Originality Still Trumps All Else at Hong Kong Disneyland

What overseas attractions would make you want to visit the Chinese Disney parks? Certainly, Shanghai Disneyland means Pirates of the Caribbean. For Hong Kong Disneyland it's no competition: Mystic Manor! It's still the centerpiece of a continually revitalized Hong Kong Disneyland. And what a terrific piece of Imagineering concept art this is. The orange and gold highlights play perfectly off the darker, richer, blues, greens, and violets. Hong Kong Disneyland may have been purposely played down in favor of its newer mainland sister, Shanghai Disneyland, but it is coming into its own with a stunning, reimagined castle, a Frozen themed area, and an Avengers E Ticket sure to be a crowd pleaser. 

All this expansion, however, leaves the elegant Mystic Point's premier attraction as the one I most want to see. It's an original to this park and a brand new concept from scratch- something I wish we saw more of in all the Disney parks.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

The Proclamation

This is the day. This is the time. This is what I choose in the midst of difficulty, of loss, of disappointment, of change. God is still good! And He is always in control, doing good things we may not understand- if we love Him and are focused on his purposes. He existed before time itself. He understands events before they happen and knows how even the most difficult of life's circumstances play out. His love is so deep and true that he's aware of the very numbers of hair on your head. If that's you, read with me:

Psalm 34

¹ I will extol the Lord at all times;
    his praise will always be on my lips.
² I will glory in the Lord;
    let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
³ Glorify the Lord with me;
    let us exalt his name together.

⁴ I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
    he delivered me from all my fears.
⁵ Those who look to him are radiant;
    their faces are never covered with shame.
⁶ This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;
    he saved him out of all his troubles.
⁷ The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him,
    and he delivers them.

⁸ Taste and see that the Lord is good;
    blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
⁹ Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
    for those who fear him lack nothing.
¹⁰ The lions may grow weak and hungry,
    but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
¹¹ Come, my children, listen to me;
    I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
¹² Whoever of you loves life
    and desires to see many good days,
¹³ keep your tongue from evil
    and your lips from telling lies.
¹⁴ Turn from evil and do good;
    seek peace and pursue it.

¹⁵ The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are attentive to their cry;
¹⁶ but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil,
    to blot out their name from the earth.

¹⁷ The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
    he delivers them from all their troubles.
¹⁸ The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
    and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

¹⁹ The righteous person may have many troubles,
    but the Lord delivers him from them all;
²⁰ he protects all his bones,
    not one of them will be broken.

²¹ Evil will slay the wicked;
    the foes of the righteous will be condemned.
²² The Lord will rescue his servants;
    no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

A New Tomorrowland for Shanghai Disneyland

Let's just say it pays off to browse through the websites of Disney Imagineers...  Of all the Disney castle parks, when you take a deep look at what's been designed for each land of the future, Shanghai Disneyland's version is every bit as stunning as the much loved 1967 incarnation at Disneyland. With the Jet Packs flying and  Tron Lightcycles Power Run coursing its way through the area, the vibe given off screams excitement and adventure. 

Imagineer Scot Drake's beautiful concept art comes in many forms. There's his take on what was eventually built as well as these pieces showcasing a future that apparently wasn't meant to be.

The parks always look great at night.

Some folks may view Tomorrowland as sterile and corporate. (Or EPCOT Center's Future World.) Not this guy! I remember when the future was a time to look forward to instead of one that instilled fear and uncertainty. This was especially true at the Disney Parks. The green manicured areas designed by Scot in the piece above are very serene and appealing, taking their cue from the majestic but tranquil gardens of Asia. 

Strive as they may to update California's world on the move, so far, the suits and Imagineers have been largely unsuccessful due to minuscule budgets and lack of clear vision. It's time to scrape what is there in Anaheim and begin anew. Very few might be bold enough to accomplish this work. But I wonder if the park fans are ready for it.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Christmas at the Carousel of Progress

Do you follow the official Disney Parks Blog? I do visit but not as often as I used to do. All too often, its become absolutely frustrating! Sometimes, it just pushes the latest item for sale just as an online outlet mall, sometimes something from the Food Network, and all too rarely do they give us something meaty about the actual attractions at their world famous parks. 

