Week 15

"The venue in which I find myself recollecting the events that occurred on the night of her murder is appropriate. The chair with its rusting iron armrests and solid oak body is symbolic of the imprisoned mental state in which I find myself. A candle lit on the desktop flickers impatiently and seems to burn loudly in this cacophony of silence. If anyone were to enter this place they would first notice the cavernous appearance, seemingly abysmal but full of dark wonder. The concrete walls and floor neither let in nor let escape sound. Cracks run vertically, some all the way up to the ceiling, hints of water dripping through, their final destination a small puddle. Almost putrid is the stench that encompasses me right now. The human ability to adapt to an environment allows such things to go unnoticed after a short amount of time, but upon entering it can be quite shocking to the senses. A staircase in the back of the room is the only means of entering and exiting, and even it traps blackness, leaving no feeling of hope for truly escaping the memories that I reminisce in this dismal void.

I come here not because I want to be reminded, but because I feel that facing the truth is the only liberation still remaining. Less liberating is the fact that I continue to feel the same. No, not guilty or responsible, but rather apathetic. It has been said that apathy is a dangerous state of mind, and I imagine it applies to this situation as well. There is no fine line between love and likeness of another person. These lines are drawn clearly, like lines in the sand that is the chemical makeup of the brain. Having lingered so steadily between both emotions for so long has left my body a wreck, a harbor for all things deleterious.

Today marks one month since her soul was released from the physical world and into the vast eternity that is unknown to any mortal being. It is impossible to imagine that she would find serenity, even happiness, in death. Sometimes I wonder if anyone can doubt his or her worth to such a degree that death would be rectifying, but then again, I can’t say that she ever really tried to appreciate life..."

Week 14

The last few weeks have seen an increase in leisure and a decline in total hours worked, which, unfortunately, results in insufficient pay. As the leisure has not come at any financial cost it has easily been worth the time lost at work.

As part of an ongoing product knowledge endeavor I have had the opportunity to reap the benefits of both a Fireworks Cruise, retail price $266.25, and a Segway Tour retail price, $85.00. For those of you unfamiliar with a Segway, they are a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle. Known for its use in Paul Blart: Mall Cop, the Segway is definitely as fun as it looks. Throw some mud tires on and you're ready to tear up the trails. And we did just that, on what may have been the coldest day in Florida since I arrived. Despite the weather and my desensitized, frigid hands, there was much to be learned on the back trails of Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. From the air potato vine amidst the lush verdure to the history of the Contemporary Resort that could be seen in the offing upon a veil of mist that cloaked the Seven Seas Lagoon, this was quite the learning experience.

Nearly three months too late I have completed my visit to each of the theme parks here. My most recent excursion, Animal Kingdom, was enjoyable. After riding Expedition Everest and Dinosaur, the two main attractions at the park, it was time to see The Festival of the Lion King, an original interpretation of the Disney classic. The show, hosted by four performers with Swahili names, is a compilation of songs and scenes from the movie. Brought to life by its talented actors and actresses the show is a must-see. It was by far the highlight of my visit to Animal Kingdom.

Under the pretense that Florida sand would be smooth against the soles of my feet I arrived at Cocoa Beach on November 18th for what would be an enjoyable escape from my current abode. My first step into the sand brought crashing into my memory the Pacific Coast. Tainted with fragments of shells and scattered with people, this is not quite as I had imagined. Oh wait, I'm on the Atlantic Coast, not the Gulf Coast! My initial dismay quickly passed as I heard that sweet dissonance that is the waves diverging together in complete discord. That untroubled white noise accompanied by 80 degree weather in the middle of November could not have created a more placid setting. The wintry foam of the waves caressing my ankles and eventually my entire body left me in an arctic state, void of all worry and ready to surrender myself to the ocean, never to return. Even the birds seemed ready to dissolve into the blue abyss. Warning: relaxation of this degree may inhibit your return to work, and with good reason.

Below are pictures from all of the things listed above, as well as a few pictures from the Food & Wine Festival that I never had the chance to upload.

Cheers

Week 11

Thunderous echoing booms come delayed as explosions of light and showers of sparks paint the sky. Smoke fragments trail off into twilight reflecting the luminescence that is Magic Kingdom below. The delay in sound corrects my inaccurate depth perception and I realize we are much further away than I previously thought. The Halloween fireworks have begun. A quick glance around unveils the geographical placement of everything on Disney property. I stand on the roof of Wilderness Lodge Resort, proclaimed by many to be the best view on all of Disney property. It is breathtaking at night, and something that not many get to experience. I will be back again for Christmas.

