Searching Disney with Steve

I revel in hard-to-find Hidden Mickeys. Some of these Hidden Mickeys have evaded me, or maybe they're "off the beaten path" (off stage or behind the scenes). I'm especially interested in the elusive ones, but I listen to Cast Members who whisper to me about the off stage ones (sometimes these are visible only to cast members and not to guests like me).

A few weeks ago, my friend Bill and I were studying the intricate scenes in The Great Movie Ride for some elusive Hidden Mickeys. I say "elusive" because I'd read about some HM sightings in this attraction that I'd been unable to verify. I'm often humbled by Hidden Mickeys that have evaded me, sometimes for years, until some sharp-eyed spotter educated me about their presence.

I'd heard about a classic Mickey in the trees, in the Wizard of Oz scene in The Great Movie ride. For years, I had studied the flowers and trees in this colorful scene, but I hadn't spotted any Hidden Mickeys. I told Bill that supposedly Mickey was hiding somewhere in the profusion of trees in this room. I didn't really expect that the Mickey sighting here was real, but I try to keep an open mind, as I've been humbled many times before. When I check out a Hidden Mickey post on my website, I consider the specific view from all possible angles, take my time and sometimes study the area many times over.

I was lucky! Bill spotted the classic Mickey in the trees on the first pass through the Oz scene! (Check out the photo). This HM is nestled in the top of the trees, midway along the mural above the exit from the room. Wow! I'd passed under this mural so many times over the years and had never seen this cool classic Mickey. It's really hidden!

I mentioned behind the scenes Hidden Mickeys, because occasionally they're visible to the guest if you know where to look. A few weeks ago, my sister Donna asked a Cast Member at Expedition Everest about Hidden Mickeys in the attraction. He told her of one in the rocks, behind the scenes but visible to the lucky few. It's supposedly on the ground and across the tracks after you exit the ride. In the photo, it's to the right of the post and above the fourth vertical strut several inches above the rail. I'm not sure that I see it, and I'll try to spot it myself in person. If you spot it, let me know! Maybe we can get a close-up photo.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

I wish to let you know about a couple of Hidden Mickeys that I've been searching for (for years!). Thanks to great photography and better eyes than mine, I can describe them to you.

The first one is in the last scene of Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress in the Magic Kingdom. Other people have seen it and tried to describe it to me. But it took the excellent camera work of Tim Devine (www.themagicinpixels.com) and Shannon Hamilton's description for me to finally appreciate this Hidden Mickey.

As Shannon writes: On the last stage at the Carousel of Progress, one of the Christmas presents under the tree (near the grandfather's chair) is wrapped in red and white paper, but has a large classic Mickey head cut out of green paper glued to the side of the gift. The gift is partially hidden by another present, so you see the ears and part of the top of Mickey's head. The green Mickey ears are to the right of Grandpa's lower leg and behind the present with the silver bow. Check out Tim's photo, and you'll see why I had such a difficult time finding this one!

I'd been informed about this second Hidden Mickey by the Cast Members at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. I'd never really spotted it, even when I was close to it and had studied it for long periods of time. The CM's told me that the lighting had to be just right. Well, finally a prolific Hidden Mickey spotter (Sharon Dale; you'll see her name all over my website) sent me a photo of the colorful tile mural inside at the rear of Sci-Fi that I think shows this amazing side profile Hidden Mickey. Mickey seems to be looking to the right (our right) side of the mural. I think I can see Mickey's jaw line curving to the front of his face, and his ears seem to be visible above his head. Let me know what you think! This Mickey is truly hidden!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

On Sunday, October 7, Vickie (my wife) and I met up with Pat Whitson (of the DisneyWorldTrivia.com team) and Byron Hall (and his wife Melanie) AKA phatdisneygeek.com. We rendezvoused at the Sportsman's Shoppe in Epcot's United Kingdom pavilion. As it was the weekend, locals showed up to enjoy the Food and Wine Festival, and World Showcase hummed with activity.

