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Happy New Year!
Wow! What a year! 2024 is definitely one for the record books! As I sat down to reflect on the entire year and create my goal lists for the New Year, I was utterly shocked and humbled by how much I accomplished, survived, and developed, and we truly lived it up in 2024!
It was a year full of new beginnings and content creation. In 2024, I wrote and shared 70 blog posts, covering everything from local places we love to hotels we stayed at, All Things Disney, our two-week trip to Japan, all of our RunDisney events, Epcot Festivals, and our very first trip to Disneyland in California. Below, you will find links to all 70 blog posts from 2024 in case you missed any of them!
Accomplishments and Growth
I created, edited, and posted over a thousand videos and photo posts for Sunshine and Sand Dollars, Cats of Mira Manor, and Magic Bound Travel by Brittany. This resulted in multiple viral videos on TikTok and YouTube and monetization on Facebook and Instagram.
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Plus, I started my affiliate marketing side hustle and became an Amazon Influencer and Etsy Affiliate Creator. I also grew my email newsletter and blog subscriber list to over 400 people! Last but not least, I recently started a new career as an Independent Travel Advisor at Magic Bound Travel by Brittany.
I am so excited to see where 2025 takes me and hope to have many new experiences and accomplishments in the New Year.
A Look Back at 2024
Before I move forward each year, I love to look back, see how far I have come, and envision how far I’ll go. It’s always hard to see things for what they are while you’re in the middle of them, so I love the reflection that helps motivate and propel me forward.
Here’s a look back at all the significant events, trips, accomplishments, and memories of our year 🥰 looking forward to what 2025 has in store 🙌
🏃♀️Disneyland Virtual Half Marathon Race
🎨Epcot Festival of the Arts
🏃♀️Princess Virtual Half Marathon Race
🇯🇵 Two-week trip to Japan
🌸Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
🏃♀️Springtime Surprise 10 miler weekend
🎶AJR Tour in Tampa
🎤Mike Birbiglia LIVE in St. Pete
🎉Dads 75th Birthday Celebration
🎢Tiana’s Bayou Annual Passholder Preview
🎉My 40th Birthday Celebration at Disney
🖤Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party 🎶 30 Seconds to Mars LIVE in Tampa
🥂Epcot Food and Wine Festival
✈️Our first trip to Disneyland
🏃♀️Disneyland Halloween Race Weekend
🏃♀️Wine and Dine Race Weekend
🌀Survived Hurricane Helene
🌀Survived Hurricane Milton
✈️Started my career as a Travel Advisor
📚Started reading again and read 18 books from September- December 😅😂
🎶Next Big Thing in Clearwater
🎢Orlando Informer at Universal Studios
🎶Fitz and the Tantrums
So long, and good night! Thanks for the memories, 2024! It’s time to set new goals and chase new dreams! I’ll be sharing our plans and goals for 2025 soon!
Disney – Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon 2025
I returned to Disneyland for the 2025 Halloween Half Marathon and earned my second coast-to-coast medal! From the energy of the Expo and exclusive merch to my best corral placement yet, perfect weather, and amazing community support, this race weekend was unforgettable.
Travel – Why You Should Book Your Holiday and 2026 Trips Now
The best time to plan your holiday or 2026 vacation is now! From Disney and Universal to Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages, booking early means better deals, more options, and a perfectly planned getaway. Let me handle the details so you can focus on making memories.
Universal – Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando
Discover the tropical charm of Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando!
I recently had the privilege of experiencing a behind-the-scenes tour through Universal Foundations training, and the more time I spend learning about Universal, the more I fall in love with all that Universal Orlando has to offer.
Disney- Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2025
We returned to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in 2025 after missing last year due to hurricanes, and even though this year brought thunderstorms, it was still one of our favorite Disney events!
Florida Travel – Hotel Landy Orlando
Hotel Landy Orlando is a Marriott Bonvoy Tribute Portfolio hotel just minutes from Universal Studios and the new Epic Universe. With a chic retro-modern vibe, on-site dining, a lively pool, and Bonvoy member perks, it’s a stylish and convenient option I love recommending to travelers.
Tampa – Coppertail Brewing Co
In today’s climate, we’ve sadly seen too many beloved small businesses and breweries close their doors.
