By Heidi Hess
We were hiding in a dark crevice. Our pursuers were hot on our heels. We held our breath and hugged the cold stone as they ran by us… not realizing we were just inches away. And now, we had the advantage. Now the pursued were the pursuers. We rushed up to them and as soon as they realized it was us, they bolted. Sprinting through dark tunnels to escape us. Ha. It was a furious game of tag, designed to feel a little dangerous. Let’s face it, its good to get that blood pumping again. Nothing like a good shot of adrenaline, especially when you know you are safe.
This is how my family and I remember Tom Sawyer’s Island at Magic Kingdom. It was a little mini land just off the coast of Big Thunder Mountain railroad. We spent several hours there, exploring the hiking trails, bobbing across the barrel bridges and yes, chasing each other through the caves. Those dark caves became a source of adventure. It was an adventure within an adventure, but things change.
As I’m sure you know, Tom Sawyer Island has been demolished and that lovely waterway has been filled in. Looks like “Cars Land” is going in there. We were all sad to hear that Disney was changing things. Surely, we weren’t the only ones that really enjoyed Tom Sawyer’s Island? Besides, could “Cars” be that popular? Now that I think about it, it’s probably more popular than Tom Sawyer. Ha. Just the idea that I had to think about whether Cars was more popular than Tom Sawyer makes me old.
What can I say? I’m old. The difference between me and other people that are the same age is that I am not resistant to change. Change is the only certain thing in life and I became comfortable with it a long time ago. So, as sad as I am about the island closing, I’m excited about the possibility of something new. This is Disney, so you know it’s going to be good.
Thinking about all of the new things kinda makes me excited. How long has it been since Magic Kingdom had a good overhaul? Maybe it was time for a change. I’ve been trying to get the kids to see it this way too. Let’s face it, we have about as much control over what happens at Disney as we do over the weather. Becoming comfortable with change eases stress, opens us up to new ideas, new opportunities.
Twenty-twenty six should have more than a few new things opening at Disney. I, for one, am looking forward to it. As I am looking forward to all changes this coming year. Happy New Year! Here’s to change, growth and new opportunities!