Disney Dreaming

I fully intended to have my blog typed up last night and scheduled to post at 7am today, but it didn't quite work out that way.  Plans around here can get altered due to my children's moods, a forgetful mind, various unexpected things and happenings, or simply by running out of time.  When we have to "fall back and punt" in this world, for whatever reason, our days and plans change.  In some cases, it is a blessing and at other times it's a disaster!  Today, I am leaning towards the first one. 

Our morning was hectic at first, and then just plain busy.  This afternoon was slightly more relaxed.  Now we are into early evening and I'm finally getting a chance to get my blogging done.

Lately, my brain has been hovering in the Disney World zone.  I have been reminiscing about past trips and dreaming about future trips.  My husband and I were lucky enough to visit Disney for Thanksgiving, and the following week, in 2000.  Going to bed one night and waking up to magical Christmas decor the following morning was amazing.  I am anxious to share this exciting atmosphere with my boys.  Watching their reaction to it all will certainly bring tears to my eyes.  Thinking about all of this has lead me to begin planning our November/December 2010 trip, which will be an early Christmas gift to our boys (okay, and to ourselves).  Can you tell how excited I am already? 

In the midst of our chaotic morning, my boys were being typical boys while playing loudly.  I wanted to find a way to have them wind down before we took O to school.  When I offered to play some music for them, they happily accepted the offer.  What was their choice in the vast collection of music that we own?  Surprisingly, they quickly agreed on their selection.  As Walt Disney World's "Four Parks One World" cd began to play, my overactive children laid on their stomachs in front of the speakers and the room went quiet.  I quickly grabbed 2 copies (from past years) of Birnbaum's Walt Disney World For Kids books and handed them to my silent boys.  Seconds later, they were soaking up the music and doing their own Disney dreaming.  Between the peaceful moment and sweet sight of them enjoying such a special part of our lives, I realized it was a moment worthy of a photograph!  In the midst of our crazy morning, I found such a smile worthy moment that it calmed me almost instantly.  There is something so special to me about this simple joy that I know I will cherish this memory for a long time, especially when my kids are being rowdy and wild.

Today didn't turn out as I expected, but I appreciate the blessings that the unexpected brought me... today anyway! 
 

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Last Friday I had the urge to dive into the past and started singing ABC's TGIF theme song.  I felt as though I should share this smile evoking moment with you this Friday, as I continue my attempt at turning my life into a musical.  Plus, it is a great way to celebrate the end of another work and school week! 

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This past week has been full of moments, each one of them unique.  We've all had different reactions to various events that have played out in the spotlight, and of course the ones in our own lives as well. 

Many of you have seen, read, or heard about the MTV award moment.  I never planned to watch the show, but there we were, in our living room, watching it.  As a fan of Taylor Swift, and the "underdog" in situations, I was so excited to see a country girl rock MTV and win an award.  When I saw such disrespect shown to such a sweet girl, I felt my mother instinct kick in.  Quickly afterwards, I switched gears and hoped she would just "sweep the leg" and take the microphone back.  A very talented Taylor Swift had more composure than I most likely would have. 

Patrick Swayze...  Who didn't love Patrick Swayze?  If you didn't, please don't tell me, I prefer to remain ignorant to your lack of love.  That man was strong in ways that most people cannot fathom!  Cancer is evil, but he fought it.  It's sad to lose someone like Patrick Swayze.  In my personal life, I've seen cancer at it's worst.  I've seen a loved one suffer and it's heartbreaking.  Even employers feel that sadness.  My husband's office was closed for a day this week to mourn the loss of an employee.  Even though my husband did not have the opportunity to know his co-worker well, it hit us.  Knowing a child will grow up without a parent, leaves me with a dull ache in my chest.  Cancer is evil.

Through these moments, I've not only found myself emotionally charged, but inspired as well.  Taylor Swift inspired me by having the strength to perform minutes after being figuratively sucker punched in the gut.  The support she received by countless friends, family, fans, & fellow artists also gave me hope that people don't always look for a good laugh at someone else's expense.  The sad loss of Patrick Swayze & my husband's co-worker, made me stop and focus on living life to the fullest.  We don't know what will happen tomorrow, or even today, so it's important to cherish the people in our lives and do the things we love.  “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

I read a bumper sticker this week that sums up how I feel right about now. 
"Want to get rich quick?  Start counting your blessings!"
I just love a little wisdom from the back of a dusty car bumper!

How did you feel about the happenings over the past week?  Were there any public and/or personal moments that made you stop and put things into perspective? 

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In honor of Patrick Swayze

Thank you for the dance!

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In the spirit of TGIF... We'll see ya next week!