So today I decided to set my alarm for 10.30 am. What-a mistake-a to make-a! I ended up sleeping until 12 anyway as I didn't have to be in work until 2.
So I just lay in bed for a bit, watched some Michael McIntyre, got ready, got into costume and set off for work.
Work was pretty good, just a few of us in today. I think I'm getting a lot more confident with closing. Lauren trusted me to do a lot of it by myself, which is a big sign of her faith in me!! I hope I am picking up things quite fast, and that they aren't tired of training me already. I also sold another frame today- woohoo!! I'm getting a lot more confident with that too.
Anyhow after work we braced the horror that is the 9.43pm bus. It is literally everyone pushing for dear life to get on that bus. But Lauren and I managed to get seats and then (after a Superman style change of clothes) set off for McDonalds. It's no surprise that after a closing shift you can't be bothered to actually cook any dinner, it's fast food all the way!!
So now I'm back at the apartment, just writing this up quickly before I head to bed. Trying to prove that I can update you on a daily basis :) I am trying!! But I need to get to bed as I'm very tired!
(This is the post that messed up!!)
Again sorry I haven't updated as much as I would've liked to, but the first week or so is actually a whirlwind.
I will get back on track soon though as things are starting to settle down.
Saturday 7th May- Traditions
As I said before, I was a little nervous as I was going to be in Traditions on my own. But actually my room-mate Cristina had to be at Disney University at the same time. So we got the coach at 12 together :) I was the only UK person there, but I sat with the Mexicans (there were 6 of them) and all the rest in the room were Italians. So it was a loud, very upbeat session. Our Traditions guy was also really funny, he got us all to introduce ourselves, and when I said I was from the UK everyone cheered and he said "Represent". We were shown a history on the Walt Disney company, including Operating Participants (as I'm HRC). We played a few games with what we had learnt and all in all it was a fun day! And we got our Disney ID's!! Well they are white temporary ones that only last about 3 months until you have you Social Security all sorted out. Then everyone was taken upstairs to do some e-learning, however I didn't have to do this, so I waited for everyone to finish. Then we caught up with the UK and Canadians from the 7am class to catch the coach back to The Commons.
That night we decided to get together and go out. We ended up at a bar/club called Cowboys, which is apparently THE place to be on a Saturday night. It was a great night, got an awesome party taxi there, it was $12 entry for guys- $8 for girls. And then it was free beer until 1am- so anything like Budweiser you just took your empty bottle up to the bar and they got you a new one. We tried our hand at some line dancing, but most of the people there take it really seriously, Stetsons and everything! It was a really good laugh though. One word of advice, keep hold of everyone as you leave! Otherwise it will take forever to round everyone up and into the taxi!
Sunday 8th May- Day Off!!
The others had to go do more e-learning and F&B training at Disney University, but I had the day off. So we arranged that when they got back we would all go and hit a park with our new Disney ID's. We left Commons at around 2pm and headed off to Animal Kingdom. I'm terrible when it comes to rides- I hate drops, but I'm trying to get better! So we went on the Kali Raiver Rapids, I'll admit, I was nervous. I was sat next to a young boy who was about 8 and there was another kid of about 6 in our boat too. They were fine, and I was the scared one!! Saying that, it was such a fun ride, the drops weren't that bad. Only thing was that I got SOAKED, completely drenched down to the bone. Luckily it was a warm day and I didn't mind!
Next we went for a wander round to Expedition Everest. This I was not ready for, so I watched the bags while the guys went on, twice. I took this time to give my Mum a quick ring. We also went on the Kilamangaro Safaris and lastly went to see Festival of the Lion King. The Lion King show was empty compared to other times, most of the guests seemed really reluctant to sing along and clap.. so being new Cast Members we tried to be really energetic and loud to make up for it, I think the cast appreciated it :)
Then we moved onto the Magic Kingdom. This was Mark's first time in the Magic Kingdom as a guest.. so as soon as he saw the castle it was a real 'Magical Moment'. There we met up with a few others and headed off the Splash Mountain. Again- not a big fan of drops, so I sat that one out. I waited for about 20 minutes until I saw them all in their boat (It's quite good that I sat it out as there are 8 people to a boat and I would have been the 9th- well that's my excuse anyway!) But I talked to a few random guests while waiting, getting some practice! We also went on Thunder Mountain, Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean (which is amazing with Johnny Depp now!) Then we made a B-line for Wishes. Which was so incredible, as always!
Getting the bus back however was a bit of a nightmare! It was PACKED! Although Brooke and I got talking to a girl on the College Program, you really get to meet such a range of people :) Then it was just off to bed as I had to be up early the next day.
