Adventures of the "Moms" Panel

[EEFOSTER]

I've been offline for most of the afternoon, but as soon as I checked my email and saw that Mickey Moms newsletter the first thing I did was come check on you guys.

The timeline for the 2009 panel is obviously bittersweet for the 2008 gang, but it would be so so so AMAZING if some of DIS pals could carry on the torch. The whole thing really puts a new buzz of energy in the air. Very exciting.

We've known for a few weeks that the CMs were gearing up to take more applications this year -- it said 20,000 in the newsletter. On a personal note, I'm wondering how they're going to process all that in the office. I'm picturing poor Leanne there with dozens of empty Visine bottles littering her office floor.

Oh, and Scoopy -- you are an amazing info ferret. Thanks for finding all those Moms Panel references. Do you do research in your non-Disney life or are you just an great sleuth as a hobby?

Again, I'm very excited to watch you guys continue on what has been a truly wonderful journey for the 2008 gang.

Good luck to ALL.

Erin

 

[PartyOf5]

Erin, that is so nice and thoughtful of you.

I'm wondering if you and the other panelists will be helping Leanne sift through the apps. Visine bottles for all!! Seriously, how is she and the others on the team going to sift through 20,000 apps!

I do hope Leanne/Duncan reach out to us 'rejects' and confirm that we don't have to start from the beginning again. That would make my day...it will be pure luck if we emerge again on top of 20,000 entries this time!

It's going to be an exciting time again! Good luck everyone!

 

[magic2go]

Erin, that is so nice and thoughtful of you.

I'm wondering if you and the other panelists will be helping Leanne sift through the apps. Visine bottles for all!! Seriously, how is she and the others on the team going to sift through 20,000 apps!

I do hope Leanne/Duncan reach out to us 'rejects' and confirm that we don't have to start from the beginning again. That would make my day...it will be pure luck if we emerge again on top of 20,000 entries this time!

I agree - Erin that is so nice of you - I can just imaagine that ya'll must be saddened - while the rest of us are excited! I think any of us would be honored to follow in your footsteps.


I know - 20,000 applicants is a huge amount, It would be a great idea to have the current panelists help select and train the new "Mom's" - I know I'd be honored to meet you!

And, I'd love to not have to start over in 20,000 applicants, maybe the panelists could put in a good word for us Just kidding (well, unless you really can!)

 

[Karibeth19]

Could someone forward the newsletter to me? I am a Mickey Moms Club member, but for some strange (and very frustrating) reason, I never get any e-mails from Disney Destinations. I have contacted them several times, but still nothing!!!! Anyway, if someone would please send me the newsletter, please PM me, and I'll respond with my e-mail address.

Thanks so much!!

 

[NicsMom1500]

The best part of WDW is sharing the magic.

Yes it's bittersweet to see the excitement of the 2009 Moms Panel announcement. Yet, I've been SO grateful for the journey.

So, in the spirit of sharing the wonder of Disney, I send best wishes to all of you that apply for the 2009 panel.

We've known about the upcoming announcement for a little while and that it would be released to the Mickey Moms Club first.

I know that Leanne and her team looked through all 10,000 applications last year. When she mentioned 20,000, I thought she was telling us about Leagues under the Sea. Not applicants.

I'm excited to watch this exciting process unfold. When you wish upon a star...

 

[RatBoy]

The MouseForLess.com (which features a short “blurb,” that quotes Bret).

Cut-and-Pasted from TheMouseForLess.com’s “Walt Disney World News” page:

Moms Panel “How-To” Videos
"The Walt Disney World Moms Panelists have found a fun way to share quick tips and vacation planning advice with a series of step-by-step how-to videos. Videos currently available include How to Use Fast Pass, Disney for All Ages, Rider Switch, Character Greeting Etiquette and more. According to Bret Caldwell, the sole dad on the Mom’s Panel, “The idea of the videos is to supplement the info we share on the Moms Panel forum. Some videos were made with professional camera crews at the parks, but many of them have been made at our houses with home video cameras. We each selected our own topics, and got to write, direct and produce them all on our own. It’s been a blast.” To view the videos, visit disneyworldmoms.com."

Nice of my sister to quote me in her article - huh?

Oh, and the Moms Panel's “how to” videos were recommended during the latest Netcot podcast. (“NETCOT.com - The InterNET Community Of Tomorrow”)

Bret Caldwell also received a “shout out” for mentioning Netcot – and “Van” (its co-founder and host) – in one of his recent Moms Panel responses.

The references to the Moms Panel and Bret occur during the “NETCOT NEWS” portion of the show, toward the end of the program:

Transcribed from the Podcast:
“I don’t often cover a lot of theme park touring tip ‘kinda news around here, but this week a couple of articles caught my attention, so I thought I’d share.

One is from the Canadian Press, and it’s all about some helpful tips for keeping your cool at Disney World…”

“…And if reading isn’t your thing, then might I suggest some new videos from the official Disney Moms – plus Bret – web site. The Disney ‘Moms’ have put together all sorts of helpful videos that are sort of ‘how to’ videos for touring the Parks. Topics include packing for the Park, using FASTPASSes, and even making flying to a Disney Park fun.

