Disney Mania

I've been a huge Disney fanatic since I was a little boy. One of my earliest memories of anything Disney was when I was about 7 or 8...My dad had entered the demolition derby at the county fair. I guess maybe my mom thought I was to young to go and watch it..or maybe I just didn't want to go! I really do not recall..but I do remember that dad won! and I remember him coming home with small gifts for us. He gave me my first Disney watch! a circa 1970's pocket watch..I loved it! I remember he also purchased a strap so I would not lose it when I carried it..and carry it I did! I can recall pulling it out when it was time to watch re-runs of the original "Mickey Mouse Club" that aired every afternoon on the local TV station..how I loved that watch.To this day it is remembered as one of the most special gifts I ever received. So, I guess that's where it all started. My mom used to buy all those old Disney Albums and and storybooks with the 45's included...anyone else remember those? Every Sunday night was the "Wonderful World of Disney" on ABC..another one of my favorite memories! More than anything..I wanted to go see that castle! I wanted to make it to Disney World...little did I know then, that 30 some years later I would live close enough to Disney World to visit on a regular basis!

Today I am a Florida resident pass holder. Disney World has become a special place, not just for me--but for Tom as well.It is indeed "OUR" place. Where else can two middle aged guys go..dress up as pirates and become a kid all over again? As many times as we have gone, I still find something new that I missed the time before! We both have our favorite attractions. I think in future postings I will highlight what those are and give my own "review" of some of them.

One thing we both enjoy is pin trading. I got that bug a few years back! its a great way to interact with Disney cast members and add some memories by keeping track of where you obtained a particular pin. Disney cast members are always great at striking up a conversation with pin traders! Many will point out where to look for the many "hidden mickey's" throughout the parks. Most recently I was told there is one that can be found during the uphill climb in the Yeti temple portion of "Everest" at Animal Kingdom..I have yet to locate it!

Our last trip to Disney was this past October for "Mickeys not so scary Halloween Party." We have another trip coming up in December for "Mickeys very merry Christmas party"--I am looking foreword to seeing the castle all lit up and the candle light procession at Epcot. I will be sure to post about our trip.

I have found many Disney enthusiast across the web, all with their own wonderful stories and memories to share. I thought it was about time to share some of mine.