Byron was sponsoring a child's (and his family's) Make-A-Wish vacation to WDW. I had donated my books to Tommy, and I had hoped to visit with Tommy and his family today. Alas, it was not to be. Tommy's flight to Orlando arrived that afternoon, and their visit to Epcot would have to be on another day.

Anyway, it was a great day at Epcot. Earlier, on our way to WDW, I'd driven through hard rain in downtown Orlando. I told Vickie not to despair, as the skies are generally blue over Disney World. My prediction proved true; Epcot was mostly dry (but humid!), and it only misted intermittently. Our group meandered along the promenade, enjoying the wafting scents of food, wine and beer from the kiosks spaced among the country pavilions.

Of course, I had a few Hidden Mickey posts from my website to check out. But first, Pat and Byron wanted to show me a potential Hidden Mickey they spotted inside the waiting area for the O Canada! film. It's on a shelf near the ceiling at the front of the waiting area, not far from the entrance doors to the theater. The inside waiting area is dark, and this image can only be seen when the lights go up before the crowd enters the theater. Check out the attached photo, and let me know what you think by voting on my website (in the Questionable Section of www.HiddenMickeysGuide.com)

We heard the last few songs from Off Kilter, rockin' sounds from bagpipes and other instruments, including a fab guitarist. In France, we watched Serveur Amusant: acrobatic guys who perform a delightful balancing act with wooden chairs. We wandered toward The American Adventure pavilion, passing by the vibrant drums of Matsuriza in Japan.

In Italy, we ran into Mark Goldhaber (Columnist/Editor, MousePlanet.com and Co-host, the MouseStation podcast), who was busy (and I mean busy! meaning not much sleep!) on a research trip. Our group headed on to Mexico as it was misting by now. Mark took his leave ("a lot left to do!") and the rest of us floated down the "River of Time", now called the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros.

Vickie and I had dinner plans with Bill and Donna Iadonisi at Shula's Restaurant in the Dolphin Resort at 5:30 pm. Bill is helping me with my website. He's proved to be a quality Hidden Mickey hunter, and he's now a bona fide Field Researcher for me. We talked Hidden Mickeys and enjoyed an excellent meal. My salmon and sauteed spinach were delicious. This was just the kind of day I love to spend at Disney World!

Last week, I visited Epcot with a friend and neighbor of mine, Lew Brooks. Lew often helps me find and verify Hidden Mickey sightings. You might remember him from my Hidden Mickeys books. He coined the term "two-beer Mickey" to describe an image that is really wishful thinking and only begins to look like Mickey after you've had a few beers!

Lew and I met in front of the Sportsman's Shoppe in the UK pavilion in the late afternoon. As it was a weekday, the lines for food and wine at the various kiosks in World Showcase weren't that long. However, first we made a beeline for America Gardens Theatre to size up the waiting line for David Cassidy, who was performing in the "Eat to the Beat" musical series. An hour before his first performance, the line was quite long, stretching over to the winding ropes near the Italy pavilion. So we hopped in line and took turns getting wine from various countries to make the wait even more enjoyable.

Mr. Cassidy didn't disappoint; he performed with much energy and looked to be in good physical shape. It was his first performance at WDW, and he mentioned several times that "Disney World is the greatest place on earth" and that he'd definitely return! He has a large following of faithful fans, and baby boomers were dancing and swooning in the audience. We had a blast!

After the concert, we ambled around World Showcase, tasting various snacks and more wine. Pistachio baklava from the Turkey kiosk was really tasty, and a ravioli-type pasta stuffed with beef and covered with a yogurt sauce (also from Turkey) was interesting and satisfying. Of course, Lew and I had to order the famous cheese soup (and I also savored the maple-glazed salmon) from Canada. That cheese soup is simply the best around!

You might recall that the original fish with its classic Mickey in Canada's Northwest Mercantile shop was shattered some years ago. Thankfully, a new fish appeared in its place, and Lew and I visited the shop to confirm it and enjoy it again.

This small classic Mickey is a good one, as Lew points out in the photo!

We then checked out a sighting on a vase in the rear room of the store. We agreed that the circles on the vase are not proportioned quite right and form a good example of a "two beer Mickey". What do you think?

