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Photo with Mickey! Let me tell you, you think that after doing Disney you will be good for a few years, but it seems like only a few months after you are itching to go back. It felt like forever after our 2022 trip, and the excitement builds so much throughout the year! As we began planning our 2023 trip, we wanted to try a different resort. We also wanted to add park and a few more experiences for the kiddos. We planned to go in January (Jan, Feb, and Sept are the best months for price), and we decided that a few of the experiences we would do would be considered Christmas presents to help offset Christmas & travel budgets. This trip, I also made it my goal to conquer the parks we were attending. Now, I have to be honest, it does cost a little more to "conquer" the parks, but it was so worth it, because skipping long lines makes everyone happy. Don't lie to yourself; you know it does. If I didn't mention in my first post why we stay at the resort, I'll do so now. The resorts are fun. The pools are amazing, the kiddos love the water slides, and I love early entry! I mean, at Hollywood Studios alone, you can rock two rides out before any other guests get in. Or ride Millennium Falcon twice so you can rotate who gets to pull the hyperspace lever. Early entry is so awesome, and we love everything about it. Now the next step for us was figuring out Genie Plus and Lightning Lane. In 2023, you had to wake up at like 6 a.m. and start booking rides, but now if you stay at the resort, you get 7 days to book everything, which is much less hectic. Genie Plus can be pricey, but if you can fit it into your budget, I would go for it; it's such a time saver. There are tons of YouTube videos on how to use it, but it is pretty straightforward. With our deep dive into Disney and all it has to offer, we realized you could build droids and lightsabers at Hollywood Studios, and our girls could get all done up at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique . These experiences were so epic! The kiddos loved every minute of them. Disney does really well at having the right people doing the right jobs, and they go all in with the experiences, not many shortcuts. When we went the first time, we were really unaware of these experiences. Well worth every moment in our minds. Since we did Bibbidi, we decided to eat at Cinderella's castle that evening. It really was the best way to wrap up the princess experience! Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique  with the girls! Now, this did add cost to our trip (but again counteracted our Christmas budget since they were gifts), along with the extra park day and all that came with going to Epcot. By the way, Epcot is awesome for foodies, and it hands down has the greatest roller coaster in the world (bias) with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Epcot took snacking to a whole new level. We had so much fun sharing and trying different food items from all the different countries. Well worth it! Plus, they have been upping their ride game over the past few years. This past year, we went to the Food and Wine Festival. If you get a chance, check out the post we made. Epcot Food and Wine Festival Norway Snacking! Alright, time to get back to the nitty-gritty. We ended up trying a moderate resort, and that was Caribbean Beach. This resort is amazing! I hate to say it, but I would stay here over Polynesian—maybe I don't hate to say it. It offers great amenities, a great pool, and some good eats. And of course, my favorite thing of all...the Skyliner! Yes, the Skyliner is epic; you can get to Hollywood Studios and Epcot with no problems. Honestly, I would choose any resort that uses the Skyliner because it is so convenient. Anyway, we ended up staying from Sunday to Thursday. We decided to save money by doing Epcot on our check-out day because you can remain parked in the resort. All we had to do was bounce out and use Hotwire to find a great hotel deal for post-Epcot. We stuck to our same breakfast rules and lunch/snacking rules which you can check out in Chapter 1 . All in, we spent just over $7,000. This also included a hotel on the way down Saturday. What is even crazier is that if you'd chosen not to do the experiences, it would have been under $7k! Point being, Disney is doable. That was with staying at a moderate resort as well. Disney will offer deals throughout the year, and you have to be on the lookout. Our total for the trip also reflects 6 people. If you have a smaller family, your trip total could come in a reasonable amount less. I love to remind people that the magic is in the parks; find the resort that works where you can rest your head and have a fun day off, but you are there to enjoy the days at the parks. It is doable; just sit down and plan it all out Get ready for chapter 3! Disney Dad Out!

