Monday, March 31, 2014

Historic Market Square in San Antonio

My family loves to visit the Historic Market Square in San Antonio, Texas. The bright colors, the live music and performances and the amazing ambiance makes us wanting to come back again and again. The Historic Market Square is not just for tourists, it is an awesome place to visit time and time again if you are a local and just want to hang out, take a stroll, and relax.

On this day we planned on attending another event in Downtown San Antonio but tickets were sold out so we happily strolled on down to Market. As usual we walked into a vividly bright scene that included street food vendors, tourists, locals, shop owners standing outside their shops trying to bring you in, live music and a little bit of dancing. 


Shopping at the Historic Market Square is similar to shopping in Mexico, except for it is a lot safer. They have clothes, toys, Fiesta gear, pottery, ceramics, jewelry and so much more. Depending on how much you buy and what you buy you may be able to talk the store clerk into making a 'deal'.


One great thing about going to the Market is that you can spend an entire afternoon strolling the streets while drinking an 'adult' beverage. You can also stop and listen to the live music, shop, people watch and possibly run into Elvis and Michael Jackson. 


My husband and I had such a wonderful time here, so much that time flew by too quickly. We spent this day eating too much, not drinking enough, doing a little bit of shopping and doing quite a bit of people watching. Fiesta San Antonio is coming very soon and we will most definitely be attending the Historic Market Square

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Duff Cake Mix - House of Fauci Product Review

My husband's birthday was last week so my girls and I decided to bake him a cake. We strolled the cake aisle at HEB and the Duff brand cake mix caught our eyes. We had two options, a rainbow cake mix or a zebra cake mix. My girls and I chose the zebra cake mix.

When I saw the cool cake design on the cake box I was a little worried that I would not be able to pull it off, but it was worth a shot. After reading the instructions on the back of the box, I was pleasantly surprised, it was easy! 


The box contained two packs of cake mix, one vanilla and one chocolate. Each cake mix had their own separate instructions. 


My daughter was out of school with an ear ache on this day, so she was lucky enough to be my assistant. She did an excellent job at following directions. 


The cake mix instructions had simple instructions on how to make the perfect 'zebra' cake effect. Gia did an amazing job and was very patient. 


The cake came out perfect and I used regular store bought frosting. It was so tasty! My one tip is that on the box it reads to cook the cake for a certain amount of time, I believe it is a 10 minute gap such as 40-50 minutes. This is a big gap, so I would cook it for around 40 minutes and then test it. 


I recommend the Duff cake mix. Not only did my 7 year old enjoy helping me mix it up, but  my entire family enjoyed eating it for days! I am really excited to try the Rainbow design next. 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Turkey Nachos At Their Finest

When I am on a temporary health kick I love to incorporate certain foods into my diet. These foods include turkey, spinach, and colorful peppers. Here is my version of the best turkey nachos ever!

  • Black Beans- If you use canned beans always rinse off the gunk before heating them up or adding them to your mix. 
  • Peppers: Chop up your favorite peppers and onions.. I love them ALL and COLOR is healthy.
  • Turkey: Chop up your turkey in bite size pieces.
  • Add some oil or butter to a pan. Add the beans, onions, peppers and turkey into the pan and add fresh spinach. Saute. 

  • Line a foiled line pan with healthy tortilla chips. Top your chips with the mix and then top the mix with cheese. 
  • Bake at 325 degrees for about 5-8 minutes. 
  • Enjoy!!! But try not to eat them all.. it's hard not to.
Written by: Aimee Fauci

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Ashley Wins the First Day of School- Book Review

Last week I interviewed Angela Irick, author of 'Ashley Wins the First Day of School'. If you missed this awesome post you can read the interview here.

