Author: Karyn Locke

6 Super Fun Things To Do in Fort Wayne in the Summer

Karyn Locke
Summer in Fort Wayne, Indiana can be fun no matter indoors or out!

Fort Wayne, Indiana, has four-season fun, there’s no doubt about it. But, when it comes to summer, its warm-weather offerings really stand out. And, whether you like to get out in the summer heat or stay cool with inside activities, there’s something for everyone. From award-winning zoo visits to creative ice cream sandwiches here are six super fun things to do in Fort Wayne in the summer! I’m not lying when I write that Fort Wayne is one of my favorite cities in Indiana. Situated in the Northeast corner of…

Is a Walt Disney World Character Couture Makeover Worth it?

Karyn Locke
Disney Character Makeover at Walt Disney World: Cinderella sat Ivy Trellis salon in Grand Floridian Resort

When it comes to visiting Walt Disney World (WDW), I’m the first in my family to pack my suitcase with red and white polka dot shirts and glittery accents. I’m also that girl that peeks into Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and wished she could get a Disney-style makeover. Until now. A recent visit to a Disney World Character Couture makeover showed me you can have the best of both worlds – the ability to channel your inner Disney Princess and still look adult-ish. So, what exactly is a Character Couture makeover,…

11 Important Tips for Your First Visit to Kings Island

Karyn Locke
Riding the Eiffel tower is a must on your first visit to Kings Island!

Kings Island has always been on my theme park bucket list. Happily, the stars aligned on a recent trip to Cincinnati, Ohio, and Mr. Locke and I checked it out for my first time. Are there things I wish I would have known before I crossed the gates? You betcha. Here are 11 important tips for your first visit to Kings Island. Download the app Learn the Lay of the Park Ahead of Time Buy your Tickets Before You Visit Take Advantage of Midweek Visits Arrive at Rope Drop Consider…

How to Fiona the Hippo-fy Your Next Visit to Cincinnati

Karyn Locke
Where to find Fiona the Hippo tributes in Cincinnati, Ohio.

If you’ve been following the journey of Fiona, Cincinnati Zoo’s adorable baby hippo, you know how she’s happily stolen the hearts of practically everyone that knows her name. But where to go in the Queen City to get your Fiona fill? Happily, there are plenty of places to visit. From craft brews named after the cutie to creamy delights, here’s how to Fiona the Hippo-fy you next visit to Cincinnati, Ohio! Greater’s Ice Cream Cincinnati Reds Listermann Brewery Cincinnati Zoo ArtWorks Mural Baby animals have, and will continue to have,…

The Insider’s Guide to Toy Story Land: Tips and Tricks

Karyn Locke
Woody tips his hat to toys that come to play in the new Toy Story Land in Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios just opened – yay! Filled with cute touches from the movie, fun dining options, and giggle-inducing rides, it’s THE place to visit at Walt Disney World for fans. So, exactly what do you need to know for your visit? Here’s Toy Story Land tips and tricks to make the most of your time in the park. On Thursday, June 28, members of the media had a chance to check out Toy Story Land, myself included. From the moment I walked through the entrance…

The 4 Best Instagram Walls in Toy Story Land

Karyn Locke
Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land

As a gal that loves a great photo backdrop, heading to Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a media preview this week gave me new inspiration compliments of all of the fun photo opportunities. And it’s exactly what I hoped it would be: whimsical, colorful, and downright fun – and that includes places to snag photos. Here are the four best Instagram walls in Toy Story Land and what’s making them so popular! Each Walt Disney World theme park has its own popular walls in the Instagram world.…

How to Have A Successful Brazilian Barbecue at Home

Karyn Locke
Brazilian barbecue tips

You know when you discover a new style of cooking and you can’t get enough? That’s been me and Brazilian barbecue this summer. I’ve been scouring the internet looking for traditional Brazilian recipes and thought, why not go back to Fogo de Chão Pittsburgh and ask the gauchos and mixologists! I learned so much about how to prepare a successful Brazilian barbecue at home from Nic, the restaurant’s head honcho, and am happy to share these simple tips with you. Mind the Flame. Yes, preparation, butchering, and seasoning is very important…

Phipps Conservatory Jazz in the Garden: Beautiful Music & More

Karyn Locke
Phipps Jazz in the Garden Benny Benack Band

When we’re asked to visit Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA, we don’t even think twice before saying yes. And when it involves great food and smooth jazz? I’m already in the car and on my way. Here’s a look at this year’s Phipps Conservatory Jazz in the Garden. Enjoy! What’s Phipps Conservatory Jazz in the Garden? In a nutshell, it’s 400 fans gathering together to enjoy a night of smooth jazz and beautiful views. The ticketed event has two options, on the lawn or under the VIP…

2018 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Planning Guide

Karyn Locke
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2017 Mickey and Minnie

This year, more than ever, Walt Disney World is expecting to amp up the Halloween fun at Magic Kingdom, especially for 2018 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Why is it even bigger and better than ever? Here’s the scoop. Sand and Snow uses affiliate links to give to great deals and savings for products we endorse and support. Yes, we also may receive a small commission, too.  Save $8 on Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party ticket! 2108 MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY DATES Halloween Party Dates begin in August 2018 – wow!…

7 Easy Tips for Planning a Trip to Orlando on a Budget

Karyn Locke
Tips for planning a trip to Orlando on a budget

Planning a trip to Orlando on a budget can be rough, I’m not going to lie. There are so many things to consider including, travel style and where to stay. Add in theme park tickets and dining and you’re head will probably be spinning. Happily, I’ve been there, done that. Several times. Dozens of times, in fact. The easiest way to plan a trip to Orlando is learning from those with experience and taking advise where you can get it. I’m happy to share my best tips for planning a…