Passion

I'm sitting here, fighting against my better sense that are screaming at me to go to sleep, with that derogatory word "Moron," thrown in there, trying to decide. I'm sitting here watching the battery life on my computer dwindle from a mere 21% to a shocking 17%. I am clearly too lazy to get up, walk 7.3 feet across my living room and plug it in, plug it in. As it continues to drop to a 16% I continue to sit here and ponder. All day long, all I have thought about is writing. It has become a part of me, and is rapidly turning into an addiction. Yet nothing spectacular has happened. Nor, shockingly, has anything insanely awkward happened. (Odd, seeing as it's my life...) And yet I wanted to write every minute of it down. Not because my life is so thrilling, by an stretch of the imagination. Just for the mere sake of being able to write. I think I have a disease or something. Everything that happens to me turns into a story that is waiting to be written. And you would be surprised dear readers how often I end up writing it in my head. And then laughing out loud, and creating more awkward situations. (It's the circle of life, and it moves us all...) I think that this I what we call a mild dose of passion. And the best part is that it's not even good. Some of it is less craptstic than the rest, but alas. It is still immature and impressionistic. And I don't even care. It's the best, and yes, that was supposed to be read in a Latino accent. It makes me so excited to delve (yes, delve) further into my Journalism classes just because I get to learn how to write good. (Ahem, well. What?) So as I brush my teeth tonight, I will more than likely be thinking about how to turn in into a brilliant piece of writing. And don't worry; I'm not crazy. Just mildly passionate. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Dinosaurs are Scary.

So Jordan and I went to Animal Kingdom this past week, and it was so crazy fun! We rode Everest six times, saw a bunch of animals, witnessed some guy passing out, ate pizza, danced in the street and got some crazy looks from one awesome lady, and rode on the dinosaur ride. It was a great time at that park. Indeed. And while I could take up your time, telling about how amazing Everest is, and how it's my favorite ride of all the parks, (minus Peter Pan, mind you...) I won't. I would like to focus on the little guys, thank you very much. The Dinosaur ride was really cool/scary. It is kind of like the Indiana Jones ride, apparently, only Dinosaur. My favorite thing about the whole ride was the picture that was taken of Jordan and I. It makes me laugh really hard. We both have the same look of terror, and it is quickly becoming a happy place of mine. And now I would like to share the joy with you, and tell you to participate in the joy of Dinosaurs next time you come to Animal Kingdom. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Sinner

So I am officially going to Hell. And here is why: Today at work this little boy and his dad came in. The boy was a little wound up, and was running around the lobby. Then he started waving his arms around, and doing weird things with his fingers. It kind of looked like some kind of tribal rain dance or something, which was fitting because it was in fact raining. It looked like he was playing one of those funny games that all five-year-olds play. So since one of the Disney Basics is to be nice to children, or something, I try to play with him. I too start flailing my arms about, and wiggling my fingers. Then his dad says to me, "Oh, he's trying to speak to you. He's saying that it's raining outside." I almost died right then and there. He was speaking in Sign Language, and I totally made fun of him!!! I felt horrible, but found it too funny to feel any actual embarrassment. It is something I would do. Whatever. The worst part about the whole little Emmilieism was that it happened when the co-worker who I'm pretty sure bitterly hates me was standing next to me. She looked over at me like I was Satan, or something. Which is fitting, because I'm pretty sure that only the devil, or someone possessed by him would make fun of a deaf kid! So dear readers, on a scale of 1 to 10- I being, oh I don't know, damnation, and 10 being, oh, let's say salvation, where do you think this falls. I would love any and all feedback concerning my eternal salvation...or lack thereof. Thank you, and goodnight. 

My Life in a Nutshell

My dear friend Courtney often tells me that I am Elizabeth Bennett. And today I agree with her. There is a line in Pride and Prejudice that pretty much sums up my life. And after everything with Morocco, it seems quite fitting. 

"She told the story, however, with great spirit among her friends; for she had a lively, playful disposition, which delighted in any thing ridiculous."

Such is my life. Thank you, and goodnight.  