Monday 9th May- 'Merchantainment'
So I had to be at Disney University for 8am.. which meant walking from The Commons to Chatham Square at about 7.15am as there are no direct buses from Commons to D.U. Luckily my room-mate Cristina knew another girl from Mexico who was due to do the same class, so she gave her a ring and we arranged to walk over together. Once at D.U we were taken into a room wet out like a classroom with lots of cash registers lined up. They talked us through the concept of 'Merchandise with Entertainment= Merchantainment', asked us a few questions, and then they got us practicing on the registers. It's all pretty simple, they talk you through step by step, and there were items we had to ring up in lots of different ways. There was also information on the US currency for anyone that had any problems with it. All in all it was a pretty simple day, and really good practice to get you familiar with the Disney cash register system. Then I got to leave at 1.30 as the rest of the Merch people had to do more e-learning. So then I headed home and took a nap :)
Later on I headed to the outlets/Publix with Cristina, Fernando and Mark.. it was a good little outing. We started talking about really random things, they were really interested in the Royal Wedding and the Monarchy.
Tuesday 9th May- Discovery Day
Today we got to go to Epcot! We were shown a video about the idea, progression and construction of Epcot. It has changed a lot from Walt's first vision. It was really interesting, if a little long. Then we all went out to take a tour of Epcot. We rode Spaceship Earth so that those who had never been before could go inside the ball. We learnt some cool facts about the Epcot ball and other areas of the park, but I'll leave those as a surprise. Then we went out onto one of the Friendship boats to take a tour of World Showcase. They show you all the backstage part too.. where the cafeteria is, how you can get to work on the "Lazy bus" that goes round the back of all the pavillions.
Then we went back to the room.. (somewhat of a briefing room) and we were asked questions and to stand up for which were relevant to you. Basically we are all International Cast Members, all part of the same Disney family. After this people were all picked up by their individual trainers to get a tour of where they would be working. As I'm HRC, we are a very small family, so Charlotte who came out March 8th came to get me and take me to Costuming! For anyone coming out, take no notice of the sizing.. they are completely mismatched and all over the place. I tried on a massive size 24 or something and it didn't fit, yet smaller sizes did. It's basically a case of trying on loads until you find some that look half decent and grabbing them. My costume is slightly different to everyone else in my arrival group, as I'm the only Merchandise person starting. Each pavillion has one costume for F&B and another for Merch. Mine consists of a long white skirt with yellow/orange vertical stripes, a white top with lace trim and fanned out sleeves from the elbow, and a yellow cummerbund. It sinches in at the waist though, which makes it slightly more attractive.
Then Charlotte took me round to the UK pavillion, showed me the way in though backstage doors, into HRC, and then into HRC office. We had a bit of a chat about stuff, and then my manager came into the office too to make sure I was OK with everything. And then I got to go back home! I saw all the others being led round by their trainer, but only waved as I didn't want to distract them.
(So this is all that had saved.. I will try to update the missing couple of weeks another time, but it's mostly just been work, sleep, eat and seeing people :) )
I will get back on track soon though as things are starting to settle down.
Saturday 7th May- Traditions
As I said before, I was a little nervous as I was going to be in Traditions on my own. But actually my room-mate Cristina had to be at Disney University at the same time. So we got the coach at 12 together :) I was the only UK person there, but I sat with the Mexicans (there were 6 of them) and all the rest in the room were Italians. So it was a loud, very upbeat session. Our Traditions guy was also really funny, he got us all to introduce ourselves, and when I said I was from the UK everyone cheered and he said "Represent". We were shown a history on the Walt Disney company, including Operating Participants (as I'm HRC). We played a few games with what we had learnt and all in all it was a fun day! And we got our Disney ID's!! Well they are white temporary ones that only last about 3 months until you have you Social Security all sorted out. Then everyone was taken upstairs to do some e-learning, however I didn't have to do this, so I waited for everyone to finish. Then we caught up with the UK and Canadians from the 7am class to catch the coach back to The Commons.
That night we decided to get together and go out. We ended up at a bar/club called Cowboys, which is apparently THE place to be on a Saturday night. It was a great night, got an awesome party taxi there, it was $12 entry for guys- $8 for girls. And then it was free beer until 1am- so anything like Budweiser you just took your empty bottle up to the bar and they got you a new one. We tried our hand at some line dancing, but most of the people there take it really seriously, Stetsons and everything! It was a really good laugh though. One word of advice, keep hold of everyone as you leave! Otherwise it will take forever to round everyone up and into the taxi!
Sunday 8th May- Day Off!!
The others had to go do more e-learning and F&B training at Disney University, but I had the day off. So we arranged that when they got back we would all go and hit a park with our new Disney ID's. We left Commons at around 2pm and headed off to Animal Kingdom. I'm terrible when it comes to rides- I hate drops, but I'm trying to get better! So we went on the Kali Raiver Rapids, I'll admit, I was nervous. I was sat next to a young boy who was about 8 and there was another kid of about 6 in our boat too. They were fine, and I was the scared one!! Saying that, it was such a fun ride, the drops weren't that bad. Only thing was that I got SOAKED, completely drenched down to the bone. Luckily it was a warm day and I didn't mind!