Yesterday I decided to treat myself to what I had mentioned last week: the Food & Wine Festival. Rather than mindlessly wandering around and telling myself that things are too expensive I broke down and had one of the most diverse feasts imaginable. Attempting to "eat around the world" is not only an expensive feat, but an indulging one as well. My brisk entrance into the park found me standing in front of the Puerto Rico marketplace where I quickly ordered Arroz con Pollo (chicken with rice, for the unilingual). While the ham croquetas and guava cookie were tempting alternatives, my stomach was pleased with my very first choice of food for the day. I deviated slightly and headed a ways up to the American pavilion to see what was happening. A long line had already formed for the concert of the day: Billy Ocean. After deciding it wasn't worth waiting in line for I continued to wander around. My insatiable appetite led me to Italy where I had Pizza. What else would you get from Italy? This being the first time I've had the chance to explore on my own I decided to venture into the various merchandise venues that lie scattered about in every theme park. Unlike other parks the theming and detail in the world showcase impedes one's ability to tell the difference between what they are seeing and the real thing, even if the real thing has never been seen.

I don't remember how much time was spent conversing with random employees and guests, most of whom were wearing Phillies attire, but I eventually found myself in the second row of the concert, watching Billy Ocean perform. Most recognized for the hit Carribean Queen, Billy Ocean can still hold a tune. Let me quickly outline the rest of my dinner for the evening. I headed to New Orleans in the American marketplace for Chicken and Andouille Gumbo, a spicy treat. Corn and Cheese Arepa from Santiago, Chile; Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki from Athens, Greece; Spicy Chicken Sausage with Sweet Corn Polenta from Montreal, Canada; Seared Sea Scallop with Vegetable Slaw and Lemon OIl from Wellington, New Zealand; Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with Bailey's Ganache from Cork, Ireland; Braised Short Ribs in Cabernet with Mashed Potatoes from Paris, France. This was the extent of my feast, and unfortunately I only made it about halfway around the world and still managed to spend $70. An experience like this has no price tag because it is so unique. Next year I hope to start where I left off.

-Derek

Week 10

As you may have already noticed, I skipped last week's blog update. Let me see if I can call to mind the events of the last two weeks...It is not always undemanding to write about what has happened in my life, mostly because I work hours that should be illegal, but also because I don't know what will come out when I write. But wait, isn't that the beauty of it all? "Writing became such a process of discovery that I couldn't wait to get to work in the morning: I wanted to know what I was going to say." -Sharon O'Brien. This is exactly what I mean. For anyone interested in writing, take this quote to heart, sit down, and delight in the results of simply putting pen to paper. You might impress yourself.

My roommates and I have become cognizant of the rapidly decreasing amount of days that we have left here in Orlando. This seems to have triggered the initiative to do whatever it takes to experience whatever there is that we haven't already. Of course, money will be an issue, but how many times do you get to be here? There are currently 71 days remaining and then my program is finished. So tempting is the thought of staying here, but I'm not sure I can afford to be enrolled in school anymore. With only one semester remaining, hopefully, it's time to get my degree and get out. Coming back here is a likely option, but I am not yet aware of the doors this program will have opened for me when I return home. The thought of going back to school leaves me uncomfortable, but I will have to suck it up and hope those remaining four months fly by.

I finally had the chance to attend one of the three dinner shows on Disney property. It's called the Hoop Dee Doo Revue. Cornbread and salad anticipate your arrival and are absolutely delicious. The performers make their way through the crowd making an uproar and settle up on stage. The skit that they perform is rather corny, but could soak even the driest of humors. Their interaction with the crowd entails picking out random people, asking them where they're from, and using it in a rhyme to the tune of their main song. I was one of these random people. And would you believe that the rhyme poked fun at the ridiculous amount of rain we get in Oregon? Something about hanging out our long johns to dry... Anyway the meal, served family style, consists of all-you-care-to-eat fried chicken, smoked barbecued pork ribs, mashed potatoes and baked beans, followed by a palatable helping of strawberry shortcake for dessert. Also included are all-you-care-to-drink soft drinks, iced tea, juices, coffee, draft Bud Light, Sangría, Chardonnay, Rosé and Merlot. All of this costs, with my cast member discount, around $30. Its worth far surpasses that amount; my stomach and wallet both remain happy.

