The weather was sunny and 97° in Orlando, but the heat wasn’t too intolerable. We bought the two for $15 souvenir refillable mugs at the park and stayed hydrated. Also, most of the lines were covered and had fans going. 

Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is a popular theme park in Orlando, Florida. It is part of the larger Universal Orlando Resort and features a variety of thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, such as Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Marvel Comics. One of the main attractions of the park is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which includes two themed lands based on the Harry Potter books and movies. Visitors can explore Hogwarts Castle, ride the iconic Hogwarts Express, and even purchase their own wand at Ollivanders Wand Shop. Other popular attractions at Islands of Adventure include The Incredible Hulk Coaster, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong. There are also plenty of dining and shopping options throughout the park.

Ticket prices for Universal Studios Islands of Adventure vary based on the time of year and type of ticket. A one-day ticket for an adult typically costs around $120, but there are also multi-day and park-to-park options available for those who want to explore more of the Universal Orlando Resort. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid lines and ensure availability.

Marvel Island Is Marvelous

We got to the park around 10 a.m. and headed straight to Marvel Island. Our first ride was Storm Force which was like the teacup ride at Disney. My son loved this ride because he loves anything that spins. After riding Storm Force Winds, we headed to the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride, where we were transported into the comic book world of Spider-Man and battled his arch-nemesis, Doctor Octopus. The 3D effects were amazing, and we felt like we were part of the action. Next up was The Incredible Hulk Coaster, an adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster with twists, turns, and a launch that went from 0 to 40 mph in just 2 seconds. We finished off our visit to Marvel Island by meeting some of our favorite villains Dr. Doom and the Green Goblin. Joey asked the Goblin why he didn’t like Spider-Man.

Next, we went to Dr. Seuss Land, and had fun riding the carousel and train, meeting the Cat in the Hat, and enjoying lunch. The menu had a variety of options including fried chicken, pizza, salad, and burgers.

Immerse Yourself in the Magical World of Harry Potter

Harry Potter Land at Islands of Adventure is a magical experience for fans of the famous wizard. The park features several attractions, including the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, where you can soar high above Hogwarts and encounter some of the most iconic characters from books and movies. This ride is a virtual reality style ride and takes place inside Hogwarts. This was my favorite ride of the day.

Another must-visit attraction is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, a rollercoaster that takes you on a wild journey through the Forbidden Forest. The girls agreed it was a thrilling experience.

While in Harry Potter Island, you can enjoy a refreshing mug of butterbeer. I had to try it. It tasted like a butterscotch float. Guests can also purchase a wand at Ollivander’s Wand Shop and explore the many interactive experiences throughout the park. While we didn’t buy a wand, Joey was able to cast a spell when a fellow wizard in training was kind enough to share his wand.

Overall, Harry Potter Land is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the wizarding world.

A Jurassic Adventure Awaits

Our day was winding down by the time we entered Jurassic Park Island, so we had to choose our ride carefully. We decided to ride The Jurassic Park River Adventure. Once we got in line, Joey got scared. He and I jumped out and the girls and my husband stayed in line. Joey and I watched from the observation area. While we were waiting, Joey got completely soaking wet as he stood on the bridge right where the rafts come plunging down into the water. He was wetter than the actual riders! Carlie, Kynzie and Chuck really enjoyed the ride and said you narrowly escape T-Rex before you take the big plunge.

Circling Back to Marvel Island

We only had time for one more ride and the lines for Skull Island were too long and no one wanted to brave the Velocicoaster.

We ended the day back in Marvel Island. Carlie and Chuck got to ride the Hulk ride once again. This time, they were front and center in the very first car. Even Chuck said it was almost too scary. The rest of us rode storm force once again.

Theme Park Survival

I made sure to pack ponchos and water shoes for any water rides. There are several water rides in the park and who wants to walk around in wet sneakers all day? I also pack sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and sunglasses. If you don’t like paper straws, you may want to bring your own as well.

Another thing I brought along was a pair of foam dice that we could play the to pass the time when we were waiting in line. Of course, we also had our phones, and several portable chargers to help keep us happy.

Five tips for waiting in line at an amusement park

1. Bring snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized.

2. Pack small portable fans to help you cool off

3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing to make the wait more bearable.

4. Use the time to plan out the rest of your day at the park or chat with friends and family.

5. Bring cards or download a group game App to your phone. such as “Heads Up”

Pros and cons of getting the express pass at Universal Studios

Getting the Express Pass at Universal Studios has its advantages and disadvantages. The main benefit is that you can skip the long lines and enjoy more rides and attractions in less time. This is especially useful during peak seasons when the park is crowded. However, the Express Pass can be quite expensive and may not be worth the investment if you are visiting during a less busy time. Additionally, not all rides have an Express Pass option, so you may still have to wait in line for some attractions. Ultimately, it depends on your budget and the time of year you are visiting the park.

We didn’t get the Express pass because they cost a lot of extra money. If you don’t have an express pass, you should prioritize the rides you really want to ride on and keep track of the wait times to decide how many rides you can get in and what you might have to skip. Also, be sure to download the Universal App. I found it good for finding out wait times on select rides, but it doesn’t report wait times on all rides. In our experience, the map on the App is more difficult to use than the paper map they hand out as you enter the park, so be sure to pick one up.

Our Hotel Choice

We stayed at the Homewood Suites near Universal Studios, which was a great choice for our family. The hotel provided comfortable accommodation with two queen beds and a pull-out couch. In addition, the hotel offered a complimentary buffet breakfast, a refreshing pool, and a hot tub, which were perfect for relaxing after a long day at the park. The hotel also provided convenient bus transportation to and from the park, which saved us time and money on parking. Overall, our stay at the Homewood Suites made our trip to Universal Studios even more enjoyable.

