Guest Column - Quentin's story
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When the ride was over, my gray Tigger shirt was fully drenched with my own sweat, the result of sprinting in 90-plus degree heat for the ride. Once my brother departed, he too had his shirt darkened by the massive sweat he was producing. We both shared our experiences with the ride for a short while, then departed for other rides. Almost forgetting that we had to meet family at the Contemporary resort, we advanced towards the Monorail. I changed my shirt into a purple FUBU shirt that I had in my book bag just in case I got wet. Back on the train, I saw another glimpse of Space Mountain, with the Fort Wilderness resort in the background. The monorail then proceeded into the interior of the Contemporary resort. Entering the concourse gave us a astounding view of the entire main hotel. As we slowed down for our stop, a large mural came into our view. I really thought the mural was a rather lousy excuse for art. The monorail doors opened and we departed the train and proceeded down the stairs to Chef Mickey’s.

Now this is where we I began to think, "Would I rather be caught dead than in here?" The restaurant was swarming with children as loud happy-go-lucky music emanated from the hidden speakers. I was looking for mom and my other relatives so we could finally sit down, eat and get this over with. A couple of moments later, I realized the restaurant’s design was awesome to the senses. A black and white checkerboard theme was rather dominant around the place, giving it a old-fashioned kitchen feel. Neon purple streaked out around the steel platform top that below contained an all you can eat breakfast buffet. The buffet featured many mouth-watering food items. There were biscuits with a hot and fresh smell from the oven, pancakes dripping with the sweetness of syrup and Belgium waffles in the shape of Mickey’s face. Forget the characters, I wanted to start eating! Mom finally found us waiting outside the entrance.

"How did you enjoy the park boys?", my mother expressed in a positive tone. "I really enjoyed the rides they have so far." I responded in a rushed voice. "All I want to do now is eat for gods sakes!" Our party began to head for our table in the back of the restaurant. The back wall featured a mural with various Disney characters. It was more aesthetically appealing than the ugly mural I saw previously. While walking towards the food, I noticed a flurry of white handkerchiefs waving in the air like a blizzard. They were all in it, boys, girls, men, women and even couples were all waving them around. Mickey Mouse, donning a white and black chef’s outfit arrived to greet all! From the scene I just witnessed, I finally realized that I could be a kid again and not worry about the stress in everyday life. In Walt Disney World, no one cared what you did, you can find your inner child right here and right now! In a brief moment, I was about to test that statement from my mind.

Minnie Mouse began to waltz towards the walkway in such an adorable way. Minnie was wearing her traditional red and polka-dot white dress with matching bow, complete with oversized yellow shoes. Since it was a kitchen, she wore an apron around her waist. Now through with all those thoughts of being embarrassed, it wouldn’t hurt if I got one cute picture.

I told my brother to take my picture. After signing one child’s autograph , Minnie seemed VERY delighted to see me. I didn’t know what to say to her, but when Justin started to take the picture, the plushy character then proceeded to embrace me with an arms wide hug and kissed me! I could hear that loud SMOOCH in my ear for minutes after the photo. I never imagined that a female Disney character could do such a thing like that to a guy, but we were quite a cute couple! It was a magical moment that I will cherish for the rest of my life!

The Magical Moment

In what should have been a normal Summer vacation, I experienced something that I never felt before. It was the day when I realized happiness is around you. It was the day when I became a kid again. It was the day that may have changed my life forever. It was the day that I found Walt Disney World. Thank you Minnie Mouse for helping me find it! I would have been lost and full of hopelessness without it.

-- Quentin

-- Posted January 18, 2001