Showing posts with label Disney. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Disney. Show all posts
A long time coming...
It's been over 5 years since I decided to start a blog to document my Disney journey. It still amazes me when I check in here how many people continue to view this blog given my distinct lack of posting once my Cultural Rep Program began. And for that I thank you, whoever you are, that still drop in to visit.
So I just wanted to do a quick update. I began my program in Walt Disney World May 3rd 2011, and spent 11 1/2 wonderful months with truly amazing people on April 25th my journey came to an end... or did it?
Towards the end of my program, around January, I felt truly settled in and had become so at home with the work I was doing, and my friendship group. In a situation like that, especially over Christmas, it's amazing how a group of people can come together to support each other, and that's when they stop being just friends but become more like family.
Given that one of the lovely girls I worked with had chosen to extend her program beyond my end date, I thought that my chances for an extension had been dashed and so I started to plan my return back home to the UK. My Mum and Aunt had decided to budget well, being that the end of April is my Mums birthday and May 13th is mine, they would come out to Florida for a couple of weeks holiday to celebrate and help me home with all my luggage! I wish I'd have hung on a little longer, as around February my boss contacted me and asked if I would like to extend my program for a further 3 months. This would have been an amazing opportunity and chance to spend time with amazing people. But as my flights and hotels were already booked it just couldn't happen. Gutted.
And so, around May 18th? I flew home. Mum, Aunt, 5 suitcases and a lot of memories in tow.
Coming back to the UK is a massive shock. Re-acclimatising to the culture, weather and yes even the language took it's toll! I was accused of having an American accent, being absolutely freezing constantly and gradually adjusting back to using British slang.
A few weeks after returning to the UK I began looking for work. I was completely stumped as to what I wanted to do, where I wanted to go. Did I want to utilise my degree? Or find any job to keep e ticking over until I could find out what to do with myself.
Of course I found myself at the doors of The Disney Store. Given my experience the manager took me on for an 8 hour per week contract (!!!) with the promise of more hours when available. I did manage to get more hours, more about my experiences there another time.
After 18 months at the glorious Disney Store I left to return to Walt Disney World, back on the Cultural Representative Program and back to HRC. I was lucky enough to be chosen again and my boss automatically gave me an extension and signed me up for 15 months. And on December 2nd 2013 I flew out to begin another program. Again I was blessed to meet some amazing people from far and wide. But sadly again on February 20th 2015 that program again came to an end.
That brings me here. I didn't manage to write a blog for my second program. Nor did I feel able to update this one given how appallingly long it had been since my last update..
I have truly been missing Disney and my life there so much. I keep in regular touch with friends I met there, however nothing compares to the close knit friendships we had there. I've found so many photos that I haven't even posted to Facebook. But it seems criminal to just have them in a folder never looked at.
So that's my big idea for this blog!! To share photos and memories. I hope to put them on regularly, but unfortunately no promises! I hope that they are entertaining.. but I must admit to having no professional photo editing software so please forgive the amateur style.
And so that's it. Thanks if you have read this far! Thanks again for continuing to read! And I hope you enjoy some of what's to come :)
So I just wanted to do a quick update. I began my program in Walt Disney World May 3rd 2011, and spent 11 1/2 wonderful months with truly amazing people on April 25th my journey came to an end... or did it?
Towards the end of my program, around January, I felt truly settled in and had become so at home with the work I was doing, and my friendship group. In a situation like that, especially over Christmas, it's amazing how a group of people can come together to support each other, and that's when they stop being just friends but become more like family.
Given that one of the lovely girls I worked with had chosen to extend her program beyond my end date, I thought that my chances for an extension had been dashed and so I started to plan my return back home to the UK. My Mum and Aunt had decided to budget well, being that the end of April is my Mums birthday and May 13th is mine, they would come out to Florida for a couple of weeks holiday to celebrate and help me home with all my luggage! I wish I'd have hung on a little longer, as around February my boss contacted me and asked if I would like to extend my program for a further 3 months. This would have been an amazing opportunity and chance to spend time with amazing people. But as my flights and hotels were already booked it just couldn't happen. Gutted.
