A tough day.

Hi friends,

September 11...it's a tough day in our country's history.  It's a day with so many emotions attached to it. Not only are we looking back on what has happened, but we look forward to our future as well.  A future that's hopefully, somehow...brighter.

Today is also a day that many are waking up after Hurricane Irma has blown through their hometown...or perhaps they are still anticipating her arrival.  It's time like these that it's hard to find joy sometimes.  As many know, Orlando was in the path of Irma not long ago, and over the weekend many travelers were stuck in the Orlando area. There are still people not sure of when they will be able to get back to their homes.

Today, I woke up to read so many heartwarming stories come out of this awful event.  I wanted to share some of them with you.

* Residents that evacuated to Disney World resorts with their pets where treated to a Pet Parade staring Stitch!
* Donald and Goofy were both seen helping out at the front desk at a couple of the resorts!
* Mickey was spending time with some of the smaller guests and taking photos
* Pluto took some time to visit the arcade room at one of the resorts
* Chip and Dale were also visiting with guests, playing games and taking photos

I'm really blown away by the stories an photos I have seen.  Taking time to remember that these cast members are going the extra mile even when their own homes were in danger during the storm.  The love they share is truly special.  I've also been reading about Cruise ships that have been sent to help evacuate stranded travelers and other affected by the storm.  I love that when the world truly needs it, we can come together to help each other out.

I've received many emails asking about the status of the parks, and what the future holds.  I'm excited to say that the four main parks will reopen tomorrow, the Mickey's Not to Scary Halloween Party will go on as planned, and things will start to get back to normal.

I'll continue praying for those affected by the storms that are battering through, and looking towards those heartwarming stories that get us through.    

Have a magical week, sweet friends!