Refresh

There are certain times in life where you need to push the refresh button on your life, so to speak. Last night, I pressed refresh, and feel so much better, and coincidentally have a better perspective. (Sweet, huh?!) How you may ask? I was reading these wonderful things called the scriptures, and came across Ether 12:6. 

"Now I Mormon would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith."

Now, I have heard this scripture many, many times, and have always loved it. However, never has it hit me with such force before, and helped to "refresh," my faith that at that moment in time was indeed dwindling. It was such a blessing, and I am so grateful for the gospel. Immediately after reading it, everything in my mind that I was stressing about for those few minutes of my life made sense, and although I could not see it, I knew that I had to have faith. I could not dispute it because I saw not. After this beautiful realization everything seemed 18.5 times better. The room looked brighter, and my heart felt higher. It was such a happy moment. I am so grateful for this scripture, and so many like it that offer hope and peace. And if ever you need to "refresh," DO IT! It's amazing, and will fill your life with joy. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Dating is Overrated.

Thank you, and goodnight. 

Therapy Bills

Did you ever hear that rumor about Jim Carrey when he was filming How the Grinch Stole Christmas? You know, the one about him wearing the Grinch suit, and how he had to go through therapy for it afterwards? He would apparently dread putting it on, and have somewhat nervous breakdowns. Not even lying. Why this little gossip session? Well, it is turning into my life. Now, I don't have to put on a giant green Grinch suit every day, but close. My costume for work is absolutely horrendous. And it makes me look about 27 pounds heavier, and 32 years older. Oh, and the pants are so short that if I walk briskly, you can see half-way up my calf. (But apparently that is "perfect." Whatev.)If that is not a cause for therapy, I don't know what is. Remember that fish vest? I'm going to start convulsing in the corner because of it. Right now I get to go change into said horrific outfit, and rack up that therapy bill just slightly higher. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Travel Log

So I love Epcot. It's my very favorite park, and I even get to work there! Hooray! The coolest part about it is the World Showcase. There are 11 different countries to visit and fall in love with. Needless to say, I now want to travel the world even more than I already did. Amen. But I have been able to chill in Epcot a couple of times. Let me take you on a journey of my travels within the Apricot. (Also known as Epcot. It's fine.)

This is me visiting in the UK. My devoted readers already know the story about the Pub... that was an awkward/awesome night. But this trip to the UK fulfilled a life-long dream. Stand inside one of those little red telephone booths. Needless to say, it rocked. 

Jordan and I visiting Morrocco. It is a beautiful country with many belly-dancers. Hence, the belly-dancer head gear. It is part of a belly-dancer kit that you can in fact buy. It's great.

This is Courtney, Jordan, and I visiting Paris, France. It is very cute, with some fabulous pastries. Amen. 

This is my favorite picture from my trip to Italy. Shaun was very captivated by the epic statue of the man with really ripped abs. 

This is Shaun and I visiting in Germany. Auf, ya!

This is Jordan rockin' out hard core on some sweet drums somewhere between China and Germany. Also known as the Trading Post. 

This is me, visiting in China. I met Buddha, and got to rub his belly. For luck...or something. 

Courtney and I loved China. We really embraced the culture, and all too soon found ourselves wishing for our very own Chinese warriors. 

Shaun, Jordan and I having a fiesta in Mexico. I mean, why else do you visit Mexico?!

And finally, I was able to pose with a real live Viking from Norway. (A real-live statue that is...) But he was hot. What can I say?

I love Epcot. It brings my heart such joy. So come and visit! And you too can enjoy the culture, the music, the shops, the food, and the attractive vikings. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Kicking Evil's Trash

Okay dear readers. So I saved the world the other day. Yes, you read that right. Just embrace it. My peep Shaun and I decided to go to Epcot on Saturday for some frivolity. Little did we know that our impressive world-saving skills would be called upon. And indeed they were. We decided to check out the new Kim Possible attraction, when an innocent worker, probably in-league with Kim Possible herself told us that there was a mission for us, and that we needed to report to Norway by 11:00. So with a quick stop to Club Cool for some drinks, (drinks like Chinese watermelon soda, and this crappy stuff from Italy named Beverly) as well as a visit with the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland and Marie from the Aristocats, we arrived in Norway just in time. We received our Kimmunicator (this is the real deal, folks) and headed to Mexico. Due to the sensitive nature of the mission, I cannot go into the details. However, Shaun and I were able to save the world from hostile take-over from the evil Dr. Drakken. With a little help from Wade, Kim's computer friend, and some quick thinking/awesome spy moves from Shaun and myself, Dr. Drakken's evil plan with the evil rocket launch did not prevail. The world is safe again. So next time you see some evil Doctor with a corny accent try to take over the world, just remember that you too can kick some evil trash with your wicked sweet spy-moves. Thank you, and goodnight. 

