100 Acre Woods - or something close to it

Because Erin said so...

2009-03-05T11:32:00.005-05:00

So here I am, enjoying my coffee and working on my Facebook page when Erin informs me that I have to go write something - like now! She is up to something but goodness (or evil) only knows what... so here ya go, Erin... because you said so!

I have been remiss in my writing because of many reasons - married, family, Hats For Heroes... wait, what's that? You don't know what Hats For Heroes is?!? Oh my, well let me remedy that for immediately. And so the story begins...

I worked many years for Disney - the world leader in a fast paced entertainment industry. When I retired to take on my next role as a stay at home mom, I looked for things to do to stay busy. The only problem was, I didn't know what I wanted to do.

I searched the internet for ideas and everything that came up was some "start up" business scam or other items that just did not appeal to me.

I sat down one day during naptime and thought about what it was that I really enjoyed about my former career and what I really enjoy about staying home. I came up with two answers - being a VoluntEar that made magical moments for people from all over all the world and having more time to work on my knitting (time with my family was a given). All I had to do was figure out how to put the two together.

I searched the internet again with a more exact idea of what I was looking for and I was able to find a better idea of what I wanted to do. I learned that I wanted to combine my love of knitting with my love volunteering - and there was the beginning stitch of Hats For Heroes.

I have family and friends from all over who are connected with our Armed Forces. Jacque's son, Brandon, is in the Army. Tracie's husband, Dan, is in the Air Force. April's husband, Scooter, is in the Coast Guard. Our son, Matthew, is waiting to be accepted into the Navy upon graduation this year. Both of my grandfathers were in the military... and the list could go on and on. These thoughts were knitting together in my head until I had come to the conclusion that I was going to make knitted items for soldiers.

I found the military guidelines and a distributor who had all the necessary contacts to get my items to the soldiers. How wonderful! The first month I finished one hat. The second month I finshed two hats. You can see how this is going - there is no way I can cover all the soldiers on my own!! I definately needed help and I was not afraid to ask for it.

Hats For Heroes came to life in late December 2008, early January 2009. I created a "cause" on the social networking site, Facebook. The first month I had 3 members, then one day I woke up and had 9 members and in the months to follow we grew to over 200 members! My sweet (and very technologically savvy) husband had been thinking that if we reached a specific number of members, he would create a website for us. I'm guessing we reached it because here we are - http://www.hats4heroes.org !

This is a non-profit organization made up of every day men and women who just want to show our troops how much we love and appreciate all that they do for us. Whether you have a loved one in the military or not, without the hard work and dedication of our soldiers we would be nothing.

So please, join the cause. You don't have to know how to knit/crochet/sew in order to be a member of this group. We need help with shipping costs, packing boxes or anything else you can imagine. If you would like to learn how to knit/crochet/sew, we can teach you that too. The more the merrier!

Deepest Apologies

2008-12-09T08:35:00.004-05:00

So I admit to being remiss in my blogging. I have been a bit busy with, well, life. Ever since I got married and retired, I have to say that I am amazed that I was able to get all of my normal things done while I was working full time!! Perhaps things have multiplied, perhaps I have slowed down off of my Disney pace, perhaps I sneak in more knitting and Sami cuddle time than before... who knows. All I do know is that I have not been blogging as much as I should and I will do what I can to rectify that but there are no guarantees I will get back in my old swing of things.

I wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas! Talk with you soon.

2008-12-09T08:32:00.000-05:00

Disney Weekend!

2008-08-19T17:34:00.009-04:00

We took advantage of one of the many Cast Member perks and stayed at Disney's Yacht Club this weekend on a discounted room and dining plan. I must say - I'm tired and very full!! Enjoy!

You would think that after all these years of blogging that I would remember the pictures basically upload in reverse order for me... oh well... your starting on Sunday and working your way back to Friday... enjoy -

Wedding Photos - Finally!!

2008-07-31T10:18:00.009-04:00

Here are the wedding photos - finally!! My friend's sister took them for us. There are a bunch more but these are my favorites. I still need to actually print them all out but electronic version is nice too because now I can share them all with you!

While He's In The Shower

2008-06-22T06:42:00.006-04:00

So it's our second day on our honeymoon and we are getting ready to go to Flagler College to see the Tiffany stained glass collection along with a tour of San Sebastian Winery. I'll give you an up date over the past few days.

We got married on Pass-A-Grille Beach in St. Pete where we had our first date... in the exact same spot where we had laid down our blanket and spent those first 6 hours just talking the night away. It was wonderful. It was a quiet little ceremony with Paster Larry, my brother and his wife, our parents, our kids and two friends of mine. Then we went back to Mom's house for the reception which was cute. After that - off we went on the honeymoon!!

Traffic from the backside of Orlando was HORRIBLE! Just proves that there is no point going past Disney, as nothing good can happen - at least not on I4. It took us two hours just to go that short distance and it wasn't even supper traffic yet. We managed to somehow get to Alexander Homestead just before her 7 p.m. check-in cut off time.

We are spending our first few days here in St. Augustine with Ms. Bonnie at her Bed and Breakfast, or as we keep saying "Bread and Beckfast" because let's face it, it's hard to say!! Yesterday we wandered the entire city, looking at all the shops on St. George street and buying some really cool things. Our favorite purchases were the paintings we bought for the house. I'll take some pictures once we get them hung up. We've decided that this trip we weren't going to eat at any chain restaurants so hunting down places to eat has been fun.

The whole B&B thing is an interesting experience. The hardest part is not having coffee when we get up. We seem to be rising about 6ish but coffee doesn't get delivered until 7:30 so we've been hanging out on our own private front porch. During our stroll yesterday we found a place called "Crucial Coffee - Nectar of the Gods" and it's our small town Starbucks fix. They can do all the specialty drinks we love and the people are so cute!!

I've added a few photos but now I have to get ready since he's almost done in there. I just wanted to tell everyone good morning and let y'all know that married life is absolutely wonderful... now if I can only remember to actually answer to my new name!!

I Was Right - He Was Up To Something!

2008-04-17T16:26:00.004-04:00

He was up to something, I just knew it. Craig always comes over as soon as he can from work but last night was a bit odd. He had to "do something" before coming over and it would take him an hour and a half to get here. I know there's traffic over the Howard Franklin Bridge but good gravy!

I picked up Anastasia from school for him so he could come straight to the house. Dani, Sami and I drove the hour to go get her because my mom had a function at her work that she wanted us to go to... okay. It was fine and it gave Dani someone to play with instead of being the brooding bored teenager.

Craig finally shows up and I fix him a cup of coffee. He then gives me a kiss and says that he wants to talk to Annie, which I assume is about taking Friday off of school and the responsibility factor that would come with it. Yes, we're all going to Disney but it's a special treat that one must earn... blah, blah, blah... yadda, yadda, yadda.

After about twenty minutes the girls come running out of Dani's room hollering "Mom, Mom, Mom"... I am completley puzzled but fuss at them stating that I just put Sami down to bed and please lower their voices or they will wake her. I am quickly snatched by each child and rushed to Dani's room. Okay, they're freaky teenagers so that's nothing new. Odd to be this excited about a discussion but whatever.

In the room the girls sit attentively on the bed and Craig explains how they were talking about Anastasia staying out of school Friday to go up with us early instead of waiting for him to get home from work. Annie looks at me with her blue puppy eyes that resemble her father's so much it's scary. He then asks me what I think so I go into full mommy mode, interupted twice by the now awake and active toddler that is Sami.

After honest and lengthy ramblings on responsibility and school, I then admit that the reason she has gotten off so easily lately is because her father and I have been selfish. Craig then stands up and puts his arm lovingly around my waist as he always does. I look over at him and he is nodding while he states how much easier it would be if we all lived together. I agreed and said that one day it will be easier but right now we need to be better or the kids will turn out rotten and we will have no one to blame but ourselves. Craig then looks down at me and says "Well, I guess we'll just have to get married then so the kids don't turn out rotten" and produces a ring from behind his back.

I was right, he was up to something... and I couldn't be happier for it!!

The Power of Frank Sinatra

2007-11-27T10:09:00.000-05:00

So I was coming home from taking Sami to preschool and Frankie came on the radio singing "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas". I smiled inspite of myself, and who wouldn't listening to his silky voice.

Coming into my neighborhood I saw an older couple taking their morning stroll. They were around late 60ish if I had to guess. That isn't what struck me as I live in Florida, late 60ish couples are everywhere. This is what struck me ~ they were holding hands and smiling at each other.

They have probably been together for almost 50 years and outwardly appear to still be madly in love. They looked like a couple of kids and so happy to be together. He even did a cool side step so that he would be on the side of the sprinklers so she wouldn't get wet. When the sidewalk ended, he looked behind them and placed his hand on the small of her back to guide her towards the side of the street she would be protected by him against the traffic.

How wonderful it is to see that even though we are living in an age of divorce and violence, that two people whom I don't know could restore my faith that happily ever after truly does exist.

Calm Before the Storm

2007-11-24T21:18:00.001-05:00

So this past week I have been lucky enough to get out extremely early... about four hours early most nights! This is because, historically speaking, this week is always very slow and my entire team has been ER'd every night. ER stands for Early Release ~ if we are having a low call volume day then the agents because a liability more than an asset so we usually send them home to lower the overhead.

I know that I only have a few more weeks of wonderful like this before we hit our Peak Season (January through March) and I will be working 60 or more hours a week with one day off if I'm lucky.

I really wish this week would have been busy but I was not that blessed.

21 Days Left

2007-11-23T09:50:00.000-05:00

Until my birthday!!

I know it's late...

2007-11-16T10:18:00.001-05:00

but it was way too funny not to post!!

2007 Disney Legends

2007-11-16T08:20:00.000-05:00

This story is from the Disney Insider but is well worth reposting here. To be a Disney Legend is something we all dream of and I hope that one day, I too will be among those who will live forever in our history. This past September I had the honor of meeting a Disney Legend, Marty Sklar, and I must say that my dream is a pretty lofty one indeed! Enjoy!

The Newest Disney Legends Join the Family

It felt like a family reunion. On October 10, when the 2007 Disney Legends were inducted at the heart of the Disney Studios, there were no paparazzi on the red carpet, and no posh posturing. The crowd was largely composed of Disney Legends - both newly minted and those named in years past - their families, and their colleagues past and present. There was plenty of hugging and laughter as old friends recognized each other across Legends Plaza, where the ceremony was held.

For 20 years, the Disney Legends induction ceremony has been how Disney honors its own - the brilliant, hardworking men and women who have created the magic. This year's inductees include broadcasters and animators, executives, and songsters. Many of them have been showered with awards over the decades, but it was clear on that sunny autumn afternoon that this honor was especially meaningful - because it came from those who know them best.
"This is actually one of the nicest days on the Disney lot, in my opinion, and I think that's shared with many here," said Disney CEO Bob Iger in his opening remarks, summing up the feeling of the event. "You all know that The Walt Disney Company has a very rich heritage, founded in Walt's extraordinary imagination and creativity. This heritage is kept alive by artists and designers, performers, musicians, technicians - and yes, even executives! - whose outstanding work has brought us to where we are today."

No one knew better than Bob how influential two of the honorees have been - at various times in his career, he has worked for both of them. Roone Arledge headed ABC Sports and then ABC News during his long and distinguished career, while Tom Murphy piloted ABC from a single TV and radio station into an international media conglomerate.

Tom commented, "I'm very proud of Bob - of the great job he's doing here. And I'm a very happy stockholder because of the great job he's doing here! It's nice seeing Roy Disney here, and Jane Eisner. And going back many years ago, I haven't seen Art Linkletter for maybe 45 years!"
Art was far from the only Legend on hand to welcome the new inductees - also in the audience were X Atencio, Kathryn Beaumont Levine, Virginia Davis McGee, Richard Sherman, Dick Jones, and about a dozen more. And almost all of them had been helped over the years by 2007 Legend inductee Lucille Martin, who rose from the Disney secretarial pool to become Walt's personal secretary, and finally a vice president of The Walt Disney Company.

