Remembering Margaret Kerry the Real Life Tinker Bell

Remembering Margaret Kerry the Real Life Tinker Bell

I have some specific memories I want to share about Margaret Kerry and fun with her at Walt’s Barn. If you don’t know what Walt’s Barn is look out Walt’s Carolwood Barn. Simply put it is the small replica barn from Walt’s Hombly Hills home where he would work on his 1/8 scall backyard train. He also did a lot of the planning of Disneyland in that barn. It is the birthplace of W.E.D. now called WDI (Walt Disney Imagineering). I was volunteering for a special event at Walt’s Barn along with Margaret. We were giving a private tour. She would come do these as often as she could. I showed people around Walt’s Barn sharing stories about Walt, his love of trains and some of the special items in the barn. After the tour Margaret gave a special talk about her time working on Peter Pan as the live action model for Tinker Bell. She spoke about Walt and the animators she met there. She came and helped sweep up the barn, set up, gave her talk (and on other occasions than this one took over my part of talking about the barn because I passed out from heat.) and then she would help clean up and shut things down. She was just a regular volunteer.

At this time of this incident I was taking care of my sweet Mum-In-Love. She had Alzheimer's and could not be left alone for even 5 minutes. I could not find anybody to watch mum for me so brought her along with me. There were seats she could sit in and cold water to drink. It was a safe enclosed area and I did not have to worry about her. Then Margaret showed up. Sweet Margaret started talking to Mum. They shared stories of their faith in God, the husbands they loved and lost, childhood and family. While I took care of my responsibilities Margaret spent time with mum. Margaret befriended her, took care of her and kept her from wandering off. She allowed me to do something I loved doing, sharing stories about Walt the Man. Margaret knew that would give me peace, and she truly enjoyed spending the time with mum. 

Another much beloved memory I have of her is from the Los Angeles Live Steamer Ghost Train of 2017. This annual event was a crowd pleaser that packed out and was a great thing to do for Halloween. I arranged for a train to take the volunteers of Walt’s Barn (Located on the LALS Area in Griffith Park, Los Angeles) on a ride! This is a nighttime ride with lighting, animated figures, music, and special effects. Think of a walk through Haunted House but instead of walking you are riding on a 1/8 scale train at night! It was about a 20-minute ride! Margaret got the front seat and I fully expected her son to sit behind her, remember she was 86 at the time and this is a straddle type bench seat. You need good balance to ride and many, especially older people riding at night, just do not feel stable enough to do it. NOPE!! Margaret wanted me right behind her!! Look at the picture!! I’m a little person! My husband is right behind me and Margaret’s son is behind him! The rest of the Barn Crew is behind that. OFF WE GO!!! We roll out of the station past a huge, talking, animated haunted tree. Margaret giggled like a schoolgirl and said, “You don’t scare me one little bit!” Thus, the adventure began!! Through Grandma’s Potting Shed with a GIANT Audre II and pots of her hungry babies. Killer Clowns, Western Ghost Towns, simulated electrocution and a mine train spewing flame from its smoak stack! I nervus, no terrifed she would feel unsupported and worried about falling off and here she was making silly comments to the talking figures along the track! She would comment on the quality of the voiceover work and how good the actors that did it were. She loved the special effects and commented on them all. All the time I’m behind her thinking, “OMG!! If Tinker Bell falls off this train and gets hurt I’M DEAD!! Every single Tink fan in the world will hunt me down!!” I never had to worry. Margaret was rock steady the entire ride She held herself more like a 26 year old than a 86 year old! Not one little bobble or need for me to support her!! What childlike joy she had!! She loved every moment.