A few years ago, however, the writers on the blog did something that surprised me. They surprised us with a gift. And here it is- they displayed a piece of rare concept art from Imagineer Dorothea Redmond. A beautiful rendering for Walt Disney World's iconic and recently abused Carousel of Progress at the Magic Kingdom. It's as if they are a fan of their product instead of just promoting it. Can you imagine that? It's something that should happen more often.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A Remembrance for My Father-in-Law

"Joe was a man of faith. The foundation of his faith was Jesus Christ and what He accomplished while on the earth.

Let’s begin by reading Jesus’ own words as the underlying principle through which we read the Scriptures:

As Jesus is preparing to go to the cross and complete the work He was sent to do, he meets with His Disciples. These are his words to them as found in the Gospel of John Chapter 14 verses 1-6. They are good words for us to remember tonight:

John 14:1- 6  “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”
5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

It’s out of God’s great love for us that He is this direct and straight forward! He wants us to understand and know the way to Heaven without confusion.

From the Old Testament, we have this scripture about Job. If you remember, Job was a man of great love for God who had been blessed with a large family and a very fruitful life. Later on, his faith is severely tested, and he loses everything. In the middle of it all, Job speaks this declaration of thankfulness to God.

Job 19:23-27
Oh, that my words were written!
Oh, that they were inscribed in a book!
That they were engraved on a rock
With an iron pen and lead, forever!
For I know that my Redeemer lives,
And He shall stand at last on the earth;
And after my skin is destroyed, this I know,
That in my flesh I shall see God,
Whom I shall see for myself,
And my eyes shall behold, and not another.
How my heart yearns within me!

This Promise of Eternal Life and Joy for those who love God should produce thankfulness in us. Thankfulness is a common theme throughout the Psalms.

Our Responsive Reading is from Psalm 103-

Psalm 103:8-19
8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
    slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse,
    nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
    or repay us according to our iniquities.
Say:  “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!”

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
    so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
    so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
Say:  “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!”

13 As a father has compassion on his children,
    so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed,
    he remembers that we are dust.
15 The life of mortals is like grass,
    they flourish like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
    and its place remembers it no more.
Say:  “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!”

17 But from everlasting to everlasting
    the Lord’s love is with those who fear him,
    and his righteousness with their children’s children—
18 with those who keep his covenant
    and remember to obey his precepts.
Say:  “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!”

19 The Lord has established his throne in heaven,
    and his kingdom rules over all.
Say:  “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!”


Let's celebrate Joe's life by sharing stories.  Funny stories, sad ones, inspirational ones. All will be helpful to the family as they hear how much Joe means to you and the impact he’s had on your life!

Now a psalm to begin a quiet, reflective time.

From King David- speaking of God’s promises to all people who love him: Psalm 16
6 You make my life pleasant, and my future is bright.
7 I praise you, Lord, for being my guide.
Even in the darkest night, your teachings fill my mind.
8 I will always look to you, as you stand beside me and protect me from fear.
9 With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest.
10 I am your chosen one.
You won’t leave me in the grave or let my body decay.
11 You have shown me the path to life,
    and you make me glad by being near to me.
Sitting at your right side, I will always be joyful.

Joe is loved. He is in Heaven with God, enjoying his company.
Jesus paid the price in full on his behalf.
Ours is a Temporary separation.
Because we love and follow Jesus will see Joe again!

The Apostle Paul tells us to focus on the eternal things (2 Corinthians 4: 17-18), Jesus’ work is completely meets God’s requirements for eternal life (Romans 5), that death will not separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-9), and to be away from the body is to be with God (2 Corinthians 5:8).

Matthew 11:28-30.  Jesus says:
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Joe finished his life well, honoring God. And God will give you what you need to continue on. Just ask Him.

Great Disneyland Paris Christmas Ad

What a very clever ad for Disneyland Paris at Christmas time! Whoever comes up with this type of out of the box thinking should be rewarded. Without a doubt, this ad is fresh and clever! Jesus is the reason for my season, but the fun and frivolity of Santa Claus doesn't offend me at all. We've been to France this time of year and seen all the displays both secular and sacred, but for Disney theme park lovers, no one does it up like the original Parisian park. Thanks to Disney Geek for this photograph. Go to that site for a great trip report!

The Perfect Christmas Album

Whether your Christmas celebration is secular or sacred or some of both, the Carpenters classic Christmas Portrait should be on your player! Presented in a seamless style, Karen's once-in-a-lifetime voice glides over brother Richard's understated but complex arrangements. Strings, bells, horns. All real stuff. No synthesizers here. It had to be an expensive collection to make- but it shows. This is a masterpiece from anyway you look at it.

Want some romantic Christmas music? It's here. Of course, Merry Christmas Darling with Karen's tender reading is at the top of the list. But the absolutely mood setting Christmas Waltz and playful Sleigh Ride set the right tone. 

Needing something to remember the incredible truths of God's love this time of year? The Christmas standard Silent Night is among the best they've ever recorded- reverent in its simple elegance. You may never haver heard Christ is Born as it is a lesser known tune, but it's certain to make you stop and focus on the important things in life. The albums ends with Ave Maria. Karen hits the money notes in the basement here to jaw dropping effect. No one did that better! (And she could do it live in concert as well! I heard it for myself. How I would have loved a full concert of the entire album with a live orchestra!)

The playful side of the holidays comes out as well with a smooth jazz version of Santa Claus is Coming to Town and a very joyful First Snowfall / Let It Snow. 

If you're looking for those standards from last century, the iconic White Christmas and The Christmas Song give Bing Crosby and Nat King Cole, respectively, a run for their money. There's a gut wrenching I'll Be Home for Christmas that will make you cry as you marvel in her perfect interpretation.

Karen and Richard's sincerity and a love for Christmas and Christmas music shines through in this collection. You can hear it in her voice and in Richard's playing on Carol of the Bells. There's not a hint of posturing or just wanting to make a buck. It's a perfect collection. Perhaps even the album they were born to make. More recently, artists have tended to lean toward a more campy take on holiday music, but there's something just so heartwarming about curling up next to the fire while Karen serenades. 

Sunday Escape

When the weather outside is frightful, there's nothing better than an escape to the islands! Of course, that's not always possible, but the thought of it brings a smile to my face. And I could use that today!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Another Generation of Star Wars Fans Won Over by Disney

Be sure to make no mistake about it: To the younger generation of fans, Star Wars IS Disney. To further cement this association, a visit to Disneyland, or in this case, Disney's Hollywood Studios is such to be just the trick. During our early Fall visit, the hot new Rise of the Resistance was not yet open. 

That didn't stop our littlest crew members- our oldest daughter's kids- from loving Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run! In fact, all of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge proved to be the icing on the cake for this young family, earning Disney's Hollywood Studios the award of their favorite park. Would they go back just to ride the newest attraction there? Read this and decide.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Beginning of a Disney Love Affair

Here's where it all began, that love affair between my youngest daughter and the Disney Parks. Back in about 1988, those Mickey Mouse ears almost overtook that tiny little head! But this would be the beginning of many park visits to Disneyland, several to Walt Disney World, and by an unexpected gift from God, a once in a lifetime trip to Disneyland Paris! Now, she has a family of her own, and those adorable little ones already can't wait for their next trip.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

"Rise" Rises to the Challenge

Can't take your eyes off all the wonderful video coverage of Disney's all new- and quite incredible- Rise of the Resistance attraction? It's one major indicator that the Disney Imagineers hit a home run with the new Galaxy's Edge attraction. The other will be the long, long, lines that will be seen starting tomorrow at the Studios. THIS is the attraction that will have Batuu buzzing with people for years. Imagineer Scott Trowbridge and team should be very proud. 

The reports coming in confirm what fans thought: The new land at Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios needed their main attraction to pull it all together. Park guests will be more likely to spend time in Batuu and explore than ever before. The new masterpiece "F Ticket" should make fans rethink their view of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or at least mentally place it in a supporting role instead of the headliner! 

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World won't be the same for years to come... 

(Photograph copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A Fresh Look at Port Disney

In an attempt to get the City of Anaheim to make concessions for their desired expansion of the Disneyland Resort, the suits at The Walt Disney Company pitted the city in direct competition to neighboring Long Beach.
 

An ambitious plan.

A lively waterfront.

The proposed project, Port Disney, would include the Queen Mary, new resort hotels, a series of waterside shops and dining, and the centerpiece crowd drawing Disney Sea theme park. 

The elegance of California Disney style.

The Grand Entry would form the gateway to all of the attractions set along that beautiful Southern California marina. Having seen the site several times over the decades, I can tell you that Anaheim had quite a competitor on its hands!

Tokyo here we come!

If you've been watching Disney+ and you're a fan of those world famous theme parks, you've no doubt been following their wonderful The Imagineering Story. In the most recent episode, Hits and Misses, folks in the know are pretty candid about the divisions within Imagineering and how some were working on the clumsy and inexpensive California Adventure 1.0 - a replacement for the much more expensive and Disney quality WESTCOT- while others were blessed with the opportunity to design a modern masterpiece, Tokyo Disnesea. 

Oh what could have been!

As we know, Anaheim ponied up the cash, and Disney pulled a big time bait and switch. Giving their host city California Adventure in place of WESTCOT was a mistake of epic proportions! (Check out this mega-post with some pretty rare concept art.) The end result of it all being a theme park that was very embarrassing and the brunt of well-deserved jokes, city government than was more than angry, and most importantly to The Walt Disney Company, storehouses of lost cash and a very badly bruised reputation. And having to reinvent the second Anaheim park at an expense that could have been avoided had they done it right the first time.

The Disney Sea concept made it in revised form to all the way to Japan. With the wisdom and financial backing of the Oriental Land Company, Tokyo Disneysea became the gold standard of Disney theme parks, holding a crown that seemingly cannot be taken. Not by California, not by Florida, and not by the overseas parks.

———————————-
Want to read more about what was ultimately planned for Long Beach? Thanks to my friends at WDWMagic, you can go here and read the preliminary master plan, where you'll find the images of the project. If you want an insider's view of it all, Alain Littaye from Disney and More pointed me to this incredible post from Progress City. What a find! Hadn't seen that...

(Art and images copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Galactic Nights at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

It's just about time! The grand opening event for Rise of the Resistance is just days away! Look at this incredibly beautiful poster to commemorate it. But wait- This isn't really an attraction poster at all. This was a poster for a special evening event at Disney's Hollywood Studios / Disney-MGM Studios back in 2017! It is just stunning, though, and it can be yours through Van Eaton Galleries auction. 

A Lovely Merry Christmas Darling

Finally, a new century remake of the classic Merry Christmas Darling that would make Richard and Karen Carpenter proud! Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo and Emili Sande give a wonderfully restrained and therefore beautiful performance of the Carpenters Christmas standard. Listen to it here. He's been dubbed "The Voice of Africa" for good reason!

Christmas Family Devotional 2019

Are you looking for a way to share the Biblical Truth of this Christmas season with the people you love? I know I'm always looking for something.  I want to take the time to put an end to the holiday madness, slow down, and stop to ponder the real meaning of the Christmas Season. I've written an easy to read and share Family Christmas Devotional that is especially geared toward families but without talking down to the children. May you find it useful!

The key Bible verse you and your family will explore throughout the month in light of the Christmas Story is

We will tell the next generation

the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord,

    his power, and the wonders he has done.

Psalm 78:4

Here's some hints before you begin:

1. Make this doable. Try to commit to a family devotional time, perhaps three times per ten days. Decide on a practical time. Avoid setting yourself up for failure. Adjust it as necessary so they enjoy the time, but also expect some “pushback”.  If you miss a time, just pick another! Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment.   Guard against discouragement if it doesn’t go well, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.

2. If you print this out, keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why it is there. Someone is bound to remember.

3. Talk about the ideas shared as your read God’s Word. Check for understanding by asking good questions and by explaining words that can sound confusing. Next, have a conversation about ways to apply what has been read. Knowledge of the Bible is empty and meaningless unless we do what it says.  (See James 1:22-25). 

4. Model praying for your kids, speaking simply and using words easy for them to understand. It will be easier for them to pray from their heart if they hear you do this.  

5. Try a family worship time. Child friendly songs don’t need to be childlike, they just need easy to understand lyrics. Train your child to express love to God and not just sing songs about Him. This is part of them growing in a real relationship with Our Creator. After your worship time, explain phrases they may not understand or interpret differently, i.e. what does “God reigns” mean?

6. If you have older children, allow them to share the responsibility of reading the verses. Leading them to Him is the goal. Check for understanding of difficult words.

7. As they grow in understanding and application of God’s Word, expect them to get excited about their relationship with our Living God.  This overflow from their heart will lead them to share Him with others. 

Ready? Here you go. One page of reading and questions to consider for each ten day period of the month.

