Right, so where are we up to at this stage...
The funeral sucked, but it was nice to see everyone again - even if for not very long. The other plus point of the day was that I was able to sneak away for a few minutes to call Disney and do my language pin test, so I should be getting a new nametag soon with German and "Gaelic" proficiencies on it! Anyhoo, the day after, I flew back to Orlando. As I said on twitter, there were millions of culchie J1ers at the gate, so that was bloody painful. Had seat back TV on the Aer Lingus flight which I remember being not awful, but not wonderful, but I had 2 seats to myself, so that was nice. I remember the Aer Lingus ground staff in Shannon being quite obnoxious, though, so that was somewhat unpleasant. The cabin crew were even worse. If I cared more, I'd have written to the company about them. They were just horrendously rude and unprofessional, and I once again remembered why I hate Aer Lingus. Suck factor = high.
So, got to Boston and walked to Terminal C, checked in frantically on a call to Mum while my battery was dieing (non-stressful at all, right there), and headed to the gate. The JetBlue employees were SO loud! Pretty sure Terminal E were hearing the announcements, they were so loud... Bought internet access too. For 4 hours of a turnaround, it was worth it, really. Meant I didn't have to go insane from boredom.
On the flight down to Orlando, I did some study of my GMR spiel, and slept. Meredith got me at the airport, and even though it was raining, I didn't really mind, because it was just so good to be back, really.
The day after, I headed to Chili's for lunch with Kim and Richard, and then on to the studios. Later that day, Rich and I went to see UP in 3D and hung around DTD for a while before heading home. Loved UP, though I could do without the inevitable "Kevin's a girl" jokes that have followed.
The next day was my day 5 of training at GMR, and I had a new trainer, Sarah, who is officially awesome. Had much fun with her learning all the final bits of knowledge I needed to know.
The day after that was assessment day with Kristen (who I love). Track walk and written assessment went well, single B show did not (overran the sensor at Oz, cos the vehicle stopped at the B position instead of the A one and I never stopped it properly, which was awkward. And embarassing. But now I know what to do so it works better, I suppose.
Then, we went 101, and when we went to go 102, we had an issue which I dont think I can talk about online (ask me if'n you want to know) which caused us to be 101 for a further very long time. 2.5 hours all in all. But, I got to help with an in-show evac, and it was all very exciting, really. The rest of the day went ok, though. I even got a great service fanatic card from a manager because a guest had asked to talk to her about how much they enjoyed my show! So, that was cool! And eventually, I passed all my assessments and got to put my handprint on the wall backstage - there's a handprint for everyone who's ever worked there, which is exciting, so it's cool that mine is now there for good! Part of "The Great Movie Ride Family of Stars"! That night, I went to MK, but have no recollection of what I got up to.
The day after, I went to DAK, and the day after, to MK, where I watched Spectro and finally felt like I was home and happy. So, that was, in and of itself, much fun. Was a really loverly evening, and I think we rode Rich's boat too, so that was equally fab.
The day after was day 1 of being in rotation, which went well. My first assignment ever was, in fact, a task. But it turned out that that was because my proficiencies weren't put in for tour guide, so that's all CDS could assign to me. In the end, though, day 1 turned out to be not at all bad, and I had already started to get settled into the swing of things, which, it turns out, is actually quite fun. That night, I headed to McDonald's with Lou and Robyn, so it was nice to have some junk food for a change...
The next day also went nicely, with nothing major to report, and that evening, I went to DTD for ice cream and food with Dan, Robyn, Kayla (from GMR) and her roommate. Food at Wolfgang Puck, Ice Cream at Ghirardelli. Much nom had by all. On the 24th, I had drinks at Epcot with Richard. Serious brain freeze was experienced from the icy tangerene flavoured slush alcohol drink thing at Morocco, then followed by a lemon... something... in France, and Strongbow in the UK. Classy, I know.
The day after was spent asleep and at the premium outlets with Robyn and Heather. Then, we headed over to Epcot where we saved the world a few times, I think, and then after the girls headed off, I went to watch Impressions de France (which I love) and Illuminations before I met up with Lou after she finished work and brought her home where, I think, her, Dan and I got pizza.
On the 25th, I had a 12 hour day, but actually really enjoyed it. 2 show requests, great variety of positions, bumps coming through before I could get bored with any particular job, etc. Came home and did laundry.
Next day was long and uneventful, and was spent in vacant or in pensive mood. Thinking primarily about the daffodils, etc.
The day after, I missed the bus I wanted to get, and so, had zero time to get costumes before work, but thanks to Louise who was on the bus with me, I managed to get sorted. Yay! That night, I went to Earl of Sandwich with Lou and had a club sandwich without the bacon - so basically, a turkey sandwich. And it was, in fact, amazing. New-found love for that place.
The day after, yesterday, was spent on a 13 hour shift at GMR. It wasn't awful, but wasn't wonderful either. Think everyone was just feeling kinda blah, overall, so it didn't make the time fly. But the people working are fun people, so it wasn't a total write off.
Today was day 1 of 2 off. Only notable event was giving GSF cards to two girls at Pinocchio's who were doing an amazing job with their magical moment of holding up signs at the windows to it's a small world! saying things like "Make a wish" and "Do the chicken dance". They were very excited to get the recognition, and said that they were just about to finish work and it had totally made their day. So that was pretty awesome, really! Afterwards, Robyn, Lou, Sam and I headed to Epcot where we met up with Chris. We rode Mission Space, Maelstrom and went to try and see China, but the acrobats were performing in the temple, so the show was delayed, and they were too disturbing and creepy, so we left. At that stage, Chris and I headed to the Studios where we rode Tower a few times, went and got food at the ABC Commissary (which made me very burpy) and then met up with Louise, Sam and Ceri to watch Fantasmic. It was Ceri's first time watching it, so that was tres exciting.
Aaaaaaaaanyhoo, then I got the bus home, wrote some bloggage, met up with Vanessa for a chat cos I haven't seen her in ages, and then came back to finish this. Now I'm thinking I'll probably head to bed, because tomorrow, it's hopefully going to be DAK with Naomi (from GMR) and maybe Rich too. Fun times in Florida all 'round!
> Latest Updates
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 14, 2009
> The first 2 weeks (a substantially long update of substantiality)
OK, so I know I haven't blogged in basically forever... But things haven't gone so smoothly so far, and I didn't want to worry people, because I was sure things would sort themselves out in the end (which, indeed, they did... sorta)... So here's where things are so far...
After the check in and housing meetings day, the next day was the Program meeting. That meant being up early to head to Vista Way to the pavilion to get sorted with the work half of things. All went more or less smoothly inside (not surprising), but a new feature of the day was meeting CoTs (Coordinators of Training) outside to have them walk us through any training info we were getting. All mine said was that I was at Icon attractions and that I had On With The Show the day after. Incidentally, the CoT that I was helped out by was Deidre, my CoT from Innoventions. Was fab to see her again, and I've just remembered I said I'd add her on facebook and have totally forgotten to. Eep.
At that stage, I think we either went to Wendy's or Chick Fil-A. I think it was just me and Rich, and I thiiiink it was Wendy's, but I could be wrong. Then, I feel like we went to some sort of program meeting at The Commons which was not incredibly thrilling, but was fine, really. I think it was that day, too, that we had a visit from Officer Rick from the Department of Homeland Security. Also not incredibly thrilling, but fine really. Afterwards, I think we went to Chatham to visit Rich's friends from university, and then to Walmart. And that night, I think we went to Downtown Disney again, but I'm open to correction on that.
The next day was Traditions at the Disney University. Of course, that meant an early morning start. This year, our trainers were Scott (who works as a show producer for Wishes and Illuminations - very cool) and Tony (who works with Kathy from Innoventions at the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure - also very cool). The content hadn't changed all that much, but this year I was with 4 English people at the table - 3 girls and a guy. All were very nice and I keep bumping into some of them randomly. That night, of course, everyone went to MK to watch Wishes. There's really no other option for what one does on one's first day with ID. Lou came with me (and we sang the Wishes theme after, of course), and Rich had Kim and Katy Ray from GMR with him, so much fun was had by all.
The next day was On With The Show. That's the park orientation for the Studios park where they show you where stuff is and give you the backstory for the park's theming and whatnot. We had two trainers, both of which were now working at Toy Story Mania but had previously worked at the Great Movie Ride. I don't remember their names, but they were much fun, and I quite enjoyed the day. Most of it was spent in the company of a UK ICP doing Merch called Alexandra (who's now gone home) and a UK ICP doing Attractions (at the Tower of Terror, no less) called Louise. At the end of the day, Ben, the CoT from Icon Attractions (who's just lovely!) came to pick us up and take us for E-learning. He told me I was going to be working at the Great Movie Ride (vair exciting!) and that I only had one online learning course to do - also very exciting. In the evening afterwards, we headed back to the Studios to ride Kim's gangster show on GMR. I love that woman's gangster show, seriously... She's amazing. Meredith also came to play, so she gave Rich and I a lift home too, which was definitely appreciated! Before that, though, we rode GMR a few more times, including a show where it was basically just us CM types and two guests. That was pretty hilarious, because we totally hammed it up and whatnot - some of the best GMR shows I've ever ridden right there!
