I don't wanna grow up!

If anyone knows me they know my love for all things Disney. I get asked all the time, “Why?!”, I get the looks, and stares of disbelief. Yes, I am 33 years old and yes, I love Disney! I especially love Walt Disney World. I love the sights, the sounds, and yes, this will sound crazy but, even the smells. There is nothing like walking into the Magic Kingdom and seeing the castle. My cares, worries of everyday life just, wash away.

I'll never forget the first time I visited the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. I have never forgotten that experience and I want to share that with others. I have since then taken my family. I love seeing my daughters face light up every time she meets one of her favorite characters.

Not only do I have a love for Walt Disney World but, also Disney movies. We just recently saw Monster's University (at our all time favorite summer spot at the local Drive-in). The jokes are kid and adult friendly. The Disney truly makes those movies come alive! In the world we live in today, with violence and sadness, we all need to step back and forget about life, even for just a second. I believe that’s what Disney helps us all do, at times.

So if you're one of the many out there that raise your brows at others who love all things Disney, I leave you with one of Walt's quotes:

FYI- Thru July 31^st get free Dining with 5night/6day select resort stays September 2 through September 25, 2013!

Summertime + Grilling!!

Happy summer!

I've noticed now that the weather is warmer, I tend to become a little more of a foodie. I love grilling and going out to eat. Here in Lexington, we don't have many options for “real” good food on a budget. So we tend to stay in for most meals. I've been playing around with some ingredients for a good steak marinade. I believe I have struck the proverbial GOLD! I'm terrible about following recipes, I am notoriously known for throwing things in a pot with a pinch and dash of this and that.

So what's my golden recipe you ask? Let me start by saying, balsamic vinegar is key. You also want to start with a good cut of steak, Angus of course (it retains the marinade the best). Rib-eye or my new favorite top loin (in non-fancy meat terms New York Strip) I had to look that one up haha. I'm usually cooking for just the hubby and I, little one is a recent vegetarian. So here's what you'll need:

4 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp thinly sliced garlic

1 tbsp minced garlic

olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

So very simple, and very few ingredients. Like I said, with cooking you don't always need exact measurements. Have fun with it and experiment!

What I do is, I put the steaks in a glass container. I like to use a corningware casserole dish. Place the steaks side by side. I use a fork to “prick” the meat so it will absorb the marinade. I then make little slices in the steaks, big enough so I can put the slivers of garlic in the slits. Next sprinkle on the salt and pepper to both sides. Then drizzle on the balsamic and olive oil, now I leave this up to you. I really LOVE olive oil and balsamic so I use quite a bit! So use at your own taste. Make sure both sides a evenly disbursed. Lastly cover in the minced garlic, again on both sides. What I like to do is prepare this about 40 minutes prior to grilling, I usually cover in plastic wrap and sit at room temperature. I have also left in the fridge overnight.

I do have the luxury of having a husband that worked in a restaurant kitchen, so I let him do the grilling. Serve with fresh summer veggies from a local farmers market. Make sure to grill to your liking, and enjoy!