel like a PR stunt. Inclusive messaging needn’t announce itself, it should just simply exist, and in this case, the diverse casting did not feel as if it was being played for positive headlines. “Today, beauty is about diversity, it’s about the freedom to express yourself. This is what I want to stand for,” Piccioli told T: The New York Times Style Magazine last year.

Living up to his promise, the show cast primarily Black models who recreated the Cecil Beaton tableau at the end of the presentation; a bold intention to rewrite history. Though Picciolo’s collection owed a debt to the ‘grand old days’, it did not appear to year for them. In creating something retro, he was able to create a collection that is throroughly modern.

The collection reminded me of a minor internet scandal from last year spurred on by a now-deleted tweet from OG fashion blogger BryanBoy; “The only way to get out of this fashion malaise is to make it complicated and complex again. I like that we need to work extra hard to lose pounds to fit into celine. I like that clothes are super expensive. Enough of being relaxed or with streetwear. Filter out the undesirables.”

If one was to look past BryanBoy’s gross fatphobia in favour of a more charitable interpretation, it’s that fashion needn’t, in fact shouldn’t, contort itself to appeal to the largest possible audience in order to gain a following. The Valentino Couture show made clear Pierpaolo isn’t bowing to anything, simply following his marvelous instincts. And for that, we should all be grateful.

The post What Made the Valentino Couture Show so Emotionally Moving? appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

What Made the Valentino Couture Show so Emotionally Moving? published first on https://borboletabags.tumblr.com/

[lindyhunt]

What Made the Valentino Couture Show so Emotionally Moving?

After yesterday’s Valentino Haute Couture Spring 2019 show, Celine Dion was captured wiping away tears in the front row and British Vogue editor Edward Enninful captioned an Instagram that it was, “Possibly the most emotional show I’ve ever watched. I feel like my late mother would have loved it.” A non-fashion friend even texted me afterwards to say, “I’m SICK watching this show” suggesting the poetics of the clothing were immediately apparent no matter one’s proximity to the fashion industry. So what exactly made this parade of artfully-crafted ball gowns so brilliantly moving?

A few things, really.

View this post on Instagram

Possibly the most emotional show I’ve ever watched. I feel like my late mother would have loved it 🙏🏿❤️ @naomi, @pppiccioli & @maisonvalentino #Love #Magnificence

A post shared by Edward Enninful, OBE (@edward_enninful) on Jan 23, 2019 at 11:01am PST

Pierpaolo Piccioli, who has been the sole creative director at Valentino since 2016 when creative partner Maria Grazia Chiura left to head up Dior, based the collection on the juxtaposition of a 1948 Cecil Beaton photograph depicting white women in Charles James couture gowns beside a similar photograph of sharply-dressed Black women taken a decade later. “What if these women,” Piccioli said, pointing to the photograph of Black women, “were dressed like these women?” His answer was delivered brilliantly in the form of a couture collection that brimmed over with exuberant, roiling decadence.

Dresses were devoured by propagating ruffles, and as many variations of florals were on display as one might find in the Queen’s private gardens at Buckingham Palace. One particular dress, a puffball of tulle enveloped the torso to create a silhouette not unlike the Epcot Centre; another featured a head covering that resembled a beatific Orthodox saint. The clothing bore all the classic hallmarks of femininity but rendered in such oversize proportions, they exuded the commanding presence of a grande dame as opposed to a little girl.  Couture, recently seen as a lagging relic of a prior era, was completely revitalized.

It was also the first time perhaps in fashion history, where inclusivity/diversity didn’t feel like a PR stunt. Inclusive messaging needn’t announce itself, it should just simply exist, and in this case, the diverse casting did not feel as if it was being played for positive headlines. “Today, beauty is about diversity, it’s about the freedom to express yourself. This is what I want to stand for,” Piccioli told T: The New York Times Style Magazine last year.

Living up to his promise, the show cast primarily Black models who recreated the Cecil Beaton tableau at the end of the presentation; a bold intention to rewrite history. Though Picciolo’s collection owed a debt to the ‘grand old days’, it did not appear to year for them. In creating something retro, he was able to create a collection that is throroughly modern.

