When Life Invades Disney
By Mike Ellis.
Those of you that have been around since we kicked off our blog way back in September 2010 have probably noticed that I haven’t been around very much lately. There’s a lot that goes into this, so for those that wish to know why, please keep reading. As we wind down the calendar year 2015, I’ve got to tell you that I think this is perhaps the hardest year I’ve had to endure in my 47 years. While certainly not every day has been a Debbie Downer, this year has had so many more significant events happen than in years past that it almost feels like all of the bad is being cashed in during this year. When life invades Disney, sometimes Disney has to take a back seat for a while…
It all kind of started back in April, with the passing of Cindy’s Uncle Ted. He was a fine man, a Godly man, perhaps even a man after God’s own Heart, as was described of David in Acts 13:22. After Uncle Ted’s passing, scarcely 6 weeks passed away before Cindy’s Uncle Sam unexpectedly passed away. It was sudden, it was tragic, and it left a family that was grieving one loss having to grieve a second loss way too soon. While we were in Montana for the funeral, our dog Regan got sick, and just a couple of days after we got back, we had to put him down because his hips stopped functioning — his quality of life was not good at that point, and we knew that he was suffering. It was a hard decision, but it was the right decision.
In July we were looking forward to going to California for #Disneyland60. Unfortunately, though, at the last minute, only Sophie and I could go — and while we had fun with Stephanie and Shane and loved seeing Sheila, Randy and Jagan, for me at least, the trip was not nearly as fun because my soul mate was not able to enjoy it with me. Then, while we were there, I learned that Cindy’s Uncle Walter passed away — also unexpectedly. So, in 12 weeks, we had lost three of Cindy’s uncles as well as Regan.
Then, to pile on while “they” could, I learned on August 3rd, 2015 that the company I used to work for, UNC-TV, had made the incredibly stupid decision to outsource their entire IT department effective October 31st. Just like that, with 18 1/2 years of permanent time with the state of North Carolina, I was losing my job, as were the men and women that I worked with in that department.
UNC-TV is a state agency, and also a member station for the PBS — and if you contribute to UNC-TV, that’s your decision to do so. However, if you knew some of the things that I know, you would probably not donate to that organization.
All of that takes us to today. Where are things right now? Well, for starters, I’m still looking for work. If you know anyone that is looking for a networking or network security guy, then please have them take a look at my LinkedIn profile.
As I mentioned earlier, things are not all bad — I have a family that loves me and cares for me, we have savings to see us through all of these difficult times, we know God and know that He has a plan for us, and we are listening to what His plan is. The right job will appear when it is time, so right now I’m learning some patience to see me through these days. It’s going to be okay.
As I’m sure you are aware, though, when life invades Disney, unfortunately life wins, and Disney has to take a back seat. I’ve been thinking really hard about what I should write, if anything, to talk about my absence, but I like what I’ve written here. Being able to reflect on it allows me to see it for what it is, and also for what it isn’t. For example, this isn’t the end by any stretch. It was a break, a time to step away for a while, to focus on things that needed to be focused on more, and a time look inward to see what direction this blog is going to take. Now, after many months of stagnate pixels, I think I have an idea, and I think I’m ready to pick up the writing some. Thank you for reading this far, and thank you in advance for your prayers, thoughts, Pixie Dust, and everything else you will do for my family in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
My hope and wish is that My Dreams of Disney will once again become one of the places you go to in your day to get a Disney fix. I don’t know when that will be, or how often, but I hope it does become one of those sites you turn to. Until then, thanks for stopping by, and let’s go have a great Disney day!
Hi, Mike! Your family has certainly remained in our prayers this year. I’m so sorry to hear of the many losses and struggles you’ve experienced, and I hope you will find peace in the storm. Disney has its own healing ways, so I’m glad to see you are returning to blogging. Sending you cyber ((hugs))! °o°
Hey Jodi,
Thanks for your comment, but more importantly, thank you for your prayers! It means a great deal to me that you do so. We do have Peace in the storm, and having a plan with our finances allows us to take on this challenge head on without panic.
Thanks!
Mike
Wow! I am sorry for your very sad and difficult year. You are right, God has a plan. And everything happens in God’s time. Sending prayers and positive thoughts.
Thank you Brenda for your prayers and your comment. Absolutely right God has a plan, and it will happen in His time. Thanks!
Mike
Oh, Mike! What a year! 2015 has been a doozy here too. I’m with you on taking some time off from blogging to deal with the real world. I will add your job search to my prayer list and hope we both have a much better 2016!
Thank you Amy for your friendship and prayers! Here’s to a terrific 2016 for all of us, and for one day having a grand meet up at Walt Disney World! I’ll pray for you and your family as well!
Mike
Sorry to hear about how ‘life’ has been treating you, my friend! I hope you can find some respite in your family, friends, and love of Disney and blogging. We miss you!
Thank you Lee! I am certain that it will be for the best in the long run and hope to pick up the writing in the days to come!
I’m so saddened to hear this and pray that you find a new job quickly! Sometimes, while the job loss is hard, it leads to a much better one in the future. Glad to see you back around and hope that things are better for you in 2016. God’s got it!
Hi Mike! I have been offline far more than on lately but I have noticed your absence. I had no idea all this was happening. I am sending you lots of hugs and love. I am also saying prayers you are able to find work soon! Miss you and I look forward to seeing you return to blogging whenever that may be!!!!
Like you my future is up in the air and understand the Disney back seat. The good news is Disney is a pretty patient and forgiving passenger. So take your time and don’t force it – let it be enjoyable. Share from your perspective as I have found that the posts I have most enjoyed from you are those from the heart. I would much rather see a loving post from you every now and again than little ones that you think you have to write.
As you can see we are still here and reading. :) I’ll keep you in my prayers and since I will most like be joining the looking for work group I’ll keep an eye out for an IT spot. (you know Houston is always growing ;) )
Thank you Mary for everything. I’ll keep you in my prayers also and thank you for sticking with us!
Mike
Hang in there, cap’ain!
Will do Amanda, thanks!