Karyn Locke, Author at Sand and Snow

DIY Farmhouse Halloween Garland

August 5, 2020August 5, 2020 Karyn Locke

Looking for a fun, easy not-so-spooky-themed garland to go with your farmhouse decor this year? Here’s my tutorial for a super affordable, easy DIY farmhouse Halloween garland including where to find items and tips. When it comes to Halloween, there’s no doubt it’s my favorite holiday of the year. I love the colors, the look, the everything. Add in the fact that I’m an October birthday girl and you can see the fascination. But this year to change up my decorating theme, I wanted to go for an old, worn…

Disney World Character Cavalcades: Where and How to Find Them

July 20, 2020July 21, 2020 Karyn Locke

Disney World reopening 15 thigs you need to know character cavalcades Magic Kingdom

With physical distancing in full force at Walt Disney World, character interactions have been put on hold for this year. But, you can still see your favorite characters in the parks with mini parades, aka, Character Cavalcades. Here’s the scoop on where to find them, which characters you’ll see, and hints for making sure you see them. Last week, I hit the Disney World reopening and it really was a special time in the parks. Yes, there’s a new normal including the mask wearing policy, but if it let’s me…

6 Best Things to Do in Mobile with Kids

July 20, 2020July 20, 2020 Karyn Locke

Mobile, AL, is a city booming with culture, cool restaurants, and an all-over fun vibe. When this Northern gal headed south for a month this winter, Mobile was my last stop on the whirlwind visit and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a cool city to visit with kids or as a couple and offers plenty of culture-filled activities and outdoorsy spots to enjoy the weather. Here are the 6 coolest, funnest, and best things to do in Mobile with kids. Disclosure: I was graciously hosted by the folks at…

Complete Guide to Disney World Mask Policy: Your Top Questions Answered

July 19, 2020July 19, 2020 Karyn Locke

It won’t be the first time I’ve written that face masks at Disney World do change the way you tour the theme parks, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing, necessarily. And, as long as you play it safe, you’re keeping those around you safe – something I have not problem with. But, with the frequent updates and new information, I’m sure you have questions (so do I). So, what qualifies as a mask at Walt Disney World, which ones are the most comfortable, and what happens if…

15 Important Things to Know about Disney World Reopening

July 17, 2020July 17, 2020 Karyn Locke

Disney World reopening 15 thigs you need to know cast members wearing masks

It’s been nearly four months since Walt Disney World closed its gates for guests of its theme parks and folks in the Orlando & Central Florida areas. This week, Disney World reopening is making folks planning their Disney vacations wonder what’s changed and how the parks are keeping folks protected. From safety measures to queuing up for rides to restaurants and well being, here’s everything you need to know about Disney World reopening. 1. Disneyland VS. Walt Disney World Reopening Dates Recently, Disneyland had announced that it had backed up…

Should I Visit Disney World this Year?

July 16, 2020July 16, 2020 Karyn Locke

The past few days, I’ve been in the Disney World parks since they officially reopened and have learned a ton about their dynamics. Have things in the parks changed? Yes, there’s a new Disney normal. Are the parks crowded? But, apart from these questions, the real question is, “Should I visit Disney World this year?” Here’s how to decide. 1. Would This Year’s Visit Be Your First Visit to Walt Disney World? If this year was going to be your family’s first trip to Walt Disney World, my answer…

Where to eat in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores – 10 Fun Spots

July 6, 2020July 6, 2020 Karyn Locke

where to eat in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach LuLu's

If I’m in The South, I’m eating like a local. So, I want to know where the residents like to eat and what the dining hot spots are. On a recent three-day visit, I tried a little bit of everything and came away with a feel of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores hot spots. From diners with a cool vibe to coffee spots to seafood restaurants, here’s where to eat in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores. Disclosure: I was graciously hosted by the folks at Gulf Shores & Orange Beach…

The Casa at Gervasi Vineyard Review: Boutique Hotel in Canton, OH

July 3, 2020July 3, 2020 Karyn Locke

Last year, Gervasi Vineyard added a new boutique hotel to its gorgeous list of accommodations. And, last week, Mr. Locke and I finally had the pleasure of staying with the full intent of giving our honest opinion about our stay. Did we enjoy ourselves? Did we feel safe and comfortable? Here’s The Casa at Gervasi Vineyard full review. Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the folks at Gervasi Vineyard to give our honest take on our stay. All opinions are my own! Gervasi Vineyard Review: A Property Overview …

10 More Things to Buy for Your Disney World Park Bag in 2020

June 30, 2020July 3, 2020 Karyn Locke

Packing for a vacation to Walt Disney World? Here are 10 things never to forget to take to Disney World! #Disney #FamilyTravel #DisneyPacking #WDW #DisneyTips #DisneyHacks #Orlando #Florida

With the changes to our world this year, it’s expected to have plenty of changes to our Walt Disney World vacation as well. And when it comes to your Disney park bag, you’ll need to tweak what you normally pack. So, what exactly do you need to add to your park bag? From extras to things you many not have thought of, here are 10 more things to buy for your Disney park bag in 2020 (and 2021)! When it comes to things to buy for Disney World, the list…

7 Fun Things to Do in Biloxi with Kids

June 24, 2020June 24, 2020 Karyn Locke

What is there to do in Biloxi besides gamble? Apart from a beautifully-clean beach, watching gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, and enjoying the laid back vibe, there’s plenty. From museums to dining to where to go for beautiful views, here’s my list of the coolest best, and fun things to do in Biloxi with kids. Disclosure: A huge thank you to Coastal Mississippi for hosting me this past spring. I was given lodging, meals, and complimentary Gulf Coast Attraction Passes to give you fine folks the scoop on fun things to…