The day after, I was off, so I slept till 9.30 (I seem to have lost the ability to sleep in) and then chatted online for a bit. Eventually, I decided to get up, so I decided I'd do laundry. I walked to Publix, got laundry stuff and a card for Rich's birthday which was two days later, and walked back through the Premium outlets where I picked up shoes for work. I did two loads of laundry and managed to get them dry before heading to Epcot, I think, with Meredith. We went and did the Great Piggy Bank Adventure at Innoventions West (very very cute), ate at Sunshine Seasons (my oh-so-favourite) and saved Germany from killer pretzels on the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure (which is AMAZING) and then watched Illuminations from World Showcase Plaza. Where else? Unfortunately, though, the Globe wasn't working, so it kinda ruined it for a bunch of new ICPs who were there to see it for the first time. Sad times. After that, Meredith and I met up with Chris Richards (one of the UK ICPs) and Lou and she gave us a lift home. Have I mentioned I love Meredith? She's the bestest taxi service ever. Plus, she's awesome. You know the way.
On the 8th, I had day 1 of training at GMR. That did not go to plan, really. I got to Studios costuming 15 minutes early and waited for my trainer. And waited. And waited. And waited. Until it became obvious he wasn't turning up. So I went and sat nearer to the security gate and eventually spotted someone in a CoT costume and asked her if she could help me. She took me into a room off the main locker area and made a call. Turned out my trainer had called in sick. So, GMR sent someone over - namely Kevin, one of our coordinators. He took me to get a costume and we headed up to the break room at the ride where I changed in the bathrooms while he found me a trainer. On the way to the ride, also, we ran into a girl called Kayla who had worked at Innoventions (and therefore, was/is lovely) so we chatted a bit about Inno. Anyhoo, while I was training, Kevin went to find someone to be my Day 1 trainer and found someone in the form of Ally who was originally to be my assessor. So, I had Ally for day 1. We started off by walking the track and she pointed out the exit points, fire extinguishers, road-bed sensors, charge plates etc. and various other things that I'd need to know as a GMR CM. Then, we had Track Talk (i.e. the opening meeting), rode an A show (there's two shows at GMR - A shows are Bandit shows, B shows are Gangster shows), and did various other training things. Nothing hugely taxing, really, but wasn't too bad. I don't remember what we got up to that night after training, but I don't think it was anything too exciting. Except I'm pretty sure we took a nap once we had got home from training (Rich was on 0700-1530 that day too).
Day 2 of training, however, was not so wonderful. For a start, it was another 0700-1530 shift. Tom was back that day, so that was something, but it was my first day being shown shift points (i.e. where in the ride I should be in what speed) and having to spiel to dead vehicles, that sort of thing. It was all very intense, very scary, and very very overwhelming. Plus, because I didn't really know anyone at the ride at that stage, I didn't really have any support group. I left work that day feeling somewhat depressed and thinking that if the rest of the summer was going to be like day 2 was, I'd be spending it in Ireland. Thankfully, day 2 was a low point, and it's been uphill since. That night, I headed to Epcot with Rich and his GMR friends for his 21st birthday. I had to leave early, though, because I was working at 7 again the day after. So, I went and met Chris Richards (who's working at Mission: Space, by the way) along with some other UK ICPs (including Louise, who's my official studios bus buddy) to get the C bus home to Patterson. I stayed up till about half eleven practicing my GMR spiel with Lou over skype, which helped no end, I reckon.
Day 3 was a substantial improvement over day 2. I was finally starting to get the hang of things, I think, and I had started to make friends at GMR. So that was a plus. I was still having some issues with the extended spiel that you have to do in the Tarzan spiel on the A show, but by the end of the day, I had done A and B shows with guests with guests - so in other words, Tom was confident enough with my spiel that I was able to do full shows to guests. It's a cool feeling to think that I'm now on guest home video recordings of GMR and will be for years to come! That night, I know I did something with Lou, but I don't remember what. All I remember is that I was at her apartment chatting till quiet hours kicked in and I had to be out of there. Rich was asleep when I got home, so I'm sure he was glad of the break from me for the day!
Day 4 of training, the 11th, did not go to plan. I woke up a little early thinking I'd go to costuming early and get costumes, and then go to Take 5 and get food before I went to work (because I was doing a closing shift, closing ADB - one of the loader positions, standing for Assistant Director B). So I went and got my costumes and put them in a locker at costuming, and then headed for GMR. As soon as I got in, I passed Tom and he said that there was a message from Ricardo saying I needed to call home ASAP. My first thought was "who's Ricardo?". My second thought was that it would have to be bad news. So, I tried from my American phone, but of course, I can't call internationally from that, cos it's the worst phone ever. Then we tracked down a manager and tried from the phone in the dock office. No such luck. Eventually, Katie, the manager called someone at Guest Relations and Tom and I went there. There, we met a guest relations CM and a manager and were ushered into the VIP room behind the main Guest Relations lobby. Very swank, but a bit stuck in 1989 (not really much of a surprise, though). So, I called home and Mum told me that Granda had died that morning.
It wasn't so much of a shock to hear that he had died, because he'd been sick for a while, but it was more of a shock to hear that it had finally happened. It was his 84th birthday too, so I suppose he was holding on for that. I'll miss watching him wolf down deserts every Sunday evening. He really did have a sweet tooth the size of Texas. So, after I had managed to stop crying, I called Lou, because I needed to talk to someone, but she ran out of credit midway through the conversation. So, I just sat there for a while thinking about what I wanted to do. I eventually got a text telling me to call her at The Commons, which I did, but by then, I had decided to stay at work. I figured going home and moping about the empty apartment wasn't really going to accomplish anything, and staying at work, getting another day of training out of the day, and getting my mind off of it would probably be for the best. So, I finished a quick chat with Lou, and then Tom and I headed back to GMR. There, we met Katie again, and she said that she'd sort out some time off. As it happened, I was scheduled for 3 days off (Friday to Sunday), so I only needed another 3 (Monday - Wednesday). I've said it before, and I'll say it again, if you play by the rules, Disney is really just the best company to work for. They've been ridiculously supportive and helpful for sorting things out for me.
So, anyway, day 4 training was more or less fine. We spent most of the day doing land positions - i.e. going over things like Front Usher (i.e. Greeter), Valet (i.e. Stroller Parking), Head Usher (i.e. the first CM inside the preshow theatre), Casting Director (i.e. the preshow spiel podium CM), and ADA/ADB. I also ran through each of the 3 types of shows, A, B, and B behind an A. All went grand. So, we closed ADB and headed home. At Patterson, Rich met me at the bottom of the stairs of our building looking like he'd seen a ghost, and told me that I needed to call home. Turns out that not only had Mum called Disney, but she had somehow also been in contact with Price Management, who had called French Kevin, who had told Rich. Crazy woman. So, long story short, got into the apartment and had a chat with Rich and filled him in on the story. He gave me a big hug, which was precisely what was needed, and gave me a hand with trying to sort out flights home for Saturday. As it happened, we stayed up till 5am or thereabouts, and eventually fell asleep.
The next day was spent sorting myself out to go home. With the flights booked, I had to sort out paperwork with Disney (namely getting a purple form, and my DS-2019 form signed) which involved walking to the Commons, getting a bus to the studios, having a manager sign the purple form, getting a bus to the Commons, and getting them to take my DS-2019. Arg. At that time, though, there was a bit of an annoying moment with one of the people at Disney Housing (i.e. the people at The Commons) telling me I needed to give 2 weeks notice (at which time I made the valid point that I didn't have two weeks notice) whereupon she realised that I was the person that she had been on the phone with that morning, and she said it was ok. Blarg.
So, at that point, Lou went to change, and we headed to Epcot, where we ate at Sunshine Seasons (again, my favourite) and went to save the world again. This time, we saved China, Japan, France and Norway - which was all pretty cool, and got to watch Illuminations from the VIP viewing area in Italy, cos Lou's roommate was working there for Guest Relations. Woop!
Afterwards, we headed home and I realised I didn't have my purple form (turned out I had left it in Lou's apartment) so I had to walk to The Commons to pick that up. Back at the apartment, I packed my bag (though, granted, it's actually Rich's bag, cos I'm only bringing carry-on), and headed to bed.
This morning, Saturday, I woke up to walk to The Commons and pick up my DS-2019 before Meredith picked me up at Patterson. She gave me a lift to the airport (again, love her), and I went to check in. Had a bit of a snafu, in that I wasn't showing up on the system, but thanks to the magic of my iPod combined with Orlando International Airport's free wifi, it all got sorted in the end! Went and got my traditional pre-leaving Orlando Chick-Fil-A, and my traditional pre-leaving Orlando copy of Wired. So, I hopped on a JetBlue flight to New York, which is where I am now. I slept through most of it, and had a small ocean of legroom. So, that was nice.