I purchased 'Ashley Wins the First Day of School' and donated it to my daughter's first grade class after my daughter told me that they had Kirsten Passmore, Little Miss Wheelchair of Texas 2013, visit to discuss her life with Cerebral Palsy. 
'Ashley Wins the First Day of School' is about a little girl that starts school and is nervous because she has a disability. She is worried about what her classmates will think of her, but after playing a game she realizes that her classmates have quickly accepted her.  
Here is a picture of my daughter's first grade class listening to their teacher read 'Ashley Wins the First Day of School'. (Look how attentive they are!)

Since I attended school, times have changed for the better. When I went to school, kids seemed to have been separated from one another; 'normal' kids in one class and 'disabled' kids in another class. It seems as if our paths never crossed, therefore not giving the 'normal' kids an understanding of how normal the 'disabled' kids were and how much we all had in common. When my older kids attended elementary school years ago I was so impressed with how EVERY student was placed together and that certain kids were chosen and paired up with a buddy (aka helper, friend). It is the same with my youngest girls now. Schools include all the kids in one class, granted those kids that need extra help are moved around to certain classes but they all know each other, play with each other and communicate with each other.  

'Ashley Wins the First Day of School' is a book that belongs in every school, every classroom, every daycare, hospital/ doctor waiting rooms and even in every child's home. This book shows kids and grown ups that just because someone is different in your eyes, you should not be scared to approach them because you will find out that they are just like you. 

If you or anyone you know is interested in purchasing 'Ashley Wins the First Day of School', go to this link http://www.heelswithwheels.com/index.php/en/shop/publications and enter FREESHIPPING

Feel free to follow Angela Irick so you can keep up with anymore upcoming projects that she may have and let her know you read her interview and her book review:

Monday, March 24, 2014

Richter's Antler Cafe - House of Fauci Restaurant Review

If you are in need of some down home country cooking then you need to visit Richter's Antler Cafe. This is a small town country cafe that seats a lot of neighboring folks from all around Spring Branch, Bulverde, Blanco and San Antonio, Texas. The cafe is decorated with 'trophies' along the walls and lots and lots of antlers! 




As you wait for your name to be called to be seated or while you wait for your food, there is an awesome playground in the back to keep the kids entertained. There is also table service on the patio so you can eat and drink while you watch the kids play. 




These are my favorite pictures of the night. My little Bella met herself a little cowboy and ended play time sliding down the slide with her favorite cowboy, her daddy. 

Richter's Antler Cafe has a great selection of food choices. What I love the most is that the menu is not overloaded with food choices. Too many food choices makes this girl confused! My family has been to the cafe several times and have tried several dishes off of the menu. They have all been so good; I suppose that is what keeps us going back. 


My girls ordered the grilled cheese and a cheeseburger with fries. We split up the fries and give a lot to the baby, big girl Bella. The food must have been good because our girls almost finished the entire plate. 

On this day my husband ordered the fried catfish, jalepeno macaroni and cheese, pinto beans, and two pieces of toast served with a side salad. The catfish was so crunchy and delicious and my husband loves the extra flavor that the jalepeno adds to the macaroni. 


I was going to order the amazing Chicken Fried Steak, but my husband convinced me to order the Richter Cheeseburger and for this I love him more and more. The Richter Cheeseburger was awesome! It was not only cooked to perfection but the meat was seasoned perfectly. I will admit that I was weak on this day and almost ate the entire burger and I have to say that I will do it again. 

Richter's Antler Cafe is a restaurant that you should put on your 'Must Visit' list; whether or not you are local or visiting from another great place. This is a cafe that is family friendly, has a great staff and amazing food! 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Sunday, March 23, 2014

The Importance of the Golden Rule

Growing up I not only learned from my mom and from the school I attended that you should live by the Golden Rule... 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you'. This rule has stuck with me my entire life and I do my best to instill this into my kids, especially when they tell me a story from school about an incident with a classmate. I try and help them to understand that even though a classmate may not be nice or may have stolen from them, you should try to treat them with kindness because you never know what their life outside of the classroom may be like.

