Monday, March 29, 2010
Disney Cruise 2010: Max meets Minnie
Hello, Mouseketeers. We're back from our Disney Cruise/Disney World trip, our flight got in late and I'm wiped. I have lots of good stories, photos and tips to share, and yet more photos, but for now here's a video of Max hanging with Minnie Mouse on the cruise (hence her fabulous outfit). This scene is typical of our meet-'n-greets; every single one of the characters—I am not exaggerating—took extra time with Max, and other kids with special needs. Usually, Max would be awestruck at first. Then he'd want to make out with them. And then they'd just hang.
He really, really loved Minnie. It's Max's first crush! Given Disney's deep pockets, I have to assume they'd pay for the wedding.
Welcome Home. Bless the actor/actress who played Minnie. She took the time to speak to Max's heart. What a great video.
ReplyDeleteThe sight of Max touching his hair then pointing at Minnie's head
made me think. He is using his version of sign language, which you understood. Has anyone ever mentioned pairing an adapted version of American sign language with speech therapy for Max? I know speech is most desirable, and Max does have issues with his hand(s), but since communication is most important for him has that ever been discussed? (Hope I didn't bring up a tough subject - Sorry if I did.)
Can't wait to see more pictures/videos of your trip.
How adorable! Max is so good with the ladies!
ReplyDelete~Jess
that got me teary. it's so easy to be cynical about the commercial monolith that is disney...and then you see how your kid reacts. love max's face as he realizes she's dancing with him. we too have had lovely experiences with the characters (the actors are not supposed to say they're "playing" minnie that day...the official disney terminology is "friends with" -- as in, "i'm friends with minnie today," which is so weirdly awesome) -- what a skill that is, connecting to kids without using your face or voice.
ReplyDeleteYay! It's so awesome to see that Max had such a great time! I have to agree that the actor/actress who was "friends with Minnie" really did a wonderful job! It made my heart happy!
ReplyDeleteWow!!!! Love that Minnie. We are going to Disney this summer and can't wait! We went once before and everyone was so wonderful with Olivia.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful. I love the pictures..they don't disappoint. We've missed you, and I want more pictures!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWell done Max, great first crush :D Jen.
ReplyDeleteWow, that was just the neatest thing--I hope they pay those folks more than minimum wage, because they certainly do a good job interacting with the children!
ReplyDeleteThe bride's family traditionally pays for the wedding, so if Max ends up with Minnie it'll be champagne and caviar and dancing till dawn to a forty piece orchestra! If he married a poor mouse, it would be a barbecue in the back yard (after all the dog poop got picked up) and the country band from the bar down the road!
I keep thinking I'd like to save up to go on one of those trips--I just don't know if Mr. Doesn't Like Change could deal, though...
How awesome! Definitely makes me want to go on a Disney cruise now. Be sure to regale us with tales and give us your recommendations. Three cheers for Max & Minnie -- what a wonderful gal she is.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh, that video is priceless!
ReplyDeleteI like how the step below the top wasn't close enough to sit with Minnie, so he went one more higher.
So cute!!
Love, love, love this video! I could not help but grin from ear to ear while watching. My daughter does a similar thing for kisses - just opens her mouth wide. So cute! I think you better keep an eye on that boy - he knows how to charm the ladies!
ReplyDeleteLove Disney! I've decided I'm going to go soon, forget the fact that I'm an adult. I don't care.
ReplyDeleteDid you make it to Animal Kingdom?
Welcome home! I've missed you.
ReplyDeleteThat video is just adorable. Those characters really are good, aren't they?
Hey, all. I've watched this video all day long. Barbara, we do some signs, and you're right, we could be building on that. Actual sign language is hard because of the dexterity. It's not a tough subject, I'm always open to suggestion.
ReplyDeleteFelicia, it is a relief to know Disney would most likely pay for a Max and Minnie wedding. I can picture a very nice one at the Magic Kingdom. And you'd be surprised how a kid who doesn't like change (and Max sure doesn't) can quickly adapt to life on a cruise!!!
Sarah: We did a whirlwind tour of Animal Kingdom, will share pictures. One of the highlights of our trip took place there. It involved a lion, and that's all I'm saying for now. :) Oh, and there are lots of adults roaming around Disney World (and the cruise!) who didn't have kids. It's really a place for kids ages 1 to 99!
And yes, I agree, the characters do an amazing job.
Love! That! Max!
ReplyDeleteI'm 90% happy for you and 10% jealous that I didn't get to go! Looks like LOADS of fun!
ReplyDeleteThat video made my day. Look at Max climb the step and turn around and sit down...he did that so well. Did you get a little nervous when you ask her where he was going? :)
ReplyDeleteYes, Angela, I got a little nervous seeing him walk up the steps by himself but he did OK!
ReplyDeleteI absolutely LOVED it! Minnie was delighted to meet Max! Wonderful memory!
ReplyDeleteThis brought me instant joy! The way he lit up is just fantastic. I worked in the costuming department at MK Walt Disney World years ago and was able to witness many children with special needs meet various characters, mostly for the Make a Wish foundation. I think that I realized back then what I know now as a mother with a son with special needs, these children seem to exude joy, love and compassion far more than just about any typical child. Their feelings are uninhibited, which can be the most amazingly beautiful thing in the world.
ReplyDeleteJanet B