That’s why we want to make it a priority to spotlight places we love—places that bring something unique, creative, and special to our community. Coppertail Brewing Co. in Ybor City is one of those gems we can’t help…
Travel – Visiting Theme Parks in the Summer
Unpopular opinion – I think visiting Florida Theme Parks in the Summer is a great time to go!
Here are my tips and tricks for Surviving and Thriving at Disney & Universal Studios in the Florida Summer Heat!
St Pete – Overflow Brewing Company
It’s 727 Day here in St. Pete, FL, so I figured it would be a great day to highlight one of our favorite local places – Overflow Brewing Company! But first, what is 727 day?
Travel – Celebrating Six Months as a Travel Advisor
It’s hard to believe it’s already been six months since I officially joined the incredible team at Magic Bound Travel as a travel advisor.
Here’s a full recap of the last 6 months of my new adventure! Thank you for following along
Disney – Celebrating the Holidays at Disney
Whether you’re planning a summer trip or a winter escape, here’s why celebrating the holidays at Disney—from the Fourth of July through New Year’s Eve—is something truly special.
Disney – Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
With over 60 dining options and 100+ shops at Disney Springs, you’d think we’d be trying somewhere new every time we visit. From upscale restaurants to quick bites, the options are truly endless. But despite the endless options, we keep finding ourselves back at one familiar, comforting place—Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
St Pete – Pirates Pub-N-Grub
It’s time that we let you in on one of our favorite local hidden gems!
We fell in love with Pirates Pub N Grub the first time we wandered into John’s Pass. Ten years later, it’s still our go-to.
Disney – Galaxy’s Edge – Oga’s Cantina
Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or just here for the out-of-this-world drinks, Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a must-visit.
Here’s everything you need to know before stepping into this galaxy far, far away—including how to snag a reservation, what to expect once you’re inside, and…
Disney – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – Ultimate Guide
If you’ve ever dreamed of trick-or-treating through Magic Kingdom with your favorite Disney characters in costume, then Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the after-hours event for you.
We went for the first time last year and trust me—it’s worth every pumpkin-spiced penny. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another hauntingly magical evening,…
Cruise – Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady – Ultimate Guide
It’s safe to say that after my very first Virgin Voyages Cruise on The Valiant Lady, I’m obsessed! We had an incredible time on our 5-night cruise from Miami to Mexico and back, and I can’t stop talking or thinking about it. I want everyone I know to experience it, and here is everything you…
Cruise – Valiant Lady – Food Guide
It’s time to talk about the amazing food on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady!
In my previous posts, I’ve touched on our overall cruise experience, along with an in-depth look at our Sea Terrace Stateroom. Now I want to focus on the food, which was incredible! Hope you’re hungry, and if not, you will be!
Universal – Ultimate Guide to Universal Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe is officially open!! We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your visit!!
Universal- Terra Luna Resort – Universal Orlando
We recently had the honor of previewing the Universal Epic Universe theme park at Universal Orlando Resort – and while we were there, we stayed at Terra Luna Resort.
Universal Terra Luna Resort is one of three new hotels that are now open and adjacent to the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park, opening May…
Universal- Epic Universe Preview
We spent a full day exploring the brand-new Universal Epic Universe theme park during a special sneak peek before it officially opens to the public on May 22, 2025.
Spoilers ahead, lots of tips, and tons of photos!
Cruise – Virgin Voyages – Valiant Lady – Sea Terrace Stateroom
In this post, I’m diving deep into one of the most talked-about parts of the Virgin Voyages experience: the Sea Terrace stateroom — yes, the one with the iconic red hammock.
From the high-tech touches to room service secrets and balcony bliss, I’m sharing everything you need to know.
Cruise – Virgin Voyages – Valiant Lady
My bestie and I just got back from a 5-night Virgin Voyages cruise on the Valiant Lady, and it was an incredible experience! My goal aboard the Valiant Lady was to spend little money outside the basic cruise fare. For now, I thought I would create a brief overview of everything included without paying anything…
Cruise – How to Choose the Right Cruise
Let’s talk about cruises! This past January, I went on my very first cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas, and in March, I toured The Wish on Disney Cruise Line. This week, I am about to embark on another new adventure on my first cruise with Virgin Voyages! But in the meantime,…
Disney- Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Two of our favorites are sister hotels located just beyond The Boardwalk in the Epcot Resort area – The Swan and Dolphin Hotels. Last week, I gave all the details about The Swan Hotel, so this week let’s focus on my personal favorite, The Dolphin Hotel!