The Disney Parks would have lost some of this magic without inductees Ron Logan, long the man behind the entertainment at the Disney Parks around the world, and Walt Disney Imagineering treasurer Carl Bongirno.

Walt Disney Pictures chairman Dick Cook described Floyd Norman as follows: "Our next Disney Legend is an animator, a writer, and a self-confessed troublemaker - which is another way of saying that he's a Disney artist!" Troublesome the animators might be, but this enormously talented group yielded three Legends for 2007:

• Floyd, who says of his Disney years, "From 1956 until now has been a long time, but I'll tell you - every year working with Walt, working with a great bunch of people, it's been a ball."

• Art Babbitt, remembered by his wife Barbara as follows: "He was a great artist and an intellectual, and he was such an honorable man, and very deserving of this award."

• Dick Huemer, whose son Dr. Richard Huemer greeted Donald Duck at the podium when accepting his father's award with "My dad drew you, you know!"

From the other side of the drawing board came Legend Marge Champion, the live-action model for Snow White, the Blue Fairy from "Pinocchio," and even Mr. Stork in "Dumbo." Receiving her statuette, she said "I can't tell you how moved I am today - not only with thanks and gratitude for this extraordinary award, but also because it brings back so many memories. Seeing so many of you here is very, very comforting!"

A Legend we at the Disney Insider were especially happy to see recognized is our friend Disney Archivist Dave Smith, who has a regular spot in the Insider answering your questions about all things Disney. Dave said, "I'm not an actor, I'm not a composer, I'm not a filmmaker, I'm not a Theme Park designer, I'm not any of these creative categories who have usually been named as Disney Legends in the past. But over the 38 years that I've been working as the archivist for The Walt Disney Company, I've been privileged to know and work with almost every single one of the 200 people who have been named Disney Legends in the past. It's a tremendous honor for me today to join their illustrious group."

Bob Schiffer was long a legendary name in Hollywood thanks to a long career film makeup, but his son Douglas told us, "My father was in the film business for 65 years. I can say that the 36 years that he spent at the Disney Studio were his happiest. He was deeply honored to work here and he forged great friendships. He received many personal awards and accolades over the years, and I'm sure this would be his finest accomplishment."

The final honoree was film composer Randy Newman, who was escorted to the podium by his good friends Buzz and Woody from "Toy Story," and who said to the assembled crowd, "I've never seen anybody work harder than the animators and crews who make animated pictures do. It's an honor to be among that company."

Then Randy performed "You've Got a Friend in Me." It's a song that surely caught the spirit of this event, which was a reunion of long-time friends and colleagues with diverse gifts and talents, and one big thing in common - all of them are part of the Disney family.

Lack of Blogging Reprimand

2007-11-15T09:48:00.000-05:00

Erin has been reprimanding me for not blogging so here is a quick update and I will elaborate more later (we all know that I have problems keeping it short but I am going to attempt)...

Had date a couple dates off of that silly little profile I put up. One thought he would get laid on first and second date... apparently he can't read. The other has been a complete gentleman.
Doug, the complete gentleman, has been wonderful. We went out on Saturday night last week and he calls me every day. He can't wait until our date on Sunday to see me so he is going to stop by my work on Friday night. Yeah, I keep grinning over this one. He is 6', nice build, salt n' pepper hair, 41 and has a great job. He understands my work and is not overbearing. I may have lucked out but we'll see.
Went to Leader Appreciation Luncheon yesterday. It was a lot of fun. We started at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa "Summer House" and about 30 minutes into it, Pirates stormed the shores. The captured our executive staff and we had to take a 30 minute boat ride to have lunch on the beach of Disney's Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground. They celebrated all the Leaders and we each got an engraved statue of Chip n' Dale (who were there in Pirate outfits as well) that said "Thanks for an exceptional 2007" or something close to it and our names underneath.
I RSVP'd to the DRC Celebration (aka Christmas party) as "bringing an adult guest". If Doug behaves, I'll bring him with me... and I have feeling that he will.

That's all I've got for now. I could go in greater detail, like my MVMCP date, but I will save that for those later posts that Erin will beg me to write... LOL. Be good poppets and I will try to find something creative to post... Oh, I'll share my 'boat' experience tonight and then everyone can hunt down Devika to kick her tail... evil little monster that she is, and not in a good way. Even Doug said that "no one makes my girl upset, I'll kick her @ss"... yeah, my knight in shining armor keeps getting shinier and shinier.

Interesting Fodder

2007-10-30T10:00:00.001-04:00

As you know, I posted that silliness below on a Personals website out of... what really? Anyway, it appears as though in the past 24 hours I have been "viewed" 35 times, received 2 emails (though I swear one has to be from the company saying 'ha, we made you pay for it now') and compiled 4 "winks". Now let's break this down...

11% of the time someone thinks I am cute enough to "wink" at but not actually contact. Could it be that they are shy or perhaps to lazy too actually make honest effort to write a little note.

Are the emails sitting in my Inbox real or perhaps is it a way to make this poor little girl pay them money for their service?

I seem to collect older men, roughly an average age of 38, that range from 35 to 42... which to me just says what I have thought all along ~ younger men are just out to laid.

I also seem to collect men who are about 6' tall (which is good for me) and a bit on the stocker side (also okay with since they are more like teddy bears... although The Rock is not someone I would throw away should he show up).

What does all of it mean? What am I supposed to do with all of this now? Do I pay money for one of their limited amounts of time and actually attempt this fodder which scares me to death? Sometimes being analytical and a bit anal does not help...

Confession

2007-10-30T09:49:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I have a guilty little secret... I actually am getting a kick out of watching The Bachelor. I never watched it before but the previews for the season premiere caught my attention (for something I can't even remember now) and I have been hooked ever since. It's amazing what being a night owl will do for your mental capacity some times... although he is one of the cutest, sweetest, most normal men ever. But then you have to wonder ~ we make magic so how much of him is real?

Last Resort... or Lost Mind...

2007-10-29T19:11:00.000-04:00

So I was telling my tale of whoa to a girlfriend of mine and she suggested to sign up for this site called "Match.com"... Dr. Phil's site... you're kidding right? She swears that there are no psychos on there and that everyone has to have thier "portrait" and pictures approved before it will even go on the site. It's free unless you want to actually email and then there is a monthly fee.

Guess what... I said what the heck and went for it. No laughing, because seriously, where am I going to meet someone with the crazy schedule and life I lead... and what can it hurt? So do you know what I posted in my "portrait"? My letter to Santa!! Oh, and I added a post script... Here, read it. I picked it up right where I sign it:

"Thank you, Santa. Be sure to find the extra special home made cookies on the entry table... I made them just for you.

Love,

Amy

P.S.

Here is what you can tell him he can expect from me. I am a good semi-old fashioned Southern girl next door. I know how a lady is supposed to act and conduct myself accordingly. This doesn't mean I am not up for a game of touch football in the backyard after a good cook out. Count me in with my jeans, ponytail and ballcap ready to go! I also know that if you tell me we are fixing to go somewhere, I can be ready in about 10 minutes. I don't need to "put on my face" because God gave me one that works pretty well and doesn't need to have a bunch of goo slapped on it to make it presentable. If I ever do wear make-up, you really can't tell... and isn't that the point? I love to wear skirts and 3" heels but I have an even greater love of wandering around barefoot. I know how to treat a man the way he needs and wants to be treated, in all areas.

I am comfortable with who I am and where I am in life. I have been single for three years and where it does have it's advantages, I am ready to find the love of my life. I am ready to settle down and build a lasting relationship. My parents are great role models since they have been happily married for almost 40 years. They still hold hands, my mom is still the sexiest thing my dad has ever laid eyes on, he is still my mom's hero and she giggles like a school girl when they whisper together in the kitchen. That is what I want... do you?"

What do you think? I figured I would try anything once...

Dear Santa...

2007-10-29T09:57:00.000-04:00

I have been a good girl all year and I only want one thing for Christmas ~ a good guy. So here is my wish list of all things I would like for you put into him and then place him under my tree on Christmas Eve. Oh, and I promise to take good care of him too! Here goes:

1. As you know, I am a good Southern girl so please do not put anyone under my tree who is expecting to "score" on the first couple of dates. I love sports as much as the next person and I get that it is a back-handed compliment of sorts but that is one goal that will not happen. A gentleman will understand this and remember that good things come to those who wait.

2. Please make him light-hearted and easy going. I love to indulge in the relaxing things in life and take pride in the fact that I am a bit goofy. I have never met a stranger so he needs to be comfortable in his own skin, just as I am in mine.

3. He must love kids. Some of his own are good but he has to love mine, although he won't meet them until I think it is right. Nothing to take offense by, just don't want random men meeting the most precious people in my life until I'm sure of everything.

4. I like to be spoiled so please give him a romantic heart. Spoiling doesn't even cost any money, just a bit of effort. Like those sweet text messages when I wake up, a call just to say he was thinking about me or a random note left where I will find it unexpectedly, kisses on my forehead just because... they all make me melt with a sigh. Curled up on the coach with my head in his lap while he strokes my hair is the sweetest thing to me... I guess I believe in fairy tales and romantic comedies, all I want is my own happy ending.

5. Please make him stable, intelligent, financially secure and funny. I have supported many a man and would rather know that he can take care of himself. I want someone who "wants" me, not "needs" me... I know you understand the difference.

That's all I am asking for and I know you can deliver, you've never let me down before! Just remember these things are my top priority and very dear to my heart. The rest of it will fall in place since I don't really have a "type"... just an ideal.

Thank you, Santa. Be sure to find the extra special home made cookies on the entry table... I made them just for you.

Love,

Amy

What's Up With That?

2007-10-28T15:19:00.000-04:00

So here is the deal... I had that date the other night, right. Well I just received an IM from Jeff that said he was there but not (been showing offline for a few days) since he had some things that he had to take care of before he goes to work tomorrow. He also said that he wasn't sure where things were going to go with us be he wanted to be friends. Plus, he met someone the other night and he wants to see where it goes. Horrible timing but things happen. All of that in an IM... can you believe it.

Here is my take on it... one simple fact rules the deal. The fact that I wouldn't have sex with him on the first date! Trust me, that has to be it because he said that he had a great time and that I was the cutest thing ever. All things were great but when I shot him down and said "not yet" he went out the next day and found someone who would sleep with him... now he wants to see how it progresses.

Perhaps I am too old fashioned, or perhaps I am too Southern to date Yankees with no morals. I don't know but when did it become the norm to have sex within a few hours of meeting people. Don't relationships start with getting to know people, building solid foundations and letting things grow from there? I didn't know it started with meaningless sex and then you see if you are compatable.

I guess if that is the new way things are done, I will die old and alone. There will never be another relationship for me since I refuse to do things in that order... and that to me is very sad.

Rocking the Boredom Scene

2007-10-27T14:36:00.000-04:00

So yeah, I'm bored out of my mind... and broke beyond words. I have enough money to get gas in my car to last me (I pray) until payday on Thursday... that is what we call EPCOT (Every Paycheck Comes On Thursday)... because we are all so broke and live paycheck to paycheck.

I am torn between behaving or going to take my little bit of money and treating myself to the movies. I really want to see "Dan in Real Life". It looks flipping hilarious... knowing me, I'll be right here doing nothing but checking work email when I should be having fun.

I have no idea why I am in a funk. Actually, I do but is it something that I really want to blog about to the entire world? Perhaps later tonight, when I feel like I am the only one in the world still awake... perhaps then, but not now.

