What the heck?
How is it already Friday. Again?
I swear to you I go to be bed Monday night and suddenly the week flies by in a blur of homework, laundry, physical therapy, work, and last minute dinners and then BAM! Just like that it's 2 p.m. on a Friday afternoon and I'm sitting in my kitchen baking cookies and thinking "hmmm...guess I have some blogs to write."
Geesh.
So, how has your week been?
Mine has been just dandy.
[insert minor note of sarcasm]
No, really.
It's been a mix of good and bad.
Monday I was diagnosed with bronchitis.
Again.
This should not come as a surprise to anyone who knows me.
I will get bronchitis MANY times again between now and May.
I really think moving to Florida would alleviate this.
Now to convince my husband of the same.
Monday was also the day that I applied to the Walt Disney World Moms Panel.
Again.
For the sixth time.
But hey, sixth time is the charm, right?
In all seriousness though....this Moms Panel has been a dream of mine since September 2007 when they first announced the panel's creation. Over the years I have been lucky enough to build incredible friendships with people I've met during the annual application process. And back in 2009 I was lucky enough to move on to "round 2" ... and if I'm being totally honest here, I'd really like to make it that far (and beyond) this year. We shall see what happens.
As the week comes to a close, I'm also nearing the end of my physical therapy for that pesky Achilles tendon issue. Long story short - the PT is not working. I'm still having pain. And I still can't walk for an extended period of time without pain and swelling. So...I go back to the foot doctor next week and frankly, I'm dreading it. He said he would consider putting me in a cast if the PT didn't work.
Really?
Me. In a cast?
For several weeks?
No way, no how.
We'll see about that.
So yeah that just about sums up my week, if you throw in some random stuff like "what's for dinner tonight?", the job (that really doesn't suck so much this week), cleaning out the "plastic container cupboard" (I had to before "Hoarders" showed up at my house!), and other fun things like that.
Ah, the fishbowl...it's not always exciting, but I just keep swimming.....
Showing posts with label Mickey Moms. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mickey Moms. Show all posts
10.08.2011
Still wishing on a star
OK.
Where to begin?
How about the beginning.
Waaaay back in September 2007 I found a little blurb on the Walt Disney World website announcing the Walt Disney World Moms Panel .. it was going to be a group of "moms" whose passion for Disney made them the go-to Disney vacation planning expert in their family/neighborhood/office/city.
Of course, I applied.
A few weeks later I received an email saying "thanks for applying" but I wasn't chosen to move on. Repeat the same events for September 2008....with the same results. Both times I was bummed out, but I knew there would be another chance.
In 2009, just as the Disney online community seemed to explode, I again applied for the Moms Panel. This time, I made it to Round 2. I was thrilled. Elated. On cloud 9. I was thisclose to realizing my dream of being a member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel.
During this time I was also becoming friends with some of the most incredible people I know ... we had connected through our love for Disney, but the connection was so much deeper. I count these people as my confidants, my sounding boards, my cheerleaders, but most importantly, my FRIENDS.
As anyone who reads this blog knows, I did not make it past Round 2 for the Moms Panel that year. I was, in a word, devastated. I really, truly felt like that was my year to make the panel. But, it was not meant to be.
Last year when September rolled around, it was once again time to apply for the Moms Panel. As much as I held out hope that I'd receive the coveted Round 2 email, I had resigned myself to the fact that my answers were not worthy of moving past the first round. And I was right. That being said, I was still crushed when I received the dreaded "thanks but no thanks" email.
This year I went into the application process with a renewed sense of faith, trust and pixie dust. I was ready to give it my all...and I really, truly thought I did. I let my love of Disney shine through in my answers..and yet, it still wasn't enough.
This afternoon we were shocked to discover that the Round 2 emails were going out for the 2012 Moms Panel search. On a Saturday. And so, I glued myself to my computer...simultaneously checking my email, Facebook, Twitter, and the DIS boards for about 90 minutes.
This year I was hoping, wishing, and hoping some more that I would at least make it to Round 2. That my love and passion for Disney would shine through in my 100 word answers. That I would have a chance.
That was not what happened. At 3:46 p.m. I received the "thank you" email. I knew as soon as I saw the subject line that my Moms Panel dreams were dashed once again.
As disappointed as I was last year, this year is different for some reason. I am shockingly more disappointed and sad this year. It's not a feeling of rejection, it's more a feeling of "what in the world am I doing/saying wrong?" and "why not me?"
Yes, I guess I am having a little pity party over here for myself.
This Moms Panel dream ... it's a big dream.
It's magical.
And it's wonderful.
And for another year, it's just a dream.
And quite honestly, it's a hard pill to swallow this time around.
I'm a firm believer in "if you dream it, you can do it"...but right now I have to wonder if maybe my dream is just unattainable. What if it's not a "realistic" dream, but is instead something will forever remain just out of reach? I know some of this is just me being cynical at this moment, but it's hard to feel completely positive tonight.
I want this so very much.
More than I've wanted anything in a very long time.
Maybe I want it too much?
Is it possible to dream too much?