In conclusion, our family trip to Universal Islands of Adventure was an unforgettable experience. From the thrilling rides to the immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there was never a dull moment. Seeing the joy on our children’s faces as they met their favorite characters and explored new worlds together was priceless. We made lasting memories that we will cherish for years to come. We highly recommend this theme park to families looking for a fun and exciting adventure.

The post Amusement Parks with Teens: Our Trip to Universal Studios appeared first on Sheran Memories.

We are five weeks into social distancing in Georgia, and we are starting to see people take drastic measures with home haircuts and color. I know my hair was showing it! While scrolling on social media, an ad for eSalon offering a discount on custom color caught my eye. I was feeling adventurous, so I said: “What the heck? My gray is showing!” Have you resorted to coloring your hair at home yet?

During this uncertain time, when we are serving many roles and living with an underlying uneasiness, self-care is really important. So, when you start feeling a little not like yourself, a little pampering with a custom at-home kit may be just the remedy!

How eSalon color works

I clicked through to the eSalon website and was directed to a questionnaire about my hair type, hair color, eye color, etc. I even uploaded my photo to the colorist. Based on the information I provided, eSalon gave me several choices of color. I wanted to keep a similar color, so I chose dark blond, natural copper. I also ordered a salon cape and a root touch-up color spray for a discounted total of $30.00.

The kit came in a small pink box. It included a cute poem inside, custom directions, and the name of the colorist who mixed my color. My name was even on the color bottle – Jennifer’s color.

Inside the kit:

The kit included a cape, root touch-up spray, gloves, an application brush, color, developer, mixing tray, color remover wipes, color blocker, shampoo, and conditioner.

I followed the directions to mix and apply the color and waited 30 minutes. Next, I added water to the remaining color and poured it all over my head, working the mixture through. After rinsing, I shampooed and conditioned. Finally, I blew my hair dry.

The Result? My hair turned out soft, and the color is beautiful. The tone of the color is rich, light, and multidimensional. #colorhappiness

My verdict is thumbs up!

I am happy with the results and feel just a little more like myself, even if I am still switching from day pajamas into night pajamas! We need to find joy where we can.

I give eSalon a thumbs up for the whole experience. When I logged into my account on the website, they even suggested a highlight/lowlight kit to try with my color next time. I will certainly use it again.

Note: I am reviewing this on my own. I was not compensated in any way for sharing my opinion.

The post Coloring your hair at home during social distancing? appeared first on Sheran Memories.

A 9-year-old teaches me to ask for help

Studies show that most of us are very reluctant to ask for help when we need it. And special needs moms, need it! I was listening to the Building A Story Brand podcast on my morning commute to work the other day. This episode interviews Dr. Wayne Baker, author of All You Have to Do is Ask, about the skill of asking for help. I thought of my son Joey, who just that morning asked for help with getting his coat off the hook and finding his shoes. It dawned on me that my nine-year-old could teach us a thing or two about asking for help.

Joey has Down syndrome and is very independent. He prefers to do things for himself most of the time. Yet, he is also very good at asking for assistance.

Joey understands sometimes we just need help in life and he doesn’t get frustrated by the need to ask for it. When he is having trouble putting on his jacket because the sleeves are inside out,  or he can’t reach something on the top shelf of the fridge, or he needs the code entered into the TV, Joey comes to one of us and nicely says, “I need help.” He knows how to ask, and isn’t afraid to speak up when he needs it. It is a key skill that will give him confidence and independence.

We are reluctant to seek help.

I can’t say I have the same attitude. I am a fiercely independent person. As the youngest of three, and the only girl, I learned to do a lot on my own.

Like  most of us, I usually grit my teeth, plod on, and get-r-done. Yet, I tend to have so much going on in my head, such as the long list of things to be checked off, that I miss experiencing the moment and making connections where I am. So, I have begun to seek help in areas I need more support.

Accepting an offer for help builds relationships

In early December, Joey had minor surgery for tubes, an adenoidectomy, and a scope. When one of my Down syndrome mom friends, offered to bring dinner over, I actually accepted the offer. It was such a kind gesture,  something inside told me to say “yes.” We were blessed to come home from the hospital and not worry about getting dinner on the table. Through that gesture, our families connected and now we have a new friendship.

Getting help is not selfish

I juggle a full-time job, mothering, housekeeping, volunteering, developing a side business, and renovating our home. Help with household tasks would make a huge difference, but it also seems like a frivolous expense when I am perfectly capable of cleaning. The fact is, cleaning keeps me from precious time with my kids and it keeps me from time doing things that replenish me. So, my goal for this year is to get a housekeeper twice a month.

There is an app for that

Last weekend, I tried out the pick-up grocery service at Kroger. I used the app to select and pay for my groceries. I even used coupons. The app gave me a time to come pick up the groceries. When I got to the store, there were designated parking spaces for pick-up customers. A sign in front of the parking space directed me to call a number and they sent out a clerk to load the groceries in my car. This is truly a gamechanger!

Any mom knows how difficult it is to grocery shop with kids. I can also think of plenty of more meaningful  ways to spend our weekends than navigating the grocery isles. Now we can plan in advance, shop from our app, and just go pick it up when the shopping is done. No “extra” items in the cart, no detours. Quick, easy, done!

Were do you seek help?

Everyone needs help at some point in their lives. Baker says reaching out for help opens up new opportunities, unlocks new ideas and solutions, builds relationships, and enhances performance. We should be as comfortable asking for it as we are giving it.

What areas are your reluctant to ask for help? What things are helping you out most right now? Shoot me a comments below. I’d love to know!

The post Learning How to Ask for Help appeared first on Sheran Memories.