Just last week, a huge milestone happened. January 14, 2016 marked our four year blogiversary!
Reaction: sing it!
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That's right: my very, very first blog post happened on January 14, 2012. This blog started off as a class assignment, but now it's become something of a passion of mine (even though I just don't have the time to keep up with it lately)!
Inspired by last year's video, I take a look back at 2015 and offer a sneak peek at what's to come in 2016.
Re-branding is a huge step, but I want to make it as seamless as possible. At this point in time, I can't offer an idea of when re-branding will start, but when it happens, trust me -- you'll know. It's going to be very exciting and a little startling, but I hope you'll stick with me through it and see you again after!
Speaking of you, I really can't say it enough: THANK YOU for choosing to follow my blog and interact with me. Each of you is significant to me, and without you, there would be no Molly the Disney Freak.
Every year, I take a look at my follower and milestone numbers. It's a fun way to see how the blog's following has grown over the years. Check it out!
When I discovered I'd be extending till May for my DCP, all I knew was that I'd be transferring into Attractions. What I didn't know was where I would be, what show or ride I'd be manning -- I didn't know any of the details.
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Someone told me the information would show up on our record card. Someone else told me leaders were handing out the new training schedules.
Turned out my second friend was correct -- and you'll never guess where I'm headed!
That's right: I am headed to DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney's Animal Kingdom! As of now, I don't know if I'll be doing the carnival games, Primeval Whirl, TriceraTop Spin, The Boneyard and/or Dinosaur.
And although I am slightly disappointed in my new location, I'm going to try to make the most of it and create lots of Disney magic for Guests!
A long, long time ago, I applied for a program extension -- that is, to lengthen my stay in the Disney College Program. I asked for your extra pixie dust from all my followers, friends and family members.
I will be extending my program until May 2016! As for my new role, I'll be transferring into Attractions at the start of January. At this point, I don't know what park I'll be at, what ride or show -- I know nothing.
So, if you can't tell, I'm just really excited to stay longer at Disney and to be able to continue making more magical memories, for Guests and myself!
We've been waiting forever to find Dory. Yesterday, we found her for a brief moment when the trailer debuted on Ellen's TV show!
Check it out below and love everything about it:
Honestly, I'm freaking out so much that it's hard to write coherent thoughts. And as you'll see in my trailer reaction video (COMING SOON) below, I couldn't really do more than laugh. Because Ellen as Dory makes me genuinely laugh.
And that's exactly why I'm excited for this sequel. We're getting more and more Dory.
It'll be interesting to see how Pixar handles a movie about a fish who notoriously cannot remember...anything, basically. How ever will the plot -- I mean, our main character -- stay focused? But I put my faith in Pixar and Ellen. I know this will be an amazing movie.
It's not like we've been waiting more than ten years for this!
I know, I know. I haven't posted pretty much a darn thing about my Disney College Program, and here I am posting about a recent update... Basically, you want me to back up first, right?
Let me explain.
I'm still planning on blogging about my Disney College Program adventures thus far, but this update is too important not to share now, even if I'm skipping a bunch of chapters!
Because, my loverly friends, I need lots of pixie dust sent my way!
A week ago, I applied to extend my program -- meaning that if I'm accepted, I'd be staying till May (instead of January). And I'd be switching roles.
Do I hope I get extended? Yes, and no. I'd love to continue working for Disney, but I'm also okay with moving to Kansas City to pursue theatre.
If I do stay with Disney, I'd like to switch roles. The experiences and opportunities I've had thus far are absolutely incredible, and I wouldn't trade them for the world. So I think the cool thing behind extending is that with a new role, I can have these same experiences and opportunities but with new eyes, new people, etc., if you understand what I'm saying.
Plus, I really have no interest in staying in food service. (Though, like I said in the vlog, I do make a killer stromboli, my friends.)
In the end, extending would be a great opportunity for me, so please send pixie dust -- this Disney fanatic wants to fly!
Extension application results are released Wednesday, October 21.
The rumors had been swirling around for months: not-so-popular-in-the-US Duffy the Disney Bear would be retired from his meet and greet spot in EPCOT sometime this year.
In Disney Housing, TVs are not provided, so I, like many, was unable to watch the documentary.
But, PBS heard the pleas of those who missed the airing and responded by posting the entire video to their website, and I have embedded it here!
I don't know about you, but I'll be watching this for years to come!