Next we went for a wander round to Expedition Everest. This I was not ready for, so I watched the bags while the guys went on, twice. I took this time to give my Mum a quick ring. We also went on the Kilamangaro Safaris and lastly went to see Festival of the Lion King. The Lion King show was empty compared to other times, most of the guests seemed really reluctant to sing along and clap.. so being new Cast Members we tried to be really energetic and loud to make up for it, I think the cast appreciated it :)
Then we moved onto the Magic Kingdom. This was Mark's first time in the Magic Kingdom as a guest.. so as soon as he saw the castle it was a real 'Magical Moment'. There we met up with a few others and headed off the Splash Mountain. Again- not a big fan of drops, so I sat that one out. I waited for about 20 minutes until I saw them all in their boat (It's quite good that I sat it out as there are 8 people to a boat and I would have been the 9th- well that's my excuse anyway!) But I talked to a few random guests while waiting, getting some practice! We also went on Thunder Mountain, Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean (which is amazing with Johnny Depp now!) Then we made a B-line for Wishes. Which was so incredible, as always!
Getting the bus back however was a bit of a nightmare! It was PACKED! Although Brooke and I got talking to a girl on the College Program, you really get to meet such a range of people :) Then it was just off to bed as I had to be up early the next day.
Monday 9th May- 'Merchantainment'
So I had to be at Disney University for 8am.. which meant walking from The Commons to Chatham Square at about 7.15am as there are no direct buses from Commons to D.U. Luckily my room-mate Cristina knew another girl from Mexico who was due to do the same class, so she gave her a ring and we arranged to walk over together. Once at D.U we were taken into a room wet out like a classroom with lots of cash registers lined up. They talked us through the concept of 'Merchandise with Entertainment= Merchantainment', asked us a few questions, and then they got us practicing on the registers. It's all pretty simple, they talk you through step by step, and there were items we had to ring up in lots of different ways. There was also information on the US currency for anyone that had any problems with it. All in all it was a pretty simple day, and really good practice to get you familiar with the Disney cash register system. Then I got to leave at 1.30 as the rest of the Merch people had to do more e-learning. So then I headed home and took a nap :)
Later on I headed to the outlets/Publix with Cristina, Fernando and Mark.. it was a good little outing. We started talking about really random things, they were really interested in the Royal Wedding and the Monarchy.
Tuesday 9th May- Discovery Day
Today we got to go to Epcot! We were shown a video about the idea, progression and construction of Epcot. It has changed a lot from Walt's first vision. It was really interesting, if a little long. Then we all went out to take a tour of Epcot. We rode Spaceship Earth so that those who had never been before could go inside the ball. We learnt some cool facts about the Epcot ball and other areas of the park, but I'll leave those as a surprise. Then we went out onto one of the Friendship boats to take a tour of World Showcase. They show you all the backstage part too.. where the cafeteria is, how you can get to work on the "Lazy bus" that goes round the back of all the pavillions.
Then we went back to the room.. (somewhat of a briefing room) and we were asked questions and to stand up for which were relevant to you. Basically we are all International Cast Members, all part of the same Disney family. After this people were all picked up by their individual trainers to get a tour of where they would be working. As I'm HRC, we are a very small family, so Charlotte who came out March 8th came to get me and take me to Costuming! For anyone coming out, take no notice of the sizing.. they are completely mismatched and all over the place. I tried on a massive size 24 or something and it didn't fit, yet smaller sizes did. It's basically a case of trying on loads until you find some that look half decent and grabbing them. My costume is slightly different to everyone else in my arrival group, as I'm the only Merchandise person starting. Each pavillion has one costume for F&B and another for Merch. Mine consists of a long white skirt with yellow/orange vertical stripes, a white top with lace trim and fanned out sleeves from the elbow, and a yellow cummerbund. It sinches in at the waist though, which makes it slightly more attractive.
Then Charlotte took me round to the UK pavillion, showed me the way in though backstage doors, into HRC, and then into HRC office. We had a bit of a chat about stuff, and then my manager came into the office too to make sure I was OK with everything. And then I got to go back home! I saw all the others being led round by their trainer, but only waved as I didn't want to distract them.
(So this is all that had saved.. I will try to update the missing couple of weeks another time, but it's mostly just been work, sleep, eat and seeing people :) )
Post mishap but a day of accomplishments.
Sorry I haven't updated the blog in forever.. we have now been here three weeks and I have posted twice. I am a massive fail and I apologise.
I was actually updating with a new post that I kept open in a window.. and I was constantly adding to it. But guess what, my computer decided to restart itself and hadn't saved most of my stuff. This of course made me extremely angry and I didn't feel like posting ever again.
But here I am, I'm back. I do have to get into a routine of updating.. but things do have a habit of getting pushed aside. I've had a lot to sort out.
So right now I'm just going to tell you about my day, and I'll publish what's left of the other post later or tomorrow. I may try to add to it, if my memory helps me fill in the blanks!