One more story. Margaret was about to publish her book “Tinker Bell Talks” and she was talking to me about it. (If you have not read it I highly recommend you do so.) We got talking about things we were doing outside of Walt’s Barn. I told her about a book I’d been writing for years. It is a Christmas book for families to read together at Christmas. She asked for a copy so I printed one for her. Margaret was a master storyteller. If you ever had the pleasure of hearing her speak you know what I mean. She liked my book and had one major comment. The book needed illustrations! I could not afford an illustrator nor could I draw myself. We had just finished giving a tour of the Barn. She pointed to the barn and said, “Where are we?” I told her, “Walt’s Barn.” At that she put her fists on her hips, tipped her head to the side in that all too familiar Tink with a Tude pose and gave me “The Look.” You know that one eye half closed, slight frown on the lips what you going to do about it look. She said, “If you can dream it, you can do it! Go draw those illustrations!” I did draw those illustrations, and the book should be out this Christmas! It is in the final editing faze. Took time to find a publisher I could afford. This was the woman who brought one of Disney’s most Iconic and beloved characters to life and danced her way into our hearts. She had the spirit, sass and just embodied the belief she could do anything she wanted, including flying if she really wanted to. She will always be missed but we need to remember that she has just gone on and we can still find her by following that 2nd Star to the Right and Straight onto Morning! We will find her there if we just have Faith, Trust and Pixie Dust. She left a pile of Pixie Dust wherever she went.

Here are some of the pictures I drew because Ms Tink told me to try! Well not just try, DO!!

Until We Meet Again In Heaven Tinker Bell – Margaret Kerry - From Pixie Wings to Angel Wings

Until We Meet Again In Heaven Tinker Bell – Margaret Kerry - From Pixie Wings to Angel Wings

Margaret Kerry and me at Walt's Barn. Just 2 Barn Pixies sharing their love of Disney.

Margaret Kerry has set aside her Pixie Wings and earned her Angel Wings. She is now with the Lord she loved and the husbands she adored. She was 97 years old.

 

I met Margaret Kerry several times at Disney Events such as D23 and Disneyana. She was always a treat to speak to with an amazing story to tell. I also had the pleasure of being a docent at Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California with her. There we became friends. We called ourselves the Barn Pixies. There she helped me perfect the art of storytelling. She was a Toast Master and a true wordsmith. She encouraged me to finish writing my book and I’m eternally happy she did so and hope to have it published soon. She told me the book needed illustrations. I told her I did not draw. We were standing in front of Walt's Barn at the time. Margaret through the perfect Tink Tude with fists on hips and head tipped to the side. With a stern expression she told me, "If you can dream it you can do it! Get those illustrations!" When Ms. Tink gives you an order you comply!! My book will have illustrations I drew because of her.

 

Margaret Kerry was one of the models for Tinker Bell. Tink had a face model and then Margaret did the live action reference. In truth I think the face was also Margaret. She also was the model and voice for the Red Headed Mermaid in Peter Pan. In all honest truth she embodied the spirit of Tinker Bell. She was forever sassy and playful. She knew what she wanted and off she went! She had the most positive attitude I’ve ever known. I learned many life lessons from her.

Margaret asked this be posted on her Facebook Page Tinker Bell Talks

Margaret had an amazing and Pixie Dusted Life. Don’t believe me? Find her book Tinker Bell Talks and enjoy some of the stories she told. Her first husband came up with several creative ideas for cartoons and Margaret was part of it. Back in the early days of television they would use still pictures of a character and cut out the lips/mouth. Actors, often Margaret would put their lips through the lip hole and speak the characters’ lines. I remember watching these shows as a child! She did early TV Shows and movies. Her first movie was at the age of 4 or 5. She was a beautiful little fairy in A Midsummers Night Dream with Mickey Rooney as the Puck. She was also in National Velvet as a background actress and stand in for Liz Taylor.

 

Margaret was married 3 times. Her first marriage gave her 3 wonderful children but ended in divorce. Her second marriage was full of love and joy and she was left a widow. Her third marriage was one for the movies and worthy of her Pixie Dusted storied life. She had fallen in love with Robert around WWII. He went off to war and they went their separate ways. 70 years went by and Robert was a widower. He had told his son about Margaret and how much he had loved her in his youth. Robert’s son found Margaret and encouraged Robert to write to her! Even after 70 years apart Margaret remembered him! They were married 4 months later on Valentines Day, 2020 just before Covid. Robert died May 24, 2026. She loved Robert dearly and they had gone on a cruise to the Mediterranean recently. Robert was 100 years old. She was helping him write a book about his time in WWII.