The Food & Wine Festival is still in progress at Epcot here at Disneyworld. Not only are there authentic taste seminars and culinary demonstrations, but 27 international marketplaces each showcasing scrumptious food and wine for the masses to enjoy. You will find dishes from Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Poland, China, India, South Africa, Thailand, Australia, Germany, Italy, Austria, USA, Japan, Morocco, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Canada, Greece, Chile, and Puerto Rico. There is also kiosk for desserts & champagne as well as one showcasing different types of cheeses. Unfortunately I have not eaten from a single one of these kiosks. In fact, I am saving that for Monday. Portion sizes are rather small for their cost, but I'm willing to pay a bit extra for these exotic foods. For anyone who has never seen Epcot, it has a world showcase with pavilions representing 11 different countries. This is always here, a permanent fixture of the park. The American Adventure pavilion is currently host to the "Eat to the Beat" series concerts that are a wonderful part of the Food & Wine package. Just a few days ago I saw Boyz II Men. Who knew these guys were still around? Despite the overly romantic nature of the lyrics, these guys put on an incredible show. Still to come are Taylor Hicks, Billy Ocean, and Los Lobos... Would you believe me if I said I get to see all of this for free? Being a cast member has some terrific perks!

Last night at work I had the privilege of stepping away from the front desk and into the haunting darkness of the campground at night. Even more haunting is the competitive nature of the campers when it comes to adorning their campsite with Halloween decorations. There is a contest that happens here, judged by the recreation cast members, for the best-decorated campsite/cabin on resort property. It really is a site to behold, the gigantic inflatable haunted houses, the carrot-orange lights, and even the Tigger/snowman hybrid that has arrived early for the Christmas season. It is humbling to see the comfort in which are guests find at my resort. They truly are the ones making the experience what it is, and I am so glad to be a part of that.

More to come,

Derek

Week 8

It has been nearly two months since arriving in Florida. This means that the program is almost halfway through. It also means that I need to start thinking about school because that will be my sole focus once I get back home. I will be much more content after graduating and knowing that I will never have to lay foot in Newberg for as long as I live; how I hate that place. Anyway, it all has me slightly worried, concerned, and yet anxious for what is to come.

The diversity that engulfs the housing complex in which I live has spurred my curiosity about other cultures. Like I said before, I have met people from all over the world. I will have friends in Italy, Brazil, Korea, Russia, and who knows where else. The opportunity to speak with these individuals and to learn more about where they come from is something that I could not have asked for, it simply happened. My arsenal of one-liners in foreign languages has increased abundantly since I have been here. The most difficult language encountered thus far has to be Korean. Sometimes I am not even sure how to make, let alone speak, the sounds that come out of their mouths. I am not discouraged, just more curious than before. Being able to sample various dishes from around the world have further reinforced my desire to travel the world and see what there is to see. If money were not an issue I would definitely be in another country, with a slim chance of ever returning to America. Again, I need constant change.

I can't say that much has changed from the way I felt last week. Everything is fairly neutral right now and we're all still going through the motions. One encouraging thing to note is that I have begun to develop a story line/plot for a book. Character analyses are to follow shortly... If only I had the kind of time I need to dedicate to this sort of project. I have run the idea past multiple people and it seems to have already sparked interest amongst my avid book-reading friends (though there aren't many that like to read!). I will probably not discuss it for awhile since much of it is still ambiguous and there is some research to be done. Just know that there's a start!

There is still so much here to do that we have not done yet, and at this rate I know we will fall short of time. I don't want to miss out on anything, but work is absolutely taking its toll on everyone's schedule. If anybody can send, via expedited shipping, some spare time, please do.

-Derek

Week 7

With too much time to think I find myself all but thinking. An idle mind is a terrible thing, and mine has slipped into a lethargic state. Proof of this may be evident in the fact that I am currently discussing it. It would be a different situation entirely if this were writer's block, but unfortunately, even outside of this text, there isn't much happening. I have thus decided to blame it on work. Countless hours are logged, all of them in the evening, making it impossible to make plans for the day. I can think of few things worse than the feeling of knowing you must be at work just as the afternoon is coming to a close and normal employees have just begun their commute home, eager for dinner, something that you won't be able to enjoy for several more hours. Each day begins and ends the same. This cycle is beyond vicious, taking not only a mental toll, but a physical one as well. Excessive repetition of this is borderline abusive leaving me to wonder if it's all worth it. 

I have begun realizing that without change, I cannot be happy. While some don't welcome it, I have to be honest when I say that I absolutely need it. With change comes the unknown, and with the unknown comes adventure. And with adventure comes every feeling that is desired at the very core of man: fear, excitement and uncertainty. I want to travel, experience the multitude of cultures that make up our world. I want to skydive, rock climb, snowboard, and maybe even go streaking down a crowded street. "Frank the Tank!," they'll scream. Okay, so maybe it won't be exactly like Old School, but the spontaneity and degree of inappropriateness that go along with it are pretty accurate descriptors of what I'm looking for. 