To think the nearly impossible is almost possible?
I don't know.
What I do know is at this very moment MY dream, my Disney Moms Panel dream, is over for another year and I don't quite know what to do about it.
For the time being, I'm going to cry some more tears and then drown my sorrows in many Halloween Oreos.
And maybe next week, or the week after that, I'll allow myself to dream about the Moms Panel once again.
Where to begin?
How about the beginning.
Waaaay back in September 2007 I found a little blurb on the Walt Disney World website announcing the Walt Disney World Moms Panel .. it was going to be a group of "moms" whose passion for Disney made them the go-to Disney vacation planning expert in their family/neighborhood/office/city.
Of course, I applied.
A few weeks later I received an email saying "thanks for applying" but I wasn't chosen to move on. Repeat the same events for September 2008....with the same results. Both times I was bummed out, but I knew there would be another chance.
In 2009, just as the Disney online community seemed to explode, I again applied for the Moms Panel. This time, I made it to Round 2. I was thrilled. Elated. On cloud 9. I was thisclose to realizing my dream of being a member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel.
During this time I was also becoming friends with some of the most incredible people I know ... we had connected through our love for Disney, but the connection was so much deeper. I count these people as my confidants, my sounding boards, my cheerleaders, but most importantly, my FRIENDS.
As anyone who reads this blog knows, I did not make it past Round 2 for the Moms Panel that year. I was, in a word, devastated. I really, truly felt like that was my year to make the panel. But, it was not meant to be.
Last year when September rolled around, it was once again time to apply for the Moms Panel. As much as I held out hope that I'd receive the coveted Round 2 email, I had resigned myself to the fact that my answers were not worthy of moving past the first round. And I was right. That being said, I was still crushed when I received the dreaded "thanks but no thanks" email.
This year I went into the application process with a renewed sense of faith, trust and pixie dust. I was ready to give it my all...and I really, truly thought I did. I let my love of Disney shine through in my answers..and yet, it still wasn't enough.
This afternoon we were shocked to discover that the Round 2 emails were going out for the 2012 Moms Panel search. On a Saturday. And so, I glued myself to my computer...simultaneously checking my email, Facebook, Twitter, and the DIS boards for about 90 minutes.
This year I was hoping, wishing, and hoping some more that I would at least make it to Round 2. That my love and passion for Disney would shine through in my 100 word answers. That I would have a chance.
That was not what happened. At 3:46 p.m. I received the "thank you" email. I knew as soon as I saw the subject line that my Moms Panel dreams were dashed once again.
As disappointed as I was last year, this year is different for some reason. I am shockingly more disappointed and sad this year. It's not a feeling of rejection, it's more a feeling of "what in the world am I doing/saying wrong?" and "why not me?"
Yes, I guess I am having a little pity party over here for myself.
This Moms Panel dream ... it's a big dream.
It's magical.
And it's wonderful.
And for another year, it's just a dream.
And quite honestly, it's a hard pill to swallow this time around.
I'm a firm believer in "if you dream it, you can do it"...but right now I have to wonder if maybe my dream is just unattainable. What if it's not a "realistic" dream, but is instead something will forever remain just out of reach? I know some of this is just me being cynical at this moment, but it's hard to feel completely positive tonight.
I want this so very much.
More than I've wanted anything in a very long time.
Maybe I want it too much?
Is it possible to dream too much?
To think the nearly impossible is almost possible?
I don't know.
What I do know is at this very moment MY dream, my Disney Moms Panel dream, is over for another year and I don't quite know what to do about it.
For the time being, I'm going to cry some more tears and then drown my sorrows in many Halloween Oreos.
And maybe next week, or the week after that, I'll allow myself to dream about the Moms Panel once again.
9.14.2011
9.12.2011
Faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust
If I had a fairy godmother I'd be texting, tweeting and sending her Facebook messages all day today - asking for as much pixie dust as she could spare.Today is THE day.
Applications for the 2012 Walt Disney World Moms Panel open at 9 a.m.
And yes, I am applying again.
Just as I have applied every year since 2007.
This is my dream.
I love Disney.
I love the magic, the happiness it brings to so many people.
I love the feeling of "being home" that I get every single time I step on Main Street and see Cinderella's Castle.
I love planning Disney vacations for my family. And my friends. And friends of friends. And even total strangers.
And so, once again I'm tossing my Mickey ears into the ring, crossing my fingers and remembering - a dream is a wish your heart makes.
Best of luck to all 2012 Moms Panel applicants!
8.17.2011
Wordless Wednesday - Hidden Mickey cupcake
I made marble cupcakes for my mother in law's birthday. When I took them out of the oven, this "hidden Mickey" was front and center on one of the cupcakes. I laughed, took a photo, asked for a "yes or no" vote on Twitter and well...the "yes" votes won.
My cupcake hidden Mickey.
10.16.2010
I'm no Pollyanna but...
OK, here's the truth.
This week was a real downer.
I won't lie.
My mood has been 'down' for the last five days.
I have done my best to smile and at least 'look' happy.
There is a method to my madness.
There is a reason I am staying upbeat.