 

Within the last few months Margaret had been at Disneyana and Comic Conventions. She was also a frequent visitor to Mayberry Days where they honor Andy Griffith. Margaret had played Andy’s girlfriend for a couple of episodes of Mayberry RFD. As recently as last year Maragaret was seen tap dancing on stage talking about her life.

 

Maragaret Kerry led a life full of adventure, joy, sorrow, hardship and positivity. She went from being an Orphan Train Orphan to a beloved performer and one of the kindest people I knew. I’m honored she called me a friend and even called me by my nickname, Tinky.

Is Cruising Safe??

Is Cruising Safe??

Right now there is a lot of talk about 2 separate events that recently happened on Cruise Ships. There are separate incidents across multiple cruise lines.

 

Let’s start with the Hantavirus. First off Hantavirus is a deadly virus connected to rats and usually spread when their droppings dry out and get blown around as dust. The Hantavirus contracted in this incident is a novel type that is rare. The possibility of you being exposed to this type of virus is small. Earlier this month a couple went bird watching and then they boarded the MV Hondius, a Dutch cruise ship. They had contracted Hantavirus while bird watching and brought it onto the ship. They did not get it ON the ship. This is causing global concern as this has become a person to person spreading virus instead of the normal. Should you be concerned? Yes and No.

 

On a cruise ship you are in close contact with a lot of people. Because of the limited space between people and enclosed environment with large areas that can’t be vented to open windows or doors things can happen. What do you do to stay safe? Wash your hands frequently. Be kind to others and stay in your cabin if you feel sick. Choose your cruise line carefully! The MV Handius was not the cause of or the start of Hantavirus. It was people who went bird watching and may have not stayed clean enough before boarding the ship. Still, you need to make sure that the cruise line you choose has a good health record and keeps the ships clean and rodent free.

 

The second bit of news is how 25-28 crew members of various ships from multiple cruise lines were arrested for child porn not for sexual assault on a child. Disney Cruise Line is the one line mentioned most and it is difficult to find information on the number of crew members from the Disney Magic were arrested. It is also hard to find out what other lines had crew members arrested in this investigation. It is important to note it was not JUST Disney Cruise Line that had crew members arrested.

 

Is this something you should be aware of? Yes. Is it something that should keep you from sailing? I do not think so. I’ve heard there were at least 5 different ships that arrests were made on. If the ships had an average of 1,000 crew members each, that means there are approximately 5,000 or more crew members between those ships. The percentage of crew members arrested was small. It is equivalent to the basic number of sex offenders in the general populous no matter where you are.

 

Do you or your child go to an amusement park, park, club, school or church? Be aware there are sex offenders there! No business can give you a 100% guarantee they do not have a sex offender on their payroll. Sadly, this is reality we live in.

 

What can we do to protect our children from sexual predators? First off teach your child to say NO loudly when they feel uncomfortable with an adult or an adult’s touch. Teach them to physically respond and protect themselves. Second, teach them to tell you if something happens and never judge the child. Listen and investigate, do not assume evil intent until you have investigated. Third, do respond if something does happen.

 

Many people are saying they are afraid to take their children on a Disney Cruise because some crew were found with pornography on their personal devices. Did these crew members work with the kids? I’ve heard some were cooks and other crew positions but no confirmation of any crew members working with kids was arrested. Reality is we don’t know. Were any charged with touching a child? From the reports I’ve seen the arrests and deportations were not in response to interactions with children. It was due to content on their devices. Once again, I’m going to be clear it was not only Disney that had crew members arrested. Disney has a zero tolerance policy and they have publicly stated they have revoked the crew members contracts. All were deported to their home countries.