Things happen quickly here. Forming relationships, trying new things, and sometimes even my day at work. I attribute this to an underlying awareness of the temporary state in which I am currently living. This underlying notion perhaps speeds up the process of things that normally take noticeable time to develop. As a result, people have already come and gone from my life, relationships have formed and been defined, and new experiences are an incessant occurrence. When I think of words that identify this current state I think of these: efficient, resourceful, practical. Being able to constantly move forward leaves little time for pithy and unwanted things. Why get caught up on something or someone when the next best thing is just around the corner? For too many years I have been caught up on the contrasting idea, giving into stagnation and being stuck for weeks on end. This way of living does little to improve one's quality of life. If you feel unappreciated by someone, stop wasting your time. They aren't worth your time and energy.

-Derek

Week 6

Lately I have been toying with the thought of writing a novel, something fictional with non-fictional elements, i.e. characters, setting, etc. The lack of plot used to write this blog does little to justify my true writing ability, but in the words of Leon Battista Alberti, "A man can do all things if he but wills them." 

Heavy footsteps pace the roof above me, no identifiable route perceivable. Dawn has just settled upon these parts and it seems so have any number of people on my roof. The sound did not bring back memories of fictional Christmas stories involving reindeer or sleighs, but instead woke me up thinking I was in the midst of a natural disaster that would hopefully excuse me from work for the entire day. My hope was shattered when instead shattered a tile from the top of the building in which I reside. I assure you, this is not one of the best things to wake up to. The paper-thin ceiling gave way just outside the front door when a hole was punched through it from the top. The result of a well-swung hammer? I think not. No, just more proof that I live in a deathtrap. It's difficult to say what household appliance or shoddy construction job might take my life here...

The highlight of my week finds myself and many others having rendezvoused at a local restaurant, the last supper for those who will be leaving us. There are College Program students, and there are International College Program students, many of whom are flying out on this very day to parts of the world that I have only dreamt of visiting. As a celebratory and farewell occasion most of us were able to attend, the first and last time I will see this many of us together in one room. The emotions and energy in this room run high. Any epileptic would seize upon entering this room, the flashes from multiple cameras bathing the room in scintillating white light. Hold that smile a bit longer, it's one of the few memories we have together, at least outside the workplace. I will never forget that night we were all together nor will I forget the lasting impact these incredible people have left on me. Today I get to take one of them to lunch. Can't wait!

So little time, short update... Thanks for reading

-D

Week 5

Howdy, welcome to Fort Wilderness.

My least favorite movie genre has become situational irony, the contrast between what was expected and what really happens profound. The majority of my week is spent in costume riding horses and lassoing children that have strayed away from their parents. Ok, not really, but it would make the time pass ever more quickly. Instead I am assigned the frightful duty of being the very first impression of Disney that a guest perceives. I must tell you that the choice you make at the beginning of the day to be mad at the world or to be contented is no longer a choice for me. I imagine what it would be like to arrive at work choleric every day. However, it seems I have developed the good habit of remaining positive, even under the most pressing circumstances on the days that I wish someone would reach inside and rip out my soul. This is probably one of the better habits I have developed.

Let me tell you about my apartment.

A wall of ice greets you as you enter, the humidity of the outdoor air unwelcome inside. The overall cosmetics do nothing to justify the actual condition of the place. Recessed lighting is randomly strewn across the ceiling, introducing this anarchic setup. That acrid stench has no known origin and comes and goes extemporaneously. The windows fog and drip with condensation leaving me blind to what lies outside. Many of the appliances serve a purpose better than the one for which they were intended, be that a less useful purpose. The counters are splotched with unidentifiable liquids and solids, the aftermath of experimental cooking and carelessness. Walking barefoot in the kitchen will do little more than coat your feet with toast crumbs, a horrific feeling. Responsibility can be rationed just as easily as food, but there exists no mutual agreement upon what the standard of cleanliness is so this responsibility may as well be unassigned. As a result of this environment I have decided that it should be required by law that every individual live completely alone for a specific amount of time to help create a much needed awareness of household cleanliness. If only, right?

There are times when it seems that only the intervention of an angel can change the disposition of a situation. 