The collection reminded me of a minor internet scandal from last year spurred on by a now-deleted tweet from OG fashion blogger BryanBoy; “The only way to get out of this fashion malaise is to make it complicated and complex again. I like that we need to work extra hard to lose pounds to fit into celine. I like that clothes are super expensive. Enough of being relaxed or with streetwear. Filter out the undesirables.”

If one was to look past BryanBoy’s gross fatphobia in favour of a more charitable interpretation, it’s that fashion needn’t, in fact shouldn’t, contort itself to appeal to the largest possible audience in order to gain a following. The Valentino Couture show made clear Pierpaolo isn’t bowing to anything, simply following his marvelous instincts. And for that, we should all be grateful.

[thedisneychef]

School Bread – Kringla Bakeri Og Cafe

I know this is almost sacrilegious to say, but I’ve never had the school bread in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion.  I know it’s got a loyal, nearly fanatical fan base and I know saying I’ve never tried it is like saying I’ve never had the turkey leg or a Dole Whip…  But for some reason, I’ve never made space in my stomach to give it a shot. The recipe is all over the place online and I’ve been saying for months that I’d try it, but like when it’s at Epcot, I never got around to adding it to my “bake” list until now. Doing a yeast bread that involves icing and custard, no matter how delicious it sounded, it seemed like it was a major investment in time… And it was. It’s not a hard recipe, just one with a lot of steps that takes longer than your average baked good. I did follow the recipe exactly, but as anybody who’s read this blog knows, making custard seems to never work out for me (as we can see here and here) and I was yet again defeated with this recipe. While I got so, so, so close, I cooled it off too early, it was ever-so-slightly too runny still so I added whipped topping to thicken it off. Brilliant solution that tasted fabulous, but I’m sure it made it taste less like it does in the parks. Next time, I’ll get pre-made custard or I’ll just make pudding… Which I mess up only about 50% of the time as opposed to 100% of the time. Also, I ended up way more flour than the original recipe called for.  I’m not sure if it’s because I might have used an extra half a cup of water, or if it just really needed the extra flour…  As written, the dough was so sticky and watery it was completely impossible to handle. And this makes a lot of school bread. I ended up with 14 pastries. I tasted this as it went along and it was really neat to see how each of the components came together to change it from being a regular yeast bread that was maybe even a little savory, like a dinner roll, but ended up being the right level of sweet and hearty. I actually thought this would be like a doughnut when I decided to do this recipe. It’s more like Norway’s answer to a sweet breads like cinnamon rolls, without the super sweet overload. I really liked it and will go out of my way to have it next time at Epcot. This post was featured in the Februrary link party “Ride the Rails” featuring topics related to Disney’s “Frozen” in the Disney parks, hosted by “The Magical Blogorail.” Read the full article

[lifeless-x]

Epcot Frosty Treats

The Florida heat ensures that we are all on the lookout for refreshing, frosty beverages and treats at Disney World, and Epcot does not disappoint. The array of chill choices at Epcot is so wide, Mouseketrips is serving up a summary of the options in two versions. Here is the non-alcoholic roundup.

Starting in Future World, Starbucks fans are not going to want to forego the Fountain View. On a hot afternoon, try a frosty Midnight Mint Frappuccino; if you’ve come in the evening to watch IllumiNations, make it a S’mores Frappuccino. (Either way, be sure to get a selfie before any of the whipped cream disappears!) Teavana Shaken Iced Teas are shaking up some icy flavors with zing at the Fountain View. Choose from Pineapple Black Tea Infusion, Peach Citrus White Tea Infusion, or Strawberry Green Tea Infusion. Be sure to ask if there’s anything on their “secret menu” before making your final selection! Maybe they’ll make you a Mermaid, a Narwhal, or a Maelstrom!

Located on the walkway to Test Track from Mouse Gear’s back door, you’ll find Taste Track and Test Track Cool Wash. Many of us are in a hurry to make our Test Track FP, so may have walked right by these food and beverage options. Slow down next time – they have an impressive choice of refreshing treats here!