 

Should either problem that happened in the past few weeks keep you from sailing? Not really. Either problem could happen on land as well as sea. Concerned about Hantavirus? Don’t go near rodent infested locations, wash your hands frequently and bath regularly. Worried about your child being sexually assaulted? You have two choices. Keep them locked to your side never allowing them to explore the world. Or you can educate them and teach them to protect and advocate for themselves. You can either raise a child to be fearful or powerful. The choice is yours.

Discover the Newest Land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Updates from Tropical Americas

Discover the Newest Land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

Updates from Tropical Americas

By: Disney Destinations

For almost three decades, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has been a celebration of nature, storytelling, and adventure coming together in unforgettable ways.

 

You can feel the magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom through the savannas of Africa, the Himalayan peaks of Asia, the floating mountains of Pandora – the World of Avatar, and soon, the lush rainforests of Tropical America!

A New Natural Wonder to Explore at Animal Kingdom

 

When it opens in 2027, the new land will represent one of the most culturally rich regions on the planet. From the northern reaches of South America, through Central America, and into parts of Mexico, this is a part of the world where nature doesn’t just surround communities – it shapes them.

 

And ancient cultures are still present in everyday life. Explorers and curious travels continue to fall in love with the region and all there is to discover.

 

During the 2024 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, we shared the Tropical Americans will be home to Pueblo Esperanza when it opens at Animal Kingdom. Just as you stroll through the Port of Harambe in Africa, or wander the Kingdom of Anandapur in Aisa, you’ll get to experience Pueblo Esperanza, a town with its own history, vivid culture, and of course, vibrant nature.

 

Welcoming Tropical Americas Home

 

Imagineers have long dreamed of adding a land inspired by this region to animal Kingdom. In fact, earlier concepts of potential park expansions imagined guests journeying into the ancient Maya temple and exploring a lush rainforest . . . sound familiar?

Inside Imagineering’s Research Trips for Tropical Americas

 

From the very beginning of this project, Imagineers knew the story of Tropical Americas needed to be grounded in the real world. Just like the Imagineers of yesteryear did when first building Animal Kingdom and the exciting additions that have opened since, our team embarked on several research trips to learn more about the region’s culture, customs, architecture, and folklore.

 

Imagineers always want to tell Disney stories from a place of curiosity and humility, and these trips allow them to go beyond simply re-creating the areas that inspired them. Recently, a small group took a trip to Honduras where they met with Maya artists whose life’s work is carving and recreating intricate details found throughout the Copan site, one of the most extraordinary and well-preserved cities of the ancient Maya civilization.

 

Together, they traveled through the lush mountain valleys to the very quarries that have supplied the region for centuries. They experienced firsthand the striking red and green stones native to the landscape. Witnessing the artistry was a breathtaking moment, made even more meaningful knowing that the same materials that build Copan will find their way to Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom and be crafted by carvers using the time-honored techniques.

 

The team also traveled to Colombia to immerse ourselves in the places and cultures that inspired Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto,” which will be represented in the first-ever Encanto attraction at a Disney park.

 

There, guests will be invited to celebrate Antonio’s new gift: the ability to talk to animals. And along the way, they’ll learn that no matter what their special gifts or abilities are, they’re all part of the “familia” of living things. During the research trip, the team met with many of the people and visited many of the places that the original “Encanto” filmmakers first visited in researching Disney Animation’s Academy Award-willing film.

 

They also gathered first-hand experiences to ensure Pueblo Esperanza feels like a real, lived-in town true to the region – from the colors and materials of town plazas to the hues of haciendas in varying light to the way buildings respond to climate and terrain.

 

Those journeys are not just about where they go, but the insight, inspiration, and deeper understanding that shapes every detail they bring back. Imagineers travel because there is always more for us to learn, and each experience brings us closer to telling these stories with authenticity and care.

Spirit Airlines Closure - What to Booked Passengers Do?

