Important Note to My Readers

THANKS TO MY READERS!

I want to thank you for reading the Love 2 Travel With Kids blog! I seek to provide timely, practical, and helpful information for many different people and write this blog because I enjoy writing and want to share my resources with others.

It has come to my attention that some other web sites are copying all of my blogs onto other web sites. This practice helps people who plagiarize and hurts independent bloggers like me. I do not charge people to access information on my blogs - they are free of charge for anyone to browse on the Internet. Advertisers enable me to provide this free service.

I would love for any reader to continue to visit my blogs regularly. Feel free to share the URLs for any of my articles on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or other social media sites.

Here are the direct URLs for all of my sites:

Fit Tips 4 Life focuses on fitness at:
http://fittips4life.blogspot.com/

Wildflower Bouquets offers scavenger hunts, printables, & family-friendly articles at:
http://wildflowerbouquets.blogspot.com/

Travel NC With Kids gives tips for traveling in NC with children at:
http://travelncwithkids.blogspot.com/

Love 2 Travel With Kids offers tips for family travel in and out of North Carolina at:
http://love2travelwithkids.blogspot.com/

Student Survive 2 Thrive provides resources like practice tests, flash cards, & tips at:
http://studentsurvive2thrive.blogspot.com/

Thank you again for taking the time to read my articles and I hope that each of you finds my free online resources to be helpful and inspiring. Feel free to email me at katrenaallison@gmail.com any time if you have questions, ideas, or just wish to send me a message.

Katrena Allison

Carowinds 2014 Opening Date and What's New

View of Some of the SC Rides from Carolina Skytower at Carowinds

Carowinds, an amusement park that straddles the North Carolina and South Carolina border in sight of I-77, offers a variety of fun activities, from riding roller coasters to enjoying waves in their water park called Boomerang Bay. The theme park typically adds something new each year. The most popular addition in recent years, in my opinion, came in 2010 as the Intimidator roller coaster lifted guests to a height of 232 feet, leaving them to race down the track at 75 mph with nothing but a lapbelt holding them in for a memorable ride.

I think a lot of folks particularly visit the park for the nice variety of roller coasters at Carowinds, including some in which guests stand, lie down, sit, or hang. So, what will 2014 bring?

When is Carowinds Opening in 2014?

The scheduled opening date for Carowinds in 2014 is March 29. Many season pass holders anxiously await that opening date when they can enjoy park perks for yet another season. Those who plan to visit the park several times a year would do well to consider season passes, particularly the ones with free parking. Deepest discounts on season passes are generally offered soon after the end of the previous season.

Those with season passes may wish to see my article on Bring a Friend Dates for 2014.

If you are looking for dates and times for the 2014 Carowinds season, visit my site map where I have created an easy-to-read chart with dates and times for each month this season, starting with March and ending with November.

What's New at Carowinds for 2014?

To find the latest additions to Carowinds in 2014, you'll need to head to the back of the park. Boomerang Bay hosts a variety of wave pools, water play areas, and water slides. Carowinds will offer two new water slides, Surfer's Swell (263 feet, featuring a high angled wall) and Dorsal Fin Drop (351 feet, featuring a large curved tunnel), this season.

Don't get too excited about the new water slides when the park first opens because Boomerang Bay historically opens later in the season some time around Memorial Day when the weather is warmer. Unlike the 2013 addition of the dinosaurs in which guests had to pay an extra fee to see the new addition, I do not see indications that Carowinds is charging extra to enjoy the water park. Enjoying the two new water slides without paying an extra fee will make many guests happy. According to an email received from Carowinds on June 22, 2014, the two new waterslides are now open!

Entertainment at Carowinds will feature songs and sounds from the Motown era. Those with season passes and free parking will discover that they will be parking in the general parking areas. The Richochet will look a bit different with new teal and lime green paint. The Richochet is a good one to hit early in the day or when the crowds are smaller because it takes a while to load with only four passengers per car.

The Skyflyer (extra charge to ride this one) is moving to an area between the Nighthawk and the Flying Ace Aerial Chase. It was previously located near the Hurler. The Hurler wooden roller coaster is having the first curve re-built for 2014. Carowinds will also be installing several TV screens throughout the park this year.

Carowinds will celebrate 15 years of their roller coaster the Afterburn on March 29, 2014. This roller coaster was previously named Top Gun and is located near the south entrance. The first 1500 riders on the Afterburn will receive a commemorative pin.