2007 Cast Holiday Celebration

2007-10-25T23:08:00.000-04:00

The time is upon us, Cast Holiday Celebration time!! Many of us wait all year for our little packets in the mail that hold such goodies as discounted rooms, food and fare! I know I get like a kid standing outside the candy store with my nose pressed against the glass... just waiting to be allowed access to all the yummy goodness.

We also have a DRCelebration in December and they just announced the date today! The celebration will be held this year on December 15th ~ my birthday! I am not sure if I am going to go but I do have a room on hold because it is better to be safe than sorry... and I would love to spend my birthday at WDW since I have actually never done it. Our celebration is being held at Disney's Contemporary Resort but I couldn't get a room there so my lodging is at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort which is still pretty (they have bay windows). I also did something I would have never done before in a million years ~ I booked it for 2 Adults... who knows, I might have a date.

Perhaps I will know more before the deposit is due on November 8th... perhaps.

Stranger Things Have Happened

2007-10-25T11:10:00.000-04:00

Alright, y'all, prepared to be floored... are you sitting down? I actually had a date last night! I know, stranger things have happened, but it's true.

His name is Jeff and we actually met online of all places. I always told myself that I would not go on a date with anyone I met online but to be honest, he was really sweet... and cute! He is a single father of 2 (12 and 7, girl and boy respectively) and works in IT. He seemed very smart, funny and for some odd reason, attracted to moi... go figure.

We were IMing on my blackberry before the Diversity session yesterday and he asked if I wanted to watch a movie with him. I said sure and we decided that he would come to my house when I got home around 9ish. Jeff was actually prompt which impressed the stew out of me and we watched "Ghost Rider" which was awful!

We had silly banter and such but it was just nice. And yes, he did kiss me good night and yes, butterflies and teenage stupidity insued... all in good fun. The question then becomes whether or not there is a repeat performance. He has already IMed me today and is currently out riding his motorcycle because it is beautiful out... I do like the fact that he talked to me today but I am being realistic. My life was great before last night and it will be great if last night does not happen again. It was just nice to feel pretty again.

Excuse Me?!?!

2007-10-24T00:47:00.000-04:00

Dumbledore is not gay!! What the hell is she thinking stating that he was gay? Now don't get me wrong, I have many gay friends... I work at Disney for crying out loud... the majority of the people there are gay... but Dumbledore... hell no!

7 Random Facts I Must Post... per Erin

2007-10-21T10:30:00.000-04:00

"7 Random Facts I must post.
So read them, comment them & then check to see if your name is in the 7 I tag.
If it is, list 7 Random Facts about yourself & pass on the tag to 7 people."...

That is how my day started. I wanted to hop on the computer and work on my PCP (Performance Connection Plan) so I can put it to bed but nooooo... Erin said that I have to post these seven things and we all know that we can't let Erin down... that would be wrong. So as the directions say, here are 7 Random thing that I must post and then there will be tags at the bottom for those of you who must post new items to your blogs as well... but I will allow MySpace blog entries since very few of us use our Blogspot any more... one thing I don't think I could get rid of... okay, off we go.

I hate to wear shoes and take them off whenever possible, whether appropriate or not.
I daydream while I drove home at night. I run scenarios in my head about what I want to happen in my life and how I would react... the scary part is that some have actually come true.
I am extremely proud to work for Disney and have a head full of knowledge that won't be useful anywhere but my job. I actually get offended when people say awful things about anything regarding Disney and will argue the fact we are fabulous. I even get teary-eyed over our new ad spots... aren't they wonderful!
Sometimes when I don't know the answer to a question of the top of my head, I tell the cast member that we will "find it together so they will be better able to find the information in the future".
When I have to stay on property for work-related things, I always talk a big game about being able to spend some quiet time alone but in reality, I miss my kids so much I could cry.
I see couples walking around together and I make up stories about their life. I figured since I don't have anyone I will make up fairy tale endings for all the other people who do have someone to grow old together.
I love Starbucks coffee and there are days where I will justify going more than once. Plus, if you drink enough coffee, you won't eat and perhaps I won't have such a fat ass if it is full of scrumpdillyumptious coffee instead of other things.

Alrighty, there are my random things and now for the posting of the tags... be ready to spill it all because I am going to throw this on my MySpace blog now that I've thought about it.... I tag:

Chris Corley
Betty Anne
Tracie
Boo - a.k.a. Katie Ray
Melissa
Daryl
anyone who has now read this... evil, I know but hey what can I say.

Walt Disney Flashback

2007-10-16T09:59:00.000-04:00

I needed something to make feel better with the stupid flu... look what I stumbled on...

Promised Post

2007-10-15T11:48:00.001-04:00

Last night I promised a posting but that was before I was bitch-slapped by this cold and am sitting here trying to sound coherant with a fever of 101... so I'm sorry that this isn't as wonderful as promised but after I get rid of the fever, I am going to fix Dani's homecoming pictures and post them... after the fever though because there are somethings I don't quiet get...

I feel better

2007-10-09T08:36:00.000-04:00

DRC Fall Offer -Yeah, Right

2007-10-09T07:56:00.000-04:00

Y'all know how much I normally love my job, right? So imagine my disappointment when I go to book the offer yesterday and there is NO availability!

At 3:30 p.m. EST we were allowed to start booking our offer. I had to redial for 30 minutes straight due to busy signals and finally got through. Once I got through I had to wait on hold for over an hour and half! That's okay, I kind of expected it since it was for the Deluxe Disney Villa Resorts (Old Key West and Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa). The rates were fabulous: Studio for $40, 1BR for $50 and 2BR for $60... who wouldn't be calling in.

I finally get Megan Fay on the line (bless her heart) and there is no availability in October for anything... okay, let's try my birthday weekend on December 15th since it is the last day available for the offer... no availability either! I could book a Studio at SSRS for three nights (Dec 14, 15 AND 16th) but the last night (16th) would be rack rate making the total $430!! Give me a flipping break... you can't be serious.

When they first did this three years ago, it was in September (which is why we called it the Super September offer) I was able to get right in and book two nights at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa for $120. Rock on... this was sweet. The next year I was able to get in and stay Disney's Beach Club Resort over Memorial Day weekend for two nights for $100. These were regular rooms, not the villas. This year it took me over two hours to find out that there is no availability and I was one of the first ones to call!!

Something has happened and it isn't good. Those of us who pour our blood, sweat and tears to make sure that every aspect of our Guest's vacation - from booking to the DME ride to catch their flight home - is magical. When did we stop caring about our own cast? I wrote a letter to WOYM (What's On Your Mind - our area to ask questions that goes straight to executive management) and I copied it below... Leader's don't usually go there because we have the ability to speak to executive management, heck we are the ones who answer them half the time... this time, I thought that they should know that we are fed up...

Dear What's On Your Mind:

I must say that I am deeply saddened that those of us who work hard behind the scenes were give a wonderful sounding offer for rooms but there is nothing available during any of the time blocked out for us. The process was frustrating enough as I tried for a solid 30 minutes from the lines opening until I finally got through and then waited on hold for an hour and a half in queue only to find that there is no availability in October or December!

I have to say that this has been the most frustrating and disappointing experience of my entire Disney career and may I suggest that in the future that if you are going to "celebrate" us, you do so with actual availability.

Thank you and have a magical day,

Amy E. ****** (I actually wrote it there, not so smart on the WWW)
"The Royal Court" - Worldphile Leader
Disney Reservation Center

I need coffee and Pixie Dust... it's just sad.

Proof of Fabulousness...

2007-10-04T10:20:00.001-04:00

The numbers just came out for the first week in October... guess whose team is leading the pack!!! Check it out.

Revenue and Sign In :

Amy Sumner - 149.91% Rev ~ 96% Sign In
Tom Shorthill - 138.25% Rev ~ 100% Sign In
Sandy Canfield - 131.97% Rev ~ 98% Sign In
Cindy Mahan - 114.63% Rev ~ 100% Sign In
Geri Rivera-Vigo - 108.94% Rev ~ 96% Sign In
Cindy Scull - 106.76 % Rev ~ 95% Sign In

Yeah, we can all do the happy dance. Damn, being number one sure does feel good!!

Damn Kids

2007-10-03T09:53:00.000-04:00

Okay this is going to be short and sweet since I still have to go get ready for work...

Yesterday I was tooling around on MySpace and I noticed that Brandon's wife, Katie, had reposted a blog questionairre that I had called "I realize" which I got from a cool new chickie in NJ name Erin. Naturally, I went to read what she posted for her answers. They were pretty interesting until I went to leave her a comment and noticed that her status went from "Married" to "Divorced". Excuse me?

As any good respecting friend who loves you like a sister would do, I emailed Jacque from my blackberry since I had errands to run and didn't want to miss her reply. I basically asked why in the world she didn't tell me what happened to them when I talked to her the other night. The response I got was priceless...

SHE DIDN'T KNOW EITHER!!

What does this say about society when you will post for all the world to see that you are divorced (all his pictures have been removed from her site and his complete site is gone) but you don't call your own family? Granted, they are both in the Army over in Iraq but they find time to call and ask for care packages with goodies... you'd think they would throw in the little piece of information like "Hey mama, by the way, we got divorced" instead of having "Aunt Amy" call seeking answers to questions she didn't know would exist.

Damn kids.

What Happened to my Baby?

2007-10-02T13:06:00.000-04:00

I have to go out shopping for Homecoming dresses this afternoon when Dani gets home from school. What happened to my baby? She was apparently "going with" some boy named Kyle that she has known since 6th grade and when they "broke up", four boys asked her out. She chose the one she liked since the beginning of the year who is named Jeremy.

My precious little baby girl is going on her first grown up date and will be wearing a formal dress... I could cry! Actually, I almost did while I was walking around the mall today taking pictures of dresses for her since she hates to shop. There I was, Starbucks in hand and eyes getting all welled up. My little girl is growing up...

**UPDATE** We got a gorgeous black dress, pretty black flats, clear strapped bra (don't ask) and precious evening bag all for the price of $100. Can I shop or what? I'll post a picture of her in it as soon as I have a day off. You won't believe my little girl is all grown up!

MySpace Music

2007-10-01T10:07:00.000-04:00

I just have to say that I love my MySpace music player. It has the best songs on it. If you are ever wondering why I log in so much, it's to listen to my music... simply joyfully joyous!

Cast Excellence Survey Results 2007

2007-10-01T09:42:00.000-04:00

I just go back my CES results and I must say that I am fairly jazzed over it! On a sliding scale from 1 to 7, I averaged from 5.8 to 6.75!! The only thing that ticked me off was that my old leader gave me a 2 on the question of "Explains the 'why' behind decisions"... to which I say

WHATEVER!!

So it is a happy day all the way around and I wanted to share some of the nice comments left on my CES so please, whaller in my euphoria won't you...

~ "Amy has a great passion for our brand. She has outstanding knowledge of our heritage and values. She prides herself on the service she provides and understands that excellent service is a cornerstone for The Walt Disney Company. She can easily navigate her way through our system and can be viewed as a subject matter expert."

~ "Amy is a strong, dedicated leader who exemplifies Disney heritage and traditions. She has a vast knowledge of the Disney product and enthusiastically shares with her team. She is consistantly available for peer interaction and feedback, and willingly assists her peers and team with any challenges they may have."

Any more would be bragging... but hey, they made my day. Love to all and have a magical day!!

Cream for the Kitty

2007-09-26T08:37:00.000-04:00

So I went to work yesterday and was playing a dual role; InMarket Dine Leader and Worldphile Leader. This is because my new Worldphile team (they chose the team name The Royal Court) has been without a leader since July with quite a few new hire cast members and Devika has yet to return from her TA assignment to take over my Dine team. Couple that with the fact that my role doesn't officially change until Sunday the 30th.