The last week has been interesting, to say the least. The stories I could tell you  blur the line between comedic and appalling leaving me unsure of whether I should laugh or deracinate every hair on my head. I won't tell such things here because I am trying to purge the very thought of it all. This angelic intervention of which I speak could not have had a more perfectly placed arrival. In the midst of chaos she cloaks the negative energy with her comely laugh, her pearl teeth and silken hair the very essence of her being. With a gaze that could take the life of any man in peripheral view she meets my eyes and says, "It's so good to see you." I befriended her upon my arrival in Florida, nearly as quickly as she departed this place to pursue more advantageous things. Her spontaneous arrival and visit leave me feeling enthralled. There is nothing better than a rendezvous between friends, and many of us shared just that. I know you will read this, so just know that we love you to death and that you have forever secured a place to come if you need to get away or just want to visit. 

As angels arrive, so they must depart.

-D

Week 4

The doctor stands before me, his hands messy from the snack he just finished eating and his posture suggestive of an anxiousness to get home. These behaviors do little to assure me that his apathy will not impede upon his diagnosis of my current condition. 

Without transportation it is difficult to get anywhere, let alone find a walk-in medical clinic. The bus takes me to the general area of where I need to go, but I still have to walk myself, stomach pangs and all, half a mile down the road. This does little to justify the situation because I am immediately sent to the hospital where blood work can be done, because abdominal pain is slightly more serious. At least I got to take my very first taxi ride.

This brings me back to where I started. 

The needle gores my arm, sliding into the most appetizing looking vein. I lay on my back staring at the ceiling full-aware of the sterility that suffocates me in this hospital bed. I imagine the blood seeping from my arm like a high-pressured hose spattering everything in sight. I look down and find it gently dripping out, my horrific, creative thought destroyed. The blood has been drawn and now it is time to hook up an IV. The administering of this intravenous drip has left me feeling quite hysterical. It's not because of what is being put into my body but rather because of the situation in which I find myself. One moment I'm shooting billiards and the next moment I have a saline drip with a pepcid cocktail rushing through my veins. It made me laugh, which probably concerned the doctors even more.

So I have inflammation of the stomach. No alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods or smoking. Sounds healthy to me. Regardless, this was definitely the most interesting part of my week.

Work is slow, the guests minimal and the campground vacancy extreme. It should pick up again this weekend. I get awfully tired of just standing around waiting to assist someone. At Disney you assist, not help. Helping implies that they have a problem or perhaps a handicap that is hindering them from whatever it is that they are inquiring about. I guess this could be true, but hopefully the managers don't sick you like dogs if you jumble up your words a bit.

I am working a lot this week. In fact this is my busiest week since the week that I trained for this position. But like I said, busy doesn't always mean truly busy. It means "on the clock." At least I start late today.

Oh, I lost my ID card, the golden ticket to the private residence in which I live and the never-expiring bus pass around Disney property. $50 to replace. Not very pleased! I guess that's how it goes.

I have no pictures this week, sorry!

-D

Week 3

I once heard that neglecting to change the sheets on your bed can lead to illness. Nobody really knows how dirty beds are until they see commercials that provide microscopic close-ups of bed bugs and other anomalies that you probably wouldn't want to share the sheets with. So, I changed my bed sheets this morning. Unfortunately it seems that I have my first cold of the season so my actions were not as preventative as they were adaptive. It seems that it is possible to "play" too hard, pushing your body until the adrenaline ceases to exist. One night with little sleep followed by a surfeit of theme park rides will do this to you. 

That leads me to the highlight of this week: Universal Studios. My legs bounce with endless anxiety as I board my second roller coaster ever, and my first outdoor coaster. Even though it is only 9 a.m. my internal clock has not acknowledged the minimal sleep I got the night before, making it feel as though bedtime should still be right around the corner. The coaster inches skywards through a tunnel, blue sky leaking through at the opposite end. There is nothing quite as thrilling as being shot at high speeds towards the sky and then realizing you're upside down. And try as you might not to scream, but it seems that even screaming is more instinctive than I had previously thought. It is over before you know it and your throbbing head is a sure sign that what you just experienced is far from what your body could have anticipated.

Universal Studios is one of Disney's biggest rivals, but being there felt nothing like treason. It is clear that each company appeals to a different demographic. If you hadn't heard already Disney recently acquired Marvel, a company well-known for its comics. Universal Studios has the rights to many theme park rides that are based on Marvel characters, i.e. Spiderman, The Hulk. It will be interesting to see what develops in the next few years over here. Disney has endless room for expansion here, so perhaps we will be seeing another theme park that is more adult-oriented? I can't imagine there is anything that Disney's pocket isn't deep enough for.