If you live in central Florida as I do, you know that not all of the local denizens are enamored of Walt Disney World. That fact continues to surprise me, of course.

Thankfully, many locals, including a large sample of my neighbors, enjoy WDW as much as I do. So when I meet up with like-minded neighbors or friends for dinner, our discussion most assuredly involves Disney at some point.

The Massoni family (James, Virginia, Jake, and Jessica) moved to Florida from Silicon Valley, California. Vickie and I became friends with the Massonis a few years ago when we discovered that we had Disney (among other things) in common. Recently, we joined up for dinner at a nearby steak house. James left the computer business and now owns a microbrewery in Melbourne (on Florida's east coast). I mention that because Vickie is holding one of Jim's beers (Ibor) in the photo. Sometimes, Jim sells his beers at Epcot's Food and Wine Festival. I think spotting your own beer at Disney's F & W is rather like an author spotting his or her book in a book store! What a rush!

Virginia, Vickie and Jim hashed over Neighborhood Association issues at dinner. (That subject is definitely not my cup of tea). Jessica is currently attending the University of Miami, but Jake is at dinner with us this night. Jake is in high school and often helps me find Hidden Mickeys.

I attached a photo of a Hidden Mickey first reported by Jake.

Not long ago, Jim and Jake found an image of a classic Mickey made of gemstones on a man's neck in a mural along the first tunnel of the Gran Fiesta Tour in Epcot's Mexico pavilion. If someone can verify that sighting and describe its location, feel free to let me know!

Dinner and Disney with friends: no better way to nourish body and mind!

I lead Hidden Mickey hunts in the four major WDW theme parks during MouseFest. 2007 will be my fifth MouseFest, and more authors, webmasters, podcasters, and guest registrants than ever before will congregate soon at this wonderful celebration. I look forward to MouseFest all year long; it's an ideal time to reconnect with Disney friends.

I visited WDW last week to practice for my hunts. I arrived at the Magic Kingdom first. The weather was comfortable and the sky clear. This year, we'll examine the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction and some other areas of Adventureland for Hidden Mickeys old and new. I'll pass out Hidden Mickey images and descriptions to the group before we enter the Pirates queue. As we've done in recent years, I'll ask the group to vote on Questionable images, and we'll attempt to spot some compelling new ones. The barnacle image on the Jungle Cruise sign (under the "J") was recently voted in on my website (photo from Jesse Kline).

Next stop: Disney's Animal Kingdom. Camp Minnie-Mickey is our focus this year. I hope we can all get into Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends, either to see the show and stay around a while afterwards or enter as the show ends to examine the stage murals for some cool Hidden Mickeys. I don't work for Disney, so I'm usually not accorded any special treatment. However, sometimes the Cast Members are helpful to me with the hunts, especially if they like Hidden Mickeys! Our group will then wander around Camp Minnie-Mickey and spot some more HM's.

The Disney-MGM Studios hunt will begin in the front courtyard of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. The large outside mural there has some decent Hidden Mickeys (take a look at the photo, courtesy of Kyle Lighting, of the "bling" Mickey on the man's necklace). We'll enter through the gift shop at the exit of Tower of Terror to find a couple of images to vote on. Then we'll wander up Sunset Boulevard and continue our search for the elusive Mickster.

My last stop was Epcot. We'll walk the most distance here, all around World Showcase from Mexico to Canada (depending on everyone's stamina). A group of Hidden Mickeys are there for us to enjoy, as well as a few to vote on. The rock Hidden Mickey in Japan (photo from Sharon Dale) is one of the more compelling recent additions. I hope it stays around for a long time!

I think I'm ready for the Hunts. We have lots of fun, and I respect the opinions of the MouseFest Mickey Hunters. If an image is voted in, I add it to my website and credit the MouseFest group. As you can probably sense, I'm looking forward to MouseFest!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

My sister, Donna McMurrey, visits WDW at least twice yearly. Her real job is Assistant Principal at a high school in Dallas, Texas, but she wants to eventually retire to a job at WDW as the character Timon! She enjoys Disney World as much as I do and helps me find Hidden Mickeys. Donna is a good HM spotter and is almost as discriminating as I am about HM sightings.