The Golden Rule also pertains to adults. Have you ever gone to a store and the person that processes your transaction is not in the most spirited mood or maybe someone has accidentally bumped into you at the store and did not apologize but walked off in a huff. Many times in these incidences it is so easy to say something about the situation or respond under your breath, but the best thing to do is talk to that person at the register about her/his day and try to cheer them up and apologize politely to the person that ran into you. Once again we never know what is going on outside of their present area.

I will leave you with this story: One time I was walking in Walmart and I was down in the dumps. I can't remember why I was down in the dumps, but I do remember that I was not smiling and I was at Walmart shopping.. I love shopping so I should have been smiling. An older gentleman walked towards me and he said, 'You know, Jesus, loves you.' and then walked off. To many that might sound corny but to me, it perked me up. I thought in my head 'Wow, Jesus does love me and that man took the time to remind me!' 

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Baby Teeth - Flash back Friday 3/21/14

I have been blessed that 4 out of 5 of my kids have been awesome when it came to losing their baby teeth. The oldest daughter, who is now 25 years old, was the worse at pulling teeth. It was so bad that her Daddy had to hold her down and beg her to let him pull that tooth that was hanging by a tiny thread, literally. In addition, he would hand her money and tell her that if she let him pull her tooth she could have all this money and the money the tooth fairy gave her. It was a struggle with that child. She now has a four year old of her own, so the next few years will be very interesting when her daughter gets her first wiggly tooth. Sadly I don't have any tooth pulling pictures of her that I can locate.

The twins were much better at making room for their grown up teeth. They would actually have competitions on who could pull their teeth first. I cannot remember a time they asked us to pull their teeth, I believe they took care of it themselves. The picture I have of them is packed away but they are in their tighty whiteys pointing to their just pulled tooth as they stand next to each other!

My 7 and  8 year old are also awesome about having their teeth pulled but they have a tendency to come to me and ask me for my assistance. I will say that I am AN AWESOME tooth puller and I actually kind of enjoy it. I know the best way to wiggle a tooth so that it comes out nice and easy.




Teaching our 2 yr old that it is not scary to have your tooth pulled. 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Disney's Frozen - The House of Fauci's Movie Night

I surprised my girls with the movie 'Frozen' on its DVD release date. Let's just say that all three girls were excited.


Just like most kids, my girls would proudly belt out the songs from 'Frozen' at any given moment. 

                                 

So on this evening, when the girls got home from school we quickly bathed, changed into pj's, grabbed a stuffed animal and made a pallet on the floor in the playroom. We were all excited to watch, for the very first time 'Frozen'.   
                 

After the girls settled into the playroom I prepared some pizza to go along with movie night; Costco pizza is the best frozen pizza ever! 

I was amazed and pleased how focused the girls were on the movie and one of them actually said, 'Mommy, my eyes are watering.'. I was right along with her a couple of times during the movie.


My girls and I loved the movie 'Frozen'. I actually rank it up close to 'The Little Mermaid. The songs were so catchy and the message was beautiful. 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Meet Angela Irick- Author of Ashley Wins the First Day of School

The other day my 1st grader came home and told us that they had a guest speaker at her school. Little Miss Wheelchair of Texas 2013, Kirsten Passmore, came to visit and speak about her life with Cerebral Palsy and how she is just like every other kid. My daughter had such a fun time listening to her and I could tell because she told me everything that this little girl had to say.

After my daughter told me about her visit, I was reminded of a Facebook friend of mine, Angela Irick. For those that may not have read my blog much or may not know me, I only write about what/who inspires me and what/who I believe in. I would like to tell you the story of Angela Irick, a 32 year old woman that was diagnosed with a C-1 C-2 incomplete spinal cord injury at the age of 14 years old. I asked Angela a variety of serious and fun questions so that you can know more about her; you will definitely want to read this because Angela, also known as Ang, is a very interesting, fun, down to Earth, smart as a whip kind of lady!