The fact that this documentary was finally made fills me with so much happiness. Walt is the reason I am the person I am today. Thank you, for teaching me to believe in magic.
Everyone in the Disney College Program has to go through Traditions, which is the orientation overview to the Walt Disney Company, specifically Walt Disney World. You'll have orientation pertaining to your role later, and then orientation at your location, followed by actual role training.
But the first step is Traditions. And the best part?
After Traditions, you become an official Cast Member, with free entrance into the theme parks, finally!
Your day begins on the bus ride to Disney University, where your Traditions "class" takes place.
Regular classes offered during the DCP are usually here too, though
mine is at Chatham.
I was in group A, and we pretty much deducted that it was organized alphabetically by last name. So if your roommate's last name starts with the same letter as yours, you'll probably end up together! Sadly, Dana and I were separated the entire day.
My name on our classroom screen!
You're ushered into a room, and the leaders start off with some trivia to earn special pins. These pins can only be received at Traditions, so don't expect me to be trading mine any time...ever!
The more you know, the more pins you can earn! Fellow vlogger Sam
earned two pins for knowing two answers.
Eventually, your leaders begin the session. I had Jen, who works in Entertainment, and Tasha, who works in stocking. They were really great, bringing a whole level of fun to the slow day!
What do I mean by 'slow'? Well, the entire morning is spent going over what working for the Walt Disney World really means. For example: what's the goal here at Disney? It's all very important to know, but without a bit of lightheartedness, it can become painfully slow and dull.
Luckily, with good leaders, it won't be!
At each table sat a red box. We were told quite explicitly not to open them, and about halfway through the day, we were allowed to. Inside were our very own pair of Mickey ears, as a gift from Disney to us.
I can't wait to get mine personalized!
So, briefly, what all is discussed during Traditions?
Be prepared to learn some of Disney's business success secrets, their special "language," the Four Keys, creating magical moments and interacting with Guests, and a look back at Walt's life. (Tip: it gets emotional at that point!)
We watched many videos of Guests explaining how Cast Members made their vacation extra magical, and how the Cast Members responded to the Guests' letters. There were videos of children being told they were going to Walt Disney World and their reactions to the news. Ladies, you're going to want to bring a wad of tissues!
Let's step back for a moment. What are the Four Keys? These are Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency. These are integral to success at any branch of the Walt Disney Company. And you will never stop hearing about them while on your Disney journey -- they are that important!
The best part of Traditions comes around lunch time: a special visit to the Magic Kingdom to see these Four Keys in action!
Since we can't get into the theme parks until receiving our Disney IDs at Traditions, this was my first visit to Magic Kingdom since arriving for the DCP!
Yes, I'm aware there's a pole coming out of my head.
Was it intentional. Maybe. (No. Always no.)
We were able to go into the "utilidors"--or, the underground tunnels that make up the real first floor of Magic Kingdom. This was my favorite part of the day, as I'd been dying to explore these tunnels for year! I can't tell you anything (Disney secrecy at its finest, folks) but they are pretty incredible! And very efficient.
When you get back to the classroom, the leaders quiz you over what you saw, and then say something like this: "Well, we had some Cast Members, experts in the Four Keys, show you how to utilize them in action. Now we need an expert in magic to help us finish up your time here!"
Cue Mickey Mouse.
Proud to say I wasn't a bit scared!
Jen announced that Mickey Mouse had brought us something a little special. Inside a gold gift-wrapped box were our official Disney nametags, sprinkled with a little extra pixie dust by the Big Cheese himself!
Mickey left to create more magic right after this, but it was nice
to see our new boss on our first day!
And with that, your time at Traditions is completed, making you an official Disney Cast Member. Welcome to the team!
The loot of an official Cast Member!
Earned Donald and Goofy for volunteering in class. Make sure
to raise your hand and speak up!
Watch my video below of my first Cast Member trip to Magic Kingdom, as well as Sam's vlog featuring me in a cameo role!
SoCal Attractions 360 has provided this short and sweet video of the pre-parade float. The emotions are created through animatronic figures versus costumed characters, which I didn't realize till I watched the video. Also, look very closely to find Fear!
I have to say, I'm a little disappointed in the float. While the animatronics are extremely well-done, with plenty of smooth movement, there's definitely a lack of energy. Perhaps using more music and less dialogue would help, and giving the dancers something to do that's more interactive with the crowd would definitely improve the overall feel. Of course, once more people have seen the movie, I'm sure there will be more reaction from the crowd.