Recently, she stayed at All Star Sports Resort and planned at least a portion of every day to look for Hidden Mickeys. One day, she and I had lunch at the Coral Reef Restaurant (her first time there), and we planned our day's Hidden Mickey odyssey while enjoying a scrumptious meal. Donna savored mahi mahi, while I polished off a delicious pumpkin risotto.

A few days before, I'd dined at this restaurant with my wife Vickie's mother and sister. I'd asked a Cast Member there about a Hidden Mickey that I'd heard about but never found. He took me to this awesome classic Mickey in the tiles (check out the photo!) in the middle of the seating area. I showed Donna this really cool Hidden Mickey. I hadn't found it before, since the CM's at Coral Reef don't often allow folks inside just to look around. So you generally will need reservations to eat there to spot this HM.

After lunch, we took in a couple of our favorite musical acts at Epcot: Off Kilter and the British Invasion. Off Kilter is always entertaining, and the current British Invasion guys sound pretty close to the real thing!

Here is the British Invasion singing "No Reply" by the Beatles.

We ambled over to Spoodles Restaurant to find some Hidden Mickeys that Donna had discovered before with the help of a CM; they were still there! I attached a photo of Donna pointing to a Mickey image on a plate near the inside entrance doors to the restaurant. The CM told Donna that the manager had decided to allow this Mickey face to stay put. Whoever this manager is, you have my undying gratitude!

After floating to Disney-MGM Studios on a boat from the Swan and Dolphin, Donna and I enjoyed a "home-cooked" meal at 50's Prime Time Cafe, another of our favorite haunts.

I had to photograph the MGM logo at the park entrance, as it's due to disappear January 1, 2008, when the park will be renamed minus the "MGM" tag.

See you next year, Donna!

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

Last summer, at Fred Block's Magic Meets in Pennsylvania, the Felty family won an auction item in Lou Mongello's Dream Team Auction. The auction item was: time with me! Of course, I was honored.

A few weeks ago, I met up with the Felty clan at Walt Disney World for an afternoon Hidden Mickey tour.

They'd chosen the Magic Kingdom, and we rendezvoused at the Liberty Bell in Liberty Square at 11 am. The group included Jim and (his wife) Krista Felty, Jim's dad John Felty, Sr. and Jim's niece Triscia Felty. The day was perfect for touring, with a pleasant temperature and light crowds. From left to right is Krista, Jim, Triscia and John, Sr.

We decided to ride Pirates of the Caribbean first and check out the Davy Jones' hat image (posted on a previous blog). I thinked the group was more positive than negative about the image as a Hidden Mickey, although I'm still not completely convinced.

On the way over to the Haunted Mansion, we checked out a few cool Hidden Mickeys, such as the hoofprint image in the cement near the Yankee Trader Shop. As you can see, the image isn't perfect as a classic Mickey, but I believe that it's purposeful and close enough.

As we trekked among the lands of the MK, we ambled onto attractions with minimal waits and stopped by more Hidden Mickey images.

In Fantasyland, inside the large tree in Pooh's Playful Spot, I pointed out the submarine in the wood, a tribute to the previous submarine ride in that location.

In Tomorrowland, we squinted to see the faint classic Mickey in the cement near Astro Orbiter. This image is fading with time, and it's not easy to track down. Triscia searched for it again later in the week, and she found it. That makes me a proud teacher!

Before we knew it, the tour was over. The Feltys had to leave the Magic Kingdom for a dinner reservation at Le Cellier in Epcot.

It was a wonderful touring day that I will long remember, and I hope the Feltys will, too.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

I thought I'd talk about what I do to verify Hidden Mickey sightings that folks send me.

As many of you know, I like to use fairly stringent criteria for the "classic" (three-circle) Mickey.