I will warn you, this blog piece is long, I tried to edit some of the answers that Angela gave me but her answers were so awesome, valuable, and meaningful that I had a really hard time doing this. Please put some time to the side and read this in its entirely and share with your friends because honestly you never know who this piece will touch. Thanks.



What were you like as a kid: "I was really shy when first meeting people and always observed people around me. Once I became comfortable I was very stubborn and ornery. In addition, I was a major tomboy and loved playing basketball, riding bikes, playing in ditches, looking for crawdads, cheerleading and looking for the next adventure. As a result of my active lifestyle, I was very accident prone; so accident prone that my family and I joked that if something 'weird' happened that it would happen to me."


When and how did you become disabled: "On March 7, 1996, at the age of 14, I was in a car accident that resulted in a collapsed lung and I broke my neck injuring my C-1 and C-2 vertebrae; those are the first vertebrae's in your spine and your brain stem is above your C-1 vertebrae. I was very lucky because breaking these two vertebrae's paralyzes you from the neck down. In addition, I could not breathe on my own and was on a ventilator for 8-9 months."

20 minutes before my accident (Angela on the right)

Did you ever want to 'give up': "I had days where I just wanted to go to sleep and not wake up. It's not that I didn't want to live, it's that I did not want to live as a quadriplegic. I always tell people the first 5 years are the hardest. I just wanted to wake up and 'poof' the dream be over. It's like mourning the person I thought I would be; for example at the age of 32 I thought I would be married and starting a family by now. Different stages of my life will bring the pro's and con's, it's something that I have to adjust to."

What made you not give up: My faith in God, we've had a lot of one on one talks, my immediate family, we are not the perfect family but we love each other and that has taught me not to give up, and friends who constantly encourage me to pursue a dream or goal; such as run for Ms Wheelchair Texas and learn to paint.  In addition, my mom has always been a huge source of strength for me and I have put her through the 'ringer'; I would have major meltdowns and take it out on her. It has been 18 years since my accident and she truly put her life on hold so that I could have one and she never gave up on me."


What do you want people to learn from you: "I really want people to learn that my disability does not define who I am. The only limitations I have are the ones I put on myself. Of course I am going to need help doing this but that is what life is all about, setting goals and never being ashamed to ask for help."

Sometimes people feel uneasy or uncomfortable when they approach or are around someone in a wheelchair; what suggestions can you give people to make them not feel uncomfortable: "I totally use sarcasm to turn an awkward situation into a more relaxing situation. I've learned that when you are comfortable with yourself that others are comfortable with you. I actually get really embarrassed when meeting someone for the first time because they always try to shake my hand. I can tell by the look on their face that they are embarrassed which in turn makes me feel bad; so before this can happen I try and introduce myself and give them a polite nod of my head. Some people who are disabled are in different stages of their lives and may react differently but I can tell you that the biggest pet peeve is being stared at, patted on the head and hearing outlandish comments such as, 'but you're so beautiful to be in a wheelchair.' Disabilities don't discriminate." 

What are some things in your life you have done that would make some people say was not possible: "Breathe on my own, eat without having to use a feeding tube, hiccup, talk, sneeze, have sensation and movement below my level of injury; kicking my legs and moving my fingers. In addition, go on a hot air balloon ride, participate in a fashion show, TV and magazine interviews, public speaking, reading my book to elementary students, painting and scuba diving."


Lastly,what are your successes in life: "I started my own fashion line called Heels With Wheels. We are currently on the search for a co designer and are taking resumes. I published two books, 'Sampson to the Rescue' and 'Ashley's First Day of School' and am currently working on the third book. I became a Ms Wheelchair of Texas Ambassador, advocating for people who have a disability. Currently I am in the process of starting a non profit organization. 


