Independence Day at Disney

The last two nights, I was lucky enough to be able to see both fireworks celebrations at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. I wasn't too impressed by the Magic Kingdom ones. I thought the New Year's ones were much better. It had a nice ending though, with the castle draped in star and flags. I think the Epcot celebration was better. The best part involved turning off the fireworks on the World Showcase lagoon and diverting everyone's attention to the U.S.A. pavilion and having the fireworks appear there. It acted pretty much like Epcot's castle for the night. And of course, with any special Epcot celebration, about two weeks worth of fireworks are launched in its finale. If you can only see one of these, I says go with Epcot.

The Cast Experience

With such a long break until the Stanley Cup Finals, I thought it would be nice to make a Disney post for once. I've been a cast member for a few months now so I thought I might share a little of what my cast experience has been like. You know, I had been such a fan of Disney. That magic meant so much to me. There was a fear that by moving to Orlando and becoming a frequent visitor, my view of the magic would change. There was a fear that it could fade, that it wouldn't mean as much. But that wasn't the case. The magic stayed as strong as ever. In fact, I couldn't imagine going back to just taking vacations to Disney. Becoming a passholder kind of spoiled me. I could visit Disney pretty much whenever I wanted. But you know what? Although I got to visit more often, the experience wasn't that different. It was still the same old magic I was always used to. That view would finally change when I joined the cast.

In the last few months, I have not only visited Disney frequently, I've been exposed to the world behind the scenes at Disney. In fact, I've seen the inner workings of the part of Disney that's the most magical of all. It is a completely different world behind the curtain. There's this belief that working for the mouse destroys the magic. For some, perhaps that's true. I had that fear myself. But something unexpected happened when I became a cast member, the magic became stronger than ever. Through being a part of making that magic and getting to know the other people who do the same, I've gained such a greater appreciation of what goes on at Disney. Walt Disney World feels so different to me now. I no longer feel like a guest, even when I'm not working. It no longer feels like I visit Disney. I now am Walt Disney World and people visit me. This world is mine. I am a part of making the dreams that happen to people every day. And in the process, I've become very protective of Disney and its magic. It's my duty now to help it live on. I am still very much awestruck at the things I get to see and be a part of. The experiences you get as a cast member can't be obtained anywhere else. Last weekend, I stood in the Main Street train station with the performers preparing to welcome thousands of guests into the Magic Kingdom. On one side of us was a massive crowd of people waiting at the entrance of the park. On the other, a completely empty Main Street, U.S.A. It was untouched, pure, and so enchanting. At the end of it stood the object that's held my heart for the last seven years, Cinderella Castle. It just glistened in the early morning's light. I remember just standing there, marveling at this beautiful scene and realizing that all those people behind me, paying all this money, don't get to see this. That just made me realize how special it is to do what I'm doing now. I love working for Disney. In fact, I prefer working there over just visiting there. It feels weird to be at Disney and not do something for them. I get to experience a version of the magic that many will never see. And at least for me, it makes the magic all the more real. It all seems more real to me. My character friends are as real as you and me. The pixie dust that flows all around Disney is real... because we make it real.

Part Of That World

So if you've been following this blog, you may have wondered why lately its been dominated by hockey entries with far fewer Disney posts. The answer to that is two-fold. One is well, the NHL season is coming to a close and the playoff race is heating up. Obviously, there's going to be a lot of attention to hockey then. The second part comes from a bit of change in my life. In the last month, my perspective of Disney has gone from that of guest to cast. So my guest experiences have been much more limited as of late and my new cast experiences, well, those aren't meant for the public eye. But I can definitely say that my experiences so far have been an absolute dream come true. If I could only sum up these experiences with one word, it would be "wonderful."

First, my fellow cast members have been a blast to work with. Everyone has been so nice, friendly, and helpful. Now I know that there are going to be people who aren't as nice and you'll wonder why they even bother to be here if they're like that. But a lot of the people here are special. I've never been to a place before where the people are so passionate about what they do and how much they believe in what they do. I've actually had a few people hold back tears in describing the magic of Disney to me. It's amazing to see passion like that. So many have come out of their way to make me feel welcomed. There always seems to be a smile somewhere greeting you. And it always helps to return one yourself. A smile goes a long way. There are so many people here like me. My hope is that I'll get to know a lot of these people and get to form some great friendships.