At the end of the night I walked over to one of the Repeater Leaders and was talking and he busts out of no where with "You need to remember your place. You aren't a Worldphile leader until Sunday so you are still a part time Dine leader. It was a bad call to move your console and abandon your team." Can you believe it?!?

Y'all would be proud because the phrase "Bite my ass" did not leave my lips but was echoing loudly in my head through the entire conversation... along with "you pompous asshole". I very calmly (more of a mother tone actually when speaking to someone really stupid, if you must know the absolute truth) explained that I moved my console because I wanted Devika's transition to be a smooth one and therefore I moved my console since I was not completely sure of her return date. My new role does not start until Sunday, you are correct, but I am working with both teams at the moment (this is where the whole pompous part would fit but be sure to smile while thinking it, just like I did). He went on to say how it was not smart and again how I should remember my place.

Now is it just me or does that sound really condescending? My place? Gee, where exactly would that be and why do I have one? Is my place at home with my kids? Is behind some husband that I am supposed to have? Want to take away my right to vote or speak out of turn as well? I recently learned from a dear friend that Mormon's believe women are basically a lower level of existence and when they want to assume a posture of authority they "steeple" their fingers. This is done by taking the tips of your fingers and holding them together ~ it makes a temple like illusion with your hands. It is supposed to be some power trip thing for the men of this faith. When he did this exact gesture while speaking to me I almost lost it.

I quickly summed up the "contenders" and came to the conclusion that I don't give a flying fart in space about what he thinks because when it all comes down, I am the better person. I'll show you:

I have a Bachelor's degree with honors from Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. He has some piece of paper from Phoenix University, not a real school.

I have taken a team and raised their conversion rate by 35% in a single quarter. He is consistently at the bottom of the pack.

I have only been back with Disney for 1 year and 4 months (I was here for a year before I left for a grand total of six months and came back). He has been with the company for almost four years and only moved into Leadership about a year and half ago. I was back six days before I applied and a leader within 3 months of my return.

I have networked and made connections across property and continue to find opportunities to do so. He shadowed a few times over at the Poly's front desk but knows no one.

I have applied for two promotions since returning and received both. He has applied for three that I know of and has received none.

That is just the short list... I could go on with the fact that I am younger, cuter and much more personable than he is but that would along the lines of saying his mama wears combat boots (and I am almost positive that she does).

So my place, is in Console 20 as a kick ass Worldphile Leader who is leaving a fabulous dining team and 80% of the floor agents want to be on my team because I have fun, know my stuff and will stand by my cast come hell or high water. The best part is ~ he knows this and it ticks him off. No need to feel threatened sir, I left your Leader of Leaders for a better one and have no plans of returning so please, have a magical day!

Oh yeah...

2007-09-25T09:07:00.000-04:00

I forgot to post the results of my call with Vonda last Friday. I bet the three whole people who actually read this are wondering what is going on... or not. Should I tell you or should I just let you stew... all three of you.

I GOT IT!! I am now the new Worldphile Leader for the Disney Reservation Center on Team Minnie which is lead by the notorious Vonda! Life is good. I actually have two teams until the end of the week ~ my Dining team and my Worldphile team... rock on for me.

Final Countdown ~ Today at 11 a.m. EST

2007-09-21T08:16:00.000-04:00

Alrighty... I have to call Vonda at 11 a.m. today. Everyone keep their fingers crossed and I'll let you know how it goes.

Good Googley Moogley

2007-09-19T09:42:00.000-04:00

For heaven's sake... I'm so tired of answering the same questions on Diversity and Leadership and how to lead a new hire cast that I could scream!!

I made it through Round 2 because I brought the passion and stories. I was in Bill's office with six of the LOLs all firing questions off at me. By the time it was over, I was exhausted and didn't care. To be quiet honest, I was a bit ticked off that I had to interview for a position that I already hold ~ only difference is that I would get paid for the 50 hours a week I put in due to the FT status and not PT. Does that seem fair to anyone?

Monday we were Casting so during the morning session when all the potential new hires were filling out their paperwork, Carol asked me if I could meet with Bill the next day. I told that as long as I wasn't in trouble I could. She laughed and said it was for Round 3 on the interviews.

Naturally I assumed that Cal would have been there too but nooooooooooooooo... I had my conversation with Bill which went fabulously because I am over it all by now and today at 2:30, after the Rally, I have my phone call with Cal. This has to be the end... the only thing left would be to talk to Meg herself and that would actually be a treat!

I'll keep you posted and let you know what happens but in the interim, let me know if you think it makes sense to have person who is already a leader interview for a position of leadership that would only be different in the fact that it is full time instead of part time...

Round 2

2007-09-11T09:10:00.000-04:00

I made it to round 2 of the interviews!! It is with the Leaders of Leaders, Bill and possibly Cal on Wednesday at 5 p.m. so keep your fingers crossed. Only a handful made it & I was one of them. Woo Hoo!!

Leadership Conference & The Meeting of a Legend!

2007-09-09T09:35:00.000-04:00

So I was at the Leadership Conference from Tuesday, Sept. 4 through Thursday, Sept 6th. Then on Friday the 7th I had to go back to DRC for my interview with the panel of my peers for the full time CTIS spot.

I must say that I have been energized by the people I saw and the presentations I heard. There are so many great minds working for our organization that sometimes you get a little star struck. For example; I met, listened to and literally ran into during a mad dash across the conference center to make it a session... are you ready for this... MARTY SKLAR!!!

Please don't break my heart and tell me that you don't know who he is... PLEASE don't do that to me. To save myself the heartache, I will give you the completely abridged version, how's that? Marty is the last living link to Walt Disney himself!! Yes, that is right. Marty, who is currently the VP of Imagineering Ambassador and has been with us for over 40 years, physically walked our FL swamp land with Walt and placed the big yellow "X" on the ground where the castle was going to placed. He looked at the maps, worked with Walt in Anaheim as an Imagineer and is still with us today. Now do you understand my being star struck? Goodness, I hope so.

Here are a few pictures that I took during the conference. We were at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Convention Center. I got to stay in the Casitas and it was wonderful.
The sunrise view from my room was spectacular and since I was on the corner (with the entire side of the building to myself I might add) I had double corner windows... yeah, it made up for the wrongs that resort has done to me in the past three years.

Enjoy and as soon as I hear back about the panel decision regarding the CTIS FLL spot, I'll post it.

The "new" IMD community

2007-08-24T13:13:00.000-04:00

I get this email (yes, I read my work email on my days off) and it said that there will be something going on to revamp the teams since there will not be a third IMD leader. I took the initiative and created the teams and schedules of leaders. I sent this to my leader and to the DRC director/manager (I don't know his official title).

My leader hasn't seen it yet but the big guy has so we'll see what happens. I separated the teams by those who work in the beginning of the week to those who work at the end of the week. Each team is 25 members plus one leader. Both leaders would work 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. so that won't be a sticking point if it is picked up. The sticking point with my fellow IMD leader is going to be who is on what team.

When IMD was divided the first time, this particular leader took all the stellar agents. She wins contests in spite of herself because she does not spend any time doing Side by Sides, 1:1, or any coaching what so ever. Those of us who had the lesser agents had to do our jobs at a higher level. I managed to move my team from 67% conversion rate and pulled them up to 115%!! We still have challenges winning contests but I think this speaks volumes, especially when the celebrated winner of all challenges is still at 89%.

I am also hoping to not be in this community for much longer so it doesn't matter to me but I wanted the next person in my spot to have a fair shake. Basically, I'm tired of those who don't actually do their job to always win. If you can still win when the stakes are even, perhaps you are doing your job. If you don't then the truth will be known. Plus, with me taking the initiative to get it done, it will prove my dedication.

I need to go and wash my face. Being a brown nose sucks but sometimes, it's all appearances.

Strangeness Update

2007-08-23T12:41:00.001-04:00

So here is a bit of the back story that I found out this week. I will do my best to make it as clear as possible but you have to remember, it still isn't that clear to me...

I found out why the one leader asked me if I was called over my vacation. Apparently, or perhaps I should say supposedly, the Leader of Leaders for the Worldphiles went to my Leader of Leaders and told her that she wanted me to join her team (to back fill the MLOA leader and then to take on a New Hire team). Supposedly my leader put up a bit of a stink (the Worldphiles do not like my leader so I am not sure how accurate this part truly is) but after some "leg work" it appears that my leader gave in and started to work with her. Then HR said the position had to be posted. I said that I was flattered but we'll see what happens. You will learn that as a Cast Member, you never think you have anything because "things are always subject to change at Disney".

Fast forward to Tuesday. The LOLs took all of us FLLs (that is Leaders of Leaders and Front Line Leaders for those non-Disney folk) to supper at Maggiano's, a nice upscale Italian restaurant. I had to ride with my LOL and I asked her if she could tell me now why she was so happy about my posting for the position. She said that she had been working with the Worldphile LOL to get me over there since she knew I would be happier there and really excel. I was thinking that this was interesting and told her that I appreciated it and she was right since I was getting bored in Dining and really wanted to get on to something new.

Fast forward again to Wednesday. A different Worldphile leader asked me if I had posted (keep in mind that there are three Worldphile leaders and one new one along with one out on MLOA) for the position. I laughed and said that I had never had so much interest in my career path before. She asked again and I told her yes. She said that was great and wondered if I knew what was going on behind the scenes. I reiterated what my leader told me the night before to which this fine proper woman said was "complete bullshit" and that floored me! She said the same thing the first leader had told me about mine being a poop over it and so on. I said that I didn't care who wanted to be my hero as long as I got to go home (remember, I was a Worldphile agent in my previous life).

This past Monday, I popped in on my leader after a long day of casting for a chat since she had been out all day. She told me that one leader on our team got a new position and that she and the Worldphile LOL would be conducting the interviews. I am not sure why she just blurted all this out but hey, I took it and ran with it.

Now for what happened last night. I asked the final Worldphile leader a question regarding the MIA, I mean MLOA, leader and how she was doing. She said that no one had heard from her but she and the rest of the team were rooting for me. She went on to say how I will be a perfect fit for the team since I love New Hires, she likes the ones who have been here for about a year and have learned some bad habits and the other leaders like them seasoned. I expressed my tiny concern about interviewing with people who already know my entire career accomplishments and how to present it so that they would be awed and amazed (can you tell that I really want this spot?). She gave me some great insight and said that I really had nothing to worry about because her leader always gets what she wants and they all want me!

Now here is where I sit, metaphorically speaking. I know nothing more than I really did a week and a half ago except that the position would start on October 1, the first day of our new fiscal year. I know of some of the floor agents who posted for it but I really think that I don't have much to worry about there since I am already a leader and I have the added bonus of knowing the other people's history. I can barely sleep for running interview scenarios in my head and keep thinking that there has to be something I can do to slam dunk this thing and call it done.

To put it in perspective... it's like riding the Tower of Terror. You are sitting there enjoying the ride through the 'stars' and then all of a sudden the window opens and you are anticipating the fall but just hasn't happened yet... you're just waiting, suspended on the edge.

Mystery Solved... Somewhat

2007-08-15T08:27:00.000-04:00

So the Leaders of Leaders hosted a dinner last night at Maggiano's for the Front Line Leaders. It was really wonderful and a good time was had by all. That isn't the point of this post though. I had to ride with my leader to the event. Just the two of us in her Lexus (yeah... ) so I took the opportunity after a bit of small talk to ask her about why she was so excited the other day about my posting for the position. I found out (as I knew I would since she loves to tell secrets and sound like the hero) that she had been talking to the LOL for Worldphiles and was trying to get me over there since that is what I really want to do and they need more leaders. Granted, the story I heard prior was a bit tainted and so it makes it difficult to see who is the real hero but either way ~ I win!

