Goodbye until Tomorrow

It's hard to say goodbye to family.

A goodbye feels like forever.

On Thursday, the Regina girls had one last "HYEA-zzah" before heading to Orlando. These girls have been my family and my support system through the years, and I am so blessed to have them in my life. They are so talented and I cannot wait to see what their futures bring.

I can't write more without feeling lost without them, but I will say this: it's not goodbye. As Mickey says, "See you real soon! Why? Because we love ya!"

How the 100 Acre Woods Roll...

Confessions of a Former Fairy Godmother

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique was a magical place, whether the white rabbit was hopping by for a visit, or pirates had once again stolen Cinderella's crown from the display. It was a place full of memories and infectious joy, where smiles were seen on princesses and queens alike.

Over my time as a Fairy Godmother-in-Training, here are a few of the most memorable stories told to princesses:

Who had a crown taken by pirates?

1. Don't ever look in the mirror before your hair is done. Why? Tinkerbell will turn your hair green. She doesn't like peekers!
2. That cold slimy liquid in your hair is not "gel." It's Stitch's spit. And yes, there is a story behind that.
3. As your fairy godmother, we never use regular makeup. Only crushed rosepetals for rosy cheeks, and sugarplums for your lips. Eat your heart out, cosmetic industry.
4. That knocking on the door isn't just anyone trying to get in. It's Prince Charming. But since he has forgotten his house keys once again, he should be renamed Prince Forgetful.
5. Yes, I can name all seven dwarves. And tell you what each one had for breakfast.
6. Where do we fairy godmothers live? Well, you may have seen that nice lovely castle in the center of the Magic Kingdom...We live on the third floor in pink matching bunk beds, of course.
7. There is no such thing as "glitter." There is, and will only be, pixie dust.
8. If a dress or crown is missing in the castle, it's due to curious pirates. Make sure all your jewels and watches are still with you when exiting the boutique!
9. We don't have cars in the Magic Kingdom. We have Magic Carpets.
10. When your fairy godmother says you are beautiful, it is the absolute truth.

Let the Memories Begin

"Good bye may seem forever. Farewell is like the end, but in my heart is the memory and there you will always be." -Walt Disney Company

Disney Spring Vacation '11

In May 2010, a tearful farewell was said to the place I had called home for five wonderful months. The place where wishes and dreams came true. The place where anything was possible. Goodbye to the castle, the laughter, the magic. Where else in the world do you have the opportunity to change lives in just a smile, transform a day with just a word? Being a fairy godmother-in-training had been an opportunity of a lifetime, with so many tales of beautiful little princesses and their fantastic families.

Even before my recent May graduation from the University of Missouri, I was sure that I was set for whatever "the real world" would bring. So I began to plan, to organize my life, all the while secretly pining for Mickey to take me back.

And then, that fateful day in April. The phone call that commenced in a sputtering blur (in my part) but ended with a "And you have a magical day!" The phone call that told me to grab my Mouseketeer hat and celebration button. The call that told me there was still magic to be found.

And here I am. One week left in Chicago before the great adventure happens once more.

Let the memories begin!