And so, around May 18th? I flew home. Mum, Aunt, 5 suitcases and a lot of memories in tow.
Coming back to the UK is a massive shock. Re-acclimatising to the culture, weather and yes even the language took it's toll! I was accused of having an American accent, being absolutely freezing constantly and gradually adjusting back to using British slang.
A few weeks after returning to the UK I began looking for work. I was completely stumped as to what I wanted to do, where I wanted to go. Did I want to utilise my degree? Or find any job to keep e ticking over until I could find out what to do with myself.
Of course I found myself at the doors of The Disney Store. Given my experience the manager took me on for an 8 hour per week contract (!!!) with the promise of more hours when available. I did manage to get more hours, more about my experiences there another time.
After 18 months at the glorious Disney Store I left to return to Walt Disney World, back on the Cultural Representative Program and back to HRC. I was lucky enough to be chosen again and my boss automatically gave me an extension and signed me up for 15 months. And on December 2nd 2013 I flew out to begin another program. Again I was blessed to meet some amazing people from far and wide. But sadly again on February 20th 2015 that program again came to an end.
That brings me here. I didn't manage to write a blog for my second program. Nor did I feel able to update this one given how appallingly long it had been since my last update..
I have truly been missing Disney and my life there so much. I keep in regular touch with friends I met there, however nothing compares to the close knit friendships we had there. I've found so many photos that I haven't even posted to Facebook. But it seems criminal to just have them in a folder never looked at.
So that's my big idea for this blog!! To share photos and memories. I hope to put them on regularly, but unfortunately no promises! I hope that they are entertaining.. but I must admit to having no professional photo editing software so please forgive the amateur style.
And so that's it. Thanks if you have read this far! Thanks again for continuing to read! And I hope you enjoy some of what's to come :)
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!
Insurance Puzzle
So last time I posted I told you all about the hell of insurance.
3 out of the 4 companies got back to me today. And I received an e-mail from yummy asking me to buy my insurance asap and forward them the policy number by noon tomorrow. This, of course, was fair as they need to know that I am covered before I head out on Tuesday.
So tonight, Kirstie, Kyle and I all sat on MSN in a 3 way conversation to navigate the treacherous waters of insurance policies.
Now I am unable to provide you with any sort of advice on which companies to go with. I can only tell you of my experience.
Both Kyle and I received somewhat confusing and unhelpful information from 24/7 so decided they weren't for us (many people on the CRP have gone with them in the past though, so don't go solely on my word)
Anway in the end we found that Direct Travel and ACE seemed to be the most helpful in their responses and so I went with ACE. Buying the policy was quick and simple, I have printed off the relevant forms and sent the policy number to Yummy.
To tell you the truth I am so glad that it's all over and done with. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders! Let's just cross fingers and pray that I never have a need to claim!
In other news I went for my contact lens check up today, all is fine! Only slight problem is ordering 6 months supply... the suppliers have a backlog due to the last Bank Holiday. So I have had to pay for special delivery to try and get them here within 2 days rather than the 3-4 days they are estimating. Now I know 3-4 days isn't very long, and you may wonder why I am so impatient. Tomorrow is Wednesday (Day 1), Thursday (Day 2), Friday (Most places are shut, including my branch of Specsavers), Saturday (Day 3), Sunday (Again not open), Monday (Not open), Tuesday (Day 4). As I am leaving my house at 6.30 am on Tuesday I doubt they will be in branch in a town 10 miles away, and that branch open in time for me to get them!
