Saturday, March 22, 2014

Walking with Wyland and Whales

Every weekend we are on Disney property in some capacity. This weekend we decided to take an early evening stroll around the Boardwalk starting at one of our favorite places, the Beach Club. We usually start by getting something to drink at the bar at Hurricane Hannah's and then we head out around to the Boardwalk. The early evening as things start to come alive, is our most favorite time to walk the boardwalk. Today's walk did not disappoint. Like I said we started at the Beach Club and ended up well....at the Wyland Gallery. 

The Wyland Gallery you say? 

That's not even half way around. I am an avid Wyland fan. Although I don't own any of his work I've had my eye on a few of his beautiful books. As we were walking up to the Gallery to get some pictures we noticed a table outside with Wyland books and people milling around and then stumbled upon a poster stating that he was going to be there tonight in person. We were so excited. We've seen him before in the Gallery and he's always quite a dynamic personality.  My wife surprised me by sneaking out of the Gallery to the book table and buying me the latest book he has and by the end of the evening we were able to have him sign it. It was an exciting evening and proves, once again, that whenever we start our Disney adventure we never know where we will end up. 

Take a walk with us!!!

The courtyard at the Beach Club walking toward the Solarium.


Shipwrecked!


Toes in the sand!


Boat Marina


Heading over the bridge toward the Boardwalk. Surrey bike en route.


The entrance to the Boardwalk.



Who wants to dance?


The Boardwalk


We could have taken the boat back over to the Beach Club.


Wait...Wyland is here? Cool!! A must see!!


The artist's supplies awaiting his arrival.


Wyland addresses the crowd as he applies "whitening" to this dark canvas of whales.


This painting was beautiful and was for sale for $9,500.


Wyland applies his famous signature to the painting for its future owner.


He worked on a painting of a humpback whale as a demonstration to be auctioned off later in the evening.


The demo painting "ghosted" in.


Our evening ended with an autographed book, a cupcake from the Boardwalk Bakery and the walk back to the Beach Club. Unfortunately both my camera and my wife's camera's battery died so we could not get pictures of the aforementioned. Note to self, buy a portable charger!!!!






Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Sunday afternoon in Morocco....

While strolling around the World Showcase at Epcot last Sunday we stumbled upon Spice Road Table. We had company with us, so it was the perfect opportunity to go in and sample some Moroccan fare. The authentic atmosphere, specialty food and drink and outdoor patio provided an ambiance that put you right in a Moroccan frame of mind. Stop in on your next trip to the World Showcase!







The outdoor patio option is a must!


An elaborate chandelier of Moroccan design in the main entrance.


Indoor dining on the water is quite elegant.


A cozy nook inside.


Small plate style appetizer including Lamb Sausage, Lamb Slider and Harissa Chicken Roll with spicy Ketchup.








Sunday, March 16, 2014

When Irish Eyes Are Smiling......

This weekend is the ultimate St. Patrick's Day celebration at Downtown Disney's Raglan Road Pub. With Irish music, dancing, drink and food the color green is alive and kicking all weekend long right up until the magical day, Monday, March 17, St. Patrick's Day! Come along for the sights and sounds of the Mighty St. Patrick's Festival....






Lots of festive beverages available!




Pop Rocks!








Dancers took the stage throughout the day!













Beautiful stained glass inside the bar!



The dancing platform inside the bar.



Comfy booth.



Bellied up to the bar!



Chicken Liver Pate...ummm okay...



Sunday, March 9, 2014

Festival of Fantasy - The new parade - AWESOMENESS!!

The new Magic Kingdom parade, Festival of Fantasy, debuted today down Main Street! It was highly anticipated and worth the wait. You must take the time at 3 o'clock to see the parade. It's like nothing you've ever seen before. Larger floats, extremely colorful imagery, moving parts like - swings, fire breathing dragon, and each float revolves around all of the popular characters. It was AWESOME and a MUST SEE!! Take a look...

Beauty and the Beast


Cinderella and Prince Charming


Moving swing parts with multiple characters riding the swing elements representing Tangled. Awesome!

Colorful dancer.


The Little Mermaid featuring Ariel.


Peter Pan


Wendy stands a top this magnificent float with Capt. Hook below.


Brave featuring Merida.


Such colorful detail!


Stilt characters arrive before the Maleficent dragon!


More henchmen protect the dragon.


This dragon was amazing especially when it started breathing fire!


Phenomenal!


Close up of hind leg.


Pinocchio!


So interactive!


Pluto!


Minnie & Mickey make their entrance at the end!


Minnie!!
THE VERY BEST PARADE TO DATE!