These egg bites are super versatile; you can add any extra veggies you have unused to add secret veggies to your kids' breakfast. We make these every week at home but whenever we travel I make a batch to pack for the hotel room! Ingredients 10 large eggs 1 cup cottage cheese 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 12 slices of Canadian bacon Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste ***You can add in any extra veggies toppings you have extra from the week Instructions Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined. Grease a muffin tin/liners with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Cup the Canadian bacon inside the muffin liner Pour the egg mixture into the muffin tin over canadian bacon, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Top with shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bites are set and lightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing the egg bites from the muffin tin. Serve warm or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This delicious homemade granola is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack. It combines wholesome ingredients for a nutritious treat. The best part? It can be made ahead in large batches to eat all week and it travels well! Ingredients 4, cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free granola) 1 ½ cup raw nuts and/or seeds (e.g., 1 cup pecans and ½ cup pepitas) 1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt (or ¾ teaspoon if using standard table salt) ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil ½ cup maple syrup or honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 Tablespoon protein powder (e.g., Orgain) ⅔ cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or apricots) Instructions Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts/seeds, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and protein powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil (or olive oil), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. On a side note, experiment with this recipe by adding seeds, fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips to personalize it! You can also switch it up seasonally—this is a recipe where you can get creative!

These are one of our top picks for snacks and breakfasts on the go! The kids think they're getting a treat, but they're actually healthy and super filling! We always include these energy balls when traveling, they are the perfect snacks for in the car and breakfasts in the hotel room. I use this as a base recipe and add any extra ingredients I have in the pantry, such as craisins, chia seeds, shredded coconut, etc. Ingredients 1 cup old-fashioned oats 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or vegan chocolate chips) 1/3 cup honey Instructions In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats and chocolate chips. Add the creamy peanut butter and honey to the dry ingredients. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Once the mixture is well combined, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to help it firm up. After chilling, remove the mixture from the refrigerator and roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate again for 30 min. Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy!

Our family in front of Belles castle! Our Disney story truly came out of nowhere. At no point were we looking to become people who regularly go to Disney. We watched the movies and had even been to the parks a few times when we started having kids, but in the summer of 2021, something clicked, and we were hooked. As a kid, I had been to Disney twice, and as a grown-up, I think we went once or twice on the occasional family vacation to Florida. But during the summer of 2021, something changed, and we have been hooked ever since! In May 2021, my wife's family took a trip to Disney, and we stayed at the Polynesian Resort. During our trip, we visited 3 out of the 4 parks, and I began to get excited to attempt a trip with just the kiddos, my wife, and me. Disney always seemed unattainable or, maybe better put, unaffordable. But I wanted to at least see what it would take. There is a stigma that Disney is expensive and not something many people get a chance to do. I believe there is some truth to that, but I also believe there are ways to get around some of the expense. That was my goal when we started planning. I wanted to be able to afford the trip, stay at the resort, eat fun foods, and at least check out 2 parks. We planned on going in Feb 2022 because we knew we could save some costs. Step 1 was establishing a budget. I didn't want to spend more than around $5,000 for the trip, and I felt like that was a reasonable amount of money for a 6-day vacation. Once we established the number, it was about figuring out how to squeeze the proverbial orange of all its juice. Step 2 was finding a reasonable resort to stay at. Why stay at a resort, you may ask, because it is cheaper outside of the Disney resort? Well, it has everything to do with early entry. Do you know how many rides you can crush before all the other guests arrive!? So it was resort or bust for us! We ended up going with Disney's All-Star Movies Resort. We found that our kiddos weren't worried about how cool the resort was but were more excited to enjoy the parks. Now, do not get me wrong, we have tried moderate resorts and deluxe resorts, and they do offer a little more of a bougie feeling, but if your goal is to see Mickey Mouse, adventure to Toy Story Land, or transport yourself into a Star Wars universe, then go with the value resort and just have fun. Disney is what you as the parent make it. If you travel to Disney and you have planned properly and are ready to enjoy the trip, your eyes will focus on the fun, they will focus on your kids' excitement, and you forget about the money (since you've already planned it) and enjoy what Disney has to offer. I have been to many theme parks, and honestly, Disney does it best. Their cast members are legit and really do want to make your trip great. Alright, step 3 is a big one because I feel like it is where everyone loses their budget. Food, yup, the one thing we need to survive, and it tastes so good! Disney has incredible food. For a theme park, they really go all out; however, you can drop a pretty penny on breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner, and of course, dessert. What we learned quickly is that the best way for us to save that money was to eat breakfast in the room by bringing yogurt or pastries. You get a small fridge, so why not use it? Simple pre-made breakfasts go a long way on the wallet. Next, we never sit down and have a full lunch. We either packed snacks or got some park snacks to share. For us, to sit down and order a lunch for the six of us would have smashed our budget. We chose to spend our money where it counted, and that was dinner. We chose to put any eating-out money in our budget to the one meal that would have a great experience. It worked out perfectly, and now it's how we do all our trips. Look, Disney may not be for everyone, but if it is something you are interested in, then you should explore how to make it happen. It has created wonderful memories for my kiddos and also for my wife and me. We freaking love it! It has turned into our yearly vacation. Along the way, we discovered ways to continue to save and also explored what it meant to spend a little more. We have enjoyed every moment of being Disney folks. We have so many more interesting Disney stories to share, and we cannot wait to continue to share them with you! Stay tuned for chapter 2! Disney Dad Out!