For those who were hoping for a new roller coaster in 2014...it does not look like that is going to happen this year. Maybe in 2015?

Related Articles:

• How Tall Do You Have to Be to Ride the Intimidator?
• Boomerang Bay at Carowinds – Fun for Kids of All Ages
• Extreme Play at Carolina Mall in Concord NC Offers Active Indoor Fun

Find more of my articles at Love 2 Travel With Kids and Travel NC With Kids.

Hidden Mickeys at Walt Disney World

Hidden Mickey Trashcan Drums © Katrena

Families embarking on a Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation may soon discover that the excitement wanes rather quickly while everyone stands in line. Although the wait times can vary greatly depending on the time of year, day of week, and time of day, children may begin to whine at the thought of standing and waiting for another ride, meal, or even the use of the restroom. Yes, you spent nearly a fortune to give the kids the opportunity to visit this iconic vacation destination, but they might not stand in utter awe as you snake in and out of one line to the next.

Hidden Mickey Formed from Towels and Washcloths - Photo by Kakisky

One way to help pass the time is to search for Hidden Mickeys. What are Hidden Mickeys? According to Steven M. Barrett, author of Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secrets, an official Hidden Mickey is "a partial or complete image of Mickey Mouse that has been hidden by Disney's Imagineers and artists in the designs of Disney attractions, hotels, restaurants, and other areas." These hidden images probably began in the late 1970s or early 1980s when designers may have created subtle images depicting the famous mouse in Epcot when management had originally wanted to restrict characters such as Mickey and Minnie to the Magic Kingdom.

Hidden Mickey in Morocco Pavilion in Epcot - Photo by UpstateNYer

Most Hidden Mickeys are classic forms, showing three intersecting circles, representing Mickey Mouse's two round ears and the larger circular head. A few other images may include a profile version of the iconic mouse's face and may include the head or rest of his body. Mickey's clothing, such as gloves or shoes, handprints, or name or initials might also appear in unexpected places.

Hidden Mickey on Wallpaper in Pop Century Resort © Katrena

Of course, some controversy may occur when trying to determine whether or not something is a true Hidden Mickey. Those who are particularly serious about it the issue might argue that a true Hidden Mickey must be deliberate with proper proportions and design. Many Mickey images are far from hidden and might simply be deemed as decorative Mickeys by some, but they still can be loads of fun for the kids to hunt and find.

Hidden Mickey Benches at Disneyland - Photo by Terri Hodges

One can easily turn a Hidden Mickey search into something educational, encouraging the kids to look for circles and then see if they can find three circles that intersect. My kids get a kick out of seeing three circles come together in unexpected places at home or in places we visit and will exclaim that they have discovered yet another Hidden Mickey. Perhaps these are not the official ones, but to my knowledge, there is no official count. It is okay...there are no Hidden Mickey police poised to grab the kids and cuff them if they discover one that is not official!



Hidden Mickey Cactus Held by Goofy © Katrena

As areas within Disney are renovated, many unique architectural details may become no more while others may be added at any time. Some might only be visible from the sky or via Google images from above, while others may only be visible to Cast Members in restricted areas. I simply encouraged my kids to look up, down, and all around while standing in line for rides. They took it from there!

Hidden Mickeys at Walt Disney World © Katrena

Those who have visited Disney World several times who are up for a challenge may want to check out some of the Hidden Mickey scavenger hunts offered in Steven M. Barrett's book mentioned above. His field guide offers specific hints for finding many of these Hidden Mickeys, including many that are rather elusive, unusual, and not easily noticed.

Hidden Mickey in Aquarium at Epcot © Katrena

Related articles:

• Walt Disney World Trading Pins – Fun Way to Preserve Memories (some trading pins have a Hidden Mickey shape also)
• Money-Saving Tips for a Walt Disney World Vacation in Florida
• How to Beat the Summer Heat at Disney World in Florida

Hidden Mickeys on Lightposts at Disney World © Katrena

Visit Katrena's travel-related blogs, including Love 2 Travel With Kids and Travel NC With Kids, for more travel ideas. Katrena's Wildflower Bouquets blog offers free scavenger hunts, printables, and articles about enjoying simple pleasures with the family.