Now I'm sitting at the gate in JFK (Terminal 4, I think, is nicer than the Delta Terminal, as is Terminal 5, the JetBlue Terminal). There's a girl sitting across from me with blue hair, and oh. my. God. I want to kill her. She's got the world's most annoying valley girl voice, but of course, she's super alternative. Like, y'knooow, whatevar! Seriously. Want. To. HURT HER. Thankfully, she's 20 rows behind me (saw her boarding pass). The torture that is her and her super-awesomely valley friend will be over in about 40 minutes. Thank heavens for small mercies.
So, now we're up to date. I really really wish I wasn't on my way home, and instead, was in Florida enjoying the 2nd of my three days off. But alas, the circle of life goes on, and these things happen. Still, I'm back in Orlando on Tuesday night, and have Wednesday off, Day 5 training on Thursday with Sarah (who is, apparently, awesome), and assessment on Friday with Kristen (who is awesome). Soo, yeah. The adventure continues on Tuesday, I suppose! The sooner it rolls around, the better.
After the check in and housing meetings day, the next day was the Program meeting. That meant being up early to head to Vista Way to the pavilion to get sorted with the work half of things. All went more or less smoothly inside (not surprising), but a new feature of the day was meeting CoTs (Coordinators of Training) outside to have them walk us through any training info we were getting. All mine said was that I was at Icon attractions and that I had On With The Show the day after. Incidentally, the CoT that I was helped out by was Deidre, my CoT from Innoventions. Was fab to see her again, and I've just remembered I said I'd add her on facebook and have totally forgotten to. Eep.
At that stage, I think we either went to Wendy's or Chick Fil-A. I think it was just me and Rich, and I thiiiink it was Wendy's, but I could be wrong. Then, I feel like we went to some sort of program meeting at The Commons which was not incredibly thrilling, but was fine, really. I think it was that day, too, that we had a visit from Officer Rick from the Department of Homeland Security. Also not incredibly thrilling, but fine really. Afterwards, I think we went to Chatham to visit Rich's friends from university, and then to Walmart. And that night, I think we went to Downtown Disney again, but I'm open to correction on that.
The next day was Traditions at the Disney University. Of course, that meant an early morning start. This year, our trainers were Scott (who works as a show producer for Wishes and Illuminations - very cool) and Tony (who works with Kathy from Innoventions at the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure - also very cool). The content hadn't changed all that much, but this year I was with 4 English people at the table - 3 girls and a guy. All were very nice and I keep bumping into some of them randomly. That night, of course, everyone went to MK to watch Wishes. There's really no other option for what one does on one's first day with ID. Lou came with me (and we sang the Wishes theme after, of course), and Rich had Kim and Katy Ray from GMR with him, so much fun was had by all.
The next day was On With The Show. That's the park orientation for the Studios park where they show you where stuff is and give you the backstory for the park's theming and whatnot. We had two trainers, both of which were now working at Toy Story Mania but had previously worked at the Great Movie Ride. I don't remember their names, but they were much fun, and I quite enjoyed the day. Most of it was spent in the company of a UK ICP doing Merch called Alexandra (who's now gone home) and a UK ICP doing Attractions (at the Tower of Terror, no less) called Louise. At the end of the day, Ben, the CoT from Icon Attractions (who's just lovely!) came to pick us up and take us for E-learning. He told me I was going to be working at the Great Movie Ride (vair exciting!) and that I only had one online learning course to do - also very exciting. In the evening afterwards, we headed back to the Studios to ride Kim's gangster show on GMR. I love that woman's gangster show, seriously... She's amazing. Meredith also came to play, so she gave Rich and I a lift home too, which was definitely appreciated! Before that, though, we rode GMR a few more times, including a show where it was basically just us CM types and two guests. That was pretty hilarious, because we totally hammed it up and whatnot - some of the best GMR shows I've ever ridden right there!
The day after, I was off, so I slept till 9.30 (I seem to have lost the ability to sleep in) and then chatted online for a bit. Eventually, I decided to get up, so I decided I'd do laundry. I walked to Publix, got laundry stuff and a card for Rich's birthday which was two days later, and walked back through the Premium outlets where I picked up shoes for work. I did two loads of laundry and managed to get them dry before heading to Epcot, I think, with Meredith. We went and did the Great Piggy Bank Adventure at Innoventions West (very very cute), ate at Sunshine Seasons (my oh-so-favourite) and saved Germany from killer pretzels on the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure (which is AMAZING) and then watched Illuminations from World Showcase Plaza. Where else? Unfortunately, though, the Globe wasn't working, so it kinda ruined it for a bunch of new ICPs who were there to see it for the first time. Sad times. After that, Meredith and I met up with Chris Richards (one of the UK ICPs) and Lou and she gave us a lift home. Have I mentioned I love Meredith? She's the bestest taxi service ever. Plus, she's awesome. You know the way.
On the 8th, I had day 1 of training at GMR. That did not go to plan, really. I got to Studios costuming 15 minutes early and waited for my trainer. And waited. And waited. And waited. Until it became obvious he wasn't turning up. So I went and sat nearer to the security gate and eventually spotted someone in a CoT costume and asked her if she could help me. She took me into a room off the main locker area and made a call. Turned out my trainer had called in sick. So, GMR sent someone over - namely Kevin, one of our coordinators. He took me to get a costume and we headed up to the break room at the ride where I changed in the bathrooms while he found me a trainer. On the way to the ride, also, we ran into a girl called Kayla who had worked at Innoventions (and therefore, was/is lovely) so we chatted a bit about Inno. Anyhoo, while I was training, Kevin went to find someone to be my Day 1 trainer and found someone in the form of Ally who was originally to be my assessor. So, I had Ally for day 1. We started off by walking the track and she pointed out the exit points, fire extinguishers, road-bed sensors, charge plates etc. and various other things that I'd need to know as a GMR CM. Then, we had Track Talk (i.e. the opening meeting), rode an A show (there's two shows at GMR - A shows are Bandit shows, B shows are Gangster shows), and did various other training things. Nothing hugely taxing, really, but wasn't too bad. I don't remember what we got up to that night after training, but I don't think it was anything too exciting. Except I'm pretty sure we took a nap once we had got home from training (Rich was on 0700-1530 that day too).
Day 2 of training, however, was not so wonderful. For a start, it was another 0700-1530 shift. Tom was back that day, so that was something, but it was my first day being shown shift points (i.e. where in the ride I should be in what speed) and having to spiel to dead vehicles, that sort of thing. It was all very intense, very scary, and very very overwhelming. Plus, because I didn't really know anyone at the ride at that stage, I didn't really have any support group. I left work that day feeling somewhat depressed and thinking that if the rest of the summer was going to be like day 2 was, I'd be spending it in Ireland. Thankfully, day 2 was a low point, and it's been uphill since. That night, I headed to Epcot with Rich and his GMR friends for his 21st birthday. I had to leave early, though, because I was working at 7 again the day after. So, I went and met Chris Richards (who's working at Mission: Space, by the way) along with some other UK ICPs (including Louise, who's my official studios bus buddy) to get the C bus home to Patterson. I stayed up till about half eleven practicing my GMR spiel with Lou over skype, which helped no end, I reckon.
Day 3 was a substantial improvement over day 2. I was finally starting to get the hang of things, I think, and I had started to make friends at GMR. So that was a plus. I was still having some issues with the extended spiel that you have to do in the Tarzan spiel on the A show, but by the end of the day, I had done A and B shows with guests with guests - so in other words, Tom was confident enough with my spiel that I was able to do full shows to guests. It's a cool feeling to think that I'm now on guest home video recordings of GMR and will be for years to come! That night, I know I did something with Lou, but I don't remember what. All I remember is that I was at her apartment chatting till quiet hours kicked in and I had to be out of there. Rich was asleep when I got home, so I'm sure he was glad of the break from me for the day!
Day 4 of training, the 11th, did not go to plan. I woke up a little early thinking I'd go to costuming early and get costumes, and then go to Take 5 and get food before I went to work (because I was doing a closing shift, closing ADB - one of the loader positions, standing for Assistant Director B). So I went and got my costumes and put them in a locker at costuming, and then headed for GMR. As soon as I got in, I passed Tom and he said that there was a message from Ricardo saying I needed to call home ASAP. My first thought was "who's Ricardo?". My second thought was that it would have to be bad news. So, I tried from my American phone, but of course, I can't call internationally from that, cos it's the worst phone ever. Then we tracked down a manager and tried from the phone in the dock office. No such luck. Eventually, Katie, the manager called someone at Guest Relations and Tom and I went there. There, we met a guest relations CM and a manager and were ushered into the VIP room behind the main Guest Relations lobby. Very swank, but a bit stuck in 1989 (not really much of a surprise, though). So, I called home and Mum told me that Granda had died that morning.
It wasn't so much of a shock to hear that he had died, because he'd been sick for a while, but it was more of a shock to hear that it had finally happened. It was his 84th birthday too, so I suppose he was holding on for that. I'll miss watching him wolf down deserts every Sunday evening. He really did have a sweet tooth the size of Texas. So, after I had managed to stop crying, I called Lou, because I needed to talk to someone, but she ran out of credit midway through the conversation. So, I just sat there for a while thinking about what I wanted to do. I eventually got a text telling me to call her at The Commons, which I did, but by then, I had decided to stay at work. I figured going home and moping about the empty apartment wasn't really going to accomplish anything, and staying at work, getting another day of training out of the day, and getting my mind off of it would probably be for the best. So, I finished a quick chat with Lou, and then Tom and I headed back to GMR. There, we met Katie again, and she said that she'd sort out some time off. As it happened, I was scheduled for 3 days off (Friday to Sunday), so I only needed another 3 (Monday - Wednesday). I've said it before, and I'll say it again, if you play by the rules, Disney is really just the best company to work for. They've been ridiculously supportive and helpful for sorting things out for me.
