The Final Days

My final weeks at Disney were challenging. I found myself working in a new location, under new management, and with new, harder challenges. Working at the Frozen Sing Along had its ups and downs. The first week was the worst. I found myself going home crying because I thought that I couldn't handle the negative guest interactions and high stress environment. But I adapted, I learned, and I grew a thicker skin. 

Somehow in a short period of time I became close with a few of my new coworkers. I enjoyed making magic and dancing at the frozen fireworks.  I turned negative situations into positive ones, and I found ways to have fun in this new work place: receiving four Fanatic Cards in the process. 

My last week was one of mixed feelings. It felt strange leaving from a place where some of my coworkers still didn't know my name. I was sad when my managers didn't recognize me in my normal clothes all while those I consider family still remain at Animal Kingdom. I was happy to be going home, to finally sleep in my own bed, to see my family and cuddle with my dog, to take a break from working! It also made me sad to be leaving some new coworkers that I would have been great friends with had I been given more time. 

I spent the entire last week with Erin and Jackie. We went to all of the parks and went to many attractions. The best part was going to Animal kingdom one last time. We said farewell to the best coordinators I could have asked for and watched Festival of the Lion King one last time from the VIP section. Timon sent us goodbye kisses and we left our home.

There were more tears when our Frozen coworkers started posting that they are thankfull for us! 

My last day in Orlando was extra special. Some of my friends decided to celebrate my birthday 3 months early. They made a card and had it signed by my favorite disney characters. They sent me an extra awesome picture with Mickey. 

Despite my telling them I'd pay for myself they bought me lunch, cookies, and a smoothie. My flight was delayed 3 hours but I wasn't upset - that meant spending 3 more hours with them. We met up with more friends at the Boba Tea place and talked, laughed, and relaxed. When it came time, we made our way to the airport. I must have hugged everyone at least 3 times. I didn't want to let go. But it was time to go home, so I took my bags and said "see ya real soon."  

At bag check the clerk gave me a $100 gift card to spend on my next flight - making it possible for me to go back and visit Orlando sometime in the near future! I immediately called my friends to tell then I'd be back.

I cried as I watched the plane take off. My 7 months of fun, learning, working, and loving has really come to an end. I ou hope to remember that it wasn't just a dream.  

The people I met on the Disney College Program are the most beautiful, caring, empathetic, intelligent, like minded, diverse people I could imagine meeting. Together we overcame long hours, tough days, and intense challenges. We celebrated wins and mourned losses.  Together we grew and at heart together we shall always be. I don't have one home anymore. My heart has pieces in Florida, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, China, Indonesia, and many other places. 

Coming home is hard, but I couldn't be any more thankful.