Wednesday 25th May
So today I had off of work, but I set my alarm for 10am as I need to start making the most out of my days. After getting up and dressed I phoned my Mum for the first time in about a week (or maybe more, oops) also, I'd had trouble getting through the past few days as I couldn't remember the code I needed to put in before my Mum's number. Silly girl.
So with that sorted, I also managed to phone up and activate my bank card. Saving me a trip to Partners bank over at Disney University. Woop, another thing to check off the list. So then I had to think about going to Walmart. I've been meaning to go for ages to get a foam mattress topper and some washing bits. So my roommate Cristina and I headed off at about 1pm and were back at the apartment by 3.
At the moment Wednesdays is the day that a bus runs from the Commons (and other complexes at Little Lake Bryan) to Florida Mall. Now knowing that I will get my paycheck within the next few days, and my bank card is all sorted I can finally get some new clothes! We both bought a few bits and got some awesome deals at Old Navy, then got on the bus back at 8.45. Made some dinner.. had a shower and now I'm chilling on the sofa watching some TV. I'm working tomorrow, but not until 2 so that means I can have a bit of a lie in tomorrow too. Then I'm off again Saturday and Sunday.
Definitely need to get working on my tan! My legs are embarrassingly white compared to everyone else's!
Goodnight for now!
I was actually updating with a new post that I kept open in a window.. and I was constantly adding to it. But guess what, my computer decided to restart itself and hadn't saved most of my stuff. This of course made me extremely angry and I didn't feel like posting ever again.
But here I am, I'm back. I do have to get into a routine of updating.. but things do have a habit of getting pushed aside. I've had a lot to sort out.
So right now I'm just going to tell you about my day, and I'll publish what's left of the other post later or tomorrow. I may try to add to it, if my memory helps me fill in the blanks!
Wednesday 25th May
So today I had off of work, but I set my alarm for 10am as I need to start making the most out of my days. After getting up and dressed I phoned my Mum for the first time in about a week (or maybe more, oops) also, I'd had trouble getting through the past few days as I couldn't remember the code I needed to put in before my Mum's number. Silly girl.
So with that sorted, I also managed to phone up and activate my bank card. Saving me a trip to Partners bank over at Disney University. Woop, another thing to check off the list. So then I had to think about going to Walmart. I've been meaning to go for ages to get a foam mattress topper and some washing bits. So my roommate Cristina and I headed off at about 1pm and were back at the apartment by 3.
At the moment Wednesdays is the day that a bus runs from the Commons (and other complexes at Little Lake Bryan) to Florida Mall. Now knowing that I will get my paycheck within the next few days, and my bank card is all sorted I can finally get some new clothes! We both bought a few bits and got some awesome deals at Old Navy, then got on the bus back at 8.45. Made some dinner.. had a shower and now I'm chilling on the sofa watching some TV. I'm working tomorrow, but not until 2 so that means I can have a bit of a lie in tomorrow too. Then I'm off again Saturday and Sunday.
Definitely need to get working on my tan! My legs are embarrassingly white compared to everyone else's!
Goodnight for now!
The next 2 days
Again.. recapping the past 2 days and we should be up to date :)
Thursday 5th May
We all had to be at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 8.50am for more orientation stuff. This was mainly form filling to start your Social Security process and a lecture on immigration. They take you through each form step by step to make sure everything is done correctly. And then we had a talk about immigration and travel in and out of the United States during and after your program, including if you go to jail, you get deported.. just things to scare you into behaving basically!
Then you put all the documents you filled out into a wallet, along with your passport and I-797 form (WDW cast members also had to have their insurance policy print out) and you hand them in to the helpers. We were then off for the day until 4pm-ish when we had to return to the Clubhouse to pick up our passports and everything we had handed in. During this break time Kyle, Kirstie, Antonia, Julie and I decided to head to Walmart and then a phone shop to sort out our American cell phones. I was lucky as I just wanted the cheapest option that would call home, and as I have my UK phone with me and it's unlocked I could use that- which saved me some money. So I just had to pay for the Sim, the activation fee and the first month's payment, so my plan is $40 per month and that includes unlimited texting and calling in the US, and to the UK. Although the UK calling is only to landlines- and I think for a maximum of 12 hours a month. But still that is more than enough for me!
After that we all went back to our apartments for a bit to chill out, and then we went to Downtown Disney for dinner. We went to the T-rex restaurant which is so awesome.. we survived a meteor shower, which is always a good thing!! I was going to head back straight after dinner as I had to be up early the next day to meet my new boss.. but I was persuaded to go for a drink. And after that everyone decided to come back anyway, so after a Grand National style sprint we caught the bus back to The Commons and then bed.
