I've been a Disney fan since I was a toddler. My mom told me about the movies and about Disneyland. I saw many of the old classic films in the theatres during their many re-releases. I've even seen
Song of the South in movie theatres. They were splendid. I had toy figures of Mickey, Donald et. al. My parents would buy me record albums of the films we'd see. Of course the Wonderful World of Disney was a weekly presence in the home as well as reruns of the Mouseketeers. And I used to love to get the Disney Magazine at the Gulf filling stations. So how could I not be a fan of all things Disney.
I remember being intrigued by Disneyland, and I had several picture books about it. My parents also gave me viewmaster pictures of Disneyland and Disneyworld. I remember my first profound yearning to go to the parks came about the time Disneyworld was opening. WWofDisney had a special with the Osmond Brothers in the parks. At one point, Donny got separated from his brothers and the programmed teased us with the prospect of Donny getting lost in the Haunted Mansion. This was a two part episode and naturally, the Haunted Mansion scene was delayed until week two. It was a torturous week for me as I waited for Donny and the Haunted Mansion.
From that moment on, I needed to go Disneyworld and the Haunted Mansion. I was not able to go until I was 28 years old. My wife and I spent two days of our honeymoon there. The first attraction we saw was the Haunted Mansion.
Sometimes, when you want something so badly and you build up your expectations, you are disapointed when you finally experience that thing. Well not only did Disneyworld meet my childhood expectations, but it exceeded them!!!!
So for me, all things Disney (or most things Disney) have been a tremendous source for joy, fun, education, and celebration.
Now my family and I enjoy the old cartoons (Mickey, Silly Symphonies, etc.) and go to Disneyworld every year. These are trips we will always cherish.
When people ask who I'm supporting for President this year, I say with only a slight bit of whimsy Walt Disney for President with Joe Torre for Vice President. They were able to conduct their professional lives with such a high degree of competence, that I am convinced they could our country better than any of today's candidates, and many of our past chief executives. Laugh if you will, but I am confident I have a point.
WISH I KNEW HOW TO DO THOSE COOL SIGNATURES WITH PICTURES OF THE RESORTS AND WHATNOT. I'D HAVE A YACHT CLUB PHOTO HERE ALONG WITH SOME MAGIC KINGDOM PHOTOS.