I don't want to be negative.
There is NO reason to be negative.
I'm not angry.
Or bitter.
I don't see anything unfair about it.
Choices were made.
And quite honestly, it's time to move on.
Seriously.
Enough is enough.
I need to be positive.
I need to think good things.
I need to be surrounded by positive thoughts.
And so, I have picked myself up, sprinkled some pixie dust around, and I am moving forward.
I don't want to dwell on it anymore.
I don't want to wonder 'why' or 'what if'.
I don't want to be mentioned in any more lists.
I just want to move on.
And that's exactly what I'm doing.
Watch out world.
Here I come.
This week was a real downer.
I won't lie.
My mood has been 'down' for the last five days.
I have done my best to smile and at least 'look' happy.
There is a method to my madness.
There is a reason I am staying upbeat.
I don't want to be negative.
There is NO reason to be negative.
I'm not angry.
Or bitter.
I don't see anything unfair about it.
Choices were made.
And quite honestly, it's time to move on.
Seriously.
Enough is enough.
I need to be positive.
I need to think good things.
I need to be surrounded by positive thoughts.
And so, I have picked myself up, sprinkled some pixie dust around, and I am moving forward.
I don't want to dwell on it anymore.
I don't want to wonder 'why' or 'what if'.
I don't want to be mentioned in any more lists.
I just want to move on.
And that's exactly what I'm doing.
Watch out world.
Here I come.
10.13.2010
A dream is a wish your heart makes
Cinderella has always been my favorite animated Disney movie.
My love for the movie goes beyond the glass slippers, the fairy godmother, the handsome prince, and the beautiful dress.
I love the movie because the theme speaks to me - never give up on your dreams.
For the last four years, every September, my dream has been to be chosen as a member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel.
Last year I was almost there.
My dream almost came true.
Last year I made it to the second round, only to have my dreams dashed when I didn't make it to round three.
But in the course of last year's application process I met so many amazing people - and these people are now my friends, my confidants and I couldn't imagine my life without them in it.
Fast foward to this September.
In the early morning hours of September 13, I sat at my computer answering three 100-word essay questions. I tried to explain why I love helping people plan trips to Disney and what my favorite 'planning tools' were. I tried to convey my love for Disney in 300 words or less.
And then I hoped and wished, and yes, even prayed that those questions had an extra sprinkle of pixie dust.
Yesterday, after four weeks of waiting and hoping and imagining 'what if', I found out that I would not be advancing to the second round.
My dream of the Moms Panel was over.
And unlike the movies there is no fairy godmother to change the outcome.
There are no talking mice who can steal a key to the Disney mainframe and add my name to the 'congratulations' e-mail list.
It is what it is.
And quiet honestly, I am devastated.
I cried last night.
I have cried today.
And I will likely cry tomorrow.
I am not bitter.
I am not angry.
Quite simply, I am just sad.
To me, the Moms Panel is more than just a "wow that would be so cool!" thing to do.
It's more than a 'bucket list' item to be crossed off.
And while this setback is not the end of the world, it does matter to me.
It matters more than most people know or understand.
My love for Disney does not define me, but it is something that I hold very near and dear to my heart.
And right now, that Disney heart is a little broken.
The Moms Panel is my dream and I want to see it come true.
The Moms Panel is MY glass slipper - and this year I was hoping it would fit.
However, the clock has struck midnight, the slipper didn't fit, and the ball is over for me.
For now, I can only hope that perhaps there will be another ball next year.
And maybe, just maybe, the slipper will fit.
Because after all, a dream is a wish your heart makes.
My love for the movie goes beyond the glass slippers, the fairy godmother, the handsome prince, and the beautiful dress.
I love the movie because the theme speaks to me - never give up on your dreams.
For the last four years, every September, my dream has been to be chosen as a member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel.
Last year I was almost there.
My dream almost came true.
Last year I made it to the second round, only to have my dreams dashed when I didn't make it to round three.
But in the course of last year's application process I met so many amazing people - and these people are now my friends, my confidants and I couldn't imagine my life without them in it.
Fast foward to this September.
In the early morning hours of September 13, I sat at my computer answering three 100-word essay questions. I tried to explain why I love helping people plan trips to Disney and what my favorite 'planning tools' were. I tried to convey my love for Disney in 300 words or less.
And then I hoped and wished, and yes, even prayed that those questions had an extra sprinkle of pixie dust.
Yesterday, after four weeks of waiting and hoping and imagining 'what if', I found out that I would not be advancing to the second round.
My dream of the Moms Panel was over.
And unlike the movies there is no fairy godmother to change the outcome.
There are no talking mice who can steal a key to the Disney mainframe and add my name to the 'congratulations' e-mail list.
It is what it is.
And quiet honestly, I am devastated.
I cried last night.
I have cried today.
And I will likely cry tomorrow.
I am not bitter.
I am not angry.
Quite simply, I am just sad.
To me, the Moms Panel is more than just a "wow that would be so cool!" thing to do.
It's more than a 'bucket list' item to be crossed off.
And while this setback is not the end of the world, it does matter to me.
It matters more than most people know or understand.
My love for Disney does not define me, but it is something that I hold very near and dear to my heart.
And right now, that Disney heart is a little broken.
The Moms Panel is my dream and I want to see it come true.
The Moms Panel is MY glass slipper - and this year I was hoping it would fit.
However, the clock has struck midnight, the slipper didn't fit, and the ball is over for me.
For now, I can only hope that perhaps there will be another ball next year.
And maybe, just maybe, the slipper will fit.
Because after all, a dream is a wish your heart makes.
10.06.2010
A totally epic Disney weekend
Let me say this first - whoever came up with the hashtag #epicoctober2010 was genius.
Why?
Because last weekend was epic.
Amazing.
Incredible.
And, four days later, I'm still exhausted (eight hours of sleep over a weekend will do that to a girl).
A recap of the weekend.....
Last Friday I arrived early at Detroit Metro, giddy with excitement because I was flying to Orlando at 7:25 p.m. .... and then at 4:30 p.m. Delta did what Delta does best - they messed with my travel plans. For some reason they decided to delay my flight until 9 p.m. ... meaning I wouldn't arrive in Orlando until 11:30 p.m.
I couldn't get on an earlier flight because it was oversold by EIGHT PEOPLE. Yes, Delta loves to fly...and it shows in the worst way. Because really, why just oversell a flight by one person when you can oversell it by 8? Way to be a go-getter, Delta.
After much waiting and hand wringing and tears .... I landed in Orlando at 11:30 at night and nearly RAN to luggage claim where my friends Jackie and JL were waiting.
Our plans for a 'girl's night out' had been dashed by Delta...but I was in Orlando and that's all that mattered! I was 'home' and with dear friends.
After a mere 4 1/2 (maybe 5) hours of sleep, I was up at 6 a.m. Saturday reading tweets from many more friends who were running the Halloween 5K at the Magic Kingdom. I wasn't tired...I was thrilled because I was going to Epcot and it was going to be a great day!
Arriving at Epcot at 9 a.m., I knew I had about 15 hours to fit more fun and friends than might be possible.
Some highlights:
- Finally meeting Kristin at the WDW Radio meet up .... we've been friends onTwitter since last year's Moms Panel application process and it was wonderful to finally meet in person!
- Meeting so manyDisney friends from Twitter ... I won't try to list you all here...but here's a pic of a few of you:
Tweet, tweet -- a group of Disney Twitter friends!
- Soarin'. Enough said.
- FINALLY meeting two of the nicest, most magicalDisney friends - Dean (@DisneyDean) and Frank (@DisneyFrankness). I smile each time I think of you and cannot wait to see you both again!
And if all of that wasn't enough, let's chat about the Disney Moms Panel meet - the reason I made plans to spend a mere 34 hours in Orlando.
The Moms Panel meet up.
Um, where to start? What to say?
There aren't words to explain how incredible it was to meet these people who embody the magic and wonder ofDisney .
I saw friends from the panel whom I had not seen since theDisney Social Media Moms Celebration, and I met many panelists who I only 'knew' from Twitter or via our adventures last year during the Moms Panel search.
And. It. Was. Magical.
Me, JL, Jackie, and MaryJo .. faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust...
The hour-long meet seemed to fly by and I know I didn't get a chance to say 'hi' to everyone. But I walked out of the meet on cloud 9.
And I could say more....but I'll leave it at that.
Cloud 9.
After the meet, JL and I walked (ran?) around World Showcase (it was the Food & Wine Festival, after all)...but sadly the booths were so crowded that we didn't stop to eat much. I say "much" because I did manage to find a short line in Morocco so I grabbed a kefta sandwich.
We soon decided to Monorail to the Magic Kingdom. And promptly got stuck. On the Monorail. For about 15 minutes. But we did make it to the MK - just in time for the Main Street Electric Parade! This parade is one of my best childhoodDisney memories...so to see it again and hear the music....it was joyous.
My goals at the MK were this:
- See Don and Mary. Meet Chris and John. Ride Pirates and Haunted Mansion. See 'Wishes'. Shop.
I am happy to report that I met all those goals and a few more. I saw many other friends at the MK, was able to ride the TTA and was 'forced' to ride Space Mountain (thank you, JL).
By 11 p.m. I was exhausted. My feet were throbbing. And it was time to call it a night. My epic nearly-15-hour day in two parks was coming to a close. I shed a few tears earlier in the night during 'Wishes' ... but I felt OK as I left the MK. I wasn't sad - there were too many happy memories made that day to feel sadness. And I know I will be back soon.
To everyone I met/laughed with/hugged last weekend - thank you for making it the most magical day aDisney girl could have.
I adore you all.
And, I'll see you real soon.
Why?
Because last weekend was epic.
Amazing.
Incredible.
And, four days later, I'm still exhausted (eight hours of sleep over a weekend will do that to a girl).
A recap of the weekend.....
Last Friday I arrived early at Detroit Metro, giddy with excitement because I was flying to Orlando at 7:25 p.m. .... and then at 4:30 p.m. Delta did what Delta does best - they messed with my travel plans. For some reason they decided to delay my flight until 9 p.m. ... meaning I wouldn't arrive in Orlando until 11:30 p.m.
I couldn't get on an earlier flight because it was oversold by EIGHT PEOPLE. Yes, Delta loves to fly...and it shows in the worst way. Because really, why just oversell a flight by one person when you can oversell it by 8? Way to be a go-getter, Delta.
After much waiting and hand wringing and tears .... I landed in Orlando at 11:30 at night and nearly RAN to luggage claim where my friends Jackie and JL were waiting.
Our plans for a 'girl's night out' had been dashed by Delta...but I was in Orlando and that's all that mattered! I was 'home' and with dear friends.
After a mere 4 1/2 (maybe 5) hours of sleep, I was up at 6 a.m. Saturday reading tweets from many more friends who were running the Halloween 5K at the Magic Kingdom. I wasn't tired...I was thrilled because I was going to Epcot and it was going to be a great day!
Arriving at Epcot at 9 a.m., I knew I had about 15 hours to fit more fun and friends than might be possible.
Some highlights:
- Finally meeting Kristin at the WDW Radio meet up .... we've been friends on
- Meeting so many
Tweet, tweet -- a group of - Soarin'. Enough said.
- FINALLY meeting two of the nicest, most magical
And if all of that wasn't enough, let's chat about the Disney Moms Panel meet - the reason I made plans to spend a mere 34 hours in Orlando.
The Moms Panel meet up.
Um, where to start? What to say?
There aren't words to explain how incredible it was to meet these people who embody the magic and wonder of
I saw friends from the panel whom I had not seen since the
And. It. Was. Magical.
Me, JL, Jackie, and MaryJo .. faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust...The hour-long meet seemed to fly by and I know I didn't get a chance to say 'hi' to everyone. But I walked out of the meet on cloud 9.
And I could say more....but I'll leave it at that.
Cloud 9.
We soon decided to Monorail to the Magic Kingdom. And promptly got stuck. On the Monorail. For about 15 minutes. But we did make it to the MK - just in time for the Main Street Electric Parade! This parade is one of my best childhood
My goals at the MK were this:
- See Don and Mary. Meet Chris and John. Ride Pirates and Haunted Mansion. See 'Wishes'. Shop.
I am happy to report that I met all those goals and a few more. I saw many other friends at the MK, was able to ride the TTA and was 'forced' to ride Space Mountain (thank you, JL).
By 11 p.m. I was exhausted. My feet were throbbing. And it was time to call it a night. My epic nearly-15-hour day in two parks was coming to a close. I shed a few tears earlier in the night during 'Wishes' ... but I felt OK as I left the MK. I wasn't sad - there were too many happy memories made that day to feel sadness. And I know I will be back soon.
To everyone I met/laughed with/hugged last weekend - thank you for making it the most magical day a
I adore you all.
And, I'll see you real soon.
9.22.2010
Where did this month go?!?!?!
Oh my good gracious.
Where in the world has the month of September gone?
My last post was September 6th.
Today is September 22nd.
I suck at blogging lately.
HA!
So.....
What have YOU been up to?
Me?
The "big" news is this - I applied for the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Again.
This is the fourth time I've applied.
Last year....I made it to the second round.
This year I am hoping. And praying. And asking for tons of pixie dust to be sprinkled on my application so maybe, just maybe, I might be one of the lucky few who make the panel.
I dream about Moms Panel.
No really.
I do.
I love Disney.
I love helping people plan their Disney vacations.
To be able to combine my love for Disney with my love of planning vacations...well that would just be beyond magical.
I try to explain my love for Disney and sometimes people 'get it' and sometimes they don't.
If you want to try to understand, read this post.
I am doing my best to remain positive and not 'stress' too much -- the answers are in and it is totally out of my control.
(But....a little bit of good luck and pixie dust would be helpful!)
Moving right along with the Disney theme....
Next Friday I am flying to Orlando for a whirlwind weekend at Disney.
Well, it's not really a weekend.
It's more like a DAY! I fly in Friday night and fly out Sunday morning and in between those two flights I will be having an EPIC time at Epcot (and other locations) with so many of my amazing, wonderful, incredible Disney friends.
I can't wait.
I am beyond excited.
And maybe, must maybe....some of the Disney magic will 'rub off' on my next weekend and in a few weeks I'll hear the good news that I made it to the next round in the Moms Panel application process.
After all...all we need is faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust!
Where in the world has the month of September gone?
My last post was September 6th.
Today is September 22nd.
I suck at blogging lately.
HA!
So.....
What have YOU been up to?
Me?
The "big" news is this - I applied for the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Again.
This is the fourth time I've applied.
Last year....I made it to the second round.
This year I am hoping. And praying. And asking for tons of pixie dust to be sprinkled on my application so maybe, just maybe, I might be one of the lucky few who make the panel.
I dream about Moms Panel.
No really.
I do.
I love Disney.
I love helping people plan their Disney vacations.