I've been a Myspace/ Facebook friend (yes, Myspace- google if you don't remember what that was) of Angela's for at least 6 years and have enjoyed watching and learning of her successes in her life. She has amazed me not only because she is so talented and determined but because she is genuinely nice and caring. It is funny because I actually got to meet her once at an event that we both have grown to love, Hope 4 Tiny Hearts, and I froze up. I felt like I needed a keyboard and computer screen in front of me to talk to her but that feeling did not last because she broke the ice and broke into some gossip. 

After my daughter got home from school and told me about their special guest I immediately ordered Angela Irick's book 'Ashley's First Day of School', so that I could donate it to my daughter's first grade class. I think that it is important for kids, and adults, to understand that just because someone talks different, looks different, or has a disability does not mean that they don't have a million other similarities and common interests as the people around them. In addition, I plan on writing a short review of this book in the coming week, so I hope you take the time to read it and consider purchasing the book for your family or for your child's school/ daycare. 

I huge thank you to Angela Irick author of 'Ashley's First Day of School' for taking the time to let us get to know her. Feel free to follow Angela's journey on Twitter https://twitter.com/AngelaIrick or on her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AngOnARoll . 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Sunday, March 16, 2014

Specht's Restaurant - House of Fauci's Review

When all you think about is that bbq, coleslaw and potato salad that is leftover in the fridge that you picked up on your way home.... then you know that you picked a winner of a restaurant!

 House of Fauci's Restaurant Review


We spent an afternoon in downtown San Antonio and took the back roads to get home to the next town over. We passed by what looked like a little country store, so out of curiosity I had my husband stop so that we could take a peek. We had passed by this little store before but never knew what it was and were always too busy to stop. I am very thankful that on this day we took the time and went inside. 


Our first impression when we walked in was 'WOW this place is awesome and it smells so good!'. The front door is a hinged door, the type of door that you see in the country, and right when you walk in you are greeted by Specht's professionals ready to help you make your order. 

After we were greeted, I told them that we had never been here before and the man in front said to the man next to him to start getting out some food samples so we could taste what they have to offer. They plopped down some sausage, a rib, brisket, coleslaw, beans and some potato salad. My husband and I tried each piece of food that they  had to offer and I must say that it made our taste buds tickle! The meat was hot, fresh and so juicy and the potato salad was perfect! When it comes to coleslaw I am slightly picky; certain slaws I like and others I don't. I braved a spoonful of Specht's coleslaw and was taken back by it's flavor. It was unique and it actually made me want more. When I asked about the slaw I was told that it was not regular coleslaw but quihi slaw. He proceeded to tell me what made the slaw a quihi slaw, but I will be honest, I did not hear him because I was trying to beat my husband to the last bite of quihi slaw sample. 

We ended up making a to go order that included quihi slaw, potato salad, ribs and brisket. As we waited we enjoyed an ice cold beer and ice cold root beer from their cute bottle cooler. Before we left we made sure to take some pictures of the outer part of the store. 


Our to go order gave us two glorious meals each. When I say that I sat around the house, did chores, took care of my kids etc... and could not stop thinking of the food that we brought home from Specht's Restaurant, I was not kidding. 


Specht's Restaurant is located in San Antonio, Texas north of 1604 off Blanco Rd. If you plan to visit San Antonio or the surrounding areas you should put Specht's on your MUST places to go. Throughout the week they have live music and open mic night. The ambiance of this restaurant, the food, the customer service, and good old Texas BBQ make Specht's a place worth visiting.  

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Flashback Friday 3/14/14

Flashback Friday 3/14/14

I have had my girl's pictures professionally taken throughout the years.  I used to go to the photography studio inside the mall and then realized, after an independent photographer pointed it out to me, that they all have the same poses each time you go. I looked back at some pictures and realized they were right.

I have a few friends that are independent photographers, so I decided to have my newborn daughter's pictures taken with her. I was super excited because out of all my babies I had never had professional newborn pictures taken.  