On another note, tomorrow is the day that I hit an important milestone in life: 21. The importance isn't rooted in the fact that I will legally be able to purchase and consume alcohol... Alright, maybe that's part of it, but think about it for just a second. The age with the most emphasis placed on celebration that succeeds "21" is probably "over the hill," or 40. Between now and then your birthday is just another day. At least that's what they say. Every adult seems to veil the need for celebration and excitement on their birthday. What a horrible way to go. I hope I never find myself thinking that. Even if it means throwing myself a party, life has far too little time to celebrate and have a good time. 

I am blessed to have such incredible friends here. Tonight I have the privilege of bringing in my 21st with some bombshells. Wait, did I really just say that? Yes, yes I did. Looking forward to it, as well as tomorrow, whatever it holds.

-D

Week 2

Time is relative. And without delving into a debate about physics and the space time continuum, let me tell you what I mean. 

For something to be relative it must be in relation or in proportion to something else. Let me take it a step further and say that more importantly than time itself is how that time is spent. How we spend our time is relative, because it may be more or less productive than the infinite number of alternatives. Bearing this in mind, I have been very careful with my time and how it is spent, thus creating the illusion that I have spent the last two weeks in a time vacuum. 

Still, I am unable to tell you what I have done here. Seriously. I feel like I would only be teasing if I included what could be considered the "highlights." But here I encounter another problem, because everything has been memorable. Let me tell you about the water parks. 

There is a reason that water parks are better than theme parks. The sole reason is this: shorter lines, less waiting time. Sure, that season may be fading away, but if you want to experience attractions multiple times then you must visit the water parks at Disneyworld. I have yet to conquer what is known as Summit Plummet, a high-speed, steep-angled water slide that I hear will leave your undergarments stuffed so far between your cheeks, and not the ones on your face, that you will be begging for mercy by the time you are done. My roommate and I have scheduled that feat for next week, so I'll be sure to let you know how it feels. 

My work schedule is spontaneous, inconsistent, and requires me to wake up at... What's that? 4 am? Ok, that's only for one day, but even Mickey Mouse is getting more sleep than me and he doesn't say a single word all day! I am still in the midst of training and the process is tedious. Frustrating is probably a better word. Or maybe annoying. I haven't decided yet, but all three fit the bill at any given time of any day. Learning the ins and outs of any job can be stressful at first, but I am confident that it will be no different than any other position I've held once I've been at it for a few weeks. I won't lie though, there is an excessive need for attention to detail here, and the details are many. If you miss a detail, don't worry, you're going to miss another soon... 

Understand that this is merely a glimpse of what is happening here. If you want to know more about what I am doing, please call me or send me an e-mail. I am very pressed for time but would love to talk to you, whoever you are... Friends and family I hope!

Again, not as long as I intended. Will be waking up in five hours, wish me luck.

Until next time,

-D

Week 1

Rain falls like daggers, the cloud cover forbidding and the sky streaked with lightning. Feet slap the ground showering water every which way. The music is so loud now that I am unable to distinguish what is being said around me. The bass thumps in harmony with the rhythm of the dancers and all is well. The DJ announces that he will be playing the final song of the night: "I Got A Feelin'" by The Black Eyed Peas. It is at this exact moment that I realize I am the dancer, soaked from head to toe. It's hard to believe only a week has passed.

Not many people get the opportunity which we are experiencing here, and I say we because there are many of us. Too often we take for granted the small things, and I hope not to fall into that same trap here, because let's face it, how many people get to wake up in Disneyworld? While there are a lot of us here, there are a lot more absent. I know, it must be difficult imagining Cinderella's Castle becoming repetitive, but these things happen. 

I sat down today having absolutely no idea what I was going to write, and I still don't. To everyone at home, I know you want to know everything that is happening, but there is simply no room to describe it all. I will however tell you the highlights of my stay thus far.

I have been to Magic Kingdom twice in as many days. I have strolled Downtown Disney and spent more money on food than I want to be reminded of. But most importantly, I have met some great individuals with whom I get to share this one-of-a-kind experience. There is no other way to say it, I am grateful. And I am also very, very tired. Pushing yourself beyond the point of tired activates a zombie-like state within a person, and that is exactly the state in which I have lived for the last few days. "Live each day to the fullest" has never had more meaning than now.

Job training has been tedious, but rewarding. I will be working hospitality at a resort, and that is all I will say here. I have one day of training left, followed by a couple of days off, and the rest is to be determined. The customer care displayed and taught by Disney far surpasses that of any other company in the world. It is no surprise that customers return time and time again to experience what cannot be experienced anywhere else. If you have never been here, I would recommend it to anyone and everyone.

If I'm not working, I'm usually finding some way to fill in empty time in my schedule, so I apologize if I seem unreachable or nonexistent. I am still here... Just having more fun than anyone should be allowed to have :)

Oh, if you want to see pictures, there are probably a bunch on my Facebook profile page.