I'll let you know how it all turns out in the end.

Strangeness at DRC... at Least for Me!

2007-08-14T09:47:00.000-04:00

So I go back to work on Sunday after a 10 day vacation, photographic evidence below, and things are just a bit odd. Let me give you some highlights, since that is all I have, and you let me know what you think... I am living my work-life via highlights... strangeness indeed.

Return from vacation and do normal catch-up activities when fellow leader and friend asks if I was contacted by my leader whilst on my vacation. I say no, why ~ is there something wrong. Friend says "then I can't tell you anything." and walks away.
Rumblings through DRC that one of the Worldphile leaders will not be returning since her MLOA was extended yet again.
More rumblings that there will be a need for an SEL and 2 more FT CTIS FFL in Tampa. Posting hit the HUB on Sunday night.
Monday, my leader wanted to make sure that I posted for the Full Time CTIS Leader position that was on the HUB. I told her I did, even sent her an email on Sunday telling her I had, and she smiled and clapped her hands.
Returned later to inquire as to why she was so excited that I posted for the position, she said that she has been doing sneaky things, in a good way, and she couldn't tell me what she was doing. I was to trust her that it was good and be patient.

This has been my past two days back from vacation. I have no idea what direction my career is going but apparently, it's being taken care of and I should just sit back and deal with it. I guess I'll keep my arms and legs inside the vehicle while the ride is in motion and we are clear to go. BEEP BEEP!!

My view of things around the World...

2007-08-11T11:26:00.001-04:00

I may not be a photographer by trade but in my head... I'm fabulous. This is my World, welcome to it.

It's That Time of Year Again...

2007-07-16T09:13:00.001-04:00

It's time for the Case Excellence Survey! This is a time when we take every single member of Walt Disney World (60,000 cast members) and give them the opportunity to anonymously state their feelings and opinions on the operations of the business unit. Everything is in there ranging from work environment, the work itself, your leader and the company as a whole.

I get to take one on myself, my leader and any partner that I work with who choses to have me fill one out. In turn; my leader, my cast and my chosen partners will fill one out on me. You have to love the 360 degree feedback.

At first I was nervous about it but to be honest, it's a great gift to be able to hear what the team and my peers think (as an average since it is anonymous). My cast (The Playhouse Pals) will be averaged out as a group and then as a separate group, my peers will be averaged out. The only one who I get to see exactly what was written is my leader. The good flip side is that my responses will be averaged with my peers for my leader since we are her cast.

Like I told my team, it isn't a time for "praising to the rafters" or to "condemn them to you-know-where", it is a time to voice your opinions and thoughts. If you would like to make a more passionate argument, please do so in a 1:1 fashion as that is the proper venue.

I did nothing more than answer honestly. It is not a pretty final picture but it was the truth. This is a woman who talks on the phone during my 1:1 time, gives me information that conflicts with what her leader tells me to do (whole other post, I promise) and generally plays favorites... so I let it out there.

Results will not be available until October 1 ~ the first day of the Fiscal New Year... woo hoo!! I'll keep you posted on how things turn out and what the results are all the way around. You see, one has to share the results with their direct reports so I will know what Rose Mary's turned out to be and The Playhouse Pals will know what mine turned out to be... neat huh.

I Want You...

2007-07-04T09:43:00.001-04:00

To have a Happy Independence Day!

Ugh, Life Again...

2007-06-20T22:45:00.000-04:00

Got in the way of my posting but I have a doozie for you tomorrow! You'll never believe how my "second job" now cost me $4500!!

Taa-Daa!

2007-06-05T12:16:00.001-04:00

So I just heard Sami downstairs!

Backstory: Sami has lunch around 11 and is usually laid down for nap around noon. She sleeps in a little crib in my parent's room for nap because it is difficult on my mother's knees to go up and down the stairs.

I laid her down for nap and came up here to do a quick post and hop in the shower. All of a sudden I hear "TAA-DAA" and Dani going "Sam, what are you doing in here?" down in the living room. Sami had apparently climbed out of the crib and decided to go out and show everyone her new escape artist abilities (her trick she learned right before this one was how to open the door).

Needless to say it is going to be a loooooooooong afternoon for them. It's slightly evil but I am glad I have to go to work today!

Deepest Apologies

2007-06-05T11:55:00.000-04:00

I know it has been a bit since I have last posted. Things have been busy with the start of summer vacation and all. Hoping to have things in a routine by the end of this week. Want a silly update? Try this on for size:

I usually get home around midnight and some nights I stop at this 7-11 to get gas in my car or grab something to drink, you get the idea. Well, the past few nights I have stopped and there is this really cute blonde guy that works there. He started up a conversation on Saturday about where I work (yeah, I forgot to take off my nametag and lanyard). He was very sweet and seemed genuinely interested. Sunday night I needed to get some petro so I stopped again at my usual station because they are about five cents cheaper than anywhere else on my route regardless of if you pay cash or credit. He walked outside and asked where his ears were. I smiled and said that I forgot. He told me that I was warned not to come back unless I had his ears. This is a light banter so I promised I would not forget again. He smiled and went on about his duties. On my way out, I pulled up next to him and rolled down my passenger side window. I asked him if he worked Monday night. He said no but he was here on Tuesday. You know the question I asked next (how many ears do you need). He leaned in and gave me a really big smiled, kind of sheepishly asked for three for his nieces. I smiled and told him that I would see him Tuesday night.

Last night I brought home six sets of ears: 3 tie-dyed and 3 gold. Each set is autographed with "Your Pal, Mickey Mouse" on one ear and when I get there tonight I will ask for the names of his nieces for the other ear. You think he will like them?

The things I will do for a sweet disposition and cute smile.

Taps

2007-05-27T08:16:00.000-04:00

We in the United States have all heard the haunting song, "Taps". It's the songthat gives us that lump in our throats and usually tears in our eyes. But, do you know the story behind the song? If not, I think you will beinterested to find out about its humble beginnings.

Reportedly, it all began in 1862 during the Civil War, when Union Army CaptainRobert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison's Landing in Virginia. TheConfederate Army was on the other side of the narrow strip of land.

During the night, Captain Ellicombe heard the moans of a soldier who layseverely wounded on the field. Not knowing if it was a Union or Confederatesoldier, the Captain decided to risk his life and bring the stricken man backfor medical attention.

Crawling on his stomach through the gunfire, the Captain reached the strickensoldier and began pulling him toward his encampment. When the Captain finally reached his own lines, he discovered it was actually aConfederate soldier, but the soldier was dead.

The Captain lit a lantern and suddenly caught his breath and went numb withshock. In the dim light, he saw the face of the soldier. It was his son. The boy had been studying music in the South when the war broke out. Withouttelling his father, the boy enlisted in the Confederate Army.

The following morning, heartbroken, the father asked permission of his superiorsto give his son a full military burial, despite his enemy status. His requestwas only partially granted. The Captain had asked if he could have a group ofArmy band members play a funeral dirge for his son at the funeral.

The request was turned down since the soldier was a Confederate But, out ofrespect, for the father, they did say they could give him only one musician. The Captain chose a bugler. He asked the bugler to play a series of musicalnotes he had found on a piece of paper in the pocket of the dead youth'suniform. This wish was granted.

The haunting melody, we now know as "Taps" used at military funerals was born.
The words are:

Day is done ... Gone the sun
From the lakes... From the hills...
From the sky... All is well.
Safely rest... God is nigh.

Fading light... Dims the sight .
And a star... Gems the sky
Gleaming bright From afar ...
Drawing nigh . Falls the night.

Thanks and praise... For our days .
Neath the sun... Neath the stars..
Neath the sky... As we go
This we know .. God is nigh.

How to Observe Memorial Day

2007-05-27T07:55:00.000-04:00

The "Memorial" in Memorial Day has been ignored by too many of us who are beneficiaries of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Often we do not observe the day as it should be, a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice:

~ by visiting cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.

~ by visiting memorials.

~ by flying the U.S. Flag at half-staff until noon.

~ by flying the 'POW/MIA Flag' as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act).
~ by participating in a "National Moment of Remembrance": at 3 p.m. to pause and think upon the true meaning of the day, and for Taps to be played.

~ by renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our falled dead, and to aid the disabled veterans.

The History of Memorial Day

2007-05-27T07:51:00.000-04:00

courtesy of U.S. Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:
We cherish too, the Poppy redThat grows on fields where valor led,It seems to signal to the skiesThat blood of heroes never dies.She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."

The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.

But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of "the last Monday in May". On April 19, 1999 Representative Gibbons introduced the bill to the House (H.R. 1474). The bills were referred the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Government Reform.

To date, there has been no further developments on the bill. Please write your Representative and your Senators, urging them to support these bills. You can also contact Mr. Inouye to let him know of your support.

Visit our Help Restore the Traditional Day of Observance page for more information on this issue, and for more ways you can help.

To see what day Memorial Day falls on for the next 10 years, visit the Memorial Day Calendar page.

Too Little, Too Late

2007-05-22T09:50:00.001-04:00

So I was at the STaR Gala yesterday, the third one that day to be exact, when I get told by Derek that Rose Mary was looking for me. I found that interesting since at the end of the second Gala I shared with my friend Kathi that she had forgotten my anniversary.

I go to my Console and there she is with Patty and my balloon. They throw pixie dust at me and I kid you not, this is what she said: "Congratulations, sorry I missed it yesterday. Happy Anniversary." Now read that completely deadpan and flat... that is how she said it.

I just wanted my Steamboat Willie pin and now I have it. Rose Mary popped by later to ask me out to supper the next day (meaning today) so I accepted but let's be honest. I don't want to go... my Leader is too high maintenance for me. I'll go but it will be two hours of my life that I will never get back.

Nuffin....

2007-05-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

My leader did NOTHING (or as my PopPop used to say "n-u-f-f-i-n, nuffin") for my anniversary!! I did not get my Steamboat Willie pin nor did I get my balloon and cards. Granted, she was off yesterday but she didn't even bother to set anything up for me... she didn't even call!

My friends around DRC remembered; Cindy Mahan, Geri and Laine. They all came by at one point or another and said congratulations. Each one wondered where my stuff was and how horrible that she didn't remember such a milestone anniversary.

It's just like my birthday ~ they forgot it for two months. Gesh, I need some pixie dust.

Happy Anniversary!!

2007-05-20T09:22:00.001-04:00

Happy Anniversary to all of the original cast members on "Figment's Dream Team"! We made it a whole year.

Now, on the news regarding the cast members I started back with a year ago. We were a class of 27 and now there are only 9 of us left: Myself, Tommy, Jackie H., Jackie D., Todd, Samantha, Blake, Steve and Melissa. This core group of people, sans Tommy and myself, came up with idea of all gathering at Hooters after work tonight. They are good people but they forgot about two of us original Dream Team members.

Tommy was omitted because he left for a few months and just came back ~ he's in training as we speak. I was omitted because, and I swear this is the answer they gave me, I am a leader. What kind of stupid answer is that? Because I am no longer a sales agent on the floor but am a leader who has saved their butts more than once they forgot that I am one of the original team... whatever.

Not going to ruin my day. I think I will wear the same outfit I did a year ago to Traditions.. my black pants, red sparkly sweater and black heels. That will be nice. I'll get my Steamboat Willie pin and 1 year balloon... they should be waiting for me with a card from Bob, Cal and Bill. Should get one from Rose Mary too... I love anniversaries at Disney!!

Words of Wisdom

2007-05-18T08:06:00.001-04:00

Never try to teach a pig to sing.
It's a waste of time,
and annoys the pig

Back One Year

2007-05-18T08:02:00.000-04:00

So on Sunday I will be back at Disney for one year. Can you believe it? I don't really count this as my anniversary but the company does since they didn't bridge my time. My anniversary that I count is on November 12 ~ that will be three years. I don't think being gone for six months really counts as being gone, do you?