Same goes for my Kindle really.. I have paid extra for it to be guaranteed to have it by 1pm tomorrow. If it isn't here there will be a very strongly worded email going to Amazon saying that I'll buy it in the States... still hopefully it will be here and everything will be fine :)
Phew! You can see why my stress levels have been so high the past week! And I'm having blood pressure done tomorrow... may have to take up meditating!! Also getting haircut tomorrow. Less than a week to go- it's the final countdown!!
3 out of the 4 companies got back to me today. And I received an e-mail from yummy asking me to buy my insurance asap and forward them the policy number by noon tomorrow. This, of course, was fair as they need to know that I am covered before I head out on Tuesday.
So tonight, Kirstie, Kyle and I all sat on MSN in a 3 way conversation to navigate the treacherous waters of insurance policies.
Now I am unable to provide you with any sort of advice on which companies to go with. I can only tell you of my experience.
Both Kyle and I received somewhat confusing and unhelpful information from 24/7 so decided they weren't for us (many people on the CRP have gone with them in the past though, so don't go solely on my word)
Anway in the end we found that Direct Travel and ACE seemed to be the most helpful in their responses and so I went with ACE. Buying the policy was quick and simple, I have printed off the relevant forms and sent the policy number to Yummy.
To tell you the truth I am so glad that it's all over and done with. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders! Let's just cross fingers and pray that I never have a need to claim!
In other news I went for my contact lens check up today, all is fine! Only slight problem is ordering 6 months supply... the suppliers have a backlog due to the last Bank Holiday. So I have had to pay for special delivery to try and get them here within 2 days rather than the 3-4 days they are estimating. Now I know 3-4 days isn't very long, and you may wonder why I am so impatient. Tomorrow is Wednesday (Day 1), Thursday (Day 2), Friday (Most places are shut, including my branch of Specsavers), Saturday (Day 3), Sunday (Again not open), Monday (Not open), Tuesday (Day 4). As I am leaving my house at 6.30 am on Tuesday I doubt they will be in branch in a town 10 miles away, and that branch open in time for me to get them!
Same goes for my Kindle really.. I have paid extra for it to be guaranteed to have it by 1pm tomorrow. If it isn't here there will be a very strongly worded email going to Amazon saying that I'll buy it in the States... still hopefully it will be here and everything will be fine :)
Phew! You can see why my stress levels have been so high the past week! And I'm having blood pressure done tomorrow... may have to take up meditating!! Also getting haircut tomorrow. Less than a week to go- it's the final countdown!!
Insurance Nightmare
Arrrggghhh!!
I know I promised to let you know all about my adventures up in Essex.. that will be coming soon!
I set aside today to do a few things. 1) Buy insurance, 2) Sort through some clothes to pack, 3) Test out vacuum pack bags to see how much I could get in suitcase.
I completed none of these tasks.
Insurance is awful. I have read so many policies today my brain has completely turned to mush, it's made me confused, angry, stressed and upset.
Now it may be that I've been looking too deep into things, I've been reading all the policies, all the small print, and looking up reviews online of peoples experiences. Needless to say there are mixed reviews for all insurance companies. Also I am on a couple of medications just to manage migraines etc, these are prescribed medications and are stable. But still I've heard/read horror stories that if you don't declare them, insurers will screw you over.
So, at 9pm I have resulted to emailing 4 insurance companies. I've told them the dates I need to be covered, the minimum requirements set out by Disney, and the medication I am on. This way I can get a written response, that I have notified them of my medication and their acknowledgement.
As it is a Bank Holiday I don't expect to hear anything back until Tuesday and then hopefully this farce will be over!! Sorry for the rant, but if I have success after emailing them you can all avoid the mind numbing 4 hours reading through multiple insurance policies, that can be my good deed for the day!
On a happier note I've ordered my Kindle off of Amazon! Just had to pay extra for guaranteed delivery as theres so many Bank Holidays at the moment, but still :)
P.S. Happy Easter everybody! Hope the Easter bunny was extremely kind to you all!
I know I promised to let you know all about my adventures up in Essex.. that will be coming soon!