December 1 – 10           God’s Praiseworthy Deeds

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Isaiah 9:1-7 together.  

Paraphrase or use only verses 6 and 7 if your children are very young.

Next, read Luke 1:26-38 together. Paraphrase the story or use only verses 26-33 if appropriate.

Points for consideration:

• From the beginning of creation, God has wanted personal relationship with the people He made. 

• God desires to look after His People, and He hears the prayers of his children. 

• God always keeps His Promises- even when it looks different than what we think.

Is it not amazing that the God of all creation chooses to reveal Himself throughout history? Share other examples of God making himself known to His people. Ask your children about the names of God used here. What do they mean?

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for Who He Is. 

An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for sending Jesus to us!” or  “God, thank you that you will rule forever! There is no one like you!”

Time of Prayer

Reread Luke 1:37-38.

Points for consideration:

• If God tells us He will do something, nothing is impossible for Him!

• Mary responded in humble obedience. God’s plan may not have been her plan, but she happily submitted to His Plan and trusted Him with her life. 

This brought God glory!

Ask your children what they are concerned about. What do they think about at night? What do they ask God? Have they chosen to give their lives to Him? If they have, are they willing to live their lives as He leads them? How are their lives bringing Him glory? Discuss what this means.

Pray together. Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

December 11 – 20          God’s Power

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Luke 2:1-7 together.

Points for consideration:

• God is powerful! He even orchestrates world events so that they are in line with His Plan.

• World leaders – presidents, kings, and those in government- are placed in positions of authority by God. (See Romans 13)

• God is powerful! God placed Jesus in Joseph’s human family because he was part of David’s family.

Is it not amazing that God intentionally places people in families and in jobs for His Purposes? Why has He put you in your family? How have you seen God use your family in a way that shows God to the people around you? 

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for His power. An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for putting me in this family!” or  “Thank you Father for being the one who watches over every aspect of our lives!”

Time of Prayer  

Read Ephesians 3:14-21 together. 

Then read 2 Peter 1:3. Summarize or clarify these verses for understanding.

Points for consideration:

• Jesus lives in our hearts through faith. It is not our work that earns us a place in God’s family and in heaven. How will live our lives is a result of His love in our hearts. 

• God has placed His power in us by giving us His Holy Spirit. This power enables us to know God’s deep love for us and gives us what we need to live a life that pleases Him.

Ask your children if they belong to Him and why. Ask if they understand God’s love. Ask them how this is reflected in the way they live. Where have they seen God give them what they need to live in a manner that pleases Him? Are we being obedient to Him?

Pray together. Pray that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Pray for our leaders that they would follow His ways.  

December 21 – 31          The Wonders He Has Done

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

(A NOTE TO PARENTS: Before covering this section with your children, consider reviewing Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 as well as Romans Chapter 3:21-23 and 10:9-11.)

Read Luke 2:8-20 together.  

Points for consideration:

• The event of Jesus’ birth was so important, God sent angels to announce it. This is the most wonderful event of all time! He came to pay the price for our sin!

• Jesus is God made flesh. He and the Father are One. (John 8:58-9; Colossians 2:9) 

• Jesus is the only way to eternal life. (John 14:6) 

Why did God send Jesus to the earth? Discuss the answer to this question.

Imagine being a shepherd in the field and seeing what they saw and hearing what the heard! What would be your reaction? What would you think? What would you say and do?

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for revealing this “Good News of Great Joy”.  

They might say, “Father, I praise you for the gift of Jesus!” 

Time of Prayer

Read John 14:6 together.  Then read John 3:16-17. Finally, read Luke 2:19.  

Points for consideration:

• Because He loves us so much and wants everyone to know the truth, Jesus makes it very clear He is the only way to Heaven. 

• Mary heard the words the shepherds shared about the angels and probably thought of the angel Gabriel who visited her earlier. She treasured these words and thought deeply about them.

Ask your children to define sin. Ask how they have sinned. Check for understanding of Jesus’ words in John 14:6.  What does the Way, the Truth, and the Life mean? Discuss Romans 10:9-11.

Pray together. Ask them to confess their sin and turn away from it and to Jesus for forgiveness and the gift of eternal life. Then, pray for them that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Encourage them to be like Mary and treasure God’s words and think deeply about them. Conclude with another time of praise and celebrate God’s goodness!

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft.)