The highest order criterion is if an Imagineer or Disney artist tells me directly that he or she placed a Hidden Mickey image. That's a no-brainer, but that's happened only twice. An Imagineer took me to a classic Mickey image in the interactive area at the exit of Mission: SPACE.

A Disney artist e-mailed me a few months ago that I have all the Hidden Mickeys he knows of in Conservation Station at Disney's Animal Kingdom (he painted most of them in the entrance mural). That made me feel great!

One other instance that didn't involve me directly is when a graphic artist posted on a website that he'd painted a Hidden Mickey on the rotating earth (the "O" of Epcot) on the Tip Board in Innoventions Plaza. He made Australia appear as a classic Mickey, and he had to tell someone since nobody had discovered it!

Most of the time, I check out submissions by myself. I work faster and more intensively if I'm alone. I observe images from different angles, reading the descriptions several times over, as I try to re-create what the submitter saw.

One recent day, I was at Animal Kingdom with my bag of papers. The sky was cloudy, but it didn't rain. The temperature was comfortable and the crowds were moderate. My first stop was the Spoonbill area, just to the left as you walk onto Discovery Island from the Oasis bridge. Some rocks suggested a classic Mickey image. I understand the poster's idea, but the rocks are not proportioned quite right and are a bit too distorted for me, especially the "ear" to our left.

Next stop was the "Creature Comforts" shop. Close to a large decorative giraffe inside the store is a beetle with a classic Mickey marking. The photo shows this image, which is acceptable to me, as the "head" circle is larger than the "ears," which touch the head but not each other. (Jesse Kline sent me this image).

Near the bridge to DinoLand, I enjoyed a group playing South American music (from Peru, Ecuador, etc.); excellent performance!

Inside Pizzafari Restaurant, I revisited a classic Mickey in the trees in the first room to the right as you leave the food order area. The three highest circles form a sideways Mickey, and they seem somewhat proportionate. I like it, and the MouseFest, 2007 Hidden Mickey Hunt group liked it, too! (Thanks to Sharon Dale for this image).

I checked out many more sightings, some I liked and some I didn't like. As usual, I ran out of time before I could finish. No matter, this was a satisfying day of research, the kind of day I live for!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

My son Steven first experienced Walt Disney World when he was 6 years old. That was my first trip to WDW as well. He was young enough for me to carry, and I have great memories of Steven perched around my neck or on my back as we explored the wonders of the Magic Kingdom. Our family visited WDW many times from our homes in Oklahoma and then Texas. We now live near Orlando and enjoy WDW whenever we can.

Steven is a really good Hidden Mickey spotter. Not long ago, he found a tiny classic Mickey at the Saratoga Springs Resort. It's on the statue of the horse and jockey, on the rose blanket which is draped over the horse. (Check out the photo!) I know I've talked about this Hidden Mickey before, but I'm especially proud of him for finding this little gem.

Steven recently graduated from Auburn University, and he and I celebrated the occasion at the California Grill. This restaurant in the Contemporary Resort is popular and often books up. I asked the guard at the entrance gate if folks could just show up without reservations and eat in the lounge or at the counter facing the kitchen. He didn't seem to know, but our server verified that even on busy evenings, guests can grab a seat (often after a wait) in the lounge or counter and eat dinner. I guess it's a bit of a gamble, but it might be an option if you wanted to enjoy this restaurant as a walk-up guest.

Steven and I took a window table in the lounge and ordered our meals there. He chose the signature filet (my wife Vickie has liked this steak for years), and I picked the pork tenderloin. Our meals were delicious. He sipped beer and I savored an Argentinian red wine as we watched a beautiful sunset over the Grand Floridian Resort from our window. (The cool classic Mickey in the California Grill on the doors to the rear seating room is still there!).

After dinner, we drove to Epcot to catch IllumiNations. It's always a fantastic and moving fireworks extravaganza! We parked on a bench and enjoyed more beer and wine as guests wandered out of World Showcase. Epcot in the evening can be very relaxing. For father and son bonding, WDW can't be beat!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

A few days ago, I visited Disney's Animal Kingdom to check out some Hidden Mickey sightings. A couple of folks had sent me photos of a Mickey image on Everest at night. Animal Kingdom usually closes at 5 pm or thereabouts, but it was open late this day, until 8 pm. So I drove to WDW and DAK to study Everest after sunset.