I set aside today to do a few things. 1) Buy insurance, 2) Sort through some clothes to pack, 3) Test out vacuum pack bags to see how much I could get in suitcase.
I completed none of these tasks.
Insurance is awful. I have read so many policies today my brain has completely turned to mush, it's made me confused, angry, stressed and upset.
Now it may be that I've been looking too deep into things, I've been reading all the policies, all the small print, and looking up reviews online of peoples experiences. Needless to say there are mixed reviews for all insurance companies. Also I am on a couple of medications just to manage migraines etc, these are prescribed medications and are stable. But still I've heard/read horror stories that if you don't declare them, insurers will screw you over.
So, at 9pm I have resulted to emailing 4 insurance companies. I've told them the dates I need to be covered, the minimum requirements set out by Disney, and the medication I am on. This way I can get a written response, that I have notified them of my medication and their acknowledgement.
As it is a Bank Holiday I don't expect to hear anything back until Tuesday and then hopefully this farce will be over!! Sorry for the rant, but if I have success after emailing them you can all avoid the mind numbing 4 hours reading through multiple insurance policies, that can be my good deed for the day!
On a happier note I've ordered my Kindle off of Amazon! Just had to pay extra for guaranteed delivery as theres so many Bank Holidays at the moment, but still :)
P.S. Happy Easter everybody! Hope the Easter bunny was extremely kind to you all!
There's a great big beautiful tomorrow...
"There's a great, big, beautiful tomorrow
Shining at the then of every day.
There's a great, big, beautiful tomorrow
And tomorrow is just a dream away
Man has a dream, and that's the start
He follows his dream with mind and heart
And when it becomes a reality
It's a dream come true, for you and me"
There is a great, big, beautiful tomorrow everyday at the moment in the UK. The weather is so beautiful and warm! It's hard to believe it's only April! Although May and Disney are fast approaching- 11 days now!
I had a wonderful time in Southend with my Uni house-mate Lauren, the weather and the company was glorious. I shall update you more on that later, and some more of my preparations for the big move :)
Medical Insurance will be purchased on Sunday, without fail!
Congratulations!!
Just wanted to say a massive CONGRATULATIONS!! To all the UK waitlisters from the Summer 2010 recruitment!
You guys are amazing, and although I was only on the waitlist 122 days, you guys really did keep me going reading messages of support and hope!
It's also renewed my hope that if I had still been on the list now that my dream may still have come true. If that makes any sense?!
There will have to be a massive party/celebration once all of you are out here! Honestly, the time will fly by. I know it has for me.
It just proves that if you have faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust... anything can happen :)
You guys are amazing, and although I was only on the waitlist 122 days, you guys really did keep me going reading messages of support and hope!
It's also renewed my hope that if I had still been on the list now that my dream may still have come true. If that makes any sense?!
There will have to be a massive party/celebration once all of you are out here! Honestly, the time will fly by. I know it has for me.
It just proves that if you have faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust... anything can happen :)
Crap?! I don't think so...
Well I got a text from one of my friends the other day that my blog looks crap.
OK he didn't exactly say that.. just that the title "My CRP Adventure" at a glance looks like "My CRAP Adventure". Which isn't really the look I was going for!
So I've changed it, if it still looks "crap" then I'll have to rename it again.. annoying. But thanks for the heads up! If there's one person out there thinking it, then theres probably a few more too.
I have now paid my program assessment fee ($104.50) for housing. You get sent an e-mail with log on details and a link to the site, it's pretty straight forward, same as buying anything online. Only problem is that my printer has decided to go on the blink and I can't print out the confirmation. Boo. Will have to fix it later on and add that print out to my folder of paperwork.
Have also been back to the doctor today to pick up some more medication- I swear I'm going to rattle!- but all in all it should make for a much more organised, stress free life when out there!
Also the Disney 30 Day Challenge has come to an end :-(, I may look for some others to do quickly as it was quite entertaining!
But anyway, am off to sunny Southend tomorrow to stay with my Uni house-mate for a few days. It'll be nice seeing her again, and will be a bit of practice staying away from home for a few days. I probably won't have internet access either... so may post later on this evening, but if not... "2 weeks tomorrrrrroooowww! Eeep!"
OK he didn't exactly say that.. just that the title "My CRP Adventure" at a glance looks like "My CRAP Adventure". Which isn't really the look I was going for!
So I've changed it, if it still looks "crap" then I'll have to rename it again.. annoying. But thanks for the heads up! If there's one person out there thinking it, then theres probably a few more too.
I have now paid my program assessment fee ($104.50) for housing. You get sent an e-mail with log on details and a link to the site, it's pretty straight forward, same as buying anything online. Only problem is that my printer has decided to go on the blink and I can't print out the confirmation. Boo. Will have to fix it later on and add that print out to my folder of paperwork.
Have also been back to the doctor today to pick up some more medication- I swear I'm going to rattle!- but all in all it should make for a much more organised, stress free life when out there!
Also the Disney 30 Day Challenge has come to an end :-(, I may look for some others to do quickly as it was quite entertaining!
But anyway, am off to sunny Southend tomorrow to stay with my Uni house-mate for a few days. It'll be nice seeing her again, and will be a bit of practice staying away from home for a few days. I probably won't have internet access either... so may post later on this evening, but if not... "2 weeks tomorrrrrroooowww! Eeep!"
Day 30
Day #30- Your favourite theme park show.
Do you even have to ask?! :-D
... Beauty and the Beast (Disney's Hollywood Studios)
Do you even have to ask?! :-D
... Beauty and the Beast (Disney's Hollywood Studios)
Day 29 1/2
Day #29 1/2- Your favourite ride.
Yup I'm changing the rules again! I thought as it said favourite attraction- it was only fair I include my favourite ride. And then as I sat and thought about it, I actually have 2 favourite rides! So as I'm changing it up by including 2 new questions, I can have 2 answers :-P
... Soarin' (Epcot) and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom)!!
First time I rode Soarin' was actually quite a terrifying experience. I stood in the queue with my Mum, Aunt and family friend (her family were also in Florida at the same time, but only she liked Epcot), and there was a lady in front of us with her grandchildren. The kids were asking her what the ride was like, to which she replied "Oh it's very exciting, you come whooshing up a cliff and then plummet off the other side! And you come down over Golden Gate Bridge almost into the water!" Then I saw the sign about being afraid of heights and such.. and although I'm fine with heights, I'm not so great with turbulence.. so I got spooked. It was basically a fear of the unknown. So when we boarded the ride I walked straight out with the exiting guests! When Mum came off the ride she reassured me, and now I go on it as many times as I can!
Also you have to love Buzz Lightyear, it's such a fun game really. There's nothing like some family/friendly competition and comparing scores at the end! Unfortunately I haven't had a chance to go on the Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios as the queues were insane. It's definitely on the to do list!
Yup I'm changing the rules again! I thought as it said favourite attraction- it was only fair I include my favourite ride. And then as I sat and thought about it, I actually have 2 favourite rides! So as I'm changing it up by including 2 new questions, I can have 2 answers :-P
... Soarin' (Epcot) and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom)!!
First time I rode Soarin' was actually quite a terrifying experience. I stood in the queue with my Mum, Aunt and family friend (her family were also in Florida at the same time, but only she liked Epcot), and there was a lady in front of us with her grandchildren. The kids were asking her what the ride was like, to which she replied "Oh it's very exciting, you come whooshing up a cliff and then plummet off the other side! And you come down over Golden Gate Bridge almost into the water!" Then I saw the sign about being afraid of heights and such.. and although I'm fine with heights, I'm not so great with turbulence.. so I got spooked. It was basically a fear of the unknown. So when we boarded the ride I walked straight out with the exiting guests! When Mum came off the ride she reassured me, and now I go on it as many times as I can!