So, anyway, day 4 training was more or less fine. We spent most of the day doing land positions - i.e. going over things like Front Usher (i.e. Greeter), Valet (i.e. Stroller Parking), Head Usher (i.e. the first CM inside the preshow theatre), Casting Director (i.e. the preshow spiel podium CM), and ADA/ADB. I also ran through each of the 3 types of shows, A, B, and B behind an A. All went grand. So, we closed ADB and headed home. At Patterson, Rich met me at the bottom of the stairs of our building looking like he'd seen a ghost, and told me that I needed to call home. Turns out that not only had Mum called Disney, but she had somehow also been in contact with Price Management, who had called French Kevin, who had told Rich. Crazy woman. So, long story short, got into the apartment and had a chat with Rich and filled him in on the story. He gave me a big hug, which was precisely what was needed, and gave me a hand with trying to sort out flights home for Saturday. As it happened, we stayed up till 5am or thereabouts, and eventually fell asleep.
The next day was spent sorting myself out to go home. With the flights booked, I had to sort out paperwork with Disney (namely getting a purple form, and my DS-2019 form signed) which involved walking to the Commons, getting a bus to the studios, having a manager sign the purple form, getting a bus to the Commons, and getting them to take my DS-2019. Arg. At that time, though, there was a bit of an annoying moment with one of the people at Disney Housing (i.e. the people at The Commons) telling me I needed to give 2 weeks notice (at which time I made the valid point that I didn't have two weeks notice) whereupon she realised that I was the person that she had been on the phone with that morning, and she said it was ok. Blarg.
So, at that point, Lou went to change, and we headed to Epcot, where we ate at Sunshine Seasons (again, my favourite) and went to save the world again. This time, we saved China, Japan, France and Norway - which was all pretty cool, and got to watch Illuminations from the VIP viewing area in Italy, cos Lou's roommate was working there for Guest Relations. Woop!
Afterwards, we headed home and I realised I didn't have my purple form (turned out I had left it in Lou's apartment) so I had to walk to The Commons to pick that up. Back at the apartment, I packed my bag (though, granted, it's actually Rich's bag, cos I'm only bringing carry-on), and headed to bed.
This morning, Saturday, I woke up to walk to The Commons and pick up my DS-2019 before Meredith picked me up at Patterson. She gave me a lift to the airport (again, love her), and I went to check in. Had a bit of a snafu, in that I wasn't showing up on the system, but thanks to the magic of my iPod combined with Orlando International Airport's free wifi, it all got sorted in the end! Went and got my traditional pre-leaving Orlando Chick-Fil-A, and my traditional pre-leaving Orlando copy of Wired. So, I hopped on a JetBlue flight to New York, which is where I am now. I slept through most of it, and had a small ocean of legroom. So, that was nice.
Now I'm sitting at the gate in JFK (Terminal 4, I think, is nicer than the Delta Terminal, as is Terminal 5, the JetBlue Terminal). There's a girl sitting across from me with blue hair, and oh. my. God. I want to kill her. She's got the world's most annoying valley girl voice, but of course, she's super alternative. Like, y'knooow, whatevar! Seriously. Want. To. HURT HER. Thankfully, she's 20 rows behind me (saw her boarding pass). The torture that is her and her super-awesomely valley friend will be over in about 40 minutes. Thank heavens for small mercies.
So, now we're up to date. I really really wish I wasn't on my way home, and instead, was in Florida enjoying the 2nd of my three days off. But alas, the circle of life goes on, and these things happen. Still, I'm back in Orlando on Tuesday night, and have Wednesday off, Day 5 training on Thursday with Sarah (who is, apparently, awesome), and assessment on Friday with Kristen (who is awesome). Soo, yeah. The adventure continues on Tuesday, I suppose! The sooner it rolls around, the better.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
> Check in and housing meetings
Oh, forgot to mention. When we got back last night and met Kevin, he said that someone from housing was going to call and bring me my phone - and he was a bit confused as he then thought he had lost his phone, but it was mine, obviously, but either way, I got my phone back in the end, so yay.
Right, we're almost there now. Today! Today started early enough, around 8. We got up and dressed and walked to Chatham Square (where our bus stop is) to get the special bus to Vista. There, we did the usual form signing and check in stuff, and got our new IDs. Mine's green and does not have a huge UNDER 21 written on it, so that's fun. We also found out that Rich was placed with over 21s even though he's under 21 because his birthday is next week, so that was cool.
Then a bunch of ICPs (me included) went to Walgreens and then to Chick Fil-A for lunch. Huzzah for Chick Fil-A. At that stage, we headed back to Patterson and messed about for a bit before we had to walk to the commons. There we waited around for aaaaages before the Disney Housing meeting which was diriculously boring, but not too bad. That room is air conditioned up the wazoo, and my legs were freezing, but I didn't want to put my jacket on because my forearms and neck are a bit burnt... So I suffered on in silence. The Price Management presentation wasn't bad (we had Jen), and the Disney Housing Ops one wasn't bad either (we had Travis), though there were a bunch of girls behind us from Hong Kong who WOULD NOT SHUT UP. They were so rude. We were not impressed.
Afterwards, we came back to Patterson and Rich and I messed about on our laptops for a while, before we realised we hadn't been on our balcony (which is very swank). So, what followed was about 30 minutes of standing there passing judgement on all who passed. Very entertaining, and I feel it will be a frequent fun summer pastime. About then, Rich decided to head off to DTD with some ICP to eat at T-Rex, the new restaurant, and then maybe go and see UP afterwards (though I think he's actually meeting up with Kim and some other friend of theirs from GMR).
And so, I sat in our room and skyped mum and decided to finally get the blog up to date... Which I have now done... At some stage, though, I moved out to the balcony. Because one of the roomies had the AC down to 60F which is 15C... Far too cold. It's a cosy 25 out here, though, as it's quite overcast and still might rain, but regardless, the sun is more or less gone down anyway.
Tonight, I might meet up with the skipper after work or something, and I think Sean is calling over before he goes to Buffalo Wild Wings to say hi, so that's cool too. For now, it's some quality balcony time watching the people pass, and the LOUD PEOPLE AT THE POOL. Much fun being had by all, in other words! It's so good to be back.
Right, we're almost there now. Today! Today started early enough, around 8. We got up and dressed and walked to Chatham Square (where our bus stop is) to get the special bus to Vista. There, we did the usual form signing and check in stuff, and got our new IDs. Mine's green and does not have a huge UNDER 21 written on it, so that's fun. We also found out that Rich was placed with over 21s even though he's under 21 because his birthday is next week, so that was cool.
Then a bunch of ICPs (me included) went to Walgreens and then to Chick Fil-A for lunch. Huzzah for Chick Fil-A. At that stage, we headed back to Patterson and messed about for a bit before we had to walk to the commons. There we waited around for aaaaages before the Disney Housing meeting which was diriculously boring, but not too bad. That room is air conditioned up the wazoo, and my legs were freezing, but I didn't want to put my jacket on because my forearms and neck are a bit burnt... So I suffered on in silence. The Price Management presentation wasn't bad (we had Jen), and the Disney Housing Ops one wasn't bad either (we had Travis), though there were a bunch of girls behind us from Hong Kong who WOULD NOT SHUT UP. They were so rude. We were not impressed.
Afterwards, we came back to Patterson and Rich and I messed about on our laptops for a while, before we realised we hadn't been on our balcony (which is very swank). So, what followed was about 30 minutes of standing there passing judgement on all who passed. Very entertaining, and I feel it will be a frequent fun summer pastime. About then, Rich decided to head off to DTD with some ICP to eat at T-Rex, the new restaurant, and then maybe go and see UP afterwards (though I think he's actually meeting up with Kim and some other friend of theirs from GMR).
And so, I sat in our room and skyped mum and decided to finally get the blog up to date... Which I have now done... At some stage, though, I moved out to the balcony. Because one of the roomies had the AC down to 60F which is 15C... Far too cold. It's a cosy 25 out here, though, as it's quite overcast and still might rain, but regardless, the sun is more or less gone down anyway.
Tonight, I might meet up with the skipper after work or something, and I think Sean is calling over before he goes to Buffalo Wild Wings to say hi, so that's cool too. For now, it's some quality balcony time watching the people pass, and the LOUD PEOPLE AT THE POOL. Much fun being had by all, in other words! It's so good to be back.
> Day 1 of the ICP09
Right then, we're up as far as yesterday!
Woke up at about 8.30 with the girls, but kinda dosed for a bit until I felt I could actually sit up without falling over. Sent them off to work and packed up my stuff. Dropped that off at the luggage room in the hotel and checked out. At that point, I had nothing to do, so I decided to walk to Downtown Disney.
