Fall Update: The Snowbirds Return - 10/25 - 12/22

Yes, folks, it has been nearly two months since our last post. Though the intention is to provide an update more frequently that goal has been missed this time around. So, here is what has been going on with us.

We arrived at the RV resort where we spent our time in Kissimmee last year, Great Oak RV Resort and Park, on October 31. While taking our dogs for a walk we commented to each other about some changes made since leaving in April. We also commented about what hasn’t and wondered when some friends would be returning. It takes a process of about six weeks for things to return to normal for the snowbirds that return here.

We learned, through the application process and talking with other WDW employees, that no seasonal people were being added this year. In fact, some employment policies have changed and the benefits granted to “recurring” employees were being modified. As a result of the changes, Martha didn’t get a job at Disney that we had planned. So, on the search she went landing a position at the Chick-fil-A franchise in Celebration. She generally works mornings but also can be assigned afternoons.

To coordinate our schedules, Byron set his availability for work at Magic Kingdom to afternoons from 3:30 to 10:30. Since Disney uses a 24-hour format, that’s 15:30 to 22:30. During November he worked at Tomorowland Terrace when it was opened providing a full menu as well as during the evenings when Magic Kingdom was hosting Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and TLT became a complimentary refreshment station.

One of the special “treats” for the Christmas Party is the seasonal

Electric Light Parade and the lighting of the Castle, which is a

grand production unto itself. Of course, there are specially-themed

fireworks held at 9:30 pm during Christmas Party.

Ashley, Michael and family came to WDW for several days in the early days of November so we got to spend some time with them as well as a niece and her family from Vero Beach. We didn’t pay extra for the Christmas Party but did enjoy a couple of character dining experiences.

Martha and the grandkids with Donald Duck at Chef Mickey’s 

in The Contemporary during breakfast.

We both started working at our respective jobs before Thanksgiving. Martha, as a new hire in a fast food (Disney calls it quick service) environment soon found that the pay isn’t in line with the responsibility and shear physical staring it puts on the body. Byron refrained from saying “I told you so.” (We both wonder if pay in the service industry would change if those at desk jobs spent two weeks in the food service industry.) At any rate, Martha is suddenly aware that her body isn’t as young as it used to be though she has always considered herself a hard worker. Byron had that certain “baptism by fire” experience last year. For sure, it keeps us fully aware of what is required to help make people happy and fed.

Speaking of eating, Martha was able to attend the Thanksgiving meal in the RV park. Byron, who was working at Tomorrowland Terrace, got to enjoy a take-home plate when he got off work. For Thanksgiving TLT changed the menu to a traditional turkey dinner with the trimmings. Oddly, several guests were upset that Angus burgers with cheese weren’t available.

With Chick-fil-A being closed for Sundays and Byron making himself not available on that day, we are both able to go to Kissimmee First United Methodist Church each week and enjoy participation in the Hugh Embry Sunday School Class. The regular teacher of the class has asked Byron to take over for a few months giving him a bit of a sabbatical. Byron also agreed to guide some Bible studies on Wednesdays at the invitation of the church’s pastor.

The image at the top of this blog is our greeting to you. It was created by Byron so it’s coming as a personal expression to each of you. By the way, if you’d like to see his posting of the history and commentary on some hymns for the Advent/Christmas season, go to the following URL –  http:songersmusic100.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!