The Old Key West Resort, nestled in the heart of Walt Disney World, brings the chill vibes of the Florida Keys to life. This resort is a fantastic choice for families looking to unwind after a day filled with adventure. Location and Ambiance Old Key West Resort is conveniently located near Disney Springs. This means shopping, dining, and entertainment are just a stone's throw away. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery, pastel buildings, and peaceful waterways. It truly feels like a tropical escape. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families and couples wanting to kick back after a day at the parks. Room Layout and Features The 2-bedroom villa is spacious, accommodating up to eight people comfortably. Here’s what stood out: Living Area: The open living space is welcoming, featuring a comfy sofa, a dining table, and a flat-screen TV. The nautical-themed decor adds to the resort's charm. Kitchen: The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances, cookware, and utensils. You can whip up meals and snacks whenever you like, making it feel like home. Bedrooms: Each of the two bedrooms has its own unique charm. The master suite boasts a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom features two queen beds, perfect for families or groups. Balcony/Patio: Many villas come with a private balcony or patio. It's a great spot to relax and soak in the resort's beautiful views. Amenities and Services Old Key West Resort offers plenty of amenities to enhance your stay: Pool Area: The main pool is expansive, complete with a waterslide and plenty of lounge chairs. If you're looking for a quieter experience, there's also a serene pool available. Dining Options: Olivia's Cafe serves up delicious meals all day long. There’s also a quick-service spot for grab-and-go items. However, I must mention that it once took us 45 minutes to get just two desserts to go. Transportation: Enjoy free bus rides to the theme parks, making it easy to navigate Walt Disney World. Plus, Old Key West provides a complimentary boat ride to and from Disney Springs! Considerations for Your Stay While the resort is fantastic, there are a few things to keep in mind: Bus Transportation: The bus service can be a bit unpredictable at times. No Elevators: If you have mobility issues, be aware that there are no elevators in the buildings. Accessing Other Resorts: It can be challenging to access other resorts without your own vehicle. Despite these minor drawbacks, this resort helps make Disney feel less hectic. We would utilize early entry, Lightning Lane, and Genie Plus for our favorite attractions. We still had plenty of time to enjoy the parks and return home for dinner and a relaxing evening. The spacious and laid-back environment made our stay truly enjoyable! Conclusion In summary, the Old Key West Resort is a wonderful choice for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. With its beautiful setting, spacious accommodations, and convenient amenities, it’s a place where memories are made. If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, consider making this resort your home base. Here is a video of the room for full details: Watch Here . I hope you find this information helpful as you plan your next family getaway!