See you next week,

-D

Orlando, FL

The cost of eating out, staying in hotels, and fuel: too high to list. The feeling of finally reaching your destination after eight days and over 3,000 miles: beyond priceless.

This is no Mastercard commercial, nor has it been an ordinary journey. Knowing I get to stay here for the next five months has left me feeling quite pleased. Let me tell you what little I know about Orlando.

Billboards in formation like soldiers line the Interstate as we head South into Orlando, each advertising something different, and each leaving you with the feeling that the town itself is nothing but a glorified product, one that you won't be able to afford. This feeling quickly vanished upon entering Orlando, facing the realization that I would soon be leaving this road trip, and Oregon, behind. My insides tingled with nervousness, anxiety, and excitement. I always feel this way before I know a drastic change is about to occur, and unfortunately it's been way too long since I've felt this way. Change has never been more welcomed.

Window-mounted air conditioners spit condensation on you from above as you stroll the sidewalks along hotels. The air is humid and with each breath you imagine microscopic droplets of water coating your lungs, slowly drowning you. Your shirt sticks to your back, the sweat glazes your skin. Even your eyebrows have fulfilled their purpose and are barely holding back the sweat waiting to drench your eyelids. 

We arrived in Orlando only a few hours after leaving Valdosta, GA this morning. We checked into our hotel, in Lake Buena Vista, and were delighted to accept reasonable room rates, a decent restaurant, and an incredible looking swimming pool; I wonder if we can dive into it from the 18th floor balcony? We decided not to waste much time here and were adamant upon checking out one of the parks: Epcot. With half of the day already behind us, it wasn't even worth going into the park. So, after being passed off from bus to bus and spending more time determining our location than anything, we decided to head back to the hotel.

We explored Downtown Disney a bit tonight. Orlando is one of the most diverse places I have ever been and also one of the most friendly. They say it's the happiest place on earth, and I have always been skeptical. Now, I see no reason why anyone should be anything but happy while they are here. The people are great, the food is great, and the weather is interesting. There is nowhere else I'd rather be.

Just because the road trip is over doesn't mean the updates are as well. We have another day to explore Disneyworld, and then I will determine how often it will be updated. Thanks to everyone who has been following along since the start, I hope you continue to read. 

To the girls of Colorado and Nashville, you have further been dismissed of all duties. I love Orlando...

-D

Valdosta, GA

The trees turn black, their branches and leaves no longer distinguishable, and the sky turns sapphire, letting us know that dusk has come.

Nightfall has come for the first time on the trip while still driving. We lost another hour crossing from Alabama into Georgia, arriving in the Eastern time zone. A late start also pushed us back an hour or two, but we made it to where we want to be, completely exhausted and ready to sleep.

We are in Valdosta, GA. I know little about this town, other than the fact that it probably has more hotels per capita than people living in it. This is apparent immediately as you exit the highway and are bombarded with a plethora of signs, each trying to sell you the "better" continental breakfast or high-speed wireless internet access. Not much more can be said about this place. It's merely another stop along the way.

The less sleep I get, the more my imagination runs rampant. The more it runs rampant, the more I fear I may start throwing fiction into the mix of things...

You may know what it's like to be so tired that the backs of your eyes feel hollow, bottomless, and almost painful. It's a wonder you still have the sense of vision given the fatigue you are experiencing. Imagine going to bed each night, eyes closed, but still blinking, trying to moisturize what has been sucked dry by frozen, stale air from the air conditioner. The acrid smell of feet rises from below the covers, suffocating you in your sleep. Just kidding about that last bit, but this is the feeling with which I have ended each day from the beginning of our trip.

The drive tomorrow will be the shortest yet, and we will finally arrive in Orlando.

Sorry for the lack of pictures, we were driving incessantly today.

-D

Nashville, TN

I hate taking detours, unless it means being able to visit the country music capital of the world: Nashville, TN.

Today is the first day of deviating from the original route to Orlando, FL. We have plenty of time to kill and many things to see. After visiting Memphis, it only seemed logical to compliment the experience with a similar outing. We travel Northeast, for the first time since departing Oregon, and head to Nashville unsure of what to expect.

The city here is well kept, with the lines in the sidewalks cutting through the concrete in a defined manner and the streets worthy of red carpet status. Skyscrapers and historic buildings perforate the sky with authority and tourist shops and eateries own the majority of Broadway, our adventure for the night.