Friday 6th May
Today I met my new boss! She came to pick me up from the Commons clubhouse and then took me to the credit union Partners, which is part of Disney. She was really lovely and helped me with everything! So I have a bank account sorted now, and it isn't like the Disney payroll card- which you can only make one free withdrawl a month.. this is just like a normal debit card. Except their machine to print the cards wasn't working, so they are going to mail it to me. It should be here around 7-10 days which is fine as I won't get paid until then anyway, and I've put a deposit in there so at least that's something :) I also got my schedule and loads of paperwork about HRC that I looked through already. Also- most exciting bit- I GOT MY NAMETAG!! I didn't think you got it until Traditions on Saturday but as my manager Mariann had it already.. I was so excited!
So then I came back to the apartment and have basically been here all day- except for a couple of trips to McDonalds (once with my housemate Deborah and once to show Mark the way!) and Publix. But I've hung out with my housemates today and really got to know some of them better, which is good. I can really feel that I'm settling into my house more.
Tomorrow is Traditions... I'm a little nervous as the Food and Beverage people all go at 7am, and I go with a load of other people at 12.. but I'll try talking to others, as I always do :) So I actually get a bit of a lie in tomorrow!! Will be heading to bed soonish though as I'm very tired, but am enjoying hanging out with Apt. #428 girls!
Yaaayyyyyy!!!
The first few days...
Please bare with me, this will be a long post- theres a lot to recap!!
Tuesday 3rd May-
I had to get up at about 5.30am after only 2 hours sleep to get ready for the airport. The taxi ride up to Gatwick was awful, I had a lump in my throat and was really trying not to cry otherwise it would set my Mum off. I went and checked in and dropped off my bag (that was slightly overweight), and both BA staff tried to change my seat, which I was having none of!! Then came time to say goodbye :( My Mum was actually the strong one, and I was the blubbering mess!
So once through security I went to look for Kyle, as we had arranged to meet at HMV. Surprise surprise HMV isn't there anymore. But we found each other, and then Mark, and then came the flight.
Flight was... hmm... pretty bad. I am not one for turbulence (as the boys will tell you), and the seatbelt sign seemed to be on all the time. Still, we got here safe and sound, and headed for Immigration. Now just a heads up, when you land you have to present your white I-94 card AND the blue customs form. The immigration officer will also ask a few questions about where you are working and how long you intend to be in the United States, also if you have brought through any cigarettes or alcohol. Luckily I got a really nice, chatty guy but others can be a bit scary.
So then we headed for baggage claim, then the Mears transportation desk where we had arranged to meet Julie, from Canada. Problem is, theres 4 Mears desks in Orlando international, 2 for each terminal. So when Julie wasn't there Kyle and I decided to go on a hunt for her! Unfortunately we didn't find her but we did find Sergio and Tania from Mexico and while we had been waiting Kirstie's flight from Manchester had also landed. So that was the 6 of us and we headed over to Vista Way.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by 3 or 4 of the Disney team, they checked our names off and gave us an arrival pack, Disney program guide book and our room keys. There was a slight glitch here as everyone was put in The Commons, and mine said Patterson Court- which I didn't mind but it meant I wasn't near any of the others. Luckily it was just a printing mistake and I was in The Commons. They show a short video welcoming you to the housing complexes, and offer some refreshments- which were much needed!
At this point we all piled into the minivan and round to The Commons, they dropped us off at each of our buildings so we didn't have to walk far with all our bags. Mark and I were put in the same building, which was a comforting thought to have someone so close. In my apartment a French girl welcomed me and took me to my room, and we talked for a little while. Also in my room is another new arrival, Cristina, from Mexico. It was so good to have someone else going through exactly the same process, and she is really sweet.
We are in a 4 bedroom apartment which means that I am sharing with 7 other girls, I've met 5 of them so far. We have 2 British, 3 Japanese, an Italian, a Mexican and a girl from France. So a really mixed bunch.
Then we had the epic first night trip to Walmart!! Except buses finish running at around 5pm on a Tuesday, so we had to get a cab there and back. We all went for the "bed in a bag" option; which has your sheets, comforter and pillow cases for around $45, and then the pillows are around $8 each.
When we got back, we all went back to our apartments. Cristina and I came back and met two of our housemates and ended up staying up until about 1am before sorting out bedding and then sleep.