On the way, I texted Kim because I was curious if she had seen that Rich's flight was coming in early. She hadn't, and she said she wasn't doing anything and if I wanted to hang out. So, considering as how I had plans to do nothing in particular, I said I'd be up for it! So, I moseyed around Downtown Disney for a while, bought a VERY SWEET smoothie which was far too sweet, really, and eventually, Kim found me! We hung around Downtown for a while, picked up something which is definitely not a birthday present for Rich... *ahem*
After far too much time spent in the World of Disney store, we hopped in Kim's AMAZING MERC and ventured forth to the airport. I grabbed some food from McDonalds and Kim got a sundae, and we ate in the very nice foodcourt. Then, it was time for Rich's flight to get in, so we went and waited at the arrivals gate. After a small fortune of time spent waiting for him, I decided to go upstairs and wait on the balcony of the Hyatt so that I could take pictures of Kim and Rich's emotional reunion. Whiiiich, of course, I did. Both loved the photos, of course, and when Rich finally saw me in the airport, I think he was a little bit like... "what the hell are you doing here?", though whether or not he actually knew beforehand and whether or not Kim had told him I was there, I dont know yet.
Anyhoo, we piled back in Kim's car and drove to the hotel where I picked up my stuff, and on to Vista where Rich and I checked in. We were ushered into the pavilion to check in and Rich and I realised we had the same apartment number, so there was a chance we could be living together too! That was tres exciting. We walked back out to Walgreens where we met Kim, and their GMR friends Wes and Kristen (both loverly too). A short car journey later, we were inside Patterson Court, our new apartment complex. Or, rather, THE new apartment complex! It only opened in May 08 and still smells like new! It's amazing.
We got into the apartment to find it empty, and then found that there was bags in 2 of the 3 rooms, so we quickly staked out the other of the three! Of course, that meant we were delighted in that we were now sharing a room and thus, had the benefit of having a roommate we could actually have a conversation with. We unpacked while Wes, Kim and Kristen chatted in the living room and then I realised that I had lost my phone. So, I made some frantic calls to the Hyatt, the airport, and Disney housing and none of them knew where it was - which was a bit of a downer. I was pretty miserable at that stage, but I decided I'd go and hang out with Rich's friends at Bennigans. So, there was me, Rich, Kim, Wes, Kristen, Steven (with a V, not a PH, of course), Jordan, Tim, and Katy Ray. As well as some people from Rich's university. They were all loads of fun, though, so it was groovy. I wasn't feeling hungry, and that Bennigans is MANK (think smelling like toilet, sticky carpets like in a cinema, etc.) so I passed on food. Walked over to Vista Way at one stage too, and tried to get money out on my partners card, but it wouldn't let me, so meh.
After Bennigans, we went back to our apartment and met 3 of our 4 roommates. Kevin from France (seems lovely) doing Merch, Sylvaine/Silvaine? from France doing housekeeping, and Rick/Eric from Hong Kong (not so sure what exactly his name is yet, so eep!). Rich and I chatted for a bit while we got sorted out and then went to bed.
Woke up at about 8.30 with the girls, but kinda dosed for a bit until I felt I could actually sit up without falling over. Sent them off to work and packed up my stuff. Dropped that off at the luggage room in the hotel and checked out. At that point, I had nothing to do, so I decided to walk to Downtown Disney.
On the way, I texted Kim because I was curious if she had seen that Rich's flight was coming in early. She hadn't, and she said she wasn't doing anything and if I wanted to hang out. So, considering as how I had plans to do nothing in particular, I said I'd be up for it! So, I moseyed around Downtown Disney for a while, bought a VERY SWEET smoothie which was far too sweet, really, and eventually, Kim found me! We hung around Downtown for a while, picked up something which is definitely not a birthday present for Rich... *ahem*
After far too much time spent in the World of Disney store, we hopped in Kim's AMAZING MERC and ventured forth to the airport. I grabbed some food from McDonalds and Kim got a sundae, and we ate in the very nice foodcourt. Then, it was time for Rich's flight to get in, so we went and waited at the arrivals gate. After a small fortune of time spent waiting for him, I decided to go upstairs and wait on the balcony of the Hyatt so that I could take pictures of Kim and Rich's emotional reunion. Whiiiich, of course, I did. Both loved the photos, of course, and when Rich finally saw me in the airport, I think he was a little bit like... "what the hell are you doing here?", though whether or not he actually knew beforehand and whether or not Kim had told him I was there, I dont know yet.
Anyhoo, we piled back in Kim's car and drove to the hotel where I picked up my stuff, and on to Vista where Rich and I checked in. We were ushered into the pavilion to check in and Rich and I realised we had the same apartment number, so there was a chance we could be living together too! That was tres exciting. We walked back out to Walgreens where we met Kim, and their GMR friends Wes and Kristen (both loverly too). A short car journey later, we were inside Patterson Court, our new apartment complex. Or, rather, THE new apartment complex! It only opened in May 08 and still smells like new! It's amazing.
We got into the apartment to find it empty, and then found that there was bags in 2 of the 3 rooms, so we quickly staked out the other of the three! Of course, that meant we were delighted in that we were now sharing a room and thus, had the benefit of having a roommate we could actually have a conversation with. We unpacked while Wes, Kim and Kristen chatted in the living room and then I realised that I had lost my phone. So, I made some frantic calls to the Hyatt, the airport, and Disney housing and none of them knew where it was - which was a bit of a downer. I was pretty miserable at that stage, but I decided I'd go and hang out with Rich's friends at Bennigans. So, there was me, Rich, Kim, Wes, Kristen, Steven (with a V, not a PH, of course), Jordan, Tim, and Katy Ray. As well as some people from Rich's university. They were all loads of fun, though, so it was groovy. I wasn't feeling hungry, and that Bennigans is MANK (think smelling like toilet, sticky carpets like in a cinema, etc.) so I passed on food. Walked over to Vista Way at one stage too, and tried to get money out on my partners card, but it wouldn't let me, so meh.
After Bennigans, we went back to our apartment and met 3 of our 4 roommates. Kevin from France (seems lovely) doing Merch, Sylvaine/Silvaine? from France doing housekeeping, and Rick/Eric from Hong Kong (not so sure what exactly his name is yet, so eep!). Rich and I chatted for a bit while we got sorted out and then went to bed.
> Pre-ICP updateyness.
OK, so updates finally...
Getting from JFK to Orlando didn't go to plan, exactly. Got on the plane fine, found my seat, we got out to the runway, aaaaaaand then we took a left turn and headed back to the ramp. They had loaded baggage wrong, so they had to shift luggage from the fore cargo compartment to the back or vice versa. Yarg.
So, an hour later we finally got to leave New York (finally). Flight down was uneventful if stunningly boring. Watched some live TV, listened to Wicked and a few other CDs on the on-demand music thingy and tried to fall asleep. Unfortunately, when you're 3 hours out of MCO, sleep is the last thing possible to do... So I didn't get much, but there ya go.
Got to MCO about an hour late (joy), and called Rachel, but she thought I wasn't in till a half hour later, so she went and got herself sorted and hopped on her way. I went and got my bags, twittered (tweeted?), hopped on MSN and chatted with various online types. Eventually, I spotted this figure strolling towards me in very short shorts and very high heels. It was Rachel! So, there followed some frantic running and some excited hugging and etc.
We dumped the bags in Sandy's car and all piled in to go to the hotel. I checked in, got myself sorted and we headed to the Ale House. We met Duncan outside, and got a table. After ordering, Meredith, John and Philip arrived. Much fun was had by all, and I realised I had actually missed that bunch a lot more than I had thought! And of course, the Ale House food was amazing, as usual.
After much fun with the Innoventors, I went back to the hotel and met up with the Skipper. Had a big scene-causing hug in the hotel lobby and went back to the room, where we unloaded stuff (Lou gave me two very fab new Irish Mickey Mouses) and chatted for aaaaaaaaaages before going to sleep.
The next day, we woke up early enough (i.e. it was about 11 or 12) and headed to Walmart where I picked up pillows and duvets and a few other bits and pieces for me and Rich for when he arrived. Then, Lou and I waited for at least a million years, then got a cab back to the hotel when it finally arrived. We dumped the stuff in the room and walked to Downtown Disney where we met Lou's roommate Robyn. Then we decided we wanted lunch so we headed to Port Orleans French Quarter to the foodcourt there. Had a burger and fries, was very nice.
Afterwards we headed back to DTD to mosey around a bit and do the basin lemon salt hand scrub thing (amazing, as per usual), had a sundae at Ghirardelli (about time I got to eat there) and faffed about a bit before we walked back to the hotel. Then, we went to visit Robyn in the Commons (and I brought her some O' Connaills chocolate of amazingness) and she decided she was going to come and stay over at the hotel. So we got her stuff sorted and walked back to the hotel. As we were walking back, I texted Vanessa and we decided we'd meet up for Wendys, which we did. It was fab seeing Vanessa again, and of course, having Wendys. Then, it was back to the hotel for more chats and some sleep.