To be able to combine my love for Disney with my love of planning vacations...well that would just be beyond magical.
I try to explain my love for Disney and sometimes people 'get it' and sometimes they don't.
If you want to try to understand, read this post.
I am doing my best to remain positive and not 'stress' too much -- the answers are in and it is totally out of my control.
(But....a little bit of good luck and pixie dust would be helpful!)
Moving right along with the Disney theme....
Next Friday I am flying to Orlando for a whirlwind weekend at Disney.
Well, it's not really a weekend.
It's more like a DAY! I fly in Friday night and fly out Sunday morning and in between those two flights I will be having an EPIC time at Epcot (and other locations) with so many of my amazing, wonderful, incredible Disney friends.
I can't wait.
I am beyond excited.
And maybe, must maybe....some of the Disney magic will 'rub off' on my next weekend and in a few weeks I'll hear the good news that I made it to the next round in the Moms Panel application process.
After all...all we need is faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust!
3.18.2010
Hoops Madness!
So, it's 'that' time of year again .... March Madness.
The Big Dance.
You know...the NCAA basketball tournament.
How many of you just stopped reading?
Please, come back.
I promise this isn't going to be an analysis of brackets, Cinderella stories and whatnot.
After all, this IS me writing.
And...I am not an athlete (for those of you who know me, I am certain this is a shocking revelation. Or not.).
I don't really like sports.
I never played 'real' sports.
I golf.
I figure skate.
I'm a Browns and Indians fan.
See? I really don't know much about sports.
But every March I fill out a bracket and pick a national champion.
Why?
Honestly, I have no idea.
It started several years ago when Kevin and I were invited to be in a bracket group/pool.
And, it's fun....even if I don't really have much invested in my choices.
I don't pick teams based on their record over the course of the season.
Nope.
I pick teams based on relevant things -- such as "would I like to live where that college is located?" (ex: Florida), or "is that team my alma mater?" (ex: Ohio University this year!), or even more relevant "does that team have a cool mascot?" (No really...sometimes THIS is what I base my decision on!)
And so, this year I am once again in a bracket group - the "Disney Park Fanatics" created by Joel K., one of this year's Disney Mom's Panel dads. (You can find his blog, ZipaDeeDooDad, here!). There are 41 people in the group and I'm pretty sure I'll end up near 41st place. Heck, Florida and Notre Dame have already lost today and I had both of them going into the 2nd round!
And, I have Ohio University BEATING Georgetown tonight.
As if that's going to happen.
(What? I'm being realistic. I LOVE my OU Bobcats and would LOVE to see them beat G-town...but c'mon. It's a #14 seed MAC team against a #3 seed whatever-conference-team*!) Granted if OU did win, I'm probably the ONLY person in the group who picked them...but...it's not going to happen.
In case you're wondering my final four is: Ohio State v. Kentucky and Syracuse v. Duke.
The championship game: Syracuse v. Kentucky.
And, for my brother-in-law, I have Kentucky winning it all. (You're welcome, Jon).
Are you ready for some....basketball!?!?!
*Yeah, I have no idea what conference Georgetown represents. And really, I don't care. I could have Googled it...but whatever...it's not relevant to me.)
The Big Dance.
You know...the NCAA basketball tournament.
How many of you just stopped reading?
Please, come back.
I promise this isn't going to be an analysis of brackets, Cinderella stories and whatnot.
After all, this IS me writing.
And...I am not an athlete (for those of you who know me, I am certain this is a shocking revelation. Or not.).
I don't really like sports.
I never played 'real' sports.
I golf.
I figure skate.
I'm a Browns and Indians fan.
See? I really don't know much about sports.
But every March I fill out a bracket and pick a national champion.
Why?
Honestly, I have no idea.
It started several years ago when Kevin and I were invited to be in a bracket group/pool.
And, it's fun....even if I don't really have much invested in my choices.
I don't pick teams based on their record over the course of the season.
Nope.
I pick teams based on relevant things -- such as "would I like to live where that college is located?" (ex: Florida), or "is that team my alma mater?" (ex: Ohio University this year!), or even more relevant "does that team have a cool mascot?" (No really...sometimes THIS is what I base my decision on!)
And so, this year I am once again in a bracket group - the "Disney Park Fanatics" created by Joel K., one of this year's Disney Mom's Panel dads. (You can find his blog, ZipaDeeDooDad, here!). There are 41 people in the group and I'm pretty sure I'll end up near 41st place. Heck, Florida and Notre Dame have already lost today and I had both of them going into the 2nd round!
And, I have Ohio University BEATING Georgetown tonight.
As if that's going to happen.
(What? I'm being realistic. I LOVE my OU Bobcats and would LOVE to see them beat G-town...but c'mon. It's a #14 seed MAC team against a #3 seed whatever-conference-team*!) Granted if OU did win, I'm probably the ONLY person in the group who picked them...but...it's not going to happen.
In case you're wondering my final four is: Ohio State v. Kentucky and Syracuse v. Duke.
The championship game: Syracuse v. Kentucky.
And, for my brother-in-law, I have Kentucky winning it all. (You're welcome, Jon).