Disney – Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
For travelers who value Marriott Bonvoy points, elegant accommodations, and easy access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, the Swan Hotel is a fantastic option for a magical stay at Walt Disney World.
Disney – Epcot – Space 220 Restaurant
Did you know that Epcot has some really great sit-down restaurants? Space 220 at EPCOT is one of the most immersive and out-of-this-world dining experiences at Walt Disney World.
St Pete-Tombolo Books
It’s been a while since I wrote about something local that I am passionate about, other than travel, and what pairs better than anything with traveling? Reading, of course! And you guys, I have been reading obsessed lately!
Disney- Disney Cruise Line- Disney’s Wish
I recently had the complete and total honor of touring my dream Disney cruise ship—the Disney Wish. It’s everything I could have ever hoped for, and I am here to tell you all about it!
Disney – Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2025
One of the most beautiful festivals of the year has begun! The 2025 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary from March 5 to June 2, 2025.
I took a quick solo trip to Orlando for a dream-come-true FAM trip with Magic Bound Travel (don’t worry—you will find out in my next…
Disney – Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2025
Why on earth does anyone get up at 2 AM for multiple days in a row to run? Yes, we asked ourselves that all weekend long, but the answer is … the Disney bling of course!
My bestie and I just completed the 2025 RunDisney Princess Fairytale Challenge at Walt Disney World and I am…
Universal- What is Epic Universe ?
Universal Orlando Resort is set to redefine theme park experiences with the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know!
Universal- Stella Nova Resort – Universal Studios Orlando
I recently had the honor to preview one of the brand new Universal Studios Orlando Resorts – Stella Nova Resort. Universal Stella Nova Resort is one of three new hotels opening and is adjacent to the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park, opening May 22, 2025. Here are all the details!
Disney – Epcot International Festival of the Arts 2025
It’s the start of the 2025 Epcot Festival season at Walt Disney World, and the International Festival of the Arts never disappoints!! Mark and I made a quick 36-hour trip to experience one of our favorite Disney festivals of the year, and here are all the details!
Cruise – Royal Caribbean- Utopia of the Seas
This post is a doozy!! Settle in and read all about my very first cruise on Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas!
St Pete – The Neon Lunchbox
It’s been a while since I featured any local spots on the blog, and I wanted to try to tuck them in among our travel and Disney content again. As someone who recently started a small business, looking around and seeing where I can support other small businesses in my community has become essential. It’s…
Disney – Gideon’s Bakehouse – January Cookie
As mentioned in my last blog post – we decided to make one of our goals for 2025 extra sweet! We thought it would be a fun and delicious goal for the new year to make a trip each month to try the unique cookie of the month at Gideon’s Bakehouse, treat ourselves to a…
Mira Manor – 2025 New Year New Goals
It will be tough to top 2024, but we will surely try! I personally love to have goals and plans to look forward to on the horizon. It keeps me focused and motivated to have a list of exciting things in front of me, so this year, I’ve decided to share my list!
Travel – Why You Should Hire a Travel Agent for Your Next Trip
Why Use A Travel Advisor? As we approach 2025, the relevance of travel agents remains strong. Supporting travel advisors (like me) fosters their small businesses through commission-based income, entrepreneurial growth, and personalized service. Agents provide expertise, save time, and offer exclusive deals, enhancing the travel experience significantly while benefiting local economies, making them invaluable in…
Universal- Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
This past weekend, some friends and I went to Universal Studios – Island of Adventure, and I finally stayed at a Universal Studios Resort Hotel. It was a fantastic experience, and I want to tell you all about it!
Magic Bound Travel by Brittany
Exciting News – I’m Now a Travel Advisor with Magic Bound Travel! Here’s all the details about my new career adventure!
Disney- Disneyland Vacation 2024
Well, friends… we finally made it to the end of our Disneyland trip! I know, I know – this trip ended months ago, But I’m back to it and ready to wrap up this incredible memory-making trip with the final post about it! Make sure you read to the end 😉
Disney- Shades of Green Resort
We finally stayed at one of the most unique resorts in Walt Disney World: Shades of Green
Shades of Green is an Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC). It’s a unique, value-oriented lodging experience exclusively for military service members, retirees, and their families – all within the magical Disney World Resort bubble.