Getting from JFK to Orlando didn't go to plan, exactly. Got on the plane fine, found my seat, we got out to the runway, aaaaaaand then we took a left turn and headed back to the ramp. They had loaded baggage wrong, so they had to shift luggage from the fore cargo compartment to the back or vice versa. Yarg.
So, an hour later we finally got to leave New York (finally). Flight down was uneventful if stunningly boring. Watched some live TV, listened to Wicked and a few other CDs on the on-demand music thingy and tried to fall asleep. Unfortunately, when you're 3 hours out of MCO, sleep is the last thing possible to do... So I didn't get much, but there ya go.
Got to MCO about an hour late (joy), and called Rachel, but she thought I wasn't in till a half hour later, so she went and got herself sorted and hopped on her way. I went and got my bags, twittered (tweeted?), hopped on MSN and chatted with various online types. Eventually, I spotted this figure strolling towards me in very short shorts and very high heels. It was Rachel! So, there followed some frantic running and some excited hugging and etc.
We dumped the bags in Sandy's car and all piled in to go to the hotel. I checked in, got myself sorted and we headed to the Ale House. We met Duncan outside, and got a table. After ordering, Meredith, John and Philip arrived. Much fun was had by all, and I realised I had actually missed that bunch a lot more than I had thought! And of course, the Ale House food was amazing, as usual.
After much fun with the Innoventors, I went back to the hotel and met up with the Skipper. Had a big scene-causing hug in the hotel lobby and went back to the room, where we unloaded stuff (Lou gave me two very fab new Irish Mickey Mouses) and chatted for aaaaaaaaaages before going to sleep.
The next day, we woke up early enough (i.e. it was about 11 or 12) and headed to Walmart where I picked up pillows and duvets and a few other bits and pieces for me and Rich for when he arrived. Then, Lou and I waited for at least a million years, then got a cab back to the hotel when it finally arrived. We dumped the stuff in the room and walked to Downtown Disney where we met Lou's roommate Robyn. Then we decided we wanted lunch so we headed to Port Orleans French Quarter to the foodcourt there. Had a burger and fries, was very nice.
Afterwards we headed back to DTD to mosey around a bit and do the basin lemon salt hand scrub thing (amazing, as per usual), had a sundae at Ghirardelli (about time I got to eat there) and faffed about a bit before we walked back to the hotel. Then, we went to visit Robyn in the Commons (and I brought her some O' Connaills chocolate of amazingness) and she decided she was going to come and stay over at the hotel. So we got her stuff sorted and walked back to the hotel. As we were walking back, I texted Vanessa and we decided we'd meet up for Wendys, which we did. It was fab seeing Vanessa again, and of course, having Wendys. Then, it was back to the hotel for more chats and some sleep.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
> As far as JFK.
Hello from JFK Gate 15 at around 14.45 my time. OK, so I won't be at JFK Gate 15 when I actually upload this, but I'm typing it there, so don't be so persnickety. Jeez. I'm actually going to be leaving from Gate 16. But it's in the "Worldport" part of the JFK terminal (google it), so it's loud and a little warm. Gate 15 is quieter and cooler. Except for the annoying blonde girl who's telling what seems to be some random girl she bumped into or something (who's sitting with her) about how she's nannying for the world's cutest three year old. And is also a violin teacher for a music shop which desperately needed a violin teacher, except she hasn't taught a class since like forever, cos she was, like, in Scotland for the last nine months.
That will all have to come down.
Anyway, what's happened so far... Got to Shannon a little late, so checked in and went through pretty much straight away. Vair sad saying goodbye to the parentals, but at least there were no tears, so a scene was thankfully avoided. The new security checkpoint in Shannon is very shiny, too. And much smoother running. Went over to customs, where the queue was diriculously long. The customs officer seemingly recognised his own handwriting in my passport - he approved me through last year! Groovy! Was asking me about where I was working this year, and he was impressed! Actually a nice guy. Smiled and whatnot, so I definitely struck gold with the customs people cos they're very hit and miss, methinks.
Soo, got through customs and headed to the flight. Was strolling down the aisle when I recognised a guy sitting down. Couldn't think of where from, though, other than that I was pretty sure he was American and was on TV. Got down to my seat where two very painful people were sitting next to me... Irish girl, American guy, heard all of his life story and some of hers. Wanted to throw them out the nearest emergency exit (bearing in mind it may have been behind me), but there ya go. We had seat-back on demand TV, so that was the saving grace, really. Watched Local Flavor - Disney (some American TV chef/wine guru's programme, which was doing a special for the Epcot Food and Wine festival), Friends, Family Guy, Yes Man, and some of MILK. Yes Man was alright - hadn't seen it before, but there wasn't a hugely appetising selection as far as movies, really.
So, got to JFK and headed through to baggage carousel 3, but as I was getting there, they announced that we'd be getting ours at 6. So I was one of the first up to the carousel, and my bag had already come through! Out through customs, dropped off the bag, (saw John Roberts again), and headed through security again. Already, things were much smoother than 2006. What had taken me about an hour to an hour and hour and a half last time I was in JFK took me about 20 minutes this time.
Came upstairs, called Mum, and got me some Starbucks lovin'. I had forgotten how much I missed it. I'm crazy excited that I'll actually have access to it if I end up living at Vista. But it's walking distance from the hotel I'm staying in tonight and tomorrow, so I sense Sbux for breakfast.
There's a cop over to my left who's just messing around on the internet at one of the gate's computers. And passengers keep asking him questions. He'd probably have more pace if he went to a less obvious spot, cos right now, he's right on the concourse.
And now that we're all up to date, I have nothing left to do for the next hour and a half. Might update my electronics for US time, and maybe start into The Audacity of Hope. Will head down to Gate 16 around 15.30, I think, because this gate should stay pretty quiet and it's nice and chillaxed here (except for blonde girl who's now talking about some girl she knows who's pregnant, "and is keeping it, and it's just the most disconcerting thing"). Ugh. Also, she pronounces every letter in "exactly"... so it becomes "exact-ely". Has to come down. Even her conversation is offensively boring. Socio-economic factors of marriage. May be heading down to Gate 16 a lot earlier.
Next blog either from on board my flight, or from Orlando tonight/tomorrow morning, I expect. I'll be meeting everyone so soon, it still hasn't hit me. Stay tuned to my twitter for the next few days/the summer, because I should be able to update that a lot more frequently, and will probably be less forgetful of things that happen that way!
For now, my Starbucks is calling me. Nomnomnom.
That will all have to come down.
Anyway, what's happened so far... Got to Shannon a little late, so checked in and went through pretty much straight away. Vair sad saying goodbye to the parentals, but at least there were no tears, so a scene was thankfully avoided. The new security checkpoint in Shannon is very shiny, too. And much smoother running. Went over to customs, where the queue was diriculously long. The customs officer seemingly recognised his own handwriting in my passport - he approved me through last year! Groovy! Was asking me about where I was working this year, and he was impressed! Actually a nice guy. Smiled and whatnot, so I definitely struck gold with the customs people cos they're very hit and miss, methinks.
Soo, got through customs and headed to the flight. Was strolling down the aisle when I recognised a guy sitting down. Couldn't think of where from, though, other than that I was pretty sure he was American and was on TV. Got down to my seat where two very painful people were sitting next to me... Irish girl, American guy, heard all of his life story and some of hers. Wanted to throw them out the nearest emergency exit (bearing in mind it may have been behind me), but there ya go. We had seat-back on demand TV, so that was the saving grace, really. Watched Local Flavor - Disney (some American TV chef/wine guru's programme, which was doing a special for the Epcot Food and Wine festival), Friends, Family Guy, Yes Man, and some of MILK. Yes Man was alright - hadn't seen it before, but there wasn't a hugely appetising selection as far as movies, really.
So, got to JFK and headed through to baggage carousel 3, but as I was getting there, they announced that we'd be getting ours at 6. So I was one of the first up to the carousel, and my bag had already come through! Out through customs, dropped off the bag, (saw John Roberts again), and headed through security again. Already, things were much smoother than 2006. What had taken me about an hour to an hour and hour and a half last time I was in JFK took me about 20 minutes this time.
Came upstairs, called Mum, and got me some Starbucks lovin'. I had forgotten how much I missed it. I'm crazy excited that I'll actually have access to it if I end up living at Vista. But it's walking distance from the hotel I'm staying in tonight and tomorrow, so I sense Sbux for breakfast.
There's a cop over to my left who's just messing around on the internet at one of the gate's computers. And passengers keep asking him questions. He'd probably have more pace if he went to a less obvious spot, cos right now, he's right on the concourse.
And now that we're all up to date, I have nothing left to do for the next hour and a half. Might update my electronics for US time, and maybe start into The Audacity of Hope. Will head down to Gate 16 around 15.30, I think, because this gate should stay pretty quiet and it's nice and chillaxed here (except for blonde girl who's now talking about some girl she knows who's pregnant, "and is keeping it, and it's just the most disconcerting thing"). Ugh. Also, she pronounces every letter in "exactly"... so it becomes "exact-ely". Has to come down. Even her conversation is offensively boring. Socio-economic factors of marriage. May be heading down to Gate 16 a lot earlier.
