The Walt Disney Company made the painful decision this week to eliminate thousands of jobs in Theme Parks, Cruise Line, and Retail. As a fan it's hard to hear because the cast members are a major component in what creates Disney Parks magic. Nine months into the COVID-19 pandemic, health and safety concerns continue to effect travel around the world and Disney struggles to balance business and safety while providing a quality vacation experience.

If you're looking for a quick spot to relax and get out of the sun at Disney Springs, give the outdoor bar at Terralina Crafted Italian a try for pizza, wine, and some great signature cocktails. On my last trip I popped in to order up a Limoncello Mojito. The velvety booze balanced between freshness and that particular lemony sweetness with a kick of mint that cools your throat on even the hottest day.

'Olu Mel is the kindhearted 'ukulele-playing sea turtle mascot of Disney's Aulani Resort in Ko Olina, Hawaii. He's been exclusive to Aulani since his debut in 2018, but the spirit of Aloha he brings to fans simply can't be contained because you can currently find the little guys taking a vacay at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. I noticed this sign in the Great Ceremonial House last week and had to check out 'Olu Mel for myself.

The seasonal fall festivities are in full swing at Disney Springs with colorful autumn decor, Halloween goodies at retailers, and a flavorful bonanza from the restaurant crowd. I recently stopped by Amorette's Patisserie to check out what was on the menu and see how things were going since they reopened. This upscale patisserie has three new treats that are available for a limited time!

Dapper Disney dolls love to swing by Disney Springs on their trips to see what the latest wears are at The Dress Shop On Cherry Tree Lane in Marketplace Co-Op. Right now the style of the season is Halloween chic with a collection of eerily gorgeous gowns that add some retro style to your Disney Halloween fun. The star of this selection for me was absolutely the Hollywood Tower Hotel dress that riffs of the bell-hop uniforms worn by cast members at the Tower of Terror.

It's a long way from Disney's Aulani Resort to Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, but Duffy's friend 'Olu Mel has made the trip to bring a little Aloha to the Walt Disney World Guests. One of the spots that you can find 'Olu Mel is at Pineapple Lanai where a sweet soft serve treat has been created in his honor.

The 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival marks the 25th anniversary of this exciting special event which also will be the longest festival in Walt Disney World Resort history. Though things are a little different this year, there is still a lot to love about this annual fan favorite. With more than 20 marketplace groups guests can still sip and savor their way around the World Showcase promenade.

A reimagined holiday celebration will take place at Walt Disney World this year with running between November 27th and December 30th, 2020. Seasonal shows, decor, activities, treats, and merchandise will be sure to delight the senses of guests during this festive time in the Magic Kingdom and beyond.

Regular Guest Author JoAnnC was recently in Walt Disney World and did a little research for us trying the new Disney Dining Walk-up Wait List feature on the MyDisneyExperience App. Read on to see how the new feature went for her and what you can expect when using it on your next Disney trip.

I'm not too sure how much trick-or-treat fun will be happening this year, but that doesn't mean you can't up your spooky style. I found a fun new Halloween Gear at shopDisney.com that is sure to put a spell on you.