Anyway, Happy Anniversary to me on Sunday! I will get my Steamboat Willie pin and I can hardly wait. I missed it the first time by two weeks.. that was sad for me. I'll post a picture of it when I get home on Sunday night.

Mozilla FireFox

2007-05-17T09:48:00.000-04:00

So when I couldn't get into my blog I had to download a new web browser and I must say that I really like it. It has all the cool features of IE7 like the tabs, search bars and customized themes but it doesn't shut down on me. It also enabled me to get into my blog when I had to unistall IE7 and reinstall IE6. So what is the name of this miracle web browser, you may ask... Mozilla Firefox

There is one down side to using this web browser when you are working on your blog ~ you have to know your HTML in order to get things like links, pictures and movies to work. It isn't a hard language once you start working with it but in the beginning it can get a little fuzzy.

Now go and check it out. I am sure you will love it as much as I do.

Locked Out

2007-05-16T09:03:00.000-04:00

So my blog was on a sort of lock down and I could not get in to it. I had to disable one aspect of it and we'll see if that helps. If it does not, I am going to have to "relocate" this site in order to keep things safe and fun.

Nice to be back, I've missed you all.

Explorer 7

2007-05-12T15:47:00.000-04:00

So far, not so good. It has shut down on me twice already. All I want to do is create a post and add a picture. I am not impressed. I am giving it to the end of the night and if it keeps shutting down on me then I will revert back.

I'll let you know how it goes.

Michael Ball - Mini Break Celebration

2007-05-10T13:32:00.000-04:00

I am going to celebrate my first Mini-Break with a Michael Ball celebration. Please enjoy these beautiful clips of a beautiful artist. To quote someone completely inappropriate at this moment ~ One day he will be mine. Oh yes, he will be mine. Yeah, Wayne's World doesn't really fit but I swear one day I will move to London just so I can see him whenever I want... that would be a dream come true. Besides, I may be a southern belle but I was born to be a Londoner.

Enjoy poppets!

Empty Chairs, Empty Tables

Tonight (with Lesley Garrett)

First Interview on Terry Wogan (with Andrew Lloyd Webber)

Interview on Terry Wogan

The First Man You Remember

And Her Mother Came Too

Seeing is Believing (Aspects of Love)

All I Ask of You - Phantom of the Opera

2007-05-10T10:10:00.000-04:00

This song is originally a duet in the show and Michael Ball played the part of Raoul, and he did an awesome job. On the CD that I got from London, he sings the entire song by himself and it is just beautiful. I wanted to share the lyrics because they just strike a cord with me today.

Mickey's Magical Milestones Tour

2007-05-09T09:28:00.000-04:00

Here is my only photo taken on the team outing that I set up. We went on the Mickey's Magical Milestones Tour and I really enjoyed it. If I ever to go to work in the parks, I want to spend at least half of my time doing tours like that because it was so much fun.

Starting from the left: Devika, Rose Mary, Doug, Patty, Wanda, Chris, Jill, Derek and me. The woman in the center with the costume on is Nicole and she was our tour guide. Nicole was very funny and handled everything this motley crew threw at her so I tip my ears to her.

Air Quality

2007-05-08T11:46:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the fires in Georgia the air quality around here is horrible. I just went out to get some gas in the car and I had an asthma attack almost immediately. You can see the haze from the fires and smell the smoke. I swear I can not stand this particular aspect of living in Florida and it happens every year. For those of you with allergies and asthma, here is a breakdown that I found regarding the Air Quality Index. I, for one, never understood what all the colors and numbers meant so now that I found it I thought I would share, compliments of AirNow.Gov.

Air Quality Index
Levels of Health Concern Numerical
Value Meaning

Good 0-50 Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.

Moderate 51-100 Air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups 101-150 Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is not likely to be affected.

Unhealthy 151-200 Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.

Very Unhealthy 201-300 Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects.

Hazardous > 300 Health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is more likely to be affected.

Straight from London, U.K.

2007-05-08T08:48:00.000-04:00

One of my cast members just got back from London and Paris for her vacation. I admit that I was jealous because she took the trip that Dani and I were planning on doing this past March. My team knew about the disappointment of us not going to get to see Michael Ball in concert and even though they have no clue who he is, they felt bad for us.

Long story short, Erin brought me back a Michael Ball CD!! Now, I know most of you are thinking "big deal, it's a CD"... well it is a big deal because out of the 6 years that I have been hunting for his music I have only been able to find 2 CDs stateside. It's not common to be a London stage groupie here!! Anyway, she was sweet enough to scower London for the perfect gift and it turned out to be Love Changes Everything: the Essential Michael Ball. Go listen and enjoy.

Answer Some Questions

2007-05-06T09:15:00.000-04:00

Yeah, the cyberstalking. I am sure you are all wondering what in the world I am talking about so I will illuminate.

About a year ago, Diane contacted me using some made up name and asked about Dani. I was hesitant and inquired more about who this person was before I said anything about my baby. She finally fessed up and then began demanding information. Uh, hello? She was 13 1/2 at the time and I could tell you that they hadn't seen her in 13 years!

Needless to say I wrote an email that very elloquantly stated that she had no right to demand anything from me and to please leave my family alone. I took down the one site I had and in July last year I built this one. We all know what my mother did so let's not go there.

Now, I also have a MySpace account that I use to keep up with my friend's kids that are like family to me. I've written about them before ~ Brandon and Katie over in Iraq and then Boo (her name is Katie too so she got a nickname to tell her apart from Brandon's wife) ~ Jacque's kids. Anywho, I don't have anything about my kids on my MySpace as it's only purpose is to keep up with my nieces and nephews. So the other day, the exact same day I made this an invited blog only, I received this letter from "Annishia" in my MySpace Inbox:

I recently found out that you have shared personal emails that I have sent to you (and your mother) with one of your bloggers. Amazing to me that you have taken advantage of our attempts to communicate with a very special person whom we love. Shame on you and your mother for playing such a hateful game for your enjoyment on the internet. By the way, your blogger led me to this internet site.

Now, initially I responded on a nicer note:

I have no clue who you are or what you are talking about so unless you would like to introduce yourself and speak in a civilized tone I suggest you rethink the previous email. Have a wonderful day.

Then I thought about it for a minute and replied with this:

Oh and if this is Diane again ~ bugger off!! You'd think you would at least be brave enough to use your real name in any of these conversations.

I have the right to speak to whomever I chose about whatever topic I see fit. I suggest you use these weak attempts at manipulation on someone else... perhaps your deadbeat son.

You can not love someone you do not know so forget it. She now knows the truth and finds your entire family to be horrible and wants nothing to do with any of you. To prove the point, she threw away the one picture she had of Shawn... but not before tearing it up and calling him some unsavory names with my approval on that one occassion. That chapter of her life is now over.

I do not know what cheap entertainment factor you may be speaking of but I do know that if you have found my blog on the internet you can consider it removed immediately ~ or at least changed so that only members may read it as you have no right to anything regarding my family.

Now, please return to the rock from which you have emurged and I will go about my life as I wish you would go about yours and stop stalking my family or I will press charges against the lot of you.

Amy

P.S. - we are moving out of country in the very near future and wish no further contact. Should our wishes not be obeyed you will be hearing from my lawyer.

Yes, I know what you are thinking ~ What if it isn't Diane? My response is that I don't flipping care because the initial note written to me was just about as passive aggressive as you can get so I figured that they needed to be "spoken" to in a manner that they might understand. I then emailed MySpace and reported this individual as a cyberstalker and cyberbullying me. We shall see what happens from there.

That is the long and short of it as to why this is no longer out for all the world to see but just my close friends and family. Enjoy and if I have left a loop hole in the thought process somewhere, let me know and I will tie it up.

Why the Email?

2007-05-04T10:30:00.000-04:00

I am sure you are wondering why you received an email to read my blog. It seems as though there are people out there who "cyberstalk" my chidren. I do not want them in their lives and therefore they have no business slinking around the internet reading about them and seeing the updated photos. In order to keep thing the way they should be, I have blocked this blog from being read by anyone other than those I invited... simple.

Now you know you are loved and adored if I have invited you to read all of my babblings.

We're Half Way There!

2007-05-03T09:23:00.000-04:00

As you all know, Disney is celebrating A Year of a Million Dreams and we are already halfway there! Cast members receive a publication called Eyes & Ears and it is full of wonderful stories, tips and such. I thought it would be nice to look back at our first dream and where we are now... enjoy this cast exclusive look at the magic. To expand the articles, all you have to do is click on them to open in a new window.

Mickey's Magical Milestones Tour

2007-05-03T08:57:00.000-04:00

Chronicle the fascinating world, development and success of Mickey Mouse while touring the Magic Kingdom® Park. Recall and discover the magic of Mickey by visiting special locations that retrace his rise to fame. Relive some memorable moments from his distinguished career and learn why he wields such an emotional impact even today.

That is what I chose to do for our Team Outing this month. I chose, coordinated and set up the entire affair which will happen on Monday!! It isn't going to cost us a thing (another fabulous Disney perk) and will be so completley fabulous that I can hardly wait.

I am such a Disney geek!!

Spring Fling

2007-05-03T08:49:00.000-04:00

So yesterday we had a Spring Fling at work. We all gathered for food and fellowship before an afternoon full of meetings. It was fun. We were to all dress in our Spring best and bring something to eat. I took my mom's Maccaroni Ranchero and everyone loved it. A lot of people had strange ideas as to what their Spring best was but here is what I wore... and of course stayed completely Disney. I swear, if I ever leave Disney people will wonder about my wardrobe!

How I Survived Jury Duty

2007-05-01T13:14:00.000-04:00

Confessions of Super Mom was so funny that I did not mind sitting in the "holding area" for jury duty most of the day Monday. I was actually a little ticked when they called my name to go and watch other potential jurors get picked and I was excused. I used my "Super Eavesdropping" skills to find out why since I harbored a bit of guilt at the prospect of lying. Apparently I am too "All American Girl Next Door" and I work for Disney. The defense decided that I would not be good for his case... go figure. I thought the guy was guilty by looking at him ~ you know the type ~ and he was being accused of drunk driving... yeah, no brainer.

Anyway, here's the teaser:

For every harried mother who dreams of cleaning with the power of 10,000 Swiffers, putting her children into Super Time Outs with just a flick of her Merciless Gaze, and employing a little Super Eavesdropping when the occasion warrants, CONFESSIONS OF SUPER MOM is a must-read.

Filled with romance, intrigue, humor and a colorful cast of characters, this delightful new novel introduces a superhero for the Swiffer generation.So forget those chores --- pick up CONFESSIONS OF SUPER MOM and relish in a much-deserved escape. This charming novel will keep readers glued to the page as they cheer for Super Mom to root out injustice and surrender herself to love. Readers everywhere will find themselves in its pages and rejoice in finding a book that celebrates their overlooked everyday acts of heroism.

Jury Duty

2007-04-29T23:30:00.000-04:00

So I have Jury Duty on Monday morning. I think it is cruel to make those of us who work night shifts have to go and do, well, anything during the early morning hours. I left work a little early but got sucked into my MySpace account and uploading a video for my dad to see while he is away.

Jury Duty ~ from what I understand I will be stuck in a cold room, bored out of my mind, for the entire day. I called the number to see if I was released but since it is 261 I seriously doubted it... and I wasn't.

If I survive the dreeded affair I will write more tomorrow night as I don't have to go work... one small consulation prize I guess. If I do actually die of boredom please know that I love you all.

POR FAVOR MENTANGANSE ALLENHANDRAN DE LAS PUERTAS

2007-04-27T19:38:00.000-04:00

Wish you could remember the entire spiel from the monorail? Now you can!! Gotta love it.