However, points to Disney for Anger's head actually lighting on fire -- that's really cool!
Within our first week at Walt Disney World, my roommates and I decided to cross an item off our bucket lists and conquer the Kitchen Sink!
Get to know these faces -- you'll be seeing them around here a lot!
Photo credit: Miranda (L)
If you're not sure what the kitchen sink is, it's eight scoops of ice cream (two chocolate, two vanilla, two strawberry, one mint and one coffee), all the toppings you can think of, and a WHOLE CAN of whip cream.
That's right: a WHOLE CAN.
In (almost) all its glory! As you can tell, we'd started
eating it by this point. So began the process.
And because of the gigantic task before you, the entire restaurant takes a moment to celebrate, with siren-like lights and your Cast Member guide explaining the Kitchen Sink before placing it on your table. We had two other families get the Kitchen Sink while we were there, and each time, I expected the fire alarm to go off because of the lighting!
Would the four of us be able to eat it all and therefore conquer this sweet concoction? Take a look at the photos below!
Unfortunately, we did not completely finish the Kitchen Sink, but we were pretty darn close. All in all, we had a blast together, as you can see in the following video!
Remember: it's all about having fun together during this activity. If you don't finish it, then that's okay. Of course, it's an nice accomplishment, if you do.
Some fun tricks and tips for during your Kitchen Sink experience:
See how many toppings you can identify. I definitely remember a few cherries, candy oranges, Oreo cookies, brownie pieces, frozen strawberries and, of course, the whipped cream.
Pace yourselves and utilize those individual bowls!
Make sure to get a photo of your group -- our Cast Member guide offered, so I think yours will, too. But it's always worth asking!
And the more interaction with the Cast Member, the more fun your experience will be!
You can purchase a Kitchen Sink at Beaches and Cream, found at the Yacht and Beach Club Resort at Walt Disney World. It's the most expensive desert, just under $30, but it's also a lot of food!
And here’s the bonus part: each and every item on this bucket list will be vlogged for your viewing pleasure! One, so I can record it for posterity and two, so that you can experience my adventures alongside myself!
Plus, and this is future Molly speaking, for any items that I’ve accomplished—click the appropriate hyperlink to watch/read all about it!
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this Disney fanatic is at the Happiest Place on Earth!
Reaction: Crazy!
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To be completely honest with you, I've been here since Monday, which was my check-in/arrival date. Unfortunately, we were running late, so I didn't make it to my actual check-in time, so I'm on the late arrival schedule. But Monday was filled with shopping for supplies and visiting Downtown Disney before finally getting to hit the hay that night!
Dana, Michelle, Miranda and I are all living together in the Commons, with free laundry (such a plus!). Miranda is from our original group of six but went random in the end, so what a lucky coincidence that the girl originally supposed to be my roommate ending up being my roommate!
Tuesday, I had Casting, which is just paperwork saying that yes, I'm a citizen of the Unite States and yes, I am eligible to work in the United States. We also got fingerprinted, which felt very official!
And then today, Wednesday, I had Housing, which basically went over all the rules of living here, who to contact for what, and fun events and activities available for College Program interns.
I haven't posted a Disney College Program update since spring break, when I had my character audition (which I didn't pass, by the way). With graduation over and Disney just around the corner (two more weeks -- holy shiz!), I was finally able to create a brief video to update family, friends and followers about the status of my program.
So. Let's address each section individually, shall we?
Location: Yes, I am working in the lovely Grand Floridian Resort and Spa! I'm super thrilled to be
The Grand = home :)
Image via a Google search.
working at the same resort I stayed at last summer, giving me an inside look at such a beautiful hotel. My exact location is Gasparilla Island Grill, doing quick service food and beverage. This could mean cashier, cleaning tables, running food -- pretty much anything, as long as it's not cooking. My position will vary day-to-day, but after working in the campus dining hall for three years, this should be no sweat! I will continue to audition for performing roles throughout the program -- stay tuned!
Housing: As I said in the video, I will not explain the process of DORMS, because honestly, I'm not the best source of information concerning technical DCP stuff. But I can say that normally you're supposed to be able to link up with at least four girls. I don't know what the problem is, but the program is only letting you link up with two girls right now, making three including yourself. Therefore, my group of six (including me) split in half. Michelle, Dana and I requested to room together. I believe Dana requested one random roommate, with the second choice of three random roommates -- so there's a possibility we find ourselves with Miranda, Kaysee and Rebecca! I'm sure whichever random roommate(s) we get will end up being great. I'll post again as soon as I know exactly where we're living, and I'll be sure to film an apartment tour, too.