So That Happened

Okay, so I have most definitely been blessed with many missionary moments while living here in Orlando. But today was an interesting one. It just made me think a little bit; and it goes like this: I was on the bus today in my old lady Coral Reef costume. Part of that costume is my name tag that has my school on it. I was talking to this girl and this guy. They were new, and I was trying to show them the ropes, and sound cooler than I was. (Kind of like your first week in the MTC, right Shaun?) Anyways, they asked where I was from, and had the common look of shock and suspicion when I told them when I was from Utah. (Is she one of those Mormons?!) Answer=yes! Then they read my name tag, realizing that I also attended that BYU place, put the two of them together, and blurted out, "Wait! Are you a Mormon?!" Every person within ear shot turned to look at me.  Including this guy who was sitting with his back to me who tried to subtly and cooly pull of a 180 degree turn to get a better peak at me. Nice move, Sparky. Smiling, and laughing a little bit at life in general, I responded that, yes, indeed I am a Mormon. The whole concept of "people watch you," hit me harder than ever before. I tried to be really happy and nice. Bracing myself for the string of questions I knew would follow, with a quick prayer asking to have the words that needed to be said, the conversations quickly turned to the Word of Wisdom. "So, you can't drink caffeine in public?" Okay, that was weird. I told her that some people in our religion choose not to as a personal choice. I personally drink diet coke all the time, but it's not bad. I mean, it's not the best drink for you, but I'm not going to hell or anything. (Don't worry, I didn't use that exact phrase.) Then the guy asked me a question that actually caught me off guard. And it goes like this: "Wait, what is a Mormon?" I didn't even know how to answer his question. I told him that it was my religion, and that "Mormon" is what we are called. He told me he knew all of this, but still wanted to know what it was. I decided to touch on the Word of Wisdom because that was the most recent topic. He thought it was interesting, and then asked me if they had any bars at Epcot. Naturally, I told him I didn't actually know. But I just kept thinking about his question. I know very well what a Mormon is. But how do you begin to explain that to someone on a crowded bus, when you only have about three minutes? How do you not scare them, or make them think you are insane? How do you impress upon them your love for them, and for this religion that you believe in with your whole heart and soul? How do you tell them of our Heavenly Father, and his plan for each of us? How do you tell them of the standards you try to live daily? How do you make them understand how happy it makes you every day? How do you do all of that? I was upset that I could not have offered a better answer, but grateful for the experience. Now I can be prepared! I'm so grateful to God for his love, and for allowing us to be able to grow in such unique ways. How I love being a Mormon! Thank you, and goodnight. 

An Accent of Awkward

Okay, so there was this one time that I went to Epcot. And it was jolly good fun, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. Indeed. I went with my peeps Shaun, Jordan, and Courtney. It was the best. Gradually, some of us had to leave for work, and Jordan and I were the only ones left. And after quite and exhausting day of walking around the world, dinner at a sit-down restaurant was looking mighty fine. Mighty fine indeed. So we pop over to Canada in hopes that they may somehow, someway have availability for two. Now, the important thing to note about this entire story is that we were in Epcot all day long. A day that was full of culture, and food and random accents. Now, these random accents had been going on since we got on the freakin' bus that morning. So it was clearly a problem for which there was no remedy. Amen. So keeping that in mind, come back with me to Canada. Before going into the restaurant I triple-dog-dared Jordan to speak in an accent. (You can't refuse that one...) And luckily he was awesome, and did not chicken out. He did indeed speak in a British accent, and naturally, I had to too. And amazingly enough, we were able to keep a straightish face the entire time. But it was close a couple of times... It's fine. Sadly, there was no openings in Canada, but the Rose and Crown Pub in Britain had an opening. So we made our way over to the UK. Now, this had the potential of being slightly awkward. Because if the people that work in the UK, who are all from England heard us speaking in those silly accents, that would be bad. (Good thing I'm not awkward, right?) So we are sat, and our server named Nathan from Wales is chatting with us. He found out that we were cast members, and was asking about that. And that's when it happened. He asked me some inconsequential question, and I answered in a British accent. I wanted to crawl under the table. Instead I laughed really hard, and it was much better. The worst part was that Nathan from Wales caught it, and told me quite seriously, "And if you say anything else in a British accent, I'll slap you in the face..." It was awesome. So gradually I ended up saying less and less every time Nathan from Wales came round. It was awkward, but was a perfect end to the day. And I laughed. Thank you, and goodnight. 