The second thing that has made my experiences wonderful so far has been the actual job itself. I now work for Disney. I don't think my mind has yet to fully grasp that concept. I am now part of making that very magic that has touched so many hearts, including my own. I've never had a job before that wasn't concerned with profit, whose main focus was to bring more money in. Yes, Disney is a corporate entity and a business first, so they do want money. But my role isn't concerned with that. My role is to purely make people happy. I'm there to take them into another world and help instill fantasy and magic in their hearts. My measure of success isn't how much money I got from them but whether or not they left with a smile. How amazing is that? I get to interact with so many people throughout the day. I know now more than ever that I am extraverted because I love the interaction. In fact, when my day is done and I head back to my empty apartment, I can't help but to feel a bit lonely. Sure, some guests can be rude and mean. But the majority of them just want a piece of that magic and it's so satisfying to be able to supply it.

This isn't a full-time thing. It's merely something I do on the side in addition to my real life. It's just a few days of week and I know not every one of those days will be so wonderful. But if I can keep that magic within my heart and remember why I'm here, I can pull through with a smile. It also doesn't hurt that you can sometimes look up and see Cinderella Castle. Not too many jobs can boast that. What makes this special is the fact that I'm not here because I need to be. I'm a cast member at Disney because I want to be. This is a dream for me. I truly feel that I belong here. I remember my first day when I was given my Disney name tag. Some people think name tags are demeaning, but not this one. It was a badge of honor for me. Seeing my name engraved in that little hunk of plastic, it was a dream come true that was almost 7 years in the making. I don't know how long it will last, but I will make the most out of it. I don't want any regrets from this. This place is magical. Me and all the cast, we're here to continue Walt Disney's legacy and keep his dream alive.

A Look Back At 6 Months

I've passed the 6 month mark on my stay here by the most magical place on earth. In that time, Walt Disney World has transitioned from being a place I longed to visit to a place that has become an integral part of my life. Of course, since that very special first July morning at the footsteps of Cinderella Castle, Disney has always had a presence in my life. But the experience is much different now. Gone are the countdowns, the schedules, and the need to run around and do as much as I can. When you're a visitor on vacation, it's a cycle of longing to return, heaven for a week, and then the unbearable departure that leads to longing for the next trip. I think every Disney fanatic goes through that cycle. Fortunately, I don't have to go through that anymore. It's been so nice not ever having to say good-bye.

In the last 6 months, I've visited a lot. In fact, "a lot" would be an understatement. Disney's become as much a part of my life as going to work or even eating. And a common question that I get asked is, "Don't you ever get tired of it?" My answer is "never." It is an answer that many cannot understand. I believe understanding that is the line that divides people who just see Disney as a bunch of amusement parks and those who hold it up as something far greater. To a great many, Disney is just a place that has a bunch of rides and shows. Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Tower of Terror... that's what they think of when they think about the parks. But for the others, the ones who get it, they know it's not about the rides or any attractions. Sure, they are fun and definitely a part of Disney but that's not what draws people to it. What draws them... is "magic." But what is magic? To me, magic is freedom. It's the freedom to let go of reality, to let go of the notions of the world that hold us down. It is the feeling of setting loose your spirit, sending it as high as you can dream. It's closing your eyes and letting yourself believe in all the things you want to. It's abandoning cynicism and letting ideals and innocence take over. It's hope in the power of imagination and dreams. That's what magic is to me. How many times can you go on a ride before it loses its appeal? It's not about the rides. It's the magic of Disney that holds on to the hearts of all who love it. Not everyone can understand. But for me, it feels like Disney and I were made for each other. I'm a dreamer, a hopeless romantic, an idealist. All the things Disney is flows through my being. I was once told that if I had never been born, somehow Walt Disney would have created me. And I know I'm not the only one. Look at all the people who've come from all the corners of the world to live and work here. They didn't uproot their lives because they like a bunch of rides that much. They took a huge chance on their dreams because they believe in this place. They believe in this magic.

I'm so lucky to have been able to experience Walt Disney World the way I have over the last 6 months. Instead of the quick splash of a week-long trip, I've been able to see Disney in such a way that many don't get a chance to. I've been able to see it change and grow. I arrived in the peak summer months when everything was bustling and crazy. Then I saw the crowds thin out and experienced how calm this world could be. I saw amazing events like the Pirate & Princess Party and Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. I grew to appreciate a place that never struck a cord with me before, Epcot. I experience the fantastic International Food & Wine Festival. And the most wonderful season of all became even more incredible. Christmas at Disney was awe-inspiring. How could one not be moved by the Candlelight Processional or brought to tears by the Castle's Dream Lights? I got to experience all those special events by living here. But my time here has been about even more than that. There has been so much to see and do to here. From the classic excitement of the theme parks to finding hidden gems like Disney's enchanting boardwalk, magic seems to be everywhere. It even shows through its food. Whether it be a silly morning at Chef Mickey's or a charming afternoon at Beaches and Cream or an elegant evening at the California Grill, magic has never tasted so good. With so much time to spend here, I've been able to appreciate each little thing. I actually find myself sometimes not doing anything at Disney but just being there and soaking up the atmosphere. My absolute favorite thing to do is just hang around the Fantasyland-Main Street area of the Magic Kingdom. I love taking a simple carrousel ride, making a wish at Cinderella's well, and sitting back and watching her castle change colors in the night. I don't think there's anything better.