For a link to that –- yeah, that’s right! – 'Show Notes' at NETCOT.com. And, when you get there, if you really want to see something cool, then go to that website and do a search for “Netcot.” Scroll all the way down to the bottom of the article, and check out who’s featured there. By the way, ‘Thanks, Bret’! And, there’s a ‘shout out’!”

The full podcast:
Netcot #113 – The Backwards Show

Wow, you've been busy researching and typing!! I must say that was the coolest PR I've experienced so far. I was listening to the podcast at 30,000 feet (flying to LA) and just burst out laughing when I heard his "shout out." For a Disney Nerd, at least I got to feel like a cool dude for a few moments!

I've exchanged emails with Van since then (I had to thank him for the nice words, of course). He invited me to be on his show sometime. I wrote back and warned him to listen to me on Lou's show first before he decides. Haven't heard back since.

Speaking of Lou's show, I finally built up the nerve to listen today. I must say that my partners in crime really all did a very nice job on the show. Of course I hated hearing myself, but the gals were all very professional and entertaining, IMHO.

Lastly, I'm glad the contest has finally been announced. Of course I'm hoping that no one applies.

-Bret

 

[DVCsince02]

Could someone forward the newsletter to me? I am a Mickey Moms Club member, but for some strange (and very frustrating) reason, I never get any e-mails from Disney Destinations. I have contacted them several times, but still nothing!!!! Anyway, if someone would please send me the newsletter, please PM me, and I'll respond with my e-mail address.

Thanks so much!!

Me too, please. I don't get the e-mail either, but everything else. THANKS!

 

[WishesQueen]

Hey Everyone!!!

I haven't been around for awhile, things are so crazy with the kids during the summer. I am going to up a cab sign on my car!!! Better yet I am going to put a meter inside!!!

We just got back from WDW, our trip was alittle wetter then usual but amazing!!! We brought our DNephew15 with us and it was his first trip. It was fun introducing someone to a place we love and he really enjoyed it.

We finally found the Cool Station, thanks to the Mom's Panel and we had a really good time with it.

OK!!! So, I got my email and instantly got nervous!! I so excited, but I am nervous too!! I went back to the beginning of this thread to remember how exciting the how process was and I THINK I am ready to try again!!!

Thanks to the current panel for doing such a great job, I don't think Disney would have continued this if it didn't do so well!!!

Thank you also for all the well wishes, I truely think you would be thrilled to pass the wand to a fellow Diser. I am surprised that it sounds like you might be done, I really thought that they would keep you guys and just add to the panel!!!

In case I don't get a chance, I want to wish everyone here the BEST OF LUCK in the new application process for the Mom's Panel!!! I am nervous and excited but no matter what happens, I am going enjoy every minute of hearing about this years panel!!!

Does anyone know how many they are picking out of the 20,000 applications?

 

[DISgeeksfromDC]

Oh, and Scoopy -- you are an amazing info ferret. Thanks for finding all those Moms Panel references.

HA! Hey! Thanks, Erin!

Do you do research in your non-Disney life or are you just an great sleuth as a hobby?

It depends on what your definition of “research” is…

To answer your question: I’m not a researcher by trade – although I do have an overdeveloped sense of curiosity. (And, as I’ve stated before, sometimes I’m too inquisitive for my own good! ) This leads to asking a lot of questions and looking for answers, particularly about topics that that really interest me, such as Disney, Disney vacations, Disney movies and merchandise, the Disney World Moms Panel, the Disney CMO… Well, you get the idea! (I also have a weakness for celebrity gossip. Is that so bad?!?)

I’m currently a stay-at-home mom. In my former life, I filled a Public Relations/Marketing role in the cable industry.

Twenty thousand applications! Yikes! That’s a lot of reading!

So, were the Panelists – who were privy to inside information – chuckling amongst yourselves while we were busy speculating and sweating the contest dates here on the DISboards?

Oh, and thanks Erin, Laura, Kim and Bret, for your gracious well-wishes for everyone! Any good tips –- or words of wisdom -- for the would-be Panelists as we prepare to apply?

 

[WishesQueen]

Oh, and thanks Erin, Laura, Kim and Bret, for your gracious well-wishes for everyone! Any good tips –- or words of wisdom -- for the would-be Panelists as we prepare to apply?

Great question!!! I'll take any suggestions anyone has to offer!!

 

[DISgeeksfromDC]

We finally found the Cool Station, thanks to the Mom's Panel and we had a really good time with it.

Welcome back, WishesQueen!

Ahhhh! Club Cool! Any good Beverly photos you'd like to share?

Here's a link to one of my all-time favorite DISboard threads:
(Does that make me maniacal? )

Let's see your Beverly photos!
(Note: That "action shot" of the lady on Page 4, Post #50 is definitely my favorite! Bwahahahahaha!)

OK!!! So, I got my email and instantly got nervous!! I so excited, but I am nervous too!! I went back to the beginning of this thread to remember how exciting the how process was and I THINK I am ready to try again!!!