Spirit Airlines Closure - What to Booked Passengers Do?

Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy and stopped all operations May 2^nd, 2026. This left both crew and passengers stranded with no way to get home. What do you do now? If your trip has not started yet book with another airline and wait for the refund from Spirit, they do say it will be coming.

 

JetBlue Airways was the first airline to jump up and announce discounted fares for passengers with valid Spirit tickets. JetBlue Airways is booking until the 6^th or so for $99 one way. Other airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United, Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Allegiant Air and Avelo. Contact one of the lines mentioned if you are stranded with a Spirit Ticket. If you have a Travel Agent ask them to assist so you can finish out your vacation or business trip with less stress.

 

Many airlines are also assisting stranded Cabin Crew, Pilots and Flight Attendants are being offered Free Jump Seat passage home along with preferred and expiated job interviews for those who wish them. In some ways this is a good thing as there is a shortage of certified Flight Crew available in the industry.

General Disney Cruise Line Packing List

 

General Disney Cruise Line Packing List

This is a general packing list for any Disney Cruise. You can check the Disney Cruise Website for suggestions for the particular destination you are going to. For example if you are going to Alaska bring more warm clothing and things you an layer. Dress comfortably for vacation – plus bring the appropriate attire for such activities as dinners and Port Adventures.

Embarkation Day Basics

Pack these items in a day bag to keep with you, as your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until a few hours after the ship leaves port.

·         Medication (in their original containers)

o   I have found that having a picture of your pill container label with a description and picture of the pills will do

·         Passport and/or required citizenship documentation

·         Camera and accessories (batteries, memory card, etc.)

·         Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses

·         Sunscreen or hat

·         Swimsuit and cover-up

·         Any valuables, fragile items, and electronics should be in your Carry On Bags

Attire and Accessories

Here is our suggested list of things to pack in your luggage:

·         Jeans or pants

·         Sunglasses

·         T-shirts

·         Shorts

·         Sundresses

·         Sandals or sneakers (rubber-sole shoes for Port Adventures)

·         Windbreaker/rain jacket

·         Sweater or other clothes you can layer

·         Dinner attire (see below)

In winter, you may also want to bring:

·         Rain jacket

·         Sweater or other layering pieces

·         Closed-toe footwear

Dining attire

Disney Cruise Line ships feature an array of diverse dining experiences, from casual to upscale. Be sure to follow the dress code for your restaurant:

·         Main Dining – Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress up, but this is optional.

·         Adult Exclusive Dining – Adult exclusive restaurants, like Pal aboard Disney Cruise Line ships are elegant dining experiences and Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s ambiance. Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collard shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.

·         Themed Nights – On 7-Night sailings and longer cruises, the ship offers themed nights – including formal night – and you’re encouraged to dress up and participate in the evening’s festivities.

Check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App to find attire advice for each night’s dinner.

Some Guests dress to the theme of the Restaurant they eat at that night. Some Guests dress to the theme of the evening’s live show. Never forget Pirate Night! Pirate Night is on most Disney Cruises and is a lot of fun.

Dressing up or bounding is NOT required. Nobody judges you if your family has matching T-shirts and shorts at dinner or if you have gone all out bounding or dressing up fancy. The rule is to be comfortable and appropriately dressed.

Please DO NOT bring:

• Firearms and ammunition, any kind of knife, sword, dagger, bullwhip or any other type of weapon. These items are not allowed on the ship under any circumstances. Guests found in possession of any weapons or similar prohibited items on their person or in their baggage may be denied boarding and are subject to severe legal penalties.
• Homemade, precooked or other perishable items.
• Irons, bottle warmers, sporting equipment, balloons, candles, musical instruments, illegal drugs inclusive of medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana.
• Coolers, except those carrying medications, baby food or items related to dietary constraints.
• Mexico recently placed a law stating Vape Pens are illegal. You may use them in the smoking section of the ship but for your legal safety do not take them ashore in Mexican Ports.
• Please check the Disney Cruise website for a full list or prohibited items.