I've gotten to meet and share the magic with so many people during my 6 months here. For all those who came to visit, I got to be their guide to this wonderful world. For those who live and work here, I got to experience a new type of magic through them. I gained a new appreciation of what it takes to keep the magic alive in this world. With all the things I got to see and do and live, it's hard to imagine that it's only been 6 months. But you know what? There's a whole world I've yet to see. There is so much more to experience. And that's what I certainly hope the new year brings.

The New Spaceship Earth

I finally got a chance to ride Spaceship Earth last night. (BTW, the park crowds are so light now, especially compared to last month. You could actually get on Soarin'!) There was only a 5-minute wait (and not even that!) for the new Spaceship Earth. I can't really compare it to the old one, mainly because I could never stay awake on the old one. But it feels similiar. They added new effects and animatronics. Apple makes a cameo in it now. But the biggest change in the new interactive touchscreen at the end. Throughout the ride, you're shown how man has progressed through history and at the end, you're given the chance to shape the future. It sounds like a good idea on paper but I thought it was really lame. You're basically given a simple personality quiz and a cartoon plays in your vehicle showing the future you created. It wasn't as bad as people made it out to be but it wasn't such a great thing either. Seeing how I never really cared for Spaceship Earth in the first place, it doesn't bother me one bit.

Lieutenant Dan!

Gary Sinise rocks at the Candlelight Processional!

Merry Christmas!

Top 5 Fireworks Shows

The fireworks shows are some of the best things Disney has to offer. After a long day at the parks, you're treated to a magnificent spectacular, bringing together all the magic you experienced that day. These leave a lasting impression on those who see it. Some of them are alone worth the price of admission into the parks Throughout the years, I've been fortunate enough to see many of them. These are the best five that I've seen. No shows that I didn't see in person made the list, else Disneyland's amazing "Believe... in Holiday Magic" would be there.

5. Fantasy in the Sky - Magic Kingdom

This is probably a sentimental pick. Compared to the fireworks shows today, Fantasy in the Sky is dated. But it was the first Disney fireworks show I ever saw and that memory will always stay with me. My eyes still light up every time I hear its version of "The Second Star to the Right."

4. Magic, Music, and Mayhem - Magic Kingdom

This is the fireworks show from Disney's Pirate and Princess Party and I think they are the best Magic Kingdom fireworks around. Instead of using original music, it taps into beloved Disney ballads and the exciting soundtrack to Pirates of the Caribbean. It's also the only pure fireworks show that tells a story. The "Part of Your World" sequence alone is enough to make it my favorite at the Magic Kingdom, but throw in an insane pirate battle over the castle and it's just mind-blowing.

3. Fantasmic! - Disneyland

While Fantasmic! isn't a pure fireworks show, it definitely belongs in this category. What can be said about Fantasmic! that hasn't been said before? It's an incredible show bringing together fireworks, water effects, fire effects, characters, action, and a wonderful soundtrack. There are two versions of Fantasmic! I went with Disneyland's over the one at Disney-MGM Studios, since it's better and easier to see. Peter Pan and pirates beat out Pocahontas any day.

2. Remember... Dreams Come True - Disneyland

One word describes Remember... wow! Remember was the perfect show for Disneyland's 50th anniversary. It paid tribute to what Disneyland was through 50 years. Remember sent you on a journey through all of Disneyland's classic attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean, The Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Space Mountain, Star Tours, Indiana Jones, The Enchanted Tiki Room, and so many more. Through amazing effects tied to each attraction, you practically did everything in the park through the fireworks. And Tinkerbell's flight... pure magic!

1. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth (Holiday Version) - Epcot

The regular version of IlumiNations is not good enough to make this list, but its holiday version not only makes it but claims the top spot. The regular version hurts itself with a rather dull couple minutes of just globe projections. The holiday version tacks on an additional 5 minutes of fireworks that more than makes up for the dull part. At the end of the regular show, the voices of the world make one final wish and the most haunting rendition of "Let There Be Peace On Earth" is played. The sequence is so well done, it send shivers down your spine. The most amazing effect of the flying dove is created through lasers and you are treated to a giant crescendo of fireworks. While Remember has much better effects, IllumiNations trumps on it on the emotional factor. This show is absolutely chilling and must be seen.

