There Goes My Hero II

Every year, during ESPN the Weekend, fans get a chance to interact with some of their favorite athletes. There are various Q&A sessions, sports trivia contests, as well as an ESPN Sports Zone where kids get a chance to step on the field/court to compete alongside their heroes.

Inside The Herd with Colin Cowherd
...with guests Tim Tebow & Urban Meyer (not in frame)
ESPN The Weekend - 2011
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

The Movie Journey

Movie Lovers Unite!!!! Guests embark on a journey through the 'sets' of some of Hollywood's greatest movies. And along the way, your tour guide gets thrust into a starring role themselves.

The Great Movie Ride
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Tour de France

EPCOT's World Showcase. Whether strolling along "The Seine", or dining at the best that "Paris" has to offer, this is Disney's way of submersing its guests in various cultures. Here, a Cast Member tells the tales of her glorious home country; from its influence on the culinary scene, to its pure sophistication. From the various “Oooo’s” and “Ahhh’s” of her audience, you could’ve stood here for hours. Not often does a young person embrace their cultural past, and display it with such true passion. This, my friends, was 'Très Magnifique'!!!

For some reason, while I was writing that, I was picturing Anthony Bourdain speaking. I guess I could hear that coming out of his mouth. I really have no idea what the CM was talking about though. I kinda just took the shot and left. But lately, I’ve realized that I should kinda slow down and really take in certain scenes. Instead of just getting the shot, I need to just ‘enjoy’. And if anything, at least I’ll have key information, and maybe even a unique story to add.

France Pavilion
Epcot’s World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL

Check out the Give Kids The World One Million Dollar Challenge.

"Discovery Island"

… “Tom, have you got on the track of that money again?”
“Huck, it’s in the cave!”
Huck’s eyes blazed.
“Say it again, Tom!”
“The money’s in the cave!”
“Tom,-- honest injun, now—is it fun, or earnest?”
“Earnest, Huck – just as earnest as ever I was in my life…….
- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain

Nestled away from the main hustle-and-bustle of Frontierland is Tom Sawyer's Island. Here, guests of all ages can experience what it was like to join in the exploits of Tom Sawyer and his pal, Huckleberry Finn. Whether exploring caves and hideouts, or just holding down the Fort; kids from 8 to 80 will have a good ol' time discovering all this island has to offer.

This is also the ultimate hideout area for kids... So, a possible heart attack spot for parents. ;)

Tom Sawyer's Island
Frontierland
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

The Dapper Dans

For the finest in Main Street U.S.A. entertainment, look no further than the Dapper Dans of Main Street. This barber shop quartet performs numerous times a day; setting up the good spirit for guests to carry for the rest of the day.

"If you liked us, we're the Dappper Dans. If you didn't, we're the Vienna Boys Choir." .... Gotta love 'em.

The Dapper Dans
Main Street U.S.A.
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

'Give Kids The World' with 'The Power of 10'

The folks over at The Dis have launched an initiative called 'The Power of 10', to raise $1 Million for the Give Kids The World Village.

For those that don't know, the Give Kids The World Village (GKTW) is a magical destination for children with life-threatening conditions. This organization also works with other charities to give those families the trip of a lifetime to Walt Disney World.

For more information on The Power of 10 & Give Kids The World, visit:


Or, to go directly to the donations page, visit:
The First Giving website (for Power of 10)

So unless you hate kids, you'll definitely make a donation. Just playin'. But seriously; donate if you can. If not, just spread the word on this cause.

Thanks for your support!!!

The Kids Appreciate It. ;)

The Learning Curve

Photowalks. The meeting of great people. The sharing of ideas. The ultimate chance to see if you can resist buying new gear, after giving it a test run.

Here, Doug (DugJax) gives Don Sullivan's fisheye lens a go. After a couple of hands-on demonstrations, a fisheye lens moved near the top of his 'Must Have' List. So note: all compulsive buyers should stay away from any kind of photowalk. ;)

Spaceship Earth Post-Show
EPCOT
Walt Disney World, FL

The Unsung

This crew does an amazing job in trying to keep the ship spotless. Everyday, they start at the top deck, and working their way down; restarting the same pattern the next day. Although guests are enjoying paradise, you know that this is no paradise for them. And I'm sure that they get constantly overlooked. But here is my thank you to them. Thank You For All That You Do!!!!

Deck 4
Disney Magic Cruise Ship

Warning: 1st Visit May Cause Sleepiness

... And yet, it will bring a lifetime of memories
... It will be a dream fulfilled
... It will be the fabulous end-result of continuous planning
... It will be the joy of meeting all of your favorite characters
... It will be fun and adventure around every corner
... It will be the discovery of real-life magic
... It will be.... A thousand ways to catch a nap ;)

"Endless" Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL


It has been such a great year, photography-wise and life-wise. Personally, I feel like I've had some active progression when it comes to shooting and post-processing. It's been great getting to know (and eventually meet) some of the amazing people here on Flickr. And as far as my home life, well..... most of you know the main part of that story. ;)

Have A Wonderful New Year Everyone!!!!

Love In The Limelight... And Redlight... And Bluelight...

More than any other time of the year, Christmas brings with it a spirit that can't be beat. It's full of the spirit of love... the spirit of giving... the spirit of cherishing all that is dear to you. And what better place than Disney to celebrate this spirit explosion. [No pun intended; as a major cheerleading competition is also held at this park every year] ;)


Happy Holidays Everyone!!!



Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL