Author name: Aly

I have lived on the West Coast, East Coast and in-between. With experience planning events and vacations as well as articles and lessons, I am putting it all into writing posts I hope will be helpful for you and yours. Thanks for reading.

Photo showing an example of one of the signs to be found in the scavenger hunt at the Christkindlmarket Aurora. This photo shows a character called “Lenny Lederhosen” as well as a small wooden box shelf with a hole punch.

Chicago, Other Destinations

Christkindlmarket 2025, Opening Weekend in Aurora

November 26, 2025

The Christkindlmarket in Aurora, Illinois is now open for the 2025 holiday season! We have created a guide for this […]

Photo of lit Christmas tree with title “Surprise Disney Trip Gift Reveals for the Holidays: Creative ways to let them know they are going on a Disney vacation”

Disney Surprise Trip Reveal: 8 Festive Ideas for the Holidays

November 22, 2025

Happy (almost) Holidays everyone! The Disney parks have already begun their celebrations, and maybe you are ready to join them.

Photo of building in Star Wars land at Disneyland with title “Shoudl I take kids to Oga’s Cantina, Disney’s Star Wars Bar, Disneyland tips”

Not-So-Brief Disneyland Advice

Should I Bring Kids to Oga’s Cantina, the Disney Star Wars Bar?

November 18, 2025

Oga’s Cantina at Disney is positively transportive in its theming. This Star Wars bar also offers some of the most

Percy engine beside water tower in Sodor Steamworks at Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails at Kohl Children’s Museum near Chicago.

More California Tips, Not-So-Brief Disneyland Advice, Other Destinations

Kids’ Travel Essentials: What to Pack For Your Family Trip

November 15, 2025

Sometimes it feels like the time it takes to pack for a family trip lasts longer than the trip itself.

Photo of “it’s a small world” facade at Disneyland Park overlayed with the words “Does Disneylnad hae a Christmas Party? A Guide to Holidays at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney District and the Disneyland Resort Hotels.

Not-So-Brief Disneyland Advice

Does Disneyland Have a Christmas Party? A Holiday Guide

November 13, 2025

Does Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park have a Christmas holiday party? Yes and no. Disneyland Resort does not

Glühwein in boot mug from Christkindlmarket Aurora.. Hot spiced mulled wine in a boot shaped souvenir mug.

Chicago, Other Destinations

Christkindlmarket Aurora 2025: Tips for Your Visit

November 10, 2025

Our family has embraced the tradition of the Christkindlmarket that has become so beloved in the Chicago area. For the