These berry cheesecake bars are sure to steal the show at your next get-together! I typically love using blackberries, but you can switch them out with any in-season berries. The combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! Quick Overview Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 50 minutes Rest Time: 4 hours Ingredients Crust 2 sleeves of graham crackers, crushed 1 stick of melted butter 1/2 cup chopped almonds Cheesecake Layer 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, at room temperature 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 4 large eggs 1/2 cup sour cream Berry Topping 4 cups of fresh or frozen berries 1 cup sugar 1 TBSP + 1/4 cup water Instructions Step 1: Preheat the Oven First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an essential step to ensure your cheesecake bakes evenly. Step 2: Make the Crust In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and chopped almonds. Mix until well combined. Next, press this mixture into a greased or lined 9 x 13 baking pan. Make sure it’s packed tightly for a sturdy base! Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. It’s important to get rid of any lumps for a creamy texture. Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream until everything is well blended. Pour your cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust. Bake for 50 minutes. When the time is up, turn off the oven and leave the door open for 15 minutes before removing the cheesecake. This helps prevent cracks on the surface. Step 4: Make the Berry Topping While the cheesecake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the berry topping. In a pot, combine your berries, 1/4 cup of water, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The berries will release their juices and create a lovely sauce. While the topping simmers, mix cornstarch with 1 TBSP of water to create a slurry. Just before removing the pot from the heat, stir this slurry into the berry mixture. This will help thicken the topping. Step 5: Assemble and Chill Once your berry topping is ready, pour it over the cooled cheesecake layer. Let it cool for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Tips for Success Berry Choices: Feel free to experiment with different berries. Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries all work wonderfully. Each adds its unique flavor profile. Serving Suggestions: These bars are perfect for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Serve them chilled for the best experience. Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re great for a quick dessert or snack! Final Thoughts I hope you enjoy making these delicious berry cheesecake bars as much as I do. They are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Remember, the key to a great dessert is patience—allowing it to cool properly makes all the difference. Happy baking! If you're looking for more culinary inspiration, check out The Hungry Half Dozen . We’re all about sharing delicious recipes and building a community around food and travel experiences. Enjoy!

First Stop: Cape Charles, VA This town exudes the hospitality and charm reminiscent of Mayberry. With its quaint shops, breathtaking bay views, and delectable food, it's a destination we are sure to revisit! The shops are charming and staffed by friendly people. Our favorite discovery was the pomegranate quince vinegar at North Street Market. We've drizzled it over salads with olive oil, and it's fantastic! For a midmorning snack, we visited Coastal Baking Co. and tried a variety of treats. Our favorite was the Smith Island Cake with yellow cake and chocolate icing—an Eastern Shore classic. Coastal Baking Co . - Cape Charles, VA Our last destination in Cape Charles was the Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery. Although the service was a bit slow, the friendly staff and the beautiful views made it worthwhile. We especially loved the Fish Tacos! Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery Next Stop: Berlin, MD After satisfying our hunger, we traveled north to Berlin, MD, for a coffee break and snack. We searched for coffee on Google Maps and found 2nd Wave Coffee in Berlin, MD, just outside Assateague Island. We decided to stop there and were amazed by the beauty of this small town. These hidden gem, main street-style towns truly feel like a step back in time. The coffee at 2nd Wave was delicious, and the kids discovered the charming snow cone stand, On Thin Ice, which was delightful! On Thin Ice - Berlin, MD 2nd Wave Coffee - Berlin, MD Assateague Island National Seashore With coffees and snow cones in hand, we made our way to Assateague Island National Seashore. It was an unforgettable experience. We weren't certain if we would see the wild ponies, but as soon as we