A photo posted by Molly the Disney Freak (@mollythedisneyfreak) on
Classes: There are three types of classes offered through DCP. The first kind comes with homework, tests and college credit; the second is broadly covers a major or field of study; and the third is major-specific. Because of my recent college graduation, I don't need any credits and didn't want to pay the small fee. Therefore, I am only taking the second kind (seminar). As of now, I'm still technically on the waitlist for a leadership seminar. In August, I plan on signing up for the marking seminar and show production.
Well, there ya have it, folks! Please comment with any questions, and I'll be sure to respond!
Again, I'm super thrilled to be doing this program and that my loverly followers can be a part of it with me!
Effective Sunday, February 22 it will now cost $105 plus tax for a 1-day, 1-park ticket to the Magic Kingdom. That's a $6 jump. Disney's other three major parks: Epcot, Hollywood Studios & Animal Kingdom rise a more-modest $3 from $94 to $97. Full Price breakdown below
On Monday, I had my phone interview for the Disney College Program. My father did a mock phone interview with me the week prior, which definitely helped me feel better about the real deal!
The best part about my DCP progress? I discovered my friend Sara is also applying – which is really cool because I didn’t expect anyone at my college to even knew of the program! She and I would love to be roommates if we're both accepted, and hopefully she’ll appear in these vlogs.
Below, I’ve included two videos. The first shows what I used to help me prepare for the interview – please, feel free to use any of my ideas. The second is my actual phone interview, which will hopefully help you prepare for your own!
So, how did I do? I think it went really well!
The next step for me is my character audition. If I don’t make it to the audition, I’ll be considered for other roles and not for character performer. As my interviewer said, the audition is not absolute, only required if you strongly want a performing role.
Fingers crossed I’m able to make it! My friend Elizabeth lives near my audition and has offered to host my family and I.
After the application, I was sent the web-based interview, which is a basic personality test, I would say. Simple questions that you would fill out in other job applications during which you describe yourself and your work ethic.
Well, I passed that and scheduled my phone interview for Feb. 16 at 10 p.m. (right after a dress rehearsal – it’ll be hard to focus!). If I pass the phone interview, I’m practically in. If not, then it’s over.
No pressure or anything, right?
As I said in the video, I’ll be sure to continue vlogging/blogging the experience and my journey, but for now, keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer for me!
For a Media Writing assignment back in 2012, I wrote my first post on January 14. I didn’t know what lay ahead for me and had no idea I was in for a great ride!
In honor of the occasion, I look back at 2014 and ahead at 2015 in the video below.
Obviously, the biggest change this year will be the eventual change in name! I personally am leaning toward Molly Loves Mouse, but since I’m writing the blog for YOU, your opinion matters. So please vote below for your pick of the two potential names!
Which name do you prefer?
As always, THANK YOU to all my loverlies: my fans, my family, my friends, all the strangers who find me on Google. Every single time you click on my blog, you make my day 100x better. This blog wouldn’t be possible without all of YOU.
And as is tradition, here are my annual follower/fan numbers – look how we’ve grown!
Big Hero 6opens on Friday, and Disney has been doing plenty of promotion for the movie. For the past few months, they have been doing a countdown to the premiere.
Michelle (my roommate) and I watched the music video together and caught our reactions on film. Unfortunately, we thought the actual music video so…dull that we kind of began discussing other things.
But I think you’ll find our video humorous, nonetheless.
I am seeing Big Hero 6on Sunday. I will definitely be writing a review for a blog post, with the possibility of filming a vlog review as well. Either way, tune in again very, very soon to hear/read my thoughts on Disney’s next feature film!
Thank you to all of my 1,000 Facebook likes and 1,000 Twitter followers (both of which continue to climb daily), and I can’t wait for the next 1,000 to join us!
Special thanks to Dani MacInnes for being my 1000th like and Princess Laura (@DisneyRosary) for being my 1000th follower!
So even though I put off entering (mainly out of self-conscious hate of my own singing voice), I finally uploaded my entry video last night – took me two hours because Disney’s website would not work!
Wish me luck! The ten finalists will be professionally recorded, and then you will receive the chance to vote for your favorite of the top ten. The voted winner is then part of the Kohls commercial to air in the last spot during the American Music Awards!