Wednesday 4th May
We had to be up,and at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 9.55 to start off Orientation. We all met outside about 5 minutes before we went in, and as we entered "We're all in this together" from High School Musical was playing (LOL). The Disney guys basically talked to us about the main reasons for people getting terminated, what not to do etc. Health and safety. And then we had about an hour to spare before heading off to do more orientation stuff. So us UK lot, Cristina and some of the Canadians went and sat by the pool just chilling, chatting and getting to know each other. Then at 12.40 we went and caught a bus to Vista Way. Here we had to present some of our paperwork (They tell you what stuff to bring before hand) and then we signed housing agreements, policy forms etc. We had to queue up to sort out payroll cards/forms except because I'm HRC (an operating participant company) I was taken past all that stuff to the front of the queue to have passport/visa checked. And then it's time for your Housing ID photo! This has to be in the Disney look, so I had to take my necklace off, and a few of the girls were given a jacket to wear just to cover their shoulders for the photo. The ID is then printed then and there for you to start using! (Before this you are given a sheet of paper which you have to carry around with your passport to get you into The Commons, or whatever housing complex)
After this we then headed to Walmart again as I hadn't picked up any grocery items. I just went for the basics really; Apple juice, cereal, milk, bread, butter. I'll do more shopping at another time, but at the moment I just haven't really been hungry, and the first few weeks are going to be all over the place until we settle into some sort of routine! I then went and hung out with Julie and a friend of hers from home that is here over at Antonia and Kirstie's apartment. Then coming back I got to talk to a few of my housemates a bit more, find out more about them. One of them even makes balloon animals which is pretty cool. Finally I rolled into bed and then spent some time on Facebook and on the internet catching up on stuff, it's nice to have the internet all sorted here. The girls I'm living with have just bought a wireless router which is great and we all just chipped in $6 and it seems to be a really good, fast connection which is a relief as I'd heard some places were really slow.
So this is an insanely long post.. hopefully I can update you on the goings on of today a little bit later or tomorrow. Then I can develop some regular blogging :)
Tuesday 3rd May-
I had to get up at about 5.30am after only 2 hours sleep to get ready for the airport. The taxi ride up to Gatwick was awful, I had a lump in my throat and was really trying not to cry otherwise it would set my Mum off. I went and checked in and dropped off my bag (that was slightly overweight), and both BA staff tried to change my seat, which I was having none of!! Then came time to say goodbye :( My Mum was actually the strong one, and I was the blubbering mess!
So once through security I went to look for Kyle, as we had arranged to meet at HMV. Surprise surprise HMV isn't there anymore. But we found each other, and then Mark, and then came the flight.
Flight was... hmm... pretty bad. I am not one for turbulence (as the boys will tell you), and the seatbelt sign seemed to be on all the time. Still, we got here safe and sound, and headed for Immigration. Now just a heads up, when you land you have to present your white I-94 card AND the blue customs form. The immigration officer will also ask a few questions about where you are working and how long you intend to be in the United States, also if you have brought through any cigarettes or alcohol. Luckily I got a really nice, chatty guy but others can be a bit scary.
So then we headed for baggage claim, then the Mears transportation desk where we had arranged to meet Julie, from Canada. Problem is, theres 4 Mears desks in Orlando international, 2 for each terminal. So when Julie wasn't there Kyle and I decided to go on a hunt for her! Unfortunately we didn't find her but we did find Sergio and Tania from Mexico and while we had been waiting Kirstie's flight from Manchester had also landed. So that was the 6 of us and we headed over to Vista Way.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by 3 or 4 of the Disney team, they checked our names off and gave us an arrival pack, Disney program guide book and our room keys. There was a slight glitch here as everyone was put in The Commons, and mine said Patterson Court- which I didn't mind but it meant I wasn't near any of the others. Luckily it was just a printing mistake and I was in The Commons. They show a short video welcoming you to the housing complexes, and offer some refreshments- which were much needed!
At this point we all piled into the minivan and round to The Commons, they dropped us off at each of our buildings so we didn't have to walk far with all our bags. Mark and I were put in the same building, which was a comforting thought to have someone so close. In my apartment a French girl welcomed me and took me to my room, and we talked for a little while. Also in my room is another new arrival, Cristina, from Mexico. It was so good to have someone else going through exactly the same process, and she is really sweet.
We are in a 4 bedroom apartment which means that I am sharing with 7 other girls, I've met 5 of them so far. We have 2 British, 3 Japanese, an Italian, a Mexican and a girl from France. So a really mixed bunch.
Then we had the epic first night trip to Walmart!! Except buses finish running at around 5pm on a Tuesday, so we had to get a cab there and back. We all went for the "bed in a bag" option; which has your sheets, comforter and pillow cases for around $45, and then the pillows are around $8 each.
When we got back, we all went back to our apartments. Cristina and I came back and met two of our housemates and ended up staying up until about 1am before sorting out bedding and then sleep.