crossed the bridge, they were everywhere! We were amazed, the kids were amazed, and we cherished every moment of this visit. It's a fantastic way to see the ponies without much time or effort. Assateague Island National Seashore The Grand Finale: Andy Grammer in Selbyville, DE At this point, the kids believed the day of surprises had ended, and it was time to return home. However, a 30-minute drive to Selbyville, DE, left them puzzled - could anything top the wild ponies?! Andy Grammer gave an outstanding performance, and the Freeman Arts Center was an ideal venue to watch him! Reflections on Our Day What a day it was! From the charming streets of Cape Charles to the wild beauty of Assateague Island, every moment was filled with joy and discovery. The kids were thrilled, and we created memories that will last a lifetime. Exploring new places, tasting delicious food, and enjoying live music together made this trip special. We can't wait to plan our next adventure! Conclusion If you're looking for a fun family outing, consider exploring the DELMARVA region. You’ll find delightful towns, beautiful scenery, and plenty of tasty treats. Trust me, you won’t regret it! And remember, every adventure is better when shared with family. So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and hit the road! ---wix---

This was our first year at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, and we decided to fully embrace the experience! We visited every booth, and whenever someone thought something looked good, we tried it. It was a delightful journey filled with flavors and fun. Our Favorite Dishes Here are our favorites from the festival: Carrot Cake - Milled and Mulled Duck Bao Buns - China Booth Wings (we tried each flavor and loved them all) - Brew Lab Feijoada - Brazil Red Wine-Braised Beef Short Rib with Goat Cheese Polenta and Puttanesca Sauce - Earth Each dish brought something unique to the table. The carrot cake was moist and flavorful, while the duck bao buns were a delightful surprise. The wings? Oh, they were a hit! We couldn’t pick a favorite flavor because they were all so good. What We Didn't Enjoy Not everything was a winner, though. Here are a few things that didn’t quite hit the mark for us: Raclette Cheese - The Alps: This cheese had an awful smell that lingered with us for the rest of the day. Everything—our fingers, straws—smelled like stinky cheese. It was quite an experience, but not one we’d want to repeat! Pickle Milkshake - Brew Lab: While it wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t great either. It was an interesting concept, but the flavors didn’t mesh well for us. Pavlova - Australia: To be honest, we didn't enjoy the texture. It was a bit too chewy for our liking. Cocktails and Beverages We also tried two different cocktails at the beginning, but we didn't like either of them. So, we decided to skip drinks for the rest of the festival. Sometimes, it’s better to stick with what you know you love! A Note on the Beef Dishes Additionally, we noticed that the same roast-style beef is commonly used throughout the beef dishes, with only slight variations. After a few of these dishes, they started to feel repetitive. I recommend picking one specific style and sticking with it; otherwise, you might tire of the flavor. Tips for Future Visitors If you're planning to visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, here are a few tips to enhance your experience: 1. Plan Your Route Before you go, take a look at the festival map. Planning your route can save you time and help you hit all the booths you’re excited about. 2. Share Dishes Consider sharing dishes with your group. This way, you can try more items without feeling too full. It’s a great way to sample a variety of flavors! 3. Stay Hydrated With all the delicious food, don’t forget to drink water. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to hydrate. 4. Take Breaks Walking around can be tiring. Make sure to take breaks and enjoy the atmosphere. Find a nice spot to sit and soak in the surroundings. 5. Be Open to New Flavors Don’t be afraid to try something new! You might discover a new favorite dish or drink that you never expected to enjoy. Conclusion Our first year at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival was a memorable experience. We loved trying new dishes and sharing our thoughts on what we enjoyed and what we didn’t. I hope our insights help you navigate the festival and make the most of your culinary adventure. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the flavors and the company of those around you! If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration from travel, check out The Hungry Half Dozen . We’re building a community around shared experiences and delicious, accessible recipes. Happy eating!

