August 31, 2012

What's New, Linda?


Linda Ronstadt made the 70's rock. There was a season where everything she touched turned to sales gold, and I was busy listening to everything she decided to record. The songs were catchy, the musicians knew how to make it rock, and the girl was just darn cute! Then a little tune named Blue Bayou came along, and I finally heard what an absolutely incredible voice Linda had. 

That sense of awe only increased with the release of What's New? a collection of classic American songs recorded with the great Nelson Riddle. I was mitten all over again. I remembered hearing "I Can Dream Can't I?" by the Carpenters on their 1975 album Horizon. The style, the feel, the mood of the song- and of course the stunning voice of the one and only Karen Carpenter- made it an instant favorite. At that point, I began investigating the 40s and found myself thrilled with the artistry of that decade. Upon hearing Linda sing these same tunes, I knew the album would be an artistic smash- and it was.

Please come back, Linda. The world needs a bit more of you. Tell me its not just a simple dream.

It's been awhile, Linda, and I miss listening to something fresh from you.

August 27, 2012

A Golden Spaceship Earth?

Found this gem hidden on a discussion board of the WDWMagic website. A piece of concept art my eyes have never seen. Obviously from the day when EPCOT Center's Spaceship Earth would have taken on a golden glow. Anyone know more about it?

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

August 24, 2012

The Long Trek Back

Back from a long trek. No, that's not me in Africa- not at Animal Kingdom either; I just borrowed the photo from a friend. So, what's new in this Disney World? Have the suits decided to finally fix all of Florida's parks? Didn't think so. Well, here's to more posts. Stay tuned.

August 5, 2012

The Red Head Celebrates

A birthday shout out to my youngest son! Happy Birthday to a fine young man. So proud of you and love you much, Dad.

August 3, 2012

Tours to Indy and More Departing Daily

Don't you just love Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland? It's just a rush getting into your jeep, I mean, "troop transport", and heading off into the Temple of Mara?

And don't you love great photography of the Disney resorts? I do! Especially when I can't get away to it all. But here's an answer to satisfy your thirst for great Disney park photography:                 Tours Departing Daily.

Not only is the photography terrific, the three main Tour Guides, Kevin Crone, Michaela Hansen, and Matthew Hansen, seem to be genuinely nice people as well. 

Take some time to depart for one of their tours- you'll be glad you did!

(Photograph copyright Tours Departing Daily.)

August 2, 2012

You Can Have This World



In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
Give me Jesus


Give me Jesus
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world
Just give me Jesus


When I am alone
When I am alone
Oh, when I am alone
Give me Jesus


When I come to die
When I come to die
Oh, when I come to die
Give me Jesus


Give me Jesus
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world
Just give me Jesus

(By Jeremy Camp)

August 1, 2012

And a Ghost Will Follow You Home!

Jack Black, Will Ferrell, and Jason Segal make quite the disconcerting bunch of ghosts, don't they? The most recent posting from the Disney Parks Blog highlights the latest set of photos from artist Annie Leibovitz. Another in a terrific series. My favorite, of course, is her take on Queen Latifah as Ursula from The Little Mermaid.

(Photograph copyright The Walt Disney Company.)