Neon lights and a cacophony of voices pave the way into downtown Nashville. Our first stop may as well have been our last. I have never heard music before like I have tonight. In fact, I may actually have a new appreciation for country music... I stand firm in the belief that seeing it live will always beat listening to a recording though, so don't expect to see anything from the country genre in my CD player, ever. Covers included, but were not limited to, artists such as Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, The Allman Brothers, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Blues-infused live country music shows and more chicken-pickin' and pentatonic soloing than anyone should be able to handle have made for a most excellent night.

Our destination tomorrow is undecided, and that degree of spontaneity is what has allowed me to enjoy this trip so much. It is rare that so many consecutive days get progressively better, but I ain't complainin'!

Colorado girls, you stand no chance against the ladies of Nashville. Just sayin'

-D

Memphis, TN

I'm going to preface this by saying this post will be somewhat shorter than I intended and probably unfocused because I am falling asleep as I type this. It seems that Memphis got the best of me, and I the best of it.

My appetite has been minimal the past few days, probably because I have been sitting in the truck burning calories only when I blink my eyelids or make a slight turn of the wheel. When I lose my appetite, I also lose my desire to do other things, like explore the town. It's a good thing the South has good food. A southern comfort smorgasbord for lunch seems to have been the comfort and inviting welcome my stomach has sought all week.

We traveled fast, crossing both the west and east state line of Arkansas and making our way into Tennessee. Welcome to culture shock. Drop all familiar ways and open your eyes to a whole new world, where unspoken tension exists only in one's mind, and where open arms and the greatest people you'll ever meet are just around the corner. This is Memphis.

Words don't allow me to describe any type of experience that takes place here. This is not something that is bound solely by imagery and can be painted into the mind's eye of the reader. This is something you need to see, and something I cannot believe I have missed out on for so long.

Beale Street, Memphis. This is our abode for the evening, a gateway into rich southern tradition and the stage for some of the most unique musical acts you will ever encounter. We spent the majority of our time in BB King's Restaurant and Blues Club where spicy hot buffalo wings were the obvious choice for an appetizer and where people from all over gather to share one common interest: Blues music.

The music was as rich as was the food, and the memory I now have to hold, even richer. The street outside was filled nearly to capacity, the end streets blocked and governed by police. A haven for tourists, and a home for many. Like I said, even eloquence doesn't do this experience justice. I love Memphis.

Will be more awake tomorrow night, maybe.

Having the time of my life, and not even to Orlando yet,

-D

Tulsa, OK

A countless number of films have been made in the setting of a hotel, motel, or the like. More often than not, the genre of horror comes attached. Everything regarding the plot seems so subtly unnerving that one hopes that such a thing does not really exist. I am here to tell you that these things are real. 

Imagine a place that invites you inside, surrounded by sinister clouds and flashes of lightning. A place where the trophies of game hang contentedly on the walls surrounded by resonant silence and employees absently gaze into your eyes as you approach. Beetles, both dead and living, litter the carpet. A meal prepared within the hotel leaves me feeling more cold and sick than I'm sure were the hands that prepared it; other diners seem unwitting of what is so obvious. A stagnant pool sits in the midst of an enclosed courtyard, an easy view for anyone who walks outside of their room. Surrounding the pool is a haunting terrarium, its purpose I am sure cannot be decoration. The pungent stench of an unidentifiable source leaves your head spinning and works much like an anesthetic to relieve you of the reality you are currently experiencing. Such places  do exist.

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"...I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore."

-Wizard of Oz

And I would like to make it clear that I share Dorothy's enthusiasm for no longer being there.

A place where fields idly roll and cows haplessly graze, unaware of their fate. Where the stretches of highway are so long and straight that the heat jumping off the asphalt turns road into sky on the horizon. This is Kansas; all of what we saw anyway. I find it calming to drive in the countryside like this. A sudden entrance into the city leaves me feeling as though my patience behind the wheel was all for nothing. These places really are beautiful but seem to be so consistently interrupted by needless developments and other modern things. At any rate, the drive through Kansas passed by quickly, almost making me wish we had wasted the day on something more worth seeing. 

Entering into Oklahoma the hills faded and the green and the trees with which I am so familiar began shooting out of the ground. They formed a thin canopy on both sides of the elevated highway and breathed freely. We crossed a body of water, although I have no idea which one, and the sailboats seemed to whisper along the glassy surface. As we continued driving we came to Tulsa, OK, which is where we are staying for the night. I've decided, as a result of this trip, that when it comes to driving, I am invincible. I have promised myself to conquer Portland when I return and will do it with ease. 

I look forward to tomorrow, because I am driving us out of this mess that is the city. I also look forward to it because it means that I have slept, and right now, I want nothing more.

Wishing you all were here

-D