Next blog either from on board my flight, or from Orlando tonight/tomorrow morning, I expect. I'll be meeting everyone so soon, it still hasn't hit me. Stay tuned to my twitter for the next few days/the summer, because I should be able to update that a lot more frequently, and will probably be less forgetful of things that happen that way!
For now, my Starbucks is calling me. Nomnomnom.
Friday, May 29, 2009
> Done.
So, today, I finished my exams, and thus finished my bachelor's degree. It's what can only be described as the weirdest feeling ever. I started off very giddy, that moved into exhaustion, which gave way to nostalgia, which too gave way to exhaustion. I've spent the hours since then doing absolutely nothing. Went and got a UCC t-shirt (which I don't know whether I want to wear as PJs or as a t-shirt), went to try and get my watch fixed (no could do), tried 3 different banks for dollars (all out... blugh), looked for PJ bottoms (choice between ugly and unattractive, so I passed), and went to visit the grandparentals. Was going to get my hair cut, but as I said, exhaustion took over.
But, now I'm done with UCC for good, so that means my thoughts are, unsurprisingly, turned full on to Florida. Well, almost. Class party tonight and hanging out with the BISsers at Tom and Dee's tomorrow night, but other than that, my mind's gone ahead to prepare for my arrival. Meanwhile, the rest of me still has to get a few bits and pieces from Dunnes' tomorrow, as well as pack (oh joy), clear out the last box in my room, and get a hair cut. Can't have myself arriving out of Disney Look, doncha know.
And once that's done, it's have Dad drop me to Shannon on Sunday, hop on a flight to Atlanta, and another to Orlando. Then, it's find Rachel at the airport (exciting!), get dropped to my hotel (exciting!) and get picked up and brought to the Ale House for a reunion with the Innoventors (VERY exciting!). That night, it's back to the hotel for a sleepover with Skipper Lou who I haven't seen since 2006 (CRAZY EXCITING!) and onwards the day after for our day o' fun getting Starbucks, stuff at walmart, going to DTD, and just generally being fun people. Finally, on the Tuesday, it's a lie in followed by a check in as that Scottish feller will finally be arriving so hopefully it all works out! That night, it's his reunion dinner with his GMR crowd, so that should be fun too.
That's the plan for the next few days, but no doubt I'll be back blogging again before then. What with all the time that would have been spent on UCC stuff now being wide open, I'm at a loss for what to do with myself!
For now, it's 2 days, 4 and a half hours till I touch down in Florida!
But, now I'm done with UCC for good, so that means my thoughts are, unsurprisingly, turned full on to Florida. Well, almost. Class party tonight and hanging out with the BISsers at Tom and Dee's tomorrow night, but other than that, my mind's gone ahead to prepare for my arrival. Meanwhile, the rest of me still has to get a few bits and pieces from Dunnes' tomorrow, as well as pack (oh joy), clear out the last box in my room, and get a hair cut. Can't have myself arriving out of Disney Look, doncha know.
And once that's done, it's have Dad drop me to Shannon on Sunday, hop on a flight to Atlanta, and another to Orlando. Then, it's find Rachel at the airport (exciting!), get dropped to my hotel (exciting!) and get picked up and brought to the Ale House for a reunion with the Innoventors (VERY exciting!). That night, it's back to the hotel for a sleepover with Skipper Lou who I haven't seen since 2006 (CRAZY EXCITING!) and onwards the day after for our day o' fun getting Starbucks, stuff at walmart, going to DTD, and just generally being fun people. Finally, on the Tuesday, it's a lie in followed by a check in as that Scottish feller will finally be arriving so hopefully it all works out! That night, it's his reunion dinner with his GMR crowd, so that should be fun too.
That's the plan for the next few days, but no doubt I'll be back blogging again before then. What with all the time that would have been spent on UCC stuff now being wide open, I'm at a loss for what to do with myself!
For now, it's 2 days, 4 and a half hours till I touch down in Florida!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
> 7 Days.
So, I figured it was about time to start this year's blogging season. Granted, a primary motivator is that I'm trying to avoid studying for my final exam (Web Apps & New Business Forms) on Friday, but that's beside the point, really...
So, it's seven days till I hop on a plane to Atlanta, wait around a bit and hop on another plane to Orlando. I'd be lieing if I said I wasn't looking forward to it, but at the same time, I'm not excited. I think the combination of exams lasting till 2 days before I leave combined with the fact that I haven't started packing has just led to it all feeling very abstract and not real. I don't feel yet like I'm about to jet off to Florida for another summer. It's all a little hazy and feels like it's off in the distance. It's only 7 days, but it may as well be 7 months. It just hasn't hit me that it's happening so soon. Very odd.
So, a lot of people have asked me why I'm going back - it won't be like the last time, there'll be different people, I'll have a different job, etc. etc. etc. And that's true. I had the best summer of my life in 2006, and met some of the most amazing people who I still think about pretty much every day. But I think that's sorta why I want to go back. I know that even if this summer turns out to be a total disaster, I'll still have the memories of 2006 and nothing will change that. That said, of course, I'm pretty much certain that this summer will be amazing. I've already made some really good friends who I'm sure I'll be absolutely inseperable from for the summer, and I've found that a huge chunk (though not all... sad times) of my ICP06 friends are back in Florida again. So while I might not have all the ol' gang back with me for all of the summer (after all, some of 'em might come visit at least!), I have a few of them, plus my new pals to keep me company. I guess the people are what I'm most excited about.
A summer working at Innoventions, while fun, was not what I had expected. I always thought the work would be the most fun part of the job. Working at Splash Mountain or some other cool attraction, and the people would be secondary. But, of course, it was 100% about the people I was working with. Sure there were parts of Innoventions I wasn't too fond of (the UL barrel etc.), but the people more than made up for it and were the primary factor in my summer being so amazing. Between the work crowd, and the fun bunch at Vista, I really found my own little niche. And even though it wasn't what I had expected, I found that it was even better than I had hoped. That's why I'm over the moon that some of that bunch are going to be around for the summer. I feel like I'm getting the best of both worlds... A bunch of old friends, plus a bunch of new ones.
That's not to say I'm not going to miss my Irish friends back home, of course. Because I know I'll be skyping them at various stages over the summer and really wish they were sitting there with me in Disney housing. I'll miss the randomness, the drama, and the lunches, but I suppose we'll stay in contact on facebook and skype and the like, so it won't be so bad.
Apart from the friends situation, of course, there's three other factors at play as to how the summer is going to pan out.
The first is my days off. I'm curious to know if I'll be working 6 day weeks like I was at Inno, or if I'll only just get the 40 hours a week. I'm hoping for long shifts, I think, because it's looking like bunches of my friends will be over at the Magic Kingdom, so I'd rather not be home alone - but then I guess it would allow more blog time. Then, of course, there's will the days off match up. I hope they do, of course, cos this time I want to do a whole lot more playing in the parks and experiencing the resort. I already know I want to do a lot more experiencing the food offerings of WDW. In particular, by straying away from the regular hangouts to try new and likely delicious offerings (I'm thinking World Showcase in particular here!). Nom. Plus there's so much to do. Bug people I know while they're working, Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, the new Innoventions venues, the new parades at Magic Kingdom, etc. etc. etc. Hopefully I can always find someone fun to go with me, but if not, I'm not averse to going by myself.
The second factor is where I'm living. Hopefully I manage to land myself a spot rooming with the other half of my brain, Richard, who's heading out for a June 2nd start too. I haven't met Richard, yet, but I know already that we'll be (or, I guess, are...) pretty close friends. We're just bizarrely in sync on pretty much everything. Except that he prefers Sister Act 1 and I prefer Sister Act 2. Other than that, we find ourselves in near constant agreement. It's already beyond scary. But I reckon a summer living with him would be a hoot, really. Between his random yet fun stories, the many in-jokes we already have, and of course, the fact that he also appreciates a good shopping trip (Mall at Millenia, here we come), I figure a fun summer will definitely be on the cards. Plus, of course, there's the fact that he genuinely seems to be not a jackass, so that's always a plus.
Finally, it's where I'm working. Thanks to my insider awesome sources of awesomeness (you know who you are), I actually already know where I'm working and what I'm doing. I don't want to reveal anything yet, just so that I don't get anyone in trouble or end up causing hassle, but I'm pretty sure it's going to be pretty awesome. I've heard pretty much only good things about the job and the people there, and I hope I'll be able to find as cosy a niche there as I did at Innoventions. If I do, I know the summer might even just rival the awesomeness that was 2006.
So, where to from here? Well, 7 days isn't a very long time. I still have to start packing, I have to get last minute bits and pieces to bring with me, and I have to tie up all the loose ends around Cork (like that exam on Friday for one). But hopefully it'll all go well and I'll be able to begin my Florida adventure as scheduled next Sunday. I'll probably blog again during the week with some details of what's happening next Sunday and Monday (considering I don't check in with Disney till Tuesday the 2nd), but here's hoping things go well between now and then. Until then, though, I'm just going to have to get my head around the fact that my second Summer with The Mouse starts in just one week!