Disney- Wine and Dine Race Weekend 2024
By now, you know we LOVE the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival! But did you know they also have a RunDisney Half Marathon weekend that accompanies the festival each year?
This is the second year in a row that we have participated in Wine and Dine Race Weekend, and I am so excited to…
Disney – Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend
We were so excited when RunDisney announced a new race weekend for Disneyland California last year. Once we saw the theme, we knew we had to participate. Here are all the details for the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend in 2024!
Disney – Disneyland – Disney California Adventure – Day Three
Come with us to Disney’s California Adventure for the very first time! We are Disney Worlders used to four huge theme parks, whereas Disneyland and DCA are quite a bit smaller. While Disneyland is a full-day or two park, DCA lived up to the rumor that it could be a half-day or one day park.…
Disney- Disneyland Vacation – Halloween Half Marathon Weekend –Day Two
Wow—what an unbelievable whirlwind the month of October 2024 turned into. It’s honestly hard to understand where the month went, but in reality, we were deeply affected by back-to-back Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which devastated our community and uprooted our lives. Before we knew it, October was almost over. We are incredibly grateful that our…
Disney- Disneyland- Candy Cane Inn Hotel
Our first trip to Disneyland was everything I had hoped for, and more, and much of that experience hinges on the accommodations we chose to stay at. The one that kept coming up as a hidden gem for the runDisney races and parks was the Candy Cane Inn. I’ve got all the details in the blog!
Disney- Disneyland Vacation – Halloween Half Marathon Weekend – Day One
Boy, oh boy, where do I even begin? Mark and I just had a whirlwind trip of a lifetime that was 40 years in the making for me. I’m still reeling and trying to process our epic adventure on our first trip to California to visit Disneyland, the original Disney park, for the very first…
Disney – Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs
If you plan to visit Disney Springs, one of the most buzzworthy spots to check out is Gideon’s Bakehouse. Mark and I are not physically capable of going to Disney Springs without picking up something from Gideon’s! Here’s everything you need to know for this must do Disney Springs spot:
Disney – Epcot Food & Wine Festival 2024
The Epcot Food and Wine Festival has begun! This year, the festival includes 33 Marketplaces with special menu items and hundreds of delicious options—you know we tried as many as we could on opening weekend! Check it out!
Disney- Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2024
We attended Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party for the first time during my 40th Birthday Disney weekend! This special event has been on our bucket list for years, and we finally did it! I want to share our experience and lessons learned during our first visit. This is an incredible event, and of course,…
Disney – Disney World 40th Birthday Celebration
We recently celebrated my 40th Birthday weekend at the only place I could imagine celebrating a milestone – Walt Disney World. Three days worth of bucket list items and pixie dust – all the details on the blog!
Disney – Sangria University Experience
Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offers an immersive experience where guests learn about sangria’s history, create custom blends, and receive a certificate of mastery. All the details are on the blog!
Disney – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs is a sprawling moderate resort with nine restaurants and bars/lounges, offering many amenities and activities without ever leaving it’s beautiful property. Here’s a detailed guide to the themes, room types, restaurants, pools, transportation, bars, lounges, and tips for booking and staying as Disney adults.
Disney – Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort
Our latest blog shares the personal connection with Disney World’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort, signifying the beginning of a deep affection for Disney and RunDisney events. The resort’s New Orleans charm, dining options, amenities, and convenient transportation, especially for RunDisney weekends, offer a delightful and unique experience for visitors and race participants alike. Check…
Disney – Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
It’s time to wrap up our posts about the All-Star Value Resorts at Walt Disney World! Recently we shared our experiences and a basic overview of All-Star Movies and All-Star Music, and now it’s time to wrap up this All-Star Trio with our stay at All-Star Sports!
Disney – Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort is a convenient and affordable option for those wanting to stay in the Walt Disney World bubble, but don’t want to break the bank. I’ve got lots of photos and details in my latest blog!
Disney – Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is a budget-friendly Value Resort option for a magical stay at Walt Disney World. We’ve stayed a few times, and here is what we think about it!