A bonus to my trip was that Lou Mongello was at WDW doing research. He had dinner at the Yak & Yeti Restaurant with his research crew. I'd planned to meet up with Lou and friends after 8 pm elsewhere in WDW.

Animal Kingdom had light crowds, and the guests were definitely happy! Heavy rains had blanketed central Florida in the morning, but now the weather was warm and dry. I studied Everest from vantage points in Asia and DinoLand. The image in question is a shadow on the side of the mountain.

Check out the photos (Thanks to Brandon Tucker and Sharon Dale). Unfortunately, I think this shadow image is dependent on the mountain lighting, which may change from time to time.

Shadow Mickey images around WDW are often dependent on area lighting. If the lighting changes, the Mickey may disappear. One classic Mickey image that has remained relatively unchanged over the years is the shadow in the corner of a wall behind the cat on the right side of the Pirates of the Caribbean boat in the Magic Kingdom.

Next I found two more classic Mickey images nearby thanks to Billy Lewis, Catherine Zori, and Sharon Dale. Good spotting, folks!

One in the gift shop at the exit of the Expedition Everest ride.

Another on the outside showtime sign for Finding Nemo - The Musical.

I met up with Lou and friends at the Adventurers Club in Pleasure Island. We parked ourselves in the Mask Room and talked about Disney (our favorite subject) for several hours.

I showed them the tiny classic Mickey on the parchment hanging on the wall by the drink bar. Photo thanks to Bryan (All About the Mouse) and Sharon Dale.

Periodically, the Cast Members put on a show in the Mask Room. The one we experienced was really humorous, especially when the main talking masks near the entry doorway would converse and respond directly to a guest!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

The weather in central Florida has been a bit cool lately. I've worn my windbreaker several times this winter already, but this day in Epcot did not quite require a jacket. It was a short sleeves day.

Early March is typically a great time to visit Walt Disney World, since the bulk of the Spring Break crowds hasn't materialized just yet.

In the early afternoon, I spotted fewer than ten guests in the walkway up to the entrance to Spaceship Earth, so I hopped in line for a minimal or no wait. As you may know, this attraction has been a work in progress for the last few months. I wanted to check out the most recent changes and look around inside for new Hidden Mickey images.

In the ride vehicles, each guest faces an interactive computer monitor. After some initial questions posed on the touch screen, your photograph is snapped. During your descent back to earth near the end of the ride, your smiling mug appears on the interactive touch screen as you make choices that determine your future. (This future choice addition is reminiscent of the retired Horizons pavilion.)

I want to ask for opinions about two images along the ride.

Kim Lamb reports: "on the right side of the ride vehicle, in the section with classic black and white movies playing, a chalkboard marquee has listings of upcoming features. One of the features is "The Band Concert", not an image of Mickey, but a reference to him." Does this qualify as a Hidden Mickey? (Yellow arrows were added to the photo).

Another image in the same section of the ride, across from the chalkboard marquee on the left side of the vehicle, is a radio announcer. His microphone flag has the letters "WDI". Tim Devine suggests that these letters are a tribute to Walt Disney Imagineering. It's a cool image, but I don't think this qualifies as a Hidden Mickey. Let me know if you disagree.

The exhibit area at the exit of Spaceship Earth has been remodeled several times recently. Now you can spot your face photo on a large overhead screen, and you can e-mail your photo to someone from one of several computer monitors that face the screen. (I didn't have a chance to try this out, but I believe that's what guests were doing at these monitors).

Anyway, this new overhead screen replaced other screens that contained a cool classic Hidden Mickey made of star clusters. Alas, this now Lost Hidden Mickey was short-lived indeed!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

Recently, I met up with neighbors and friends for dinner at the Yachtsman Steakhouse in the Yacht Club Resort.