On this day I loaded up my new baby and one of her big sisters. The photographer from Tracy Enoch Photography did an amazing job with knowing how to move this little baby of mine so that the picture would turn out perfectly. She snapped a few picture of the baby alone and then had her sister get into a couple of the pictures; totally unplanned by the way. Below is  my favorite of the batch:


Written by: Aimee Fauci

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

For One More Day by Mitch Albom... House of Fauci Book Review

I cannot tell you how many books that I have read that were written by Mitch Albom. I can, however, tell you that I have been pleasantly surprised and happy with each and every book that he has written and 'For One More Day' is no exception.


'For One More Day' tells the story of a baseball player, Charley Benetto, and the story of how his life was turned upside down and ruined by alcohol and regret. Charley, nicknamed Chick, grew up in times when women and men stayed married and you were, at times, looked down upon if you didn't. This is the story of how a young man dealt with his mother and father's relationship and how he dealt with their relationship with him. His struggle to make his father happy and at the same time try and follow the guidance that his mother gave him throughout his entire life.

“I also believe that parents, if they love you, will hold you up safely, above their swirling waters, and sometimes that means you'll never know what they endured, and you may treat them unkindly, in a way you otherwise wouldn't.” 
― Mitch AlbomFor One More Day

As Chick became an adult, his life, for many reasons began to spiral out of control. After his failed baseball career, his unhappiness in his job and his failed marriage, Chick was in a horrific accident. Soon after his accident he saw his mother; his mother who he buried 8 years ago.

“When you look into your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth.” 
― Mitch AlbomFor One More Day

Not surprisingly at all, Mitch was taken aback and could not understand how he was seeing and having full conversations with his dead mother. His mother, on the other hand, was the same kind, gentle, beautiful, and caring woman he had left behind.

“But there's a story behind everything. How a picture got on a wall. How a scar got on your face. Sometimes the stories are simple, and sometimes they are hard and heartbreaking. But behind all your stories is always your mother's story, because hers is where yours begin.” 
― Mitch AlbomFor One More Day

I read this book in two days, with my busy schedule with kids and my attention seeking husband, that is really good. My daughter read it in less than a day! This book will make you think; not only about yourself but your family.

“One day can bend your life.” 
― Mitch AlbomFor One More Day


Some of my favorite quotes from Mitch Albom's, For One More Day:

"What is it about childhood that never lets you go, even when you're so wrecked it's hard to believe you ever were a child?"

"One day spent with someone you love can change everything."

"Have you ever lost someone you love and wanted one more conversation, one more chance to make up for the time when you thought they would be here forever? If so, then you know you can go your whole life collecting days, and none will outweigh the one you wish you had back."

"There's a story behind everything..but behind all your stories is always your mother's story..because hers is where yours begins." (my favorite)

"The more you defend a lie, the angrier you become."

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

The Reel Seafood House Review

My family and I moved from the Dallas area to San Antonio three years ago. When we moved to San Antonio it was like we were on vacation. We had so many restaurants to choose from which mostly consisted of Mexican Food. I was in Heaven!

Four months ago we moved out of San Antonio and relocated just outside of the big city. It is a much smaller town that does not have many restaurants, so when we are out and about we constantly have our eyes open for new places to eat.

Friday night we were almost kid free (still had our 2 year old), so we decided it was our night to go out to eat and think of ourselves for once. We drove down Highway 46 and watched out our windows for food establishments. After we drove past a bar, a small Mexican food restaurant and a Mcdonalds we suddenly came upon a seafood restaurant. This was where we landed and I am so glad!

The Reel Seafood House- House of Fauci's Review

This restaurant is in a cute building with a lovely cross on the side of it. The cross is the first thing I noticed when we pulled in and I absolutely loved it! The inside of the building is very clean, quaint and perfectly decorated. The front staff, back staff and manager were friendly, professional and helpful.  



My husband and I love a restaurant that brings food before they take your order. The Reel Seafood brought us three pieces of bread that were each amazingly crunchy and fresh. SN- Before I could snap a picture, two pieces disappeared before my eyes. One more side note, beer is a must to enjoy the seafood experience. 