Our family LOVES Hilton Head. The best way I can describe it is as relaxed but still nice. You won't find big bright stores and basic shopping strips. Instead, you'll find lots of trees and trails with a Walmart tucked in. Coming from a bigger city, we always feel like this place is the perfect balance of fun and activities mixed with nature and calmness. And of course, it offers the ideal balance of fun activities and nature, with a sense of calm. The guys love the golfing here! Our recent trip there was packed with memorable moments—from horseback riding along scenic trails to savoring fresh seafood by the water. Here’s a detailed look at how our family enjoyed a fun-filled getaway in Hilton Head. Horseback Riding and Shrimping Adventures at Sea Pines One of the highlights of our trip was horseback riding at Sea Pines. The stables offer guided rides suitable for all ages and experience levels. Riding through the shaded trails, we enjoyed the peaceful sounds of nature and glimpses of local wildlife. It was an excellent way to connect with the island’s natural beauty while spending quality time together. We also tried our hand at a shrimping excursion in the Sea Pines Marina. This hands-on experience allowed us to learn about the local shrimping industry and try our hand at catching shrimp. The kids were thrilled to see the shrimp nets haul in fresh catches, and the guides shared interesting facts about the ecosystem. It was both educational and fun, making it a unique family activity. I will say they caught only about 5 pounds of shrimp because of the lack of rain they have had recently. They split the catch between families onboard, so we walked away with a little over a pound of shrimp - so don't go with expectations of a massive haul unless you're in luck! Golfing at Sea Pines, Hilton Head Country Club, Shipyard The boys love golfing, so Hilton Head is one of their favorite getaway spots. HHI offers excellent courses that welcome players of all skill levels. They spent a sunny morning at the Sea Pines Golf Club, where the well-maintained greens and scenic views made the game even more enjoyable. Later in the trip, we visited Hilton Head Country Club. This historic course has a charming atmosphere and challenging holes that they loved! We are Invited Club members, so this offers a deep discount on our play here, and every time we visit, the lined streets and serenity are unbeatable. The boys always choose this course to play at—at least once. Shipyard - The boys played for the first time on our last trip and loved it! This is also where we stay now whenever we go! Scroll down for more info on why! Candle Making at Sea Love While the boys played golf, the girls looked for a relaxing yet creative activity and found it at Sea Love, a candle-making studio. We each picked scents and colors to create personalized candles. The staff guided us through the process, making it easy and enjoyable. This activity was a nice break from outdoor adventures and gave us a keepsake to remember our trip. Plus, it was a great way to engage kids in a calm, hands-on project that sparked their creativity. Dining in HHI Dining in Hilton Head is good, but not.... great. We were never disappointed, but it was also very typical. If you are looking to be blown away, I would say reset your standards. -If you want good food in a relaxing low-country vibe, then you're in the perfect spot. Skull Creek Landing : This waterfront spot served some of the best shrimp and oysters we’ve had. The casual atmosphere and views of the marina made it a relaxing evening! Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks : Known for its fresh catches, Hudson’s gave us a true taste of Low-n authentic country cuisine. The kids loved the crab cakes, while the adults enjoyed the grilled fish. Ombra Cucina Rustica : For a change of pace, we visited Ombra for Italian fare. The wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas were a hit with everyone. Chophouse 119 : This steakhouse offered a cozy setting and excellent cuts of meat. It was a perfect spot for an upscale family dinner to celebrate the last dinner of our trip. - Ask for Chad, he was great! Shipyard We have stayed in a few different places on HHI, and Shipyard is by far our favorite! The tree-lined streets, walking paths, and golf-front homes create the perfect serene environment! We are DVC members and still choose to skip using our points (more on that in a different post). When we think of Hilton Head, we think of outdoor fun mixed with serenity, and Shipyard complements it perfectly. I know some love Sea Pines for similar reasons, and while we always venture into Sea Pines, it feels more hectic than we prefer!

Let’s start at the beginning. We have always been food enthusiasts and often joke that we plan our vacations around the food we want to try. We simply love food! Our travels have introduced us to dishes we might never have considered if we were stuck in our usual food rotation and relying on weekly pizza takeout. Our palates have come a long way, but one of our defining moments was our first trip to Epcot. The flavors were crafted so beautifully. Even when we travel to other countries or states, we find that much of the food we enjoyed at Disney is just as delightful as the dishes they were inspired by! Here are our top favorites from Epcot: Crepes from La Crêperie de Paris We typically head straight to Ratatouille after rope drop and then snag a couple of crepes for breakfast from their to-go window! Fish & Chops from Yorkshire County Fish Shop Yorkshire County Fish Shop is the perfect place to take a break at midday! They have excellent seating around the back that overlooks the lake. Lefsa and School Bread from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe After seeing Lefse and School Bread on a National Geographic show, we hoped Epcot would serve them at its Norwegian-themed bakery. And they did - even better, it was delicious! Prosciutto e Melone Pizza at Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria I know you're thinking melon on my pizza... too far. That's what we thought too, but now we can't get enough of it. While the kids typically stick to a more standard pizza, the Prosciutto e Melone Pizza is our favorite! Who knew cantaloupe and prosciutto could be so heavenly? If you have an Epcot favorite that you think we should try, please let us know!