World Travel – Japan Trip – Tokyo Disney – DisneySea
It’s our final Japan blog post! Join us as we reminisce about our last day at Tokyo DisneySea. We enjoyed riding Soaring: Fantastic Flight, tasting unique popcorn flavors, exploring the Arabian Coast, falling in love with Duffy and Friends, and revisiting our favorite rides. The rainy day concluded with cozy drinks at the Teddy Roosevelt…
World Travel – Japan Trip – Tokyo Disney – Disneyland Park
Waking up at Tokyo Disneyland was an exciting experience! We had exclusive privileges for Disney hotel guests, rode many popular attractions, and enjoyed unique popcorn flavors in collectible buckets. The day was full of memorable moments, including parades, characters, and delicious snacks. The day ended with a spectacular electrical parade, and all the photos and…
Disney – Japan Trip – Tokyo Disneyland Resort Hotel
Our latest post details our visit to Tokyo Disney Resort, and our experience at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel. I included lots of details and photos about our vacation package, attractions, room selection, and our overall stay. Plus some useful tips for booking, and a breakdown of attractions, making this a comprehensive guide to Tokyo Disney.
World Travel – Japan Trip – Tokyo Disney – Day Twelve
Over the last few weeks, we’ve shared about three different areas of Japan that we visited in March and April 2024. The grand finale of this life-changing trip is finally here! – we’re Tokyo Disney Bound!
World Travel – Japan Trip- Kyoto – Day Eleven
We concluded our visit to Kyoto with a trip to Nijō Castle, enjoyed sake at Waraku-an, and later ventured to the Kyoto Disney store. The day ended with cocktails, retail therapy, and a memorable final meal at Kyoto Engine Ramen. Next up – Tokyo Disney!
World Travel- Japan Trip- Kyoto – Day Ten
On our 10th day in Japan, we explored historical sites and tried diverse foods in Kyoto. Despite the discomfort of crowded buses, we marveled at Kinkakuji, visited the charming Okazaki Shrine and enjoyed exceptional sushi at Toyo Sushi. We savored the sunset at the K36 Rooftop Bar in the Gion district, ending the day beautifully.…
World Travel – Japan Trip – Kyoto – Day Nine
Kyoto offers a captivating blend of traditional culture, history, and natural beauty. The Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its iconic torii gates, and the tranquil Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple provide enriching spiritual and historical experiences. The enchanting Yasaka Shrine, known for its vibrant festivals, offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich heritage and cultural significance. We also had…
World Travel- Japan – Kyoto – Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Premier
During our two-week stay in Japan from March to April 2024, we used Booking.com to find and reserve rooms in 3 different hotels across the country, one of which was Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier. The hotel boasts a blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese hospitality, and offers a serene ambiance ideal for relaxation.…
World Travel – Japan Trip – Kyoto – Day Eight
On the eighth day of our Japan trip, we left Osaka and took a limited express train to Kyoto, known for its cultural heritage and traditional architecture. We explored the Imperial Palace and its gardens, then checked into the Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel before enjoying cocktails at The Common One Bar and a meal at Upit…
World Travel – Japan Trip – Osaka – Day Seven
During our final day in Osaka, we visited Namba Shrine, a historical site with a millennium-long history honoring Emperor Nintoku. We then explored Osaka Castle and its rooftop bar, followed by a visit to Amerika-mura, a trendy area with stores, street art, and the Silver Ball Planet pinball arcade. We ended the day with local…
World Travel – Japan Trip – Himeji Castle – Day Six
Come along as we share our visit to Himeji Castle in Japan. Mark and I embraced the historical significance and architectural marvel of this castle, despite the rainy weather. If anything, the rainy day enhanced the mystical aura, offering a unique experience and memories to last a lifetime – check it out!
World Travel- Japan – Hotel – Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka
We loved our stay at Fraser Residence Nankai in Osaka, Japan. In my latest post, I highlighted its ideal location, amenities, and convenient booking process. The hotel’s comfortable accommodations, on-site restaurant, and delicious breakfast buffet can’t be praised enough. The central location near popular attractions and local food options made our stay enjoyable and memorable.…
Disney – My RunDisney Running Story
Join me as I share my transformative journey from a non-runner to a determined participant in RunDisney races. Facing health challenges and personal setbacks, I persevered through training, races, and virtual events, finding empowerment and healing. With a supportive community and love for Disney, I continue setting fitness goals and am looking forward to future…
I’m pretty sure some of the things you did in 2024 were also bucket list items. Well done!! Here’s to 2025!!!