Taste Track (open seasonally) offers three ice cream sundae creations that you won’t find anywhere else. The Berry Explosion is vanilla ice cream layered with berries and pound Cake, topped with a mound of whipped cream, strawberry pearls, and (wait for it) … cotton candy! The Chocolaty Churro Sundae is crowned with hot fudge, whipped cream, chocolate curls … and a churro. The Taste Track Apple Pie Sundae has caramel sauce, caramel popcorn, salted caramel Pearls … and warm apple pie! Another tasty Taste Track option is a Barq’s Root Beer Ice Cream Float.

Test Track Cool Wash, across the walkway, offers frozen beverages made with Coke, Raspberry Lemonade, or Fanta Blue Raspberry.

Meanwhile, the Electric Umbrella has slushies in Fanta blue-raspberry, strawberry, and pineapple-Coconut. Or choose a healthy, chilled mixed fruit cup!

Going clockwise around the World Showcase Lagoon from World Showcase Plaza, begin at Mexico’s La Cantina de San Angel, a shaded counter service by the waters of World Showcase Lagoon. They have several refreshing and unusual choices. Paletas are traditional fruit popsicles in watermelon, mango, lime, or coconut. Or you could choose to quench your thirst with Jarritos – traditional Mexican Soda – either Pineapple, Mango, Fruit Punch, or Sidral (Apple).

Tucked behind the Stave Church at the Norway pavilion is the tantalizing Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, with its mouth watering assortment of pastries and treats in a refrigerated case. The Norwegian Rice Cream is a refreshing rice pudding topped with strawberry sauce. There’s also the epic Troll Horn …

Americans may not realize how lucky they are to find anything made with cloudberries. In Norway, cloudberries grow only in the extreme north, in harsh frozen conditions (think Elsa’s ice castle). Norwegian chef Andreas Viestad says that in Norway, each family has its own cloudberry bush – hidden away in a northern forest. Guests who are not members of the family are blindfolded if taken to pick the luscious berries, lest they reveal the secret location to anyone else. And Disney has brought these rare and wonderful berries to Americans at Epcot! You’ll find them in the Kringla’s Troll Horn – which features cloudberry jam with whipped cream in a crispy pastry sugar-coated shell!

Just inside the China Pavilion, on the left, the Lotus Blossom Café awaits to surprise and delight your taste buds. And they offer a generous covered seating area where you can escape the sun while savoring the subtle flavor of Lychee Ice Cream – a perfect refreshment on a hot day. Other good choices at the Lotus Blossom include a mango or strawberry smoothie.

Out on the promenade, the Joy of Tea kiosk sits contentedly under its fluted roof. More ice cream delights can be found here, including the exotic Red Bean flavor – and its cousin-with-a-kick, Caramel Ginger ice cream. The Joy of Tea smoothies are (naturally!) infused with tea. Choose between the Strawberry Oolong Tea Smoothie or the Mango Green Tea Smoothie. The most unusual offering at the Joy of Tea is their Bubble Milk Tea which is made with sweetened, peach flavored black tea – with tapioca pearls bobbling around the bottom of the cup (don’t be surprised – these pearls are black, not white)! If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed rather than adventurous, choose a Dragon Well Tea to put the pieces back together again.

Next door in Germany, it’s really all about the beer. After all, it’s October all year round at Germany’s Sommerfest! You could try a fresh, cold, crisp potato salad side at the Sommerfest counter service. That’s about the closest thing they have a non-alcoholic frosty refreshment! (The apple studel with vanilla sauce is delicious – but not cooling.)

Fortunately, Italy’s Gelati stand is only steps away – with many sources of frosty (non-alcoholic) revivers. So much delicious refreshment under one unassuming Venetian pink awning. Whatever you do, don’t just walk past this awning.

The gelato can be served in a cup or a cone – or as a sandwich between two fresh chocolate chip cookies!

They also create three signature gelato sundaes – how to choose?? The Coppa Del Nonno is made with Fior Di Latte (milk flavored) gelato, chocolate gelato, cookies and cream gelato, with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and amaretto cookies

The Coppa Amicizia is a combination of the cookies and cream, strawberry, Fior Di Latte gelati, topped with mango sauce, whipped cream, and whole raspberries.