I Cold.

So, I'm really cold. Just saying is all. Oddly enough, I have drunk more hot chocolate here in Orlando, Florida than I have anywhere else, including the Frozen Tundra of Rexburg. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Multiply and Replenish

Okay, so it's becoming common knowledge around the Coral Reef that our newest addition, the CP, Emmilie is a Mormon. (What?! No horns?!?!?) And it's really fun for me, the newest addition, to watch the gears turn as they learn more about me. It's pretty sweet. Here is a nice little example for you, dear readers. 

"So, Emmilie, where are you from?"

"Oh, I'm from Utah."

"Utah, wow. That's...great! And do you go to school in Utah, then?"

"No, actually I go to BYU-Idaho. I love it!"

"Oh, okay. (Insert awkward pause here) So, how old are you then?"

"20."

"Oh, so no drinking in public then, eh?"

"Oh, no, I don't drink."

"Ever?!"

"Nope! Never." 

"Oh...well...good for you."

"Do you have a boyfriend?"

"No, but it's really okay." 

"Huh... okay." 

And that's about where the incredulity begins to take over, and they look at me over the rims of their glasses, or out of the corner of their eyes when they think that I am not looking. I just laugh a little bit, and think about a blog title for yet another addition to my awkward life. But I was playing the latest version of this conversation in my head today as I was doing yet another glorious menu run. And I remembered the part where a fellow co-worker flat out asked me if I was a Mormon. I assured him that I indeed was. Another co-worker commented on the fact that I must be Mormon because I don't drink and I don't have a boyfriend. The drinking thing I understand, but the boyfriend thing? What?! I laughed a little bit. The phrase "Multiply and replenish the earth," rang in my mind, naturally hinting that a boyfriend would be crucial in that little commandment. I could have gotten into eternal marriage, but baby steps, right? It's fine. 

But then I thought again. Does this mean that even non-members think I am a menace to LDS culture because I am in fact single. (Which by the way, I have never been more okay with in my life, thank you very much) What the St. Francis?!?! I thought I escaped this little character flaw when I left BYU-I-do-Idaho... alas. The curse follows me everywhere. I just thought it was pretty funny/awkward/typical Emmilie Buchanan. I must confess that I find this whole experience to be completely fascinating. Thank you, and goodnight. 

Find a Happy Place!!

Okay, so today work was...good. Yes, after a short mental check of everything that happened, I would say that it turned out to be a good day. It just had a lovely little smattering of crap. But hey, welcome to the Restaurant industry, where people like to yell their hunger away. Because if you yell at us, it will get better! 

It started off as a normal day at the Disney Company. My bus for Epcot got there a little early so I decided to "chillax" (think about it) for like a half an hour. It was pretty sweet. I got some grandma pants that are actually long enough. Hoorah. And I almost bought some sweet Disney pins, and clothes, and pictures, and whatnot at the employee store. But then I remembered that I have literally been living off of rice, cereal and pancakes, and should probably buy real food instead. It's fine. Then I just decided to get to work a little early. Always workin' hard! So I clock in, wash my hands, (SafeD begins with Me!) And head to the front desk- where I live when I am not in my ghetto apartment. Within five minutes, some crazy lady with a baby bottle flags me down. She looks kind of scary, so I just smile. She asks me if I could get her some milk. I tell her that I am not sure, (I'm knew!) but I can get her some hot water... This is a pretty simple statement, yet I have never seen such simplicity make someone turn so ballistic in my life. She started screaming at me, telling me that this was ridiculous, she was really angry now, she wanted milk, and she wanted to talk to a manager. I apologized (it was too late...) and explained how it was my first week, but I would get her the answer. Her response was, "I don't care!!!! I want some milk!" Okay........... so laughing/slightly freaking out, I go and try to find a manager. Then I ran away from the scary lady. It was highly exciting. And I really hope, for the sake of every child in that restaurant, that that woman got her milk. Nothing like a bloody fight scene in the lobby to make a child feel magical and special! 

