Hello there my friends! I hope you’re all doing well this evening! We are, just laying low waiting on some nasty weather to blow through. This past week has been so darn busy, it’s crazy. I have a lot to tell you about so we’ll jump right in!
As I mentioned before, Friday night was the De Las Puertas Festival in Claremont, FL. For those who aren’t familiar, the DLP Fest is an unofficial Disney Fan music festival, featuring some of your Walt Disney World favorites. I won’t lie, I was scared. The festival was put on by the WDW Today Podcast, and they asked me to be a “media guest.” I said sure, of course. But what was I supposed to do? It didn’t matter, I agreed, and I was looking forward to it. The musical guests were awesome. We got to see Mulch, Sweat and Shears and Off Kilter, two of our favorites of WDW past. The only thing I had to do was go up on the stage before the last act, so I could handle that. Sometimes I think anticipation of events are far worse than what actually happens, if you know what I mean. I was worried over nothing, of course. That’s usually how I roll. It ended up being a really fun night. I got to spend time with friends, old and new, and my kids were excited to be there as well. All in all, two thumbs up on the DLP Fest!
Saturday, we were tired, but we had more work to do! Sea World Orlando had us out for their media day, as they kicked off their Halloween Spooktacular. I have to say, since moving here, Sea World has been really good to TMSM. They keep us in the loop, invite us for media events, and all in all have been pretty great to work with. We took the boys trick or treating over there, and they had a great time. It was SO darn hot ouside though, it sure doesn’t feel like October, it felt more like July! You’d think I’d be used to the Florida weather by now!
After the heatwave at Sea World, we headed over to the Magic Kingdom, as it was the 45th Anniversary celebration. I had wanted to get to the park earlier, but I already gave Sea World my word that I’d be there, so I had to wait. We got to the park in the late afternoon, and oh my goodness, it was crowded. I knew that the MK would be packed that day. Cast Members were giving out 45th Anniversary buttons and park maps, and they had merchandise available at certain stores. Well, at least they DID have merchandise. By the time we arrived, the Emporium looked looted, it was a mess. People were crowding around to get their hands on whatever was left of the 45th birthday goodies, and there wasn’t a lot there. Almost right after that, it started to rain. I figured we’d run into Starbucks, grab a caramel frapp, and wait it out….. no problem. Well, my plans there didn’t work either. Not only was it still raining, it continued to rain the entire night. The parade was cancelled, people were leaving, and those left were in ponchos waiting on Wishes. It wasn’t a total loss. We got soaked, but saw some friends and at least got a button and a map. I wanted to go back this week to see if more 45th merchandise came back in, but we have been busy and haven’t had the chance. All in all, I’m glad I got to go to the Magic Kingdom on it’s 45th Birthday, even in the rain. Oh, AND, it may seem silly, but I’m super excited because the official Walt Disney World Instagram shared a photo I took of the Food and Wine Fest on their account last night! It’s the little things, you know? I’m appreciative of any extra acknowledgement we can get! Thanks Disney!
Now onto my third topic this week….. Hurricane Matthew. Oh boy. The local weather has been warning us all week, but today things got a little more serious. Being a Michigan girl, I’m used to snow days and things like that. Today we got the call that they boys didn’t have school tomorrow or Friday in preparations for Matthew. All day long, the news has been warning people to prepare, to get your houses ready, and to stock up on supplies. About a month ago, we had Hurricane Hermine, but they never closed schools or put out warnings like this. It’s scary. There have been mandatory evacuations and the Governor is telling Florida residents to prepare for the worst. So, between yesterday and today, we got gas in the car, purchased water and food, got batteries, flashlights and candles ready to go, and put away all our outside decorations and furniture. I guess that’s all we can do. The stores and gas stations are crowded, and local businesses are battening down the hatches. My thoughts on this….. it’s better to be safe than sorry. I’d rather be prepared and do what we need to do, just in case. People keep asking me about Disney and what’s happening there, but all we know is the campgrounds are being evacuated, and Disney Cruise Line is changing their schedule. I will give you updates as I hear, we’ll be watching.
Well, that’s it for now. It’s been a busy week. Well, it’s been a busy few weeks actually, but I can’t complain. When I’m busy, it’s easier to keep a positive attitude and keep myself in work mode, and that’s a good thing. I honestly do love my job, no matter how tired I get. Thank you for keeping up with us each week, it’s appreciated. Everyone who is in the path of Hurricane Matthew, please take precautions and stay safe. We’ll be doing our part too. Until next week, sending you love, blessings and pixie dust! See ya real soon! ~M
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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