Wednesday 4th May
We had to be up,and at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 9.55 to start off Orientation. We all met outside about 5 minutes before we went in, and as we entered "We're all in this together" from High School Musical was playing (LOL). The Disney guys basically talked to us about the main reasons for people getting terminated, what not to do etc. Health and safety. And then we had about an hour to spare before heading off to do more orientation stuff. So us UK lot, Cristina and some of the Canadians went and sat by the pool just chilling, chatting and getting to know each other. Then at 12.40 we went and caught a bus to Vista Way. Here we had to present some of our paperwork (They tell you what stuff to bring before hand) and then we signed housing agreements, policy forms etc. We had to queue up to sort out payroll cards/forms except because I'm HRC (an operating participant company) I was taken past all that stuff to the front of the queue to have passport/visa checked. And then it's time for your Housing ID photo! This has to be in the Disney look, so I had to take my necklace off, and a few of the girls were given a jacket to wear just to cover their shoulders for the photo. The ID is then printed then and there for you to start using! (Before this you are given a sheet of paper which you have to carry around with your passport to get you into The Commons, or whatever housing complex)
After this we then headed to Walmart again as I hadn't picked up any grocery items. I just went for the basics really; Apple juice, cereal, milk, bread, butter. I'll do more shopping at another time, but at the moment I just haven't really been hungry, and the first few weeks are going to be all over the place until we settle into some sort of routine! I then went and hung out with Julie and a friend of hers from home that is here over at Antonia and Kirstie's apartment. Then coming back I got to talk to a few of my housemates a bit more, find out more about them. One of them even makes balloon animals which is pretty cool. Finally I rolled into bed and then spent some time on Facebook and on the internet catching up on stuff, it's nice to have the internet all sorted here. The girls I'm living with have just bought a wireless router which is great and we all just chipped in $6 and it seems to be a really good, fast connection which is a relief as I'd heard some places were really slow.
So this is an insanely long post.. hopefully I can update you on the goings on of today a little bit later or tomorrow. Then I can develop some regular blogging :)
So long, farwell, auf wierdersein, goodbye
I can't believe how quickly time has passed in the past few weeks/days/hours.
I found out that I was going to Disney 7 weeks ago. And although that was plenty of time to get everything sorted to go, I haven't really come to terms with the fact I am going to Disney!
And then this past week, I had planned to do so much stuff, but I've been on autopilot. Getting contacts sorted, money changed etc. And then today came, and again- autopilot. I sorted clothes again, unpacked what was in suitcase and then packed properly (with ALOT of help from Mum of course).
And then suddenly it was 7.30pm so I went up to my friend Ben's house to see him, his girlfriend (who I'm quite good friends with), and their son (my Godson) Zac. When I got there, there was Miranda (Ben's sister), Gen, Dylan, Alex and Ben's Mum. Although I didn't get time to talk to everyone individually; I did get time to cuddle Zac and hang out with them all as they started watching a film. I decided to leave at about 9.30 and just said bye to Gen and slipped out the door so they could carry on watching the film. Ben followed me out and gave me a hug, then his girlfriend Catherine, and then Miranda! So although I didn't want to disturb them, some got up to say goodbye anyway! There were no tears, I just said see you later/soon. I haven't been able to say actual "Goodbye" to anyone really.
On Saturday my friend Abi from Uni dropped by for a quick catch up and goodbye. It was really good to just sit and chat. I haven't been able to say goodbye to a lot of my friends as there has been so much stuff been going on. But also I don't really think I do big goodbyes, I just slip away quietly.
As I said, I don't think I've actually thought about leaving. I just don't think I can- I'll get too upset. I'd rather just deal with things as they happen. I've just been thinking "I need to pack" which has taken me all until now. Now I'm updating and charging ipod, phone, kindle etc. Even though I'm taking my laptop with me...
So now its 2am, I have to be up at 5.30, taxi arrives at 6.30 to go to the airport. Wow. The adventure begins.
I will try to update as soon as possible, but as you will probably expect- the next few days are going to be insanely busy, with hardly any sleep. So stay tuned, wish me luck, and if you're already out there I think I'll definitely need a hug after the emotions of today :( uh oh.. here come the waterworks!
See you real soon Orlando!
I found out that I was going to Disney 7 weeks ago. And although that was plenty of time to get everything sorted to go, I haven't really come to terms with the fact I am going to Disney!
And then this past week, I had planned to do so much stuff, but I've been on autopilot. Getting contacts sorted, money changed etc. And then today came, and again- autopilot. I sorted clothes again, unpacked what was in suitcase and then packed properly (with ALOT of help from Mum of course).
And then suddenly it was 7.30pm so I went up to my friend Ben's house to see him, his girlfriend (who I'm quite good friends with), and their son (my Godson) Zac. When I got there, there was Miranda (Ben's sister), Gen, Dylan, Alex and Ben's Mum. Although I didn't get time to talk to everyone individually; I did get time to cuddle Zac and hang out with them all as they started watching a film. I decided to leave at about 9.30 and just said bye to Gen and slipped out the door so they could carry on watching the film. Ben followed me out and gave me a hug, then his girlfriend Catherine, and then Miranda! So although I didn't want to disturb them, some got up to say goodbye anyway! There were no tears, I just said see you later/soon. I haven't been able to say actual "Goodbye" to anyone really.
On Saturday my friend Abi from Uni dropped by for a quick catch up and goodbye. It was really good to just sit and chat. I haven't been able to say goodbye to a lot of my friends as there has been so much stuff been going on. But also I don't really think I do big goodbyes, I just slip away quietly.