My husband ordered Oysters as his appetizer. When they came out they looked beautiful! I have never had an oyster and one day want to try an oyster, but today was not that day; I just can't do it. My husband, however, is a pro at eating oysters. He ate all six and loved them. He said they were amazing and fresh.

My husband's main dish was Cajun Enchiladas which consisted of cheese enchiladas topped with shrimp, crawfish, tomatoes, and avocado in a cajun cream sauce and a side of rice and beans. My husband cleaned his plate and I had a couple of bites of it also. It had a tiny bit of spice, but nothing too overwhelming. The leftover enchilada sauce made the perfect dip for french fries. 


I am always clueless as to what to order so I normally stick with what is simple and what I know. I rarely venture and try something new for fear of not liking it and wasting my money. On this day I ordered the Fried Catfish Platter along with one Stuffed Crab. This dish was good, however the catfish needed a bit more seasoning, so the lemon was a must. The french fries were amazing, but the stuffed crab was the best. The stuffed crab was tasty and fresh, it made my taste buds happy. 

For people that visit from out of town and for those that are local, I highly recommend eating at The Reel Seafood House. Often times vacationers over look small town eateries especially if they are staying in a big city such as San Antonio or if they are tubing in New Braunfels. We will definitely be returning, but before I do I am going to study the online menu and pick something out of my norm. 

Written by: Aimee Fauci

Monday, March 10, 2014

Coasterphobia - Yep, I Suffer From It

Up until around the age of 30 I would always get excited about going to theme parks such as Six Flags Over Texas, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventures and Disney. Even though I was scared and nervous I loved riding the upside rides, the rides that drop you from way high in the sky and the really fast ones that leave you not knowing if you are here or there.

Sadly, in my early 30's I came to the conclusion that my body and I did not respond to roller coasters like I used to. After I got myself strapped in I would always tug violently at the body straps and the waist restraints and then say a silent prayer, 'Please God, don't let me die.' I would actually say it over and over again.

My first moment of panic was experienced at Six Flags Over Texas on Batman: The Ride . This is a ride that leaves your feet dangling and you experience constant twists and turns. It is almost impossible to keep your head against the head rest and all you see is sun and all you hear is the loud track. I did not think I was going to lose it until the very end of the ride. After the ride does a not so gentle stop, it takes you to a closed in hotbox. It was at this point that I had that 'Oh my gosh, I am going to pass out or die' moment. I looked at my husband and told him that I thought that I was going to vomit or lose it and he did what I expected him to do. He said, 'Don't! You will be fine!' So I closed my eyes and breathed and threw up all over the place.. Just kidding, but I did close my eyes, breathe and pray that the Six Flags crew would get us off this ride quick.


On our next trip to a theme park I tried to ride Batman again and the same thing happened. I also tried to ride all of the other rides I had ridden in the past, but my body had the same reaction. My first thought was that I was getting old and that my brain could no longer handle it, but after some research I diagnosed myself with having Roller Coaster Phobia. This gave me a great relief. I can now tell my family that it's not my fault that I can't ride roller coasters anymore, that I had a medical disorder.

Below are some rides I rode at Disney World after being diagnosed with Roller Coaster Phobia. Enjoy!


The picture was taken at the very start of the ride. If the picture was taken at the end you would have seen the fear across my face.


This was not even an actual 'ride', but by the look on my face you can tell how scared I am. Everyone else has a sarcastic 'scare' face on but mine is real! 


This was the scariest ride I rode at Disney World. It is called Expedition Everest and it is the scariest ride I have ridden since I diagnosed myself with Roller Coaster Phobia. I think what scared me most was the unknown. This ride put me on the verge of tears. SN- Yes, it looks like I am passing gas in this picture, but I promise I am not. 

What is your roller coaster ride experience? What is your favorite ride/ theme park?

Written by: Aimee Fauci