And I'm pretty sure there was something in the air, because people were freaking out. I had at least five people yell at me. It was awesome! (Sarcasm button: ON) Luckily I have learned this trick called, don't take it personally. It works like a charm. But it's still annoying. So at times like this, I go to my happy places. Places like that time that I had lunch with two of my friends, and this really awkward guy came to eat with us, and I laughed so hard I cried. I heart that story, and I heart that day. Or any memory at all about this kid from high school. His name was Jacob, and he said the funniest things ever. I especially loved when he would adamantly tell you that he was not a Canadian. Oh, happiness. Or pretty much any awkward/funny story from my life. Or that time that Kristen and I saw those guys hanging out of their car, and rubbing it with squeegees. That was great too. Or any Coldplay song. Or anything that Kinsey says. Or that one time that Mary and I laughed really hard. Or Sheldon and Bruce the Stallion. These are all examples of happy places. Find one. They are kind of like moving buddies. If you don't have one, get one. (Hey- I work for Disney, what to do you expect??) Thank you, and goodnight. 

All I Can Say is Awesome

So today was a magical day. As a rule it should be, because hey- I'm working at Disney World!!! But today was great. I got my costume for work today! And here in the Entertainment Business, we don't have uniforms, we have costumes. That's right. Be jealous. So After touring Epcot, and learning the freakin' sweet in's and out's, I met one of my leaders for the Coral Reef Restaurant where I shall in fact be working. He was a nice, slightly portly man who took me to the magical room where you get your costume. It was exciting- until I saw what I will be wearing for the next four months of my life. Remember my Halloween costume? Ahem... it pretty much looks just like that. Except for bright blue pants instead of purple; and I'll swap the vest with hearts all over it for a vest of awesomeness/glory with tropical fish all over it. I'm not even lying right now. Answer=I don't even have a word for it. All I need now is some head-gear and a fanny pack, and then I will forever be in business. Indeed. Jealous much? Actually it will be so fun! And I can feel like a nerd EVERY DAY! Dreams really do come true here... okay, so no. Luckily I don't have to poof my bangs. That would be awkward. 

But the Coral Reef is amazing! It's one of the nicest restaurants in Epcot. It has a huge aquarium that takes the place of a wall in the restaurant. It has sea turtles, and manatees, and sharks, and fish, and dolphins!! It is so beautiful, and I am so excited to work there! Hooray! Especially with my matching fish vest! Thank you, and goodnight. 

A Dream is a Wish

So this is another confession from the life and mind of Emmilie. I know, watch out. And this one, is, I confess, a little cheesier than the rest but deal with it. So tonight is the night before I go to work at Disney. And I'm sitting here, in my grandpa's house watching Extreme Make-Over Home Edition, one heartstring tug away from full-scale bawling. Yes, I admit it. This show is about making people's dreams come true. And that got me thinking. I have been dreaming about working at Disney for years. (I know, kind of lame, but eat it.) And now, my dreams are coming true! It's so exciting! And, I'm watching this show and the family that is getting a new house is spending the week at Disney World. And while they are there, all these things are happening that you can tell are just magic for this family. And tomorrow I get to go work there, and make magic for other people. Do you know how amazing that feels? That I get to make other people's dreams come true. Okay, so maybe that is a little much, but if nothing else, I have the opportunity to make people smile every single day. I'm so excited. I can't wait to make people happy. Especially in these difficult times. I just want to make people's day just a little bit happier. Just a little more hopeful. Just a little more bright. And granted, I'm working in a restaurant, but hey, you have to start somewhere right? Thank you, and goodnight.