Some Assembly Required LEGO® Brick Display at NC Arboretum in Asheville NC

LEGO® Sculptures in NC Arboretum in Asheville NC - Photo by Priwo

Looking for an unusual family outing in the Christmas season 2013? Perhaps the kids and adults will enjoy seeing LEGO® sculptures at Asheville's NC Arboretum. These fourteen unusual and colorful displays with 27 sculptures will be on display October 19, 2013 to January 5, 2014. "Some Assembly Required" was created by Sean Kenney, a children's book author who admits to being a "professional kid."

If you are thinking this display would be small and simple, you might want to think again. The display contains about half a million pieces. A ruby-throated hummingbird feeding from a giant flower was created with 31,565 LEGO® pieces and hovers eight feet high. A life-sized bison, the largest sculpture, contains 45,143 LEGO® pieces while the Giant Victoria Waterplatters reach five feet across locking more than 10,500 pieces each.

Admission to the exhibit is free. An $8 standard parking fee is charged for personal vehicles. Those who would like to get a glimpse of professional LEGO® builders at work might enjoy watching this YouTube video. Readers may also wish to see pictures of some of the LEGO® displays at the NC Arboretum.

Additional Articles:

• 2013 Dates for National Gingerbread Competition Display at Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville
• 2013 Tanglewood Festival of Lights Show Dates Rates and Times
• Land of Oz in Beech Mountain NC – There Really is a Yellow Brick Road!

Want to see more of Katrena's articles? Visit Love 2 Travel With Kids and Travel NC With Kids.

2013 Dates for National Gingerbread Competition Display at Omni Grove Park Inn

Dates and Times for 2013 National Gingerbread Competition at Grove Park Inn Asheville, NC

Those who love detail will likely be intrigued by the National Gingerbread exhibits in the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. People travel from miles around to see these amazing works of art during the Christmas season.

The display will be available from November 20, 2013 to January 2, 2014 at any time for Inn guests. The exhibit is available for those who are not guests of the Grove Park Inn on Sunday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. each week, excluding any holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Admission is free; however, there is a $10/car parking fee.

Most of the displays are found in the main lobby. Pick up a map at the lobby information desk to ensure seeing all the displays and some of the 80 decorated trees in the hotel. This excursion might take the family off the normally beaten Christmas path and into a fun time remembered for years to come.

Want to take a sneak peak? Find several pictures of the 2013 entries, including some of the winning entries in various age categories at the Omni Grove Park Inn web page. Exquisite is the word that comes to my mind as I look at these gingerbread creations. The details are quite impressive, and even the younger age categories display amazing talent.

More articles:

• Autumn at Oz in Beech Mountain NC – Where Yellow Brick Meets the Road!
• Traveling With Kids – How to Enjoy the Journey
• Christmas Hayride Through Downtown Mocksville, NC Like Norman Rockwell Painting

Find additional articles by Katrena at the Love 2 Travel With Kids and Travel NC With Kids site maps.

2013 Winston-Salem Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Date and Time

When is the 2013 Winston-Salem Christmas Parade?

Winston-Salem's 23rd annual downtown holiday parade for 2013 is slated for Saturday, December 7 at 5:00 p.m. The annual tree lighting ceremony will mark the occasion after the parade. The event will be held regardless of rain, snow, or warm summer weather. This parade is made possible by quite a few people and organizations, including: Winston-Salem Jaycees, Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership, and quite a few corporate sponsors.

The parade route will begin on 4th Street at the intersection with Poplar and continue down 4th Street to turn right on Liberty, concluding at 1st Street. Plan arrival and parking carefully as several roads will be closed during this event. Parking lots that will NOT be accessible include:

• Center City West at 650 West 4th St
• 4th and Broad
• 4th Street Parking Deck

One can expect to see a variety of parade floats, schools, radio stations, and more in the 2013 lineup. Be prepared for the weather as temperatures tend to cool as the sun sets. I hope all of you have a fun and safe time who choose to attend this year's parade!

You may also wish to read:

• 2013 Dates Rates and Times for Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
• 2013 Tanglewood Festival of Lights Show Dates Rates and Times
• North Carolina New Year's Eve Drops May Top Many Unusual Lists

Find more family friendly holiday activities and ideas for any season at the Love 2 Travel With Kids and Travel NC With Kids site maps. Katrena's Wildflower Bouquets blog offers free scavenger hunts, printable, and articles.