PLEASE STAND CLEAR OF THE DOORS

POR FAVOR MENTANGANSE ALLENHANDRAN DE LAS PUERTAS

Welcome aboard the Walt Disney World Express Monorail, our highway in the sky to the Magic Kingdom. For those of you standing, please hold onto the handrail throughout our journey and for the comfort of others, no smoking please. Thank you.

We are circling the Disney created Seven Seas Lagoon. Rising from the Magic Kingdom on the opposite shore is Cinderella Castle. You can also see Disney's Mountain Range: Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain in Frontierland and Space Mountain in Tomorrowland. To the right hand side on the shores of Bay Lake is Disney's Wilderness Lodge which captures the spirit of the national park service lodges built in the west during the early part of the 20th century.
(the following passage has since been omitted due to the closings of both River Country and Discovery Island)

Also on Bay lake,you can enjoy a natural setting at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. More outdoor recreation can be found at River Country, Disney's version of the ol' fashioned swimmin' hole. Discovery Island, an 11 acre zoological park is located at the center of Bay Lake. Launches to Discovery Island depart from Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Contemporary Resort.

We are entering Disney's Contemporary Resort where on the Grand Canyon Concourse you can start your day with Chef Mickey's Character Breakfast. For a panoramic view of Walt Disney World, the California Grill, located on the fifteenth floor offers an exquisite array of fine dining experiences with each meal prepared onstage, as a specialty of the house.

While your group is together, now is a great time to pick a place to meet if you become separated in the park. Should you become separated, stop by City Hall on Main Street U.S.A for assistance. Guest Relations at City Hall can also help you plan your day, make dining arrangements or provide a special guided tour of the Magic Kingdom.

(again, the following passage has now been omitted due to the discontinuation of the Walk Around the World Program, which has been replaced with Leave a Legacy at Epcot)

In front of the Magic Kingdom is Disney's Walk Around the World, a pathway that will eventually stretch more than three and a half miles around the Seven Seas Lagoon. Each stone in the pathway commemorates the name and year of an individual guest visit, or an entire family vacation at Walt Disney World.

Ladies and Gentlemen we are approaching our station at the entrance to Main Street U.S.A, gateway to the seven themed lands of the Magic Kingdom. If you're standing, please hold onto the handrails and stay clear of the doors until the monorail stops completely and the doors open.
Ladies and Gentlemen this is the Magic Kingdom Monorail Station. On behalf of the Cast of the Walt Disney World Resort, we'd like to welcome you to the Magic Kingdom. Please collect your personal belongings and watch your head and step. Please assist small children by the hand. Once again, we hope you enjoy the Magic Kingdom.

PLEASE STAND CLEAR OF THE DOORS

POR FAVOR MENTANGANSE ALLENHANDRAN DE LAS PUERTAS

As Promised

2007-04-27T18:57:00.000-04:00

Here's my haircut...

Cut it off!

2007-04-26T23:17:00.000-04:00

I have been itching to cut off my hair for about a week now... I did it today! I have to say that my 30s are a weird time. You are too old to act like a kid and too young to act like an old fart. Now, anyone who knows me will tell you that I will perpetually be a kid but when is the age when you just can't do a pony tail any longer? What is the time frame when having a scrunchy on your wrist is just stupid? For me, it was today. I'll post an updated picture of me soon but just so you get the idea ~ here's my hairstyle.

Stupidity

2007-04-24T07:31:00.000-04:00

Dani didn't make it to Conference which I find amazing. She was always giving it her all and she was the most improved runner out there. Dani gave it more heart than a lot of those kids. I was sitting in the living room when I get a text message that says "I guess my best wasn't good enough. I didn't make it." At first I thought she was playing with me like the time we told Nana that Dani didn't get her braces off when in reality she had. I texted her back and told her that I was proud of her and loved her no matter what because she always went out and did 100% of her best. She wrote back with "Tennis I will be better, I promise." So what this 'coach' has done is squish the self-esteem of my child making her think that she isn't any good.

What would have been the harm in having all the kids dress out and go to Conference?

Keep Your Fingers Crossed

2007-04-23T08:32:00.000-04:00

Dani finds out today if she gets to go to Conference!! I can tell that she is excited and hopefull even if it is covered by teenage coolness. She has really improved and last Tuesday she finished 10th (out of 30 something girls) with a time of 3.15 and on last Thursday she finished 6th (out of 30 something girls) and 3rd for HMS with a time of 3.19 ~ both times she gave it her all and never stopped once!

Good luck Peanut and no matter how it turns out, I am very proud of you!!

Happy Birthday Sami!!

2007-04-18T18:26:00.000-04:00

Good morning Little Miss 2 Year Old!!
What's in the bag Princess Samantha?
Ohhh, Mickey Mouse Club House CD ~ Rock On!!
I Love Tea!
Happy Birthday Samantha Rose ~ I love you!

10:50 am, 04/18/05 is when it all began...

2007-04-18T10:17:00.000-04:00

Here's a picture trip of the past two years... enjoy!

Earth Day - April 22nd

2007-04-18T02:50:00.000-04:00

Hello all ~ Earth Day is April 22nd I wanted to let everyone have a "cast exclusive" desktop wallpaper for the day. There are four "flavors" so please click on the one you want, when it loads in the window you need to right click and then save as... all of these are 1280 x 1024, I thought it better to be safe than sorry. Your computer will make it fit!

Happy Earth Day and do your best not to be Environmentally challenged!!

Answer of All Answers

2007-04-18T01:53:00.000-04:00

The following is an actual question given on a University of Liverpool chemistry final exam. The answer by one student was so "profound" that the professor shared it with colleagues via the Internet, which is why we now have the pleasure of enjoying it as well.

Question: Is Hell exothermic (gives off heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat)?

Most of the students wrote proofs of their beliefs using Boyle's law that gas cools when it expands and heats when it is compressed or some variant.One student, however, wrote the following:

First, we need to know how the mass of Hell is changing in time. So we need to know the rate at which souls are moving into Hell and the rate at which they are leaving. I think that we can safely assume that once a soul gets to Hell, it will not leave. Therefore, no souls are leaving.

As for how many souls are entering Hell, let's look at the different religions that exist in the world today. Most of these religions state that, if you are not a member of their religion, you will go to Hell. Since there is more than one of these religions and since people do not belong to more than one religion, we can project that all souls go toHell.

With birth and death rates as they are, we can expect the number ofsouls in Hell to increase exponentially.

Now, we look at the rate of change of the volume in Hell. Because Boyle's Law states that in order for the temperature and pressure in Hell to stay constant, the volume of Hell must expand proportionately as souls are added.

This gives two possibilities:
1. If Hell is expanding at a slower rate than the rate at which souls enter Hell, then the temperature and pressure in Hell will increase until all Hell breaks loose.
2. If Hell is expanding at a rate faster than the increase of souls in Hell, then the temperature and pressure will drop until Hell freezes over.

So which is it? If we accept the postulate given to me by Sandra during my freshman year, that "it will be a cold day in Hell before I sleep with you," and take into account the fact that I slept with her last night, then number 2 must be true, and thus I am sure that Hell is endothermic and has already frozen over.

The corollary of this theory is that since Hell has frozen over, it follows that it is not accepting any more souls and is extinct....leaving only Heaven, thereby proving the existence of a divine being - which explains why, last night, Sandra kept shouting "Oh my God."

THIS STUDENT RECEIVED THE ONLY "A"

Speed Racer

2007-04-18T01:24:00.000-04:00

I was so proud of Dani today at her track meet. She runs the 110 meter hurdles and the 800 meter. She is constantly finishing fourth on the hurdles and does her best every time she goes out on the track. I have always told her from the start that as long as she gives 100% of her best then that is all I can ask. She comes back a little gloomy and I ask her, did you give your best. She'll say yeah and things are better.

She originally didn't want to run the 800 meter race and was a bit disappointed when Coach said that it was her event. The first week she ran the first lap and walked most of the second with a super burst of energy at the end giving her a time of 3.40. The next two meets were about the same but the walking became less, she learned to pace herself a little bit better and her times went down 10 seconds each time. I always told her I was proud of her ~ and I was because Lord knows if I did it then I would be dead on the field with my inhaler hanging out of my mouth!

Tonight she did her hurdles and owned her fourth spot. She is okay with that especially since she hit her ankle on the 2nd to last hurdle. Dani pulled through and never missed a bit. She came back and listened to my Disney mix stick and continued to stay warm. She ate her apple and drank her Gatorade. The 800 was called, she gave me a kiss, I told her I loved her and to do her best. She was in Lane 2 with the other 9 girls who run it for her school (there were around 30 girls total). The starting gun goes off and it's on from the beginning. Dani got to the front group of girls and she paced herself. First lap round I holler for her and tell her she's doing a good job. She went around the bend for the second lap and I was prepared for her to slow down but it never happened! She rounded all the corners and was still running ~ even got a burst of speed at the end and passed a couple girls!! Dani came in around 10th place with a time of 3.15 and I was so proud I could have cried.

She hugged her coaches and they all told her "Good girl, way to go" and she ran up the stands to hug me with the happiest smile I have ever seen. You would have thought we won gold in the Olympics! I told her I was so proud of her for doing such a great job but the best part was she was proud of herself. Her goal has always been to just beat her own time and do her best to get around and never stop but today she was on cloud 9.

My Mom Is Better!!

2007-04-16T10:36:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I hate to say it but my mom is better than your mom. Yes, she can be fussy and condescending and manipulative ~ apparently it is a mother's right or something. BUT, she can also be very sweet and loving and understanding.

My mother is also very creative and talented. She made this quilt for me and simply entitled it "Amy's Quilt" so 100 years from now when it has been passed down through the years and ends up in a book somewhere, we will both get credit.

She made a traditional sampler quilt with little touches of me. I love that my mom can do this kind of stuff. Always have, even when I was little. I would have the special clothes that my mother made me. They were special for a ton of reasons but mostly because there wouldn't be another one like in the whole entire world. I would have little dresses with penifores, sweaters, shirts, skirts, bags.. anything at all. I would have pictures and ceramics and pillows that would be completely original to me because my mother made them.

Other kids would walk around bragging about their clothes and where they bought them. I would just smile. Sure, their parents cared so much they went out and bought something for them. Mine loved me more because they made me something. Kids would always ask where I got something and I always got to say that "my mom made it". Everyone, even teachers, would come over and check out my outfit and be amazed at my talented and gifted mother... actually, they still do.

I have a dress made of the green material on my quilt. I have only worn it once so far, on a bad date but that is besides the point, and even then I had strangers come and ask me where I got my dress because it was so pretty. I told them, just as I did as a little kid, that my mom made it for me. I still smile really big when I get to do it too. Yeah, I'm 34 years old but my mommy makes my clothes. My mommy makes my kids clothes, quilts, sweaters, bags and just about anything else you can imagine.

So yeah, my mom is better and the best part is... she's mine.

Happy 15th Birthday DLRP

2007-04-15T09:32:00.000-04:00

When Disneyland Resort Paris premiered April 12, 1992, it was somewhat of a homecoming for Disney. France played an interesting role in Walt Disney’s life. His lineage can be traced back many centuries to that region of the world. His distant ancestors adopted the name of their hometown Isigny-sur-Mer in Normandy and became known as “d’Isigny” in French. Over the generations, this became “Disney.” Walt also spent several months in France as a teenager, driving ambulances for the Red Cross at the end of World War I. He returned to France several times throughout his life, and was inspired by the nation’s storytelling heritage to produce such classic animated features as Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella.

Today, as the No. 1 tourist destination in Europe, Disneyland Resort Paris continues to grow. Crush’s Coaster and Cars Quatre Roues Rallye, both based on hit Disney•Pixar films, will open this June. Early summer will also bring a new high-speed train line to the Resort’s Marne-la-Vallée station, making it more convenient than ever for residents of Eastern Europe to visit. And next year we’ll premiere The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, sure to be as wildly popular with our European Guests as it is at every other park.