A Look Back At Food & Wine

Well, Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival is officially over. It lasted from September 28 to today. With MGM's and Animal Kingdom's ridiculously short schedules and the Magic Kingdom's inconsistent times due to the Halloween Party, I found myself spending a lot of time at Epcot over the last month and a half. And with so much time spent there, I got to sample almost every booth at Food & Wine. There were only a handful that I didn't try. Here is a list of all the things I ate at Food & Wine.

Argentina

- Spicy Beef Empanada

- Grilled Beef with Chimichurri Sauce

Mexico

- Quesadilla con Chorizo

Ireland

- Boxty with Bacon Chips and Kerrygold Garlic and Fresh Herb Butter

China

- Pork Pot Stickers

India

- Samosa with Tamarind Sauce

- Coconut Indian Rice Pudding

South Africa

- Durban Spiced Chicken on a Skewer

Germany

- Debriziner Sausage with Sauerkraut in a Pretzel Roll

Italy

- Lasagna Al Forno

- Zuppa Inglese

Poland

- Kielbasa and Potato Pierogies

Hops & Barley Market

- New England Crab Cake with Barley-Lentil Salad

USA

- Main Lobster Roll

- California Strawberry Shortcake

Japan

- Spicy Tuna Roll

- Crispy Sukiyaki Beef Roll

Morocco

- Kefta

- Bastilla

Oklahoma - Three Sisters' Cafe

- Seared Buffalo with Scalloped Wild Onions

France

- Coupe de Sorbets Champagne, Framboise, & Chocolat Blanc

New Zealand

- Lamb Slider

Canada

- Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup

- Maple Custard topped with Almond Crumble

Greece

- Spanakopita

Peru

- Arroz con Pato

I think my favorite thing in the whole festival was the maple custard at Canada. OMG, it was divine! This was my first time taking part in Food & Wine and overall, it was a good experience. I gotta admit, Epcot's going to feel a lot emptier without all the booths. But the Christmas decorations are now going up. And those are even better... though you can't eat those.

Epcot has EDGE!

So today I found evidence that hockey and Disney DO go together! I was in Epcot, visiting the Canada pavilion, where I was met with quite the surprise... Rbk EDGE jerseys! Wow, that was my first time seeing an EDGE jersey in person. For those who don't know, EDGE jerseys are the brand new style of jerseys Rbk created for the NHL. They ditched the traditional baggy hockey sweaters (to much outrage) in favor of more form-fitting jerseys. This caused all 30 teams to make changes to their uniforms, some more drastic than others. I was pleasantly surprised to see them at Epcot. I doubted any place in Orlando sold them. Leave it to the Canadians to make me happy. Of course, they only had the six Canadian teams but it was cool to finally see them.



The store only had replica jerseys, no authentics. I don't think I've ever seen a store outside of the actual arena that sells authentics. The main difference is that the replica uses different materials. It doesn't have that stretch, waterproof material. And there's no fight strap. One difference I didn't notice until I finally saw them was that the replicas are actually cut differently at the bottom of the jersey. The authentics have rounded hemlines, which are weird and make the traditional horizontal stripes on a hockey jersey look really weird. The replicas, however, have a flat hemline with a triangular cut on the sides splitting the front and back, much like a polo shirt. Those make the horizontal lines on a replica look much nicer. I don't understand why the authentics couldn't do that.



Other than that, there aren't too many differences from the traditional hockey jersey. Yeah, it's more form fitting but they still look like hockey jerseys. I spent a good amount of time checking out the details of each one. I was happy to see the Ottawa Senators jersey, mainly because the Penguins one has the same style. I have a Penguins jersey on order and now I was able to see what it would look like before I got it. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens jerseys are still classics and I wouldn't mind getting one of those. But I'm getting my Penguins one first! I was surprised by the price. They were regularly priced. I thought Disney would jack up their prices like they do for everything else, but they didn't. The Vancouver Canucks jerseys weren't so bad in person. They've gotten a bad rap, mostly because of the "Vancouver" wordmark. But once you get past the wordmark, it's a nice jersey. Now I can't say the same for the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers. What the hell were they thinking? Calgary tried way too hard with their jersey. There's too much going on with that jersey, from the laces to the vertical stripes, to the weird ram effect on the back, to having the flags on the shoulders. The Oilers were the opposite. It's like they were halfway through designing their jersey and just quit. It looks like parts of it are missing! I feel sorry for the province of Alberta.

And that my friends has been your hockey fashion report.