Being the "Disney obsessed weirdo" (at work)

   I've taken on a new identity.  I think I'm the only person at work who knows the year that Walt Disney World opened.  I'm probably the only person in the building who knows that Walt Disney's middle name was Elias.  The only person who knows about rope drops and ADR's.  It's a strange feeling to be part of such an exclusive sub-culture.  When we made our return trip to WDW back in 2009, I didn't mind telling everyone where we were going for vacation, and how excited we were.  I was telling everyone that would listen.  It seemed like everyone was curious and wanted to know all about it.  I was studying.  Planning. That trip came and went. 

   When we returned, people at work wanted to hear about it.  That was in Sept. of '09.  Our next trip was April of 2010.  I was asked about where we were going for vacation, and that was the first time I realized how alone I was.  To "regular" people, going to Walt Disney World is great... ONCE, and then you think of something else to do for your vacations.  At least that's how most of the real world sees it.  I really started to feel strange when we planned our Jan. 2011 trip.  I noticed the difference in responses from fellow employees when they heard that we were making our 3rd trip to WDW in just under 2 years.

    I listen to my Disney pod casts at work.  I'm sure that people assume that I'm listening to music, but luckily, no one has ever asked me what I was listening to on my iPod.  And if they looked into my duffel bag what would they say if they were to find a sandwich, iPod, bottle of water, radio, and books titled "The Vault of Walt" or "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World"?  I have become aware of my reputation, so I put those books in my bag  face down. 

    I guess I could just tell everyone that I do it for my Grand Daughter, you know, so that I'll know what I need to do to get the most out of Walt Disney World and Disneyland when she gets older, and wants to go more often.  I guess I could, but I'd feel guilty hiding behind my nearly one and a half year old Grandy.  No, I think it's time to "man up" and stand my ground.  Just come out with it.  Just rip my shirt open and expose the big WDW on my chest! 

   It's funny how people look at you funny when they aren't planning a trip to WDW themselves, but I've already had a few folks come to me with questions about WDW trip planning.  It's a proud moment when one of the regular people come to you for help with a Disney trip.   I stand ready to help anyone who will ask about it.  I'm ready to avalanche them with a landslide of trip planning books and videos.  I can give them url's for Disney websites.

    Maybe it's true that The Best Defense, is a good Offense!  Do I dare tell anyone at work about this blog?  I know that my family still loves me, and will put up with my Disney obsession.  Anyone of my friends and loved ones can always hide behind me when it comes to Disney obsession syndrome.  I'm a tough old bird.  I can take it.