 

It’s Halfway to Halloween!!

It’s Halfway to Halloween!!

On select autumn nights, the sun sets over Cinderella Castle as Magic Kingdom Park Transforms into the center for all things spooky and fun.

Here are the dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party:

August 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30

September 1, 4, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29

October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 18, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31

New and Returning Entertainment in 2026

New this year, Stitch is hosting an ever-changing dance party at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland with the help of his friends Lilo and Angel. After getting his paws on Lilo’s Costume Trunk, every accessory he tries on will spark the theme swap and keep the party playfully unpredictable all night long.

 

And, of course, a little spider told us that the Cadaver Dans will be back again this year to sing in soulful harmony.

 

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets

Prices vary per date and will be available for purchase May 5^th for guests staying at select Walt Disney world Resort hotels, Walt Disney world Swan & Dolphin and Shades of Green.

 

Tickets will be available for purchase starting May 12^th for all oter guests. Party dates often sell out, so our best tip is to plan early and purchase tickets in advance for your desired party date.

 

Discounts on Party Tickets are available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members.

*Planning Tip: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary guests can enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00pm before the party kicks off at 7:00 pm this means guests have up to 8 hours to celebrate all across the park.

 

For some of us, our Halloween dreams include a bag overflowing with candy. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the best trick-or-treat destinations, with over a dozen opportunities to collect candy throughout the park, marked on your party map/ and this year, guests can expect even more fun than ever before with some familiar (and fiendish) faces surprising guests along the trails.

 

At each stop, cast members give out handfuls of Mars Wrigley favorites like M&Ms, Snickers and Starburst. And no worries if you forgot your pumpkin bucket at home: Each guest will receive a complimentary treat bag for candy collection (that includes adults).

 

Trick-or-treaters do not have to be in costume to collect candy. Guests are encouraged to dress up in creative Halloween costumes. Be sure to follow the official costume guidelines.

 

Exclusive Character Greetings

Meet Jack and Sally

Guests can meet Sally and Jack Skellington at Mickey’s not so Scary Halloween Party at one of the many character stops that feature exclusive meet-and greet opportunities. At town Square Theater, Mickey and Minnie will greet guests together in their Halloween costumes. Pooh will be in his bumblebee costume, and you may spot festive royal couples ready to say hello, like ariel and Eric and Aladdin and Jasmine.

 

Mickey’s Book-to-You Halloween Parade

There was a time before sparking shovels incited a bone-chilling response, and then you watched Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade.

Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular

It’s been three hundred years, right down to the day … or it seems that long since we’ve seen the Sanderson Sisters take the stage. This fan-favorite show is both hilarious and bone-chilling as Winifred, Sarah, and Mary try their haphazard best to cast a spell.

 

It turns out that they need a little help from their friends, who happen to be some of the most nefarious Disney Villains, including the likes of Hades, Cruella De Vil, Jafar, Dr. Facilier, and The Evil Queen. Guests will help add ingredients to the cauldron with lots of clapping and singing along.

 

Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular

As the party creeps closer to the witching hour, guests are invited to a spooky story time with the Pumpkin King himself, Jack Skellington, who has transformed Cinderella Castle into a haunted house. Watch as Zero leads Mickey and Friends inside, where spiderwebs, skeletons, and grim Grinning Ghosts await.

 

New MNSSHP Merch, Food, and More

Check back to see 2026 MNSSHP Foodie Guide to plot your next tricky treat.

Exclusive party merch will be available for purchase at Magic Kingdon to commemorate your not-so-scary night of macabre memories.

Once again, a few of your favorite rides are getting a grim overlay. Expect spellbinding transformations with special lighting and music. Check back to see which attractions are getting the Halloween treatment.

 

Stay tuned for even more details and shriek peeks of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party entertainment, merchandise, and photo opportunities as they materialize.

 

To book your stay and tickets contact us:

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com