The Coppa Delizia is the same three gelati as the Amicizia but swirled with strawberry sauce, the compulsory whipped cream, and whole strawberries.

While you’re trying to decide among those three coppas, you’ll see someone walking away from tghe Gelati counter with a Tiramisù – a cocoa-dusted cup of mascarpone cream, Savoiardi biscuits, and espresso coffee – and you’ll promptly forget all about the coppas.

If you’re flagging and in need of a pick-me-up, choose the Espresso Gelato “Affogato” with fresh Italian Espresso poured over Fior Di Latte Gelato, sprinkled with Chocolate Coffee Beans.

If you’re just thirsty, pick up some Italian Water (still or sparkling), an Aranciata (Italian orange soda), or Limonata (lemon soda), or ice tea (lemon or peach)? The most flavorful beverage is the Primavera – an inspired blending of frozen strawberry, banana, and peach nectars – not too sweet, not too tart. Bright red heaven in a cup.

But wait. The one thing you can’t leave without is the cannoli cupcake. The menu describes it as a “vanilla bean cupcake topped with a cannoli.” That is a grand understatement. The cannoli cupcake is an incredibly layered concoction of deliciousness that delights equally the eye and the tastebud. And it’s perfect for strolling – because it’s cold, cool, and in a cup! No awkwardly trying to bite off pieces of cupcake as you walk. Just elegantly spoon up some as you gaze out over the waters of the lagoon. The bottom layer is a mixture of ricotta and chocolate chips -creamy, sweet, and smooth. Next comes the cupcake layer – moist and rich. Now the ricotta icing layer – dotted with pieces of candied cherry and pineapple. Whipped cream comes now, drizzled in chocolate. And finally, the crispy mini cannoli! If you choose this, you’ll be stopped at least six times, walking along the promenade, with a “Where’d you get that??”

Like the Germany pavilion, the American Adventure is pretty much all about the beer. However, the Liberty Inn offers Frozen Coke and Frozen Fanta Cherry slushies. And outside at the Funnel Cake kiosk, you can get one of those crispy fried treats topped with vanilla ice cream.

The Kakigōri Stand (otherside known as the Kabuki Cafe) is one of the first things you’ll see as you approach the Japan pavilion from the American Adventure side. Kakigōri is Japanese shaved ice available in rainbow, strawberry, melon, cherry, or mikan (tangerine). A sweet milk topping is an option. For a healthy choice, crunch on some chilled edamame. For some guests, nothing says Epcot like an icy Kakigōri – or cold green beans! Grab a Ramune Japanese soda to wash it down.

The Tangierine Café at Morocco can tide you over refreshingly until dinner with a chilled side. Choose from tabouleh, lentil salad, marinated olives, or the fresh Tangierine couscous salad.

In France, ice cream is king of the frosty treats. L’Artisan des Glaces scoops up some unusual ice cream flavors: caramel Fleur de Sel, coffee, cinnamon (with either caramelized pecan or with caramelized apple and crumble crunch), coco-white, or milk chocolate with orange. Then, true to their name, the artisans of ice cream have dreamt up some dreamy ice cream desserts. An ice cream sandwich made with fresh macarons (the Macaron), a scoop of ice cream in a homemade brioche, pressed warm (the Croque Glacé), or the Coupe du Dimanche, served in a waffle bowl.

Inside Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie you can find a simple but delicious strawberry smoothie – the Granité à la Fraise

As though this weren’t enough, the Crepes des Chefs de France kiosk on the esplanade serves an ice cream crêpe or soft serve in a Waffle Cone.

It’s just as well that you’ll surely leave the France pavilion revived, because the UK and Canada pavilions refreshments are alcohol-based. Keep your eye out for the Mouseketrips Roundup of Refreshing Epcot Cocktails, coming soon!

The post Epcot Frosty Treats appeared first on Mouseketrips.

Source: http://www.mouseketrips.com/epcot-frosty-treats/

[thedisneychef]

School Bread – Kringla Bakeri Og Cafe

I know this is almost sacrilegious to say, but I’ve never had the school bread in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion.  I know it’s got a loyal, nearly fanatical fan base and I know saying I’ve never tried it is like saying I’ve never had the turkey leg or a Dole Whip…  But for some reason, I’ve never made space in my stomach to give it a shot.