Are you ready for some....basketball!?!?!
*Yeah, I have no idea what conference Georgetown represents. And really, I don't care. I could have Googled it...but whatever...it's not relevant to me.)
11.11.2009
Just keep dreaming
I'm in a bit of a funk today. I woke up in a mood - which was carried over from last night's bad mood...and I'm trying to snap out of it and cheer up, but nothing seems to be helping.
Perhaps blogging will be the cure.
I'm just BLAH. Blergh. Super blah.
And I think part of it is the realization that my dream of being part of the Disney Mom's Panel really is OVER for the year. I mean, I knew that there was no hope two weeks ago when I received the 'no' e-mail ... but you know when you want something SO BAD that you keep hoping against hope that a miracle will happen? Yes, I know it's totally unrealistic and silly, but you'd have to be in my shoes to understand I guess.
Yesterday afternoon the 2010 Mom's Panel was named ... and it's a great group of moms and dads (yes, there are dads on the Mom's Panel...four of them to be exact!). I know many of the new panelists through Twitter, Facebook and the DIS Boards and they are all going to be wonderful, amazing, incredible panelists and I am SO HAPPY for them!
And yet, at the same time I'm a bit sad too.
This was the first year where I knew some of the moms and dads who might be on the panel. The first year where I felt a connection to these people....I was cheering them on from the sidelines throughout the entire process. And now that the process is over and my friends are realizing their dream, it's a bittersweet reality. My dreams were dashed a few weeks ago and I suppose I'm still coming to terms with that.
It's difficult not to wonder .... What did I say wrong in my essay? What didn't I write that I should have written? Should I have focused on something else? Why not me?
And I know there are no answers to those questions. And it does no good to wonder 'why?'. I think what I need is just a little time to get over the heartbreak and disappointment. [To ease my heartache, I am now focusing on the mini-trip the Kevin and I are taking to WDW in January. I'm in full planning mode....and that's making me happy!]
So for now, I'm going to keep dreaming and wishing and maybe next year my dream will come true.
To all the new Disney Moms and Dads:
I cannot wait to follow your adventures during the next 12 months....and I hope to meet some of you in person next December during the training session for the 2011 panel ... because as we all know
When you wish upon a star
So from now until next fall, I will be wishing upon every star I see for my dream to come true.
Perhaps blogging will be the cure.
I'm just BLAH. Blergh. Super blah.
And I think part of it is the realization that my dream of being part of the Disney Mom's Panel really is OVER for the year. I mean, I knew that there was no hope two weeks ago when I received the 'no' e-mail ... but you know when you want something SO BAD that you keep hoping against hope that a miracle will happen? Yes, I know it's totally unrealistic and silly, but you'd have to be in my shoes to understand I guess.
Yesterday afternoon the 2010 Mom's Panel was named ... and it's a great group of moms and dads (yes, there are dads on the Mom's Panel...four of them to be exact!). I know many of the new panelists through Twitter, Facebook and the DIS Boards and they are all going to be wonderful, amazing, incredible panelists and I am SO HAPPY for them!
And yet, at the same time I'm a bit sad too.
This was the first year where I knew some of the moms and dads who might be on the panel. The first year where I felt a connection to these people....I was cheering them on from the sidelines throughout the entire process. And now that the process is over and my friends are realizing their dream, it's a bittersweet reality. My dreams were dashed a few weeks ago and I suppose I'm still coming to terms with that.
It's difficult not to wonder .... What did I say wrong in my essay? What didn't I write that I should have written? Should I have focused on something else? Why not me?
And I know there are no answers to those questions. And it does no good to wonder 'why?'. I think what I need is just a little time to get over the heartbreak and disappointment. [To ease my heartache, I am now focusing on the mini-trip the Kevin and I are taking to WDW in January. I'm in full planning mode....and that's making me happy!]
So for now, I'm going to keep dreaming and wishing and maybe next year my dream will come true.
To all the new Disney Moms and Dads:
I cannot wait to follow your adventures during the next 12 months....and I hope to meet some of you in person next December during the training session for the 2011 panel ... because as we all know
When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires
Will come to you
So from now until next fall, I will be wishing upon every star I see for my dream to come true.
10.28.2009
Reflections on a magical two weeks
For two weeks I was on cloud nine.
For two weeks there was the possibility of 'what if'.
For two weeks there was that dream.
For two weeks I was THIS CLOSE and hoping to get closer to my dream.
And now, I can only look toward next year.
Yesterday at 2 p.m. I received my 'you did not move on to Round 3' e-mail for the Disney Mom's Panel.
I have cried. A lot. I have wondered 'why?' and 'what didn't I say that needed to be said in 100 words or less?' And I just don't have the answer to that.
I know several of the moms and dads who did make it to Round 3 and they will be amazing representatives of all things Disney. And I am thrilled for them.
But I am still sad. And that's OK.
I've wanted to be a member of the Mom's Panel since it started. This was the third year that I've applied and the first time that I made it to Round 2. So maybe next year I can make it to the next round. Or maybe even to the panel. This year just wasn't "my" year.