How to Help Prevent and Identify Symptoms of DVT While Traveling

Tips to Prevent Blood Clots in Legs - Photo of DVT in Right Leg by James Heilman, MD

Traveling with kids can be a memorable experience, but developing a blood clot would not be on anyone's bucket list of things to experience while traveling. The CDC estimates that 300,000 to 900,000 people are affected by Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) each year.

What is VTE?

VTE combines two related health issues: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE). DVT, sometimes called Venous Thrombosis, is a blood clot that typically develops in deep veins such as the leg or pelvis. If this clot breaks loose and begins to travel through the body, it can become lodged in a blood vessel that goes to the lungs, resulting in a PE. A pulmonary embolism can result in sudden death. Each year, approximately 60,000 to 100,000 people die of VTE.

DVT Traveler's Thrombosis - Photo by Jnpet

What are Risk Factors for DVT?

People who have had recent surgery or have a history of DVT have an increased risk for developing a blood clot in the future. Although studies have somewhat mixed reports, it is generally believed that travel, particularly prolonged (greater than four hours) air travel and perhaps sitting for long periods within other modes of transportation may increase one's risk for developing DVT. If a person develops a blood clot while traveling, some people may refer to this condition as traveler's thrombosis.

Additional risk factors for DVT include:

• Family history of clotting disorders, DVT, or PE
• Paralysis
• Pregnancy, including up to six weeks after giving birth
• Some medications, such as hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills
• Some forms of cancer
• Heart failure
• Implanted pacemaker in a vein
• Obesity or being overweight
• Smoking
• Older age, especially those over age 60
• Men who are tall

The Prevent DVT web site has a questionnaire to assess an individual's risk for developing DVT.

What are Symptoms of DVT and PE?

Deep Vein Thrombosis occurs without any symptoms in approximately half of all cases, which can make the condition difficult to diagnose.

Symptoms of DVT may include:

• Swelling in one leg, foot, or ankle
• Pain in one leg, foot, or ankle
• A warm spot or area on the affected leg
• Color changes in the affected leg

Symptoms of PE may include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Pain in the chest that worsens when taking a deep breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fast pulse
• Sweating
• Coughing up blood
• Feelings of anxiety

If one develops symptoms of PE, this could be a life-threatening emergency. Seeking immediate emergency care would be necessary. If experiencing symptoms of DVT while traveling, one should seek the advice of a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Tips to Prevent DVT - Photo by Ben Schuman

What are Ways to Lower the Risk of Traveler's Thrombosis?

Preventing blood clots can be serious business due to the potentially devastating outcome possible with this condition. Here are a few preventive tips:

• Get regular check-ups – your healthcare provider can keep track of your individual risk factors and discuss a care plan appropriate for your unique situation. A physician might prescribe preventive medications or compression hose for traveling if warranted.
• Take medications as prescribed and pack an adequate supply while traveling – plan to carry medications with you if flying rather than packing with checked luggage. If your luggage gets lost, at least you will have important medications with you. Be careful with eating habits while traveling if you are taking blood thinners that are affected by vitamin K in particular.
• Regularly exercise your legs and feet – stand up and walk every hour (or at intervals suggested by a healthcare provider) if possible or perform leg exercises while seated if walking is not possible. Readers may wish to read this article with simple seated leg exercises.
• Choose loose and comfortable clothing for traveling.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids while traveling.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle to control weight, avoid cigarette smoke, and achieve a healthy blood pressure.

Taking steps to prevent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism or to identify symptoms early could potentially save a person's life or help one to receive needed medical care to help prevent complications on vacation or at home.

This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have specific questions regarding your health.

Readers may also wish to read:

• How to Make a Road Trip With Kids Less Stressful
• Super Simple Travel Games With Kids: Punchbug!

Find additional health-related articles at Katrena's Fit Tips 4 Life site map or more of Katrena's travel articles at the Love 2 Travel With Kids site map.

References:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention article Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) accessed on 11/14/13.
• Mayo Clinic January 19, 2013 articles Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Risk Factors and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Symptoms accessed on 11/14/13.
• National Institutes of Health article How Can Deep Vein Thrombosis be Prevented? accessed on 11/14/13.
• National Institutes of Health article Traveler's thrombosis: a systematic review accessed on 11/8/13.
• PreventDVT web site accessed on 11/14/13.