The recipe is all over the place online and I’ve been saying for months that I’d try it, but like when it’s at Epcot, I never got around to adding it to my “bake” list until now. Doing a yeast bread that involves icing and custard, no matter how delicious it sounded, it seemed like it was a major investment in time… And it was. It’s not a hard recipe, just one with a lot of steps that takes longer than your average baked good.

I did follow the recipe exactly, but as anybody who’s read this blog knows, making custard seems to never work out for me (as we can see here and here) and I was yet again defeated with this recipe. While I got so, so, so close, I cooled it off too early, it was ever-so-slightly too runny still so I added whipped topping to thicken it off.

Brilliant solution that tasted fabulous, but I’m sure it made it taste less like it does in the parks. Next time, I’ll get pre-made custard or I’ll just make pudding… Which I mess up only about 50% of the time as opposed to 100% of the time. Also, I ended up way more flour than the original recipe called for.  I’m not sure if it’s because I might have used an extra half a cup of water, or if it just really needed the extra flour…  As written, the dough was so sticky and watery it was completely impossible to handle. And this makes a lot of school bread. I ended up with 14 pastries.

I tasted this as it went along and it was really neat to see how each of the components came together to change it from being a regular yeast bread that was maybe even a little savory, like a dinner roll, but ended up being the right level of sweet and hearty. I actually thought this would be like a doughnut when I decided to do this recipe. It’s more like Norway’s answer to a sweet breads like cinnamon rolls, without the super sweet overload. I really liked it and will go out of my way to have it next time at Epcot.

~~~~  °o°  ~~~~

School Bread

As is served at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, Norway Pavilion, EPCOT Bread -   2 pints water -   2 1/2 ounces melted butter -   3 ounces instant or dry yeast -   2 – 2.5 pounds flour (with more available as needed) -   3 1/2 ounces sugar -   1 teaspoon cardamom -   1 eggSugar Glaze -   2 cups confectioners’ sugar -   1/4 cup milk  1 teaspoon vanilla extract -   12 ounces shredded coconut, shredded and toasted

Vanilla Custard Bread

Add warm water to melted butter (about 90-95 degrees) and add yeast and let stand 2-3 minutes or until mixture starts to froth. Add flour, sugar, cardamom, and egg. Mix 5-10 minutes until dough stiffens, adding more flour as needed. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and allow to rise 1 hour, or until dough doubles in size. Punch down dough and roll dough into a thick log, handling as little as possible. Cut dough into 5 ounce portions and roll into a ball. Do not press down!  Place them on a greased baking sheet and allow them to rise another 15-30 minutes, until the dough has risen and puffed, but not spread.

Bake in an oven preheated to 375 for 15 minutes.  Breads are done when they have a slight crust and the bottoms have browned slightly. Let cool on a wire rack. When cooled, hollow out an area for the filling in the middle of the bread, making sure to not go all the way through the bread. Sugar Glaze Combine all ingredients except the coconut to form a thick glaze. Working quickly with one bread at a time, dip bread hole-side down in the sugar glaze and coat with toasted coconut. Return breads to wire rack to dry. Vanilla Custard In a saucepan, bring milk to a boil. Remove from heat and set aside, skimming away the skin. In a bowl, beat sugar, extract, and egg yolks until mixture has doubled. Do not over mix. Put mixer to low and slowly add several spoonfuls of warm milk to temper the custard mixture. Then slowly stream milk into mixture and mix until just incorporated. Transfer to a metal bowl or top portion of a double boiler. Over a double boiler, slowly add the dissolved cornstarch to the custard mixture and stir gently and constantly until mixture thickens. Do not allow to boil.  When warmed and thickened, move bowl to an ice bath to cool completely. Once totally cooled, using a piping bag, pipe custard into pastry and finish with a decorative dollop or swirl. ~~~~  °o°  ~~~~ This post was featured in the Februrary link party “Ride the Rails” featuring topics related to Disney’s “Frozen” in the Disney parks, hosted by “The Magical Blogorail.” Read the full article