So, it's seven days till I hop on a plane to Atlanta, wait around a bit and hop on another plane to Orlando. I'd be lieing if I said I wasn't looking forward to it, but at the same time, I'm not excited. I think the combination of exams lasting till 2 days before I leave combined with the fact that I haven't started packing has just led to it all feeling very abstract and not real. I don't feel yet like I'm about to jet off to Florida for another summer. It's all a little hazy and feels like it's off in the distance. It's only 7 days, but it may as well be 7 months. It just hasn't hit me that it's happening so soon. Very odd.
So, a lot of people have asked me why I'm going back - it won't be like the last time, there'll be different people, I'll have a different job, etc. etc. etc. And that's true. I had the best summer of my life in 2006, and met some of the most amazing people who I still think about pretty much every day. But I think that's sorta why I want to go back. I know that even if this summer turns out to be a total disaster, I'll still have the memories of 2006 and nothing will change that. That said, of course, I'm pretty much certain that this summer will be amazing. I've already made some really good friends who I'm sure I'll be absolutely inseperable from for the summer, and I've found that a huge chunk (though not all... sad times) of my ICP06 friends are back in Florida again. So while I might not have all the ol' gang back with me for all of the summer (after all, some of 'em might come visit at least!), I have a few of them, plus my new pals to keep me company. I guess the people are what I'm most excited about.
A summer working at Innoventions, while fun, was not what I had expected. I always thought the work would be the most fun part of the job. Working at Splash Mountain or some other cool attraction, and the people would be secondary. But, of course, it was 100% about the people I was working with. Sure there were parts of Innoventions I wasn't too fond of (the UL barrel etc.), but the people more than made up for it and were the primary factor in my summer being so amazing. Between the work crowd, and the fun bunch at Vista, I really found my own little niche. And even though it wasn't what I had expected, I found that it was even better than I had hoped. That's why I'm over the moon that some of that bunch are going to be around for the summer. I feel like I'm getting the best of both worlds... A bunch of old friends, plus a bunch of new ones.
That's not to say I'm not going to miss my Irish friends back home, of course. Because I know I'll be skyping them at various stages over the summer and really wish they were sitting there with me in Disney housing. I'll miss the randomness, the drama, and the lunches, but I suppose we'll stay in contact on facebook and skype and the like, so it won't be so bad.
Apart from the friends situation, of course, there's three other factors at play as to how the summer is going to pan out.
The first is my days off. I'm curious to know if I'll be working 6 day weeks like I was at Inno, or if I'll only just get the 40 hours a week. I'm hoping for long shifts, I think, because it's looking like bunches of my friends will be over at the Magic Kingdom, so I'd rather not be home alone - but then I guess it would allow more blog time. Then, of course, there's will the days off match up. I hope they do, of course, cos this time I want to do a whole lot more playing in the parks and experiencing the resort. I already know I want to do a lot more experiencing the food offerings of WDW. In particular, by straying away from the regular hangouts to try new and likely delicious offerings (I'm thinking World Showcase in particular here!). Nom. Plus there's so much to do. Bug people I know while they're working, Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, the new Innoventions venues, the new parades at Magic Kingdom, etc. etc. etc. Hopefully I can always find someone fun to go with me, but if not, I'm not averse to going by myself.
The second factor is where I'm living. Hopefully I manage to land myself a spot rooming with the other half of my brain, Richard, who's heading out for a June 2nd start too. I haven't met Richard, yet, but I know already that we'll be (or, I guess, are...) pretty close friends. We're just bizarrely in sync on pretty much everything. Except that he prefers Sister Act 1 and I prefer Sister Act 2. Other than that, we find ourselves in near constant agreement. It's already beyond scary. But I reckon a summer living with him would be a hoot, really. Between his random yet fun stories, the many in-jokes we already have, and of course, the fact that he also appreciates a good shopping trip (Mall at Millenia, here we come), I figure a fun summer will definitely be on the cards. Plus, of course, there's the fact that he genuinely seems to be not a jackass, so that's always a plus.
Finally, it's where I'm working. Thanks to my insider awesome sources of awesomeness (you know who you are), I actually already know where I'm working and what I'm doing. I don't want to reveal anything yet, just so that I don't get anyone in trouble or end up causing hassle, but I'm pretty sure it's going to be pretty awesome. I've heard pretty much only good things about the job and the people there, and I hope I'll be able to find as cosy a niche there as I did at Innoventions. If I do, I know the summer might even just rival the awesomeness that was 2006.
So, where to from here? Well, 7 days isn't a very long time. I still have to start packing, I have to get last minute bits and pieces to bring with me, and I have to tie up all the loose ends around Cork (like that exam on Friday for one). But hopefully it'll all go well and I'll be able to begin my Florida adventure as scheduled next Sunday. I'll probably blog again during the week with some details of what's happening next Sunday and Monday (considering I don't check in with Disney till Tuesday the 2nd), but here's hoping things go well between now and then. Until then, though, I'm just going to have to get my head around the fact that my second Summer with The Mouse starts in just one week!
Monday, April 06, 2009
> Three years later...
So, it's three years later...
It's the 6th of April, 2009. And I'm sitting in the same chair, in the same hotel, that I sat in a year ago, the night before an embassy interview. A lot has changed since I last blogged. I've just finished my final year of university, and I'm now getting ready to go out into the big mean world of big mean work. Except that I'm applying to a few postgrad masters courses.
And I'm going back to Disney.
Some time around September or October 08, I sent off my CV to Yummyjobs again. Some time around mid-December 08, I headed to London to the Disney HQ in Hammersmith, where I met some loverly new ICP09 types, as well as some YJ types I hadn't met. Incidentally, at that interview, I met the two legends of Disney Recruiting... Jeff, who interviewed Shanan back in the day, and Roger, who interviewed Louisa. It was Roger who gave most of the presentation (including a bit at the start where he called me "Casey Keegan" for a bit, then Michelle corrected him, and he introduced me to everyone... I guess that means I'm famous? ... Or not!) and it was also Roger that interviewed me. The entire day was loads of fun, very entertaining, and Roger's jokes certainly kept us going. In fact, the day was so much fun that I ended up hanging around Hammersmith until all the interviews were done (well, my flight wasn't till 8 and I had nothing else to do!).
Some time around Christmas (though I don't have the exact date... there's no internet in the room!), I got the all important email. I'd been accepted to go back for another amazing Summer at WDW, in my first choice role, attractions.
And now, tomorrow, the 7th, I'm heading back to the snazz circular building on Elgin Road for another visit with the US Embassy peoples. Interestingly, this time, it's all being done online, so the amount of paper I actually have is a lot less this time. Should be interesting, too, as I've already been ten-printed, so I'm looking forward to seeing if I have to do that again!
And as for the Summer? Well, I've already made some brilliant friends, I'll be meeting up with some old ones I haven't seen in a long time, and fingers crossed I'll get the dream work area I want! Will it be as amazing as the last Summer I spent in WDW, though? That remains to be seen, but it's safe to say I'm staying optimistic about it!
Meanwhile, it's great to be back to blogging about heading to Disney. Getting back on the right side of a nametag has been something I've been dreaming about for three years. And in just 54 days, the dream comes true! Here's to a great Summer 2009!
It's the 6th of April, 2009. And I'm sitting in the same chair, in the same hotel, that I sat in a year ago, the night before an embassy interview. A lot has changed since I last blogged. I've just finished my final year of university, and I'm now getting ready to go out into the big mean world of big mean work. Except that I'm applying to a few postgrad masters courses.
And I'm going back to Disney.
Some time around September or October 08, I sent off my CV to Yummyjobs again. Some time around mid-December 08, I headed to London to the Disney HQ in Hammersmith, where I met some loverly new ICP09 types, as well as some YJ types I hadn't met. Incidentally, at that interview, I met the two legends of Disney Recruiting... Jeff, who interviewed Shanan back in the day, and Roger, who interviewed Louisa. It was Roger who gave most of the presentation (including a bit at the start where he called me "Casey Keegan" for a bit, then Michelle corrected him, and he introduced me to everyone... I guess that means I'm famous? ... Or not!) and it was also Roger that interviewed me. The entire day was loads of fun, very entertaining, and Roger's jokes certainly kept us going. In fact, the day was so much fun that I ended up hanging around Hammersmith until all the interviews were done (well, my flight wasn't till 8 and I had nothing else to do!).
Some time around Christmas (though I don't have the exact date... there's no internet in the room!), I got the all important email. I'd been accepted to go back for another amazing Summer at WDW, in my first choice role, attractions.
And now, tomorrow, the 7th, I'm heading back to the snazz circular building on Elgin Road for another visit with the US Embassy peoples. Interestingly, this time, it's all being done online, so the amount of paper I actually have is a lot less this time. Should be interesting, too, as I've already been ten-printed, so I'm looking forward to seeing if I have to do that again!
And as for the Summer? Well, I've already made some brilliant friends, I'll be meeting up with some old ones I haven't seen in a long time, and fingers crossed I'll get the dream work area I want! Will it be as amazing as the last Summer I spent in WDW, though? That remains to be seen, but it's safe to say I'm staying optimistic about it!
Meanwhile, it's great to be back to blogging about heading to Disney. Getting back on the right side of a nametag has been something I've been dreaming about for three years. And in just 54 days, the dream comes true! Here's to a great Summer 2009!
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