Also you have to love Buzz Lightyear, it's such a fun game really. There's nothing like some family/friendly competition and comparing scores at the end! Unfortunately I haven't had a chance to go on the Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios as the queues were insane. It's definitely on the to do list!
Day 29
Day #29- Your favourite theme attraction.
... Mickey's Philharmagic!!
Honestly, every time I come out of there I just want to turn round and go back in. The music is fantastic, the effects are brilliant and the smell -Oh My Lord- is mouthwatering! Big, big thumbs up from me!
... Mickey's Philharmagic!!
Honestly, every time I come out of there I just want to turn round and go back in. The music is fantastic, the effects are brilliant and the smell -Oh My Lord- is mouthwatering! Big, big thumbs up from me!
Day 28
Day #28- Your favourite park.
... Epcot!!
I guess as I love travel it's always held a special place in my heart. I love to learn, and experience new things and Epcot is perfect for that. Plus I get to work there for the next year... how exciting!
... Epcot!!
I guess as I love travel it's always held a special place in my heart. I love to learn, and experience new things and Epcot is perfect for that. Plus I get to work there for the next year... how exciting!
Day 27
Day #27- Your favourite quote.
This is a really tough one, there are so many wonderful quotes in each and every Disney movie it's hard to single one out.
First I thought of Pocahontas, and basically most of the lines from "Colours of the wind"
Then The Princess and the Frog... but again I love the overall message of the movie.
Hercules, again most of the lines from "I can go the distance"
So in the end I'm going to go with a classic, from a film I don't think I've mentioned yet in this challenge.
... "Have faith in your dreams and someday, your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing. The dream that you wish, will come true." (Cinderella)
This is a really tough one, there are so many wonderful quotes in each and every Disney movie it's hard to single one out.
First I thought of Pocahontas, and basically most of the lines from "Colours of the wind"
Then The Princess and the Frog... but again I love the overall message of the movie.
Hercules, again most of the lines from "I can go the distance"
So in the end I'm going to go with a classic, from a film I don't think I've mentioned yet in this challenge.
... "Have faith in your dreams and someday, your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing. The dream that you wish, will come true." (Cinderella)
Day 26 1/2
Day #26 1/2- Your favourite scene from any movie.
Ok I'm going a little off plan now.. but when I saw "My favourite scene" I instantly thought of one.. and then when I read "from your favourite movie" it went out of the window!
Of course I still love the scene from Beauty and the Beast as mentioned. But as this one was the first to come to mind I wanted to mention it.
... Lantern Scene/ "I See The Light" (From Tangled)!!
Also I was lucky enough to see this in 3D and it was absolutely stunning.
Ok I'm going a little off plan now.. but when I saw "My favourite scene" I instantly thought of one.. and then when I read "from your favourite movie" it went out of the window!
Of course I still love the scene from Beauty and the Beast as mentioned. But as this one was the first to come to mind I wanted to mention it.
... Lantern Scene/ "I See The Light" (From Tangled)!!
Also I was lucky enough to see this in 3D and it was absolutely stunning.
Day 26
Day #26- Saddest death.
... Ray (From The Princess and the Frog).
May have been naive, but I kept expecting him to be OK. :-(
Honourable mentions- Mufasa (The Lion King), Bambi's Mother, Ellie (Up), Coral (Finding Nemo).
... Ray (From The Princess and the Frog).
May have been naive, but I kept expecting him to be OK. :-(
Honourable mentions- Mufasa (The Lion King), Bambi's Mother, Ellie (Up), Coral (Finding Nemo).
Day 25
Day #25- Your favourite scene from your favourite movie.
Ah, here I am going to have to repeat myself..
... the Transformation scene (From Beauty and the Beast)!!
Ah, here I am going to have to repeat myself..
... the Transformation scene (From Beauty and the Beast)!!
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