As I said, I don't think I've actually thought about leaving. I just don't think I can- I'll get too upset. I'd rather just deal with things as they happen. I've just been thinking "I need to pack" which has taken me all until now. Now I'm updating and charging ipod, phone, kindle etc. Even though I'm taking my laptop with me...
So now its 2am, I have to be up at 5.30, taxi arrives at 6.30 to go to the airport. Wow. The adventure begins.
I will try to update as soon as possible, but as you will probably expect- the next few days are going to be insanely busy, with hardly any sleep. So stay tuned, wish me luck, and if you're already out there I think I'll definitely need a hug after the emotions of today :( uh oh.. here come the waterworks!
See you real soon Orlando!
Where has the time gone?!
Well Hello!!
I do apologise for my lack of posting the past week or so- it's unforgivable I know, but still, Sorry!
Turns out I've got a sore throat again :( So I've not really felt like doing much. Bad timing really as Mum has been trying to sort out what clothes I want to take with me so that we can get everything washed ready for packing.
I think we have done quite well though, we have loads of stuff in the suitcase, but it's not quite "packed" exactly. Some stuff needs taking out, vacuum packing, rearranging etc.
On Saturday I did go into Brighton and change my money into dollars though! My Aunty has been kind enough to give me a somewhat loan of emergency money, should I need it. But she said I can always give some/all of it back to her when her and Mum come out to visit in November. The exchange rate was actually really good. I'd been keeping an eye on it the past few days and it was $1.57, $1.58 but I got mine for $1.6167 to each £1. Brilliant!
My Kindle arrived on Wednesday, and I've already read a book on it. It's so light and easy to use. Nothing replaces reading a good old book, but for sheer ease and comfort it's great. And then on Thursday the opticians rang to say my contacts had been delivered!! Woohooo!!! So that's all 6months worth, and I got a couple of 2 week bottles of solution, so I'll take one with me and then buy some out there :)
So yes, everything is pretty set now. Oh and I'm anticipating alot of questions from Americans about the royal wedding! It was lovely to watch.. I had it on in the background basically all day. I hope the decorations at the UK pavillion are still up for our arrival!! It's getting so close now. It's down to counting the hours now that I have left at home and I'm getting really sentimental about stuff :( I'm really trying to battle that lump in my throat when I get too emotional. It's stupid, but I think part of me is so worried it will be like my first few weeks at Uni- which were a nightmare. (I got put to live in a B&B with no other students, as they hadn't got enough rooms for us. I knew no-one for weeks, in the middle of nowhere in a strange place.) I know it won't be anything like that, that's just the last time that I had to go through such an uprooting.
Well I started upbeat then.. it just went a bit downhill!! I really need to double and triple check all my paperwork. And print up instructions for my Aunty on how to send emails, use Skype etc... I have told her before, but she sometimes forgets. I think that's it for now... so close now! Honestly, time has flown by so quick!
I do apologise for my lack of posting the past week or so- it's unforgivable I know, but still, Sorry!
Turns out I've got a sore throat again :( So I've not really felt like doing much. Bad timing really as Mum has been trying to sort out what clothes I want to take with me so that we can get everything washed ready for packing.
I think we have done quite well though, we have loads of stuff in the suitcase, but it's not quite "packed" exactly. Some stuff needs taking out, vacuum packing, rearranging etc.
On Saturday I did go into Brighton and change my money into dollars though! My Aunty has been kind enough to give me a somewhat loan of emergency money, should I need it. But she said I can always give some/all of it back to her when her and Mum come out to visit in November. The exchange rate was actually really good. I'd been keeping an eye on it the past few days and it was $1.57, $1.58 but I got mine for $1.6167 to each £1. Brilliant!
My Kindle arrived on Wednesday, and I've already read a book on it. It's so light and easy to use. Nothing replaces reading a good old book, but for sheer ease and comfort it's great. And then on Thursday the opticians rang to say my contacts had been delivered!! Woohooo!!! So that's all 6months worth, and I got a couple of 2 week bottles of solution, so I'll take one with me and then buy some out there :)
So yes, everything is pretty set now. Oh and I'm anticipating alot of questions from Americans about the royal wedding! It was lovely to watch.. I had it on in the background basically all day. I hope the decorations at the UK pavillion are still up for our arrival!! It's getting so close now. It's down to counting the hours now that I have left at home and I'm getting really sentimental about stuff :( I'm really trying to battle that lump in my throat when I get too emotional. It's stupid, but I think part of me is so worried it will be like my first few weeks at Uni- which were a nightmare. (I got put to live in a B&B with no other students, as they hadn't got enough rooms for us. I knew no-one for weeks, in the middle of nowhere in a strange place.) I know it won't be anything like that, that's just the last time that I had to go through such an uprooting.
Well I started upbeat then.. it just went a bit downhill!! I really need to double and triple check all my paperwork. And print up instructions for my Aunty on how to send emails, use Skype etc... I have told her before, but she sometimes forgets. I think that's it for now... so close now! Honestly, time has flown by so quick!
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