Thanks to the current panel for doing such a great job, I don't think Disney would have continued this if it didn't do so well!!!

True!

In case I don't get a chance, I want to wish everyone here the BEST OF LUCK in the new application process for the Mom's Panel!!! I am nervous and excited but no matter what happens, I am going enjoy every minute of hearing about this years panel!!!

Thanks, And, agreed!! (Here! Here!) At the very least, we've infused this thread with new life. And, all of the commiserating and chatter is 'kinda exciting!

 

[5/4Disney]

Hi guys, just thought I'd check in since we didn't float away! What exciting news..... a 2009 panel. (just wish I knew what made me stand out the first time) I will definitely apply again, and this time I'll make my DH do it also. We'll need some sort of advantage over 20,000 applicants.
I know you guys will be sad to leave, but what a year it has been for you all. Whom ever they choose to replace you guys will have some big shoes to fill.
Take care everyone, and enjoy the rest of your summer. We start school two weeks from today. Boy did this summer fly.

Scoopy, you've got to stop, I just can't keep up. This staying up late is not good for the bags under the eyes
Julie

 

[WishesQueen]

Welcome back, WishesQueen!

Ahhhh! Club Cool! Any good Beverly photos you'd like to share?

Here's a link to one of my all-time favorite DISboard threads:
(Does that make me maniacal? )

Let's see your Beverly photos!
(Note: That "action shot" of the lady on Page 4, Post #50 is definitely my favorite! Bwahahahahaha!)

I wish I was prepared to take photos, we were so excited to finally find it and remember to go, that everyone was drinking before I could whip out my camera!!!

To tell you the truth, I chickened out!!!

I tried the rest, I just couldn't get myself to try it!!!

 

[DISgeeksfromDC]

I wish I was prepared to take photos, we were so excited to finally find it and remember to go, that everyone was drinking before I could whip out my camera!!!

To tell you the truth, I chickened out!!!

I tried the rest, I just couldn't get myself to try it!!!

Think cough syrup … the really foul-tasting kind. On that note: Just recently, somebody offered my DD a glass of Strawberry Kool-Aid. She downed the stuff, then casually commented, “Tastes like medicine!”

At the time I was thinking, “Really?!? Awww! That’s too bad! I wonder why?” Then it occurred to me: Kids’ medicine today is flavored and sweetened to the point that she probably intended it as a compliment! YIKES!

I never bothered to post my family’s photos on that Beverly thread, ‘cuz they’re sort of anticlimactic. I offered my DS a swig of Beverly, and he seemed unfazed. (He actually went back for more…) Of course, maybe it’s because he was simply thrilled to be drinking a “forbidden” soft drink.

“Hmmmm! They called it soda. Soda is supposed to taste good, so count me in!"

 

[bless7ings]

It's a good thing I am on this thread! I've been checking in every so often as I have been trying to finalize our GG Disney trip! I've had so many emails from the disboards coming in that I try to clean out as much as I can. I came on here a few days ago and found out that the announcement had gone out and I said to myself, "What I didn't get that!" So I had to go back through my deleted messages and sure enough there it was! Thanks guys for the heads up!

 

[DISgeeksfromDC]

If you recall, one of the moms who attended Disney's Mommy Blogger Mixer kicked off a Disney-related meme called "Destination Disney," where folks can share their expertise about various topics pertaining to planning a Disney World vacation. That blogger (Jennifer of SNAPSHOT) recently decided to take a break from the project, so she passed the torch to another blogger (Heidi of Reviews by Heidi). (Incidentally, it turns out that Heidi also is a fellow DISer! )

Jennifer signs off:
*Destination Disney -- Other Orlando Activities
*Destination Disney - Hot

Heidi picks up where Jennifer left off:
*Heidi's "Destination Disney"-related Posts

Meanwhile, our very own "I Believe" (Kristen) continues to contribute to the meme via her own blog Kristenc's This And That.
*Destination Disney: Hot pictures

 

[Dcanoli]

Just in from a quick trip to THE WORLD (DH had a business trip there)....

Haven't waded through all my e-mails yet, but I am glad to see (from this thread) that there is an e-mail waiting there for me!

GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE! Amazing that they are doubling the amount of applicants this time! Wow!

 

[RatBoy]

Just in from a quick trip to THE WORLD (DH had a business trip there)....

Haven't waded through all my e-mails yet, but I am glad to see (from this thread) that there is an e-mail waiting there for me!

GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE! Amazing that they are doubling the amount of applicants this time! Wow!

Welcome back! Where are your photos from the trip?

Regarding the increase to 20K applicants, did you also notice that they are looking for 16 (not 12) panelists?!

-Bret

 

[5/4Disney]

Welcome back! Where are your photos from the trip?

Regarding the increase to 20K applicants, did you also notice that they are looking for 16 (not 12) panelists?!

-Bret

Nope, that one slipped right by me!!

 

[zulaya]

I missed the 16 count as well. You'd think that if they are accepting double the amount of applications, they'd add more than 4 positions. But then it might be too difficult for them to manage with that many more people.