Bob and Rita Ondercik are long-time Disney fans and have been DVC members since the beginning of DVC (when awesome benefits were added for joining). Bob and Rita also volunteer at Give Kids The World, a resort near WDW that is a retreat for children with medical problems.

Paul and Gretchen Gregg are Disney fans, though not as rabid as the Onderciks and me. (However, I think we've stimulated their interest!). Of course, we all had to pay tribute to Minnie Moo. Rita and Bob are on the left side of the photo, and Paul and Gretchen are on the right.

I like the Yachtsman Steakhouse; I usually order fish or chicken, and my wife Vickie assures me that the steak is decent and worth a trip for dinner.

Before the meal, Vickie and I explored the Yacht Club for Hidden Mickeys. We found a cool one made of coiled rope in a display window of the Fittings & Fairings shop; it's in the closest display window to the main lobby. Display window Hidden Mickeys at WDW tend to come and go, as the displays change from time to time.

The next day, I joined Bob and Rita at Epcot. We flew on Soarin' several times, and I snapped a somewhat decent photo of the classic Mickey made of rocks in the snow. It's at the top center of the photo, which is a difficult photo to get right! This Mickey image is more convincing when you first spot it, as you're soaring up to it. (Thanks to Jen T, Beci Mahnken, and Annette Owens for first alerting me to this classic Mickey).

Rita found a Hidden Mickey in the House of Innoventions (the House of Tomorrow) inside Innoventions East, on the rear wall of the bedroom. It's an upside-down Mickey made of ad buttons. You have to queue up and wait for a tour of this futuristic house, but it's worth a short wait, especially to find Rita's classic Mickey!

Before we called it a day, I snapped a photo of Bob and Rita in front of the upside-down waterfall at the Imagination Pavilion. A day at WDW can be quite refreshing!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

I had the good fortune recently to meet up with some old friends from Texas. Vickie and I joined Ed, Karen and their daughters Abigail (Abby) and Caroline for dinner at the California Grill. Ed was in Orlando for a business meeting, and they spent their first few days at Universal Studios. On the evening in question, we had originally planned to meet at Emeril's Restaurant at City Walk. However, I received an e-mail from them that they wanted to cut their Universal stay short and get into Disney! So, California Grill it was!

After an enjoyable meal, we drove over to Epcot for IllumiNations. Ed and family hadn't seen the fireworks show for 4 years or so. We watched from the Morocco Pavilion area. As usual, it was moving and spectacular, and the large crowd around us applauded at the finale. We then walked to the France pavilion to check on a classic Mickey on a book. It's in the room where characters appear for photos and autographs. In the photo, Abby (the taller girl) and Caroline are pointing to the Hidden Mickey.

We ambled over to the Yacht Club and stood in the lobby as a Cast Member snapped a picture. Ed, Vickie, Abby and Caroline, Karen and I are posed left to right in the photo.

We had a terrific few hours together. I think they'll return someday, hopefully soon!

A few days later, my son Steven and I took in a baseball Spring Training game at Disney's Wide World of Sports. The Atlanta Braves beat the Houston Astros 4-2. (I've been an Astros fan for many years!).

A classic Mickey image is planted in the center of the outfield. I've known about this image for a while, but I'd considered it a decorative image and not hidden. I'm not so sure now as it seems more faded and not as obvious as I remember. I'll put it on my website in the Questionable section to let the voters decide!

Steven and I wandered to the Milk House (the Field House) where an amateur basketball tournament was in progress. I wanted to check out the Hidden Mickey high in the rafters. Thank goodness, it's still there! He's above a hanging photo of Jason Kidd.

Steven and I completed the evening with dinner at the House of Blues: decent fare and decent service. Since he was a child, I'm happy that Steven and I have enjoyed many visits together to WDW. If you plan your trip right, WDW is a great place to bond and create memories as a family!

(P.S. In a previous blog, I spoke about the new computer monitors at the exit of Spaceship Earth. I want to confirm that from these monitors, you can indeed send e-mail postcards with your photo from the ride).