Friday the 13th Traditions

2007-04-15T09:17:00.000-04:00

So every Friday the 13th there is a tradition at the Disney Reservation Centre to wear your ears. I do not know how it got started but I really like the idea. Before my cast members came in I had stopped by Company D and purchased 20 sets of ears, 10 Gold and 10 TieDyed. Each time one of my team showed up for their shift I would have them close their eyes and reach in the bag.

I do not normally work on Friday but because of Dani's track meets I have been working some strange times. Come to find out that only five of my team members work on Fridays so it was a very small group indeed! I took pictures of them all together and will have to email it home so I can post it because it was a lot of fun.

They actually requested that I save July 13th for them... now I have to come up with something cool to do. Any suggestions?

Disney Legends

2007-04-12T00:22:00.000-04:00

I work in a place where legends are made. They do phenomenal things that no one ever thought would be possible. They were laughed at for the ideas and were told that they were "follies". People waited for us to fail, time and again we were told we would with complete conviction.

There are times when my position as a cast member simply becomes "a job" and I hate it when that happens. People come in without pixie dust and stupid things get in the way. I don't want to ever feel like what I do is "a job" because I know that no matter what happens in the future ~ I will never find "a job" that I love as much as this one.

All of my life I wanted to work at Walt Disney World. I used to joke around and tell my friends that I wanted to be Dopey when I grew up. People laughed at me and said that it wouldn't happen, at least not the way I was thinking. They said that I would never get to work at Disney because things like that just don't happen. Guess what, they do!

So the next time you watch one of my spots, or see one of my billboards, or hear one of my songs you can bet the I am pretty much swelled up with pride. Our Year of a Million Dreams celebration ad spots make me want to cry. They touch me and not just because they are really good but because I am a part of that magic.

I try to get on the phone every day so that I can continue to make magic. Do Leaders normally get on the phone ~ shoot no!! They avoid it all costs. I could probably count the number of Leaders (and Leaders of Leaders for that matter) who can still book a reservation on one hand and still do the Disney Point. They lose the Guest feel and excitement because they don't interact with them. When I go to the parks I always say hello to the princesses I pass (calling them by the name of the princess costume they are wearing), I give directions if I see a group huddled into a map, I take pictures for couples and families so at least one shot will have everyone in it, and I celebrate whatever button they have on that day.

Do they know I am a cast member ~ nope. Do they care that I am a cast member ~ probably not. Do they appreciate what I have done for them ~ yeah... Because I am the magic of Disney.

Johnny and the Sprites

2007-04-12T00:20:00.000-04:00

Perks of being a Cast Member

2007-04-12T00:12:00.000-04:00

We cast members have a site that we can log into from home to get to our work email and stay in touch with what is going on all over property. We also use it at work because it is just a great source of information regarding anything you could possibly want to know regarding us. It's called The Hub.

This magical, mystical website is only available to cast members and one of the other things we get is called The Disney Newsreel. It is a really cool online newspaper that is put out for us to see what is going on all over property (US, Hong Kong, Japan, Paris, etc).

Here are some of the really cool images that I was able to capture from different volumes of "the reel" and once you see them, you'll understand why I had to use some of my "magic" to keep them forever.

Be good poppets until next time.

Color Spash - David Bromstad

2007-04-11T09:15:00.000-04:00

Okay, this man may be gay (not sure) but he is very hot and I have a slight crush on him. His eyes are beautiful, he dresses smart, his body is solid and he smiles like a child. Uh, how could you not want to just run up and squeeze him?

David came to fame from an HGTV show called HGTV DesignStar where he won and earned his own television show, Color Splash. He has a lot of interesting ideas, some are things you could use and others are way out there ~ makes you turn your head to the side like a puppy who heard the word "cookie".

One of the things that the Home and Garden Television website has is a Color Code! It describes your color personality. All you to do is mouse over your favorite color and it tells you all about your personality.

Mine is pink, right. So I moused over it and it says that "Pink is playful, innocent, flirty and fun. Romantics love pale pink hues while dynamic personalities go for shock value with hotter shades." I think that is a bit like me, what do you think? Either way, go here and try it.

Dulldrums

2007-04-11T08:42:00.000-04:00

Do you ever go through a spell where you don't want to go to work? No matter how much you love your job, you would rather spend your time doing other things. Perhaps cooking, writing, reading, knitting or playing with your kids.

Take today for example. I ran up here to get cleaned up for work and do my daily post. I can hear Sami downstairs yelling at Mickey Mouse on the television. She really gets into her morning Playhouse Disney! MMCH is like her little soap opera... she laughes, she cries, it becomes a part of her. Who would want to leave that and go to work?

My mom is sitting downstairs with a beautiful new quilt that she is working on covering her lap. It is actually for me!! I'll post a picture when she is done but who would want to leave that when you could sit down with her and work on your knitting?

Dani will come home after school today with her "egg baby" to take care of, sharing stories of the days events before bounding off to her room to draw. Later on she will emerge to play with her sister... a 14 year old who actually plays with her 2 year old sister. Who would want to miss that and go to work?

I know when we move I will have enough time to sit and ponder all these things... the posts then will be probably about how I could never be a stay-at-home mother because it would drive me insane. Oh well, we always want we can't have I guess. All this rain has given me the dulldrums... sorry to share.

Off to get cleaned up and leave all this... for work.

Happy Monday

2007-04-09T10:31:00.000-04:00

I think we should all grasp Mondays like my little Sami. Most people grumble and roll over, not wanting to get out of bed. Little Samantha wakes up, rolls over and then hollers at the top of her lungs "Mama, I wake". This of course is my queue to get out of bed and go fetch her so she can start her day.

On the way down the stairs she starts her morning salutations. "Hello, Nana", "Hello, Sissy", "Hello, PopPop" and of course "Hello, Abby oh so sweet". All of these are uttered in this order until each of the people have been seen, hugged and properly helloed for the morning.

We then proceed to get dressed and brush our hair to which we are constantly asked if we can "peas wear tutu" and I will always agree. She has about three tutus that are worn on a regular basis. Two just are skirts that can go over our outfit while the third is a full body suit tutu that we can wear when it's warm. Today was too cold but she really wanted to wear it ~ Mama got creative and it was a win-win for both of us.

So I think we should all use Sami's philosophy on how to start the day:

Let the world know you are up and ready for business

Say hello to everyone you meet and greet them warmly each day

Get dressed and neat for the day

Always wear the appropriate tutu because you never know when you may need to dance.

Don'tDateThisGuy.Com

2007-04-06T00:11:00.000-04:00

I remember this site being used on a show once and I was curious if it even existed ~ IT DOES!! So all of you who know me know that I must warn the rest of the women in the world about the evil monster that I dated... and I did. I am waiting for the approval email from the site and I will post the link for all to see. Yeppers, picture and all.

You should go and check out the Don't Date This Guy.com site, it's interesting. And guys, they have one about the girls too so don't get all upset... y'all are warning each other about the "women" you date. I posted this picture because it is a great "PSA" spot for the post, don't you agree?

Be good poppets until I return. Hugs and kisses to all because you know I love you buckets!!

Happiness Fairy

2007-04-05T11:25:00.000-04:00

Brandon and Katie

2007-04-05T01:49:00.000-04:00

As many of you may know, my best friend's son and daughter-in-law are over in Iraq right now. They have been gone for almost three months and it has not been a fun three months. We can't watch the news, read the reports or pages - nothing - because it's just too scary.

Jacque sent me an email today saying that Katie had updated her photos on her MySpace account. I pulled these off of hers and Brand's because they were too cute and I wanted to share... miss you little buggers!

Yeah to my Friday...

2007-04-04T23:40:00.000-04:00

Thank God this week is over. I must say that I have felt like I was at a dog fighting contest wearing milkbone underware all week!! I think I am going to curl up in my bed and read a good book - not one of those stupid ones for work either. Enjoy my little "Cast Only" happy and I will see you all on the other side. Be good poppets while I'm gone.

I Love Saab!

2007-04-04T09:59:00.000-04:00

No, not the car but the designer. I just finished reading an article on him over on Yahoo. It was about how he says that a woman's beauty is in her curves!! Thank the Lord above that people are finally realizing that woman are not, as Elie said, hangers for their clothes. We have curves and a shape that is beautiful and should not be subjected to becoming walking bones with legs.

The most beautiful women in the world, at least in my humble opinion, are all built like women! Kate Winslet, Mariska Hargitay, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lopez, Anne Hathaway ~ I could go on and on but not once when I was watching something with them in it did I feel the need to go out and buy them a cheeseburger. Not once did I wonder why these poor starved women didn't go out and buy some groceries... but I did relate to them and want to be like them, real and character inspired, because on either side of the script they were just themselves. There were no pretenses and dishonesty to work around. These are normal healthy everyday women and their job is to entertain us.

You just have to read this article! Check it out and let me know what you think ~ hangers or figures.

MySpace - The Crossover Album

2007-04-02T10:15:00.000-04:00

Hey all - couldn't sleep last night so I tinkered with my account over on MySpace. I had been ignoring it for a while but since Brandon and Katie (Jacq's son and d-i-l) I have been checking it to keep up with them... and Boo writes me daily.. LOL.

Anywho, here's the link if you'd like to check it out and toddle over sometime... you'll love my friends, they're the coolest!!

Oh, and Happy Monday!

Interesting Aspects of Life

2007-04-02T00:04:00.000-04:00

So I was bored and wandering around MySpace when I stumbled on a person that I figured (or perhaps hoped) had fallen off the face of the earth. To say I was dumbfounded would have been an understatement as I would never figure this person to be on a site such as this in a million years.

The posting is as arrogant and self-righteous as this person is, at least in my own humble opinion. You must admire the honesty and agree that it is refreshing ~ obnoxiously pompous in delivery but refreshing none the less.

Here is the odd part... I wanted to talk to the person. To call and say hi, what's up... to see their face and if they had changed over the years... to hug them... to slap them. I go around hoping to never be found and still small pieces want to reach out from time to time to... to what, really? To make sure THEY haven't forgetten me... to see if they occassionally cry at night too... to see if my hopes of them feeling like shit for all they have done come to pass?

Try to push it all away, bury it in a box, forget about the bruises (both emotional and physical) to ultimately forgive them for being who or what they are... and ultimately you can't... or is it ultimately you won't?

My Version of Helping Too...

2007-03-31T01:18:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday!

Pictures from Dani's Track Meet

2007-03-30T10:15:00.000-04:00

1st meet - Held at Hudson High School - came in 2nd place
2nd meet - Held at Mitchell High School - came in 1st place
Dani bested her times by 30 seconds in both her events, 110 mtr hurdles and 800 mtr race.
My little speed racer!!

Dani and Macy talking during the Track and Field Events
Dani and Macy doing "I'm a Little Tea Pot" in the middle of the field
Dani is in the middle lane - game face on!
Dani is at the end of the frame during the first lap of the 800 meter race
Dani is behind the third girl in purple during the first lap of the 800 meter race

Getting ready to stretch out - Hudson Middle School track team
Dani is talking to a team member with her science teacher - Coach Nero - not far away
Look at the size of this team!! Dan is on the right side, second over from Coach Nero
This is our "Game Face"
Jump Dani!!

My Little Track Star!

2007-03-29T23:28:00.000-04:00

This was Dani's first week of track meets and I must say that I am so proud of her! She was chosen for the 110 mtr hurdles and the 800 mtr race. Not only has done a great job of working through these items - she has improved her time each race!!

I will have pictures up soon - too tired now to upload them - but you can see my little "cougar" in action.