The first year I applied (2007), I didn't say much about it. I sent in my answers and then we took the kids to Walt Disney World for a week. A few weeks later I received my 'rejection' e-mail and my invitation to join the Mickey Mom's Club and I was OK with it. When I applied last year I had more hope that I had might have a chance. But again, when I received that 'no' e-mail I felt OK.
This year feels different. I think part of the whole 'this feels different' is the fact that I'm now part of this big, wonderful, amazing and magical online Disney community through Twitter, Facebook and the DIS Boards.
The group of people whom I affectionately call "my Disney friends" are just that. Friends. We supported each other as we submitted our initial applications. And when the second round finalists were announced we cheered those who moved on and virtually hugged those who didn't. Many of us 'hung out' in the 'waiting room' of the DIS Boards before and after the second round was announced, sharing stories and having fun. Monday night a few of us on Twitter even formed the #TwitPack -- our own Disney "Rat Pack" of 3rd round hopefuls/2nd round finalists. A few of those friends moved on to round 3!
Yesterday as the first 'no' e-mails were sent out we rallied together and supported each other, as most of us did not move on to the 3rd round. There were so many Disney friends sending 'hugs' and 'condolences' and messages of support -- it was overwhelming. Some made me laugh, some made me cry. But all were wonderful. And then around 4:30 when the 'you made it to Round 3' e-mails were sent we celebrated together.
One of the best tweets from a Disney friend was by @mouseofzen who writes Disney haiku:
@mouseofzen: RAISE THOSE MICKEY EARS! | FOUGHT A HELL OF A BATTLE | AND WON LIFETIME FRIENDS! #twitpack #disney
And so, I will be known (for at least the next year) as a Round 2 Finalist for the 2010 Mom's Panel. And I'm OK with with. Not making it to Round 3 is a minor bump in the road to the Mom's Panel. I can and will apply for the Mom's Panel again next year. And maybe, just maybe, I'll have enough luck and pixie dust to make it to the next round and ultimately to the panel. But for now, I'll continue giving Disney tips and researching my next Disney trip and loving everything about The Mouse.
And remember:
When you wish upon a star
For two weeks there was the possibility of 'what if'.
For two weeks there was that dream.
For two weeks I was THIS CLOSE and hoping to get closer to my dream.
And now, I can only look toward next year.
Yesterday at 2 p.m. I received my 'you did not move on to Round 3' e-mail for the Disney Mom's Panel.
I have cried. A lot. I have wondered 'why?' and 'what didn't I say that needed to be said in 100 words or less?' And I just don't have the answer to that.
I know several of the moms and dads who did make it to Round 3 and they will be amazing representatives of all things Disney. And I am thrilled for them.
But I am still sad. And that's OK.
I've wanted to be a member of the Mom's Panel since it started. This was the third year that I've applied and the first time that I made it to Round 2. So maybe next year I can make it to the next round. Or maybe even to the panel. This year just wasn't "my" year.
The first year I applied (2007), I didn't say much about it. I sent in my answers and then we took the kids to Walt Disney World for a week. A few weeks later I received my 'rejection' e-mail and my invitation to join the Mickey Mom's Club and I was OK with it. When I applied last year I had more hope that I had might have a chance. But again, when I received that 'no' e-mail I felt OK.
This year feels different. I think part of the whole 'this feels different' is the fact that I'm now part of this big, wonderful, amazing and magical online Disney community through Twitter, Facebook and the DIS Boards.
The group of people whom I affectionately call "my Disney friends" are just that. Friends. We supported each other as we submitted our initial applications. And when the second round finalists were announced we cheered those who moved on and virtually hugged those who didn't. Many of us 'hung out' in the 'waiting room' of the DIS Boards before and after the second round was announced, sharing stories and having fun. Monday night a few of us on Twitter even formed the #TwitPack -- our own Disney "Rat Pack" of 3rd round hopefuls/2nd round finalists. A few of those friends moved on to round 3!
Yesterday as the first 'no' e-mails were sent out we rallied together and supported each other, as most of us did not move on to the 3rd round. There were so many Disney friends sending 'hugs' and 'condolences' and messages of support -- it was overwhelming. Some made me laugh, some made me cry. But all were wonderful. And then around 4:30 when the 'you made it to Round 3' e-mails were sent we celebrated together.
One of the best tweets from a Disney friend was by @mouseofzen who writes Disney haiku:
@mouseofzen: RAISE THOSE MICKEY EARS! | FOUGHT A HELL OF A BATTLE | AND WON LIFETIME FRIENDS! #twitpack #disney
And so, I will be known (for at least the next year) as a Round 2 Finalist for the 2010 Mom's Panel. And I'm OK with with. Not making it to Round 3 is a minor bump in the road to the Mom's Panel. I can and will apply for the Mom's Panel again next year. And maybe, just maybe, I'll have enough luck and pixie dust to make it to the next round and ultimately to the panel. But for now, I'll continue giving Disney tips and researching my next Disney trip and loving everything about The Mouse.
And remember:
When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires
Will come to you
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