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

The huge classic Mickey stand of trees (visible on Google Earth) has long fascinated me. My son Steven and I recently struck out in my car to find it from ground level. The posters on my Hidden Mickeys Guide website stated that the stand of trees was a few miles northwest of the Magic Kingdom, just off Highway 27 and not far north from where Highway 192 merges with 27.

We approached the area first from Highway 27, but the access roads to the east were all private property. So we drove back to Highway 192 east and looked for a northern bound public road. We found one! It was Avalon road, and we then searched for a road that might lead us west to the Hidden Mickey. About 8 miles north on Avalon, just past Old YMCA Road, we spotted Schofield Road. (Another poster had mentioned that this road approached the HM stand of trees). My pulse rate quickened; we were drawing near!

Schofield Road (also called Shell Pond Road to add some confusion) was paved for the first mile or so but then became a dirt road with deep tire ruts. At least the road was dry! So I was forced to drive slowly as we bounced along into the countryside. After more than a mile into this road, we crested a hill and gazed upon the lake that was not far from the stand of trees. We turned right a short distance past the lake, so we were positioned just west of the trees (on the vertical road, in the upper middle of the photo below). We stopped the car and walked up to a fence near the trees. This group of trees stood alone in a field. I figured we were looking at the right "ear" and the right side of the "head."

The classic Mickey circles were not evident from ground level. Moreover, the trees in the lower part of the "head" were closer to the road and fence than was implied in the overhead Google Earth photo. The current photo on Google Earth is several years old, so the perfect three-circle Mickey image may have become somewhat distorted by now. (In the photo below, Steven is standing near the fence in front of the right "ear" and right side of the "head." The ear is on the left side of the photo).

A few days later, I found myself in Disney's Animal Kingdom. As I ambled through the Oasis, I stopped and admired the giant anteater, who was walking around his territory. I rode the train to Rafiki's Planet Watch. I like to check in with Affection Section now and then, because the Cast Members usually maintain a classic Mickey image on one of the animals in this petting zoo. I wasn't disappointed. Not only was Mickey present on the back of a goat, but Minnie with her bow was evident on another goat! Way to go, CM's!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

Recently, I stayed in a cabin at the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. The best way to research Hidden Mickeys is to stay in the middle of the magic! I like the cabins; they're spacious and well-maintained, and you can park your car right in front of your cabin.

Disney has been placing more and more Hidden Mickeys in guest rooms at their on-property resorts, in the carpets, wallpaper, wall paintings, curtains, and elsewhere.

Here are two Hidden Mickeys I found in my cabin:

One on the Bedspread

One on the Door Curtain

Guests can enjoy many activities at Fort Wilderness, including

Carriage Rides

Pony Rides for the Kids

and Trail Rides on Larger Horses

Now for some Mickey images.

Many of the classic Mickey forms at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch are decorative, in my opinion, and not hidden. The sign for the Trail Rides in the photo above has decorative Mickeys.

These images on the fences and gates in the pony ride area are too obvious to qualify as Hidden Mickeys, as is the three-circle logo under the sign for the Tri-Circle-D Farm (where the pony rides take place).

However, this sign for the Blacksmith Shop has a hidden classic Mickey between the "L" and "A" of Blacksmith. If you're not actively hunting for Mickey, it's easy to overlook this image.

In the evening, I enjoyed Chip 'n Dale's campfire program near the Meadow Trading Post in the middle of Fort Wilderness.

Folks roasted marshmallows over the campfire as a guitarist serenaded the guests with sing-a-long songs and Chip and Dale wandered around greeting everyone. A Disney movie was then displayed on a large screen.

This evening program has been a staple at Fort Wilderness for many years, and I hope it sticks around for many more!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

Recently, I visited Rafiki's Planet Watch at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

This area is a real treasure trove of Hidden Mickeys; you could easily spend several hours here searching for the little gems. On the order of 42 Hidden Mickeys live here, and a few more undiscovered ones may be waiting for us to find them.

One of the best side profile Mickeys anywhere is just past the entrance doors to Conservation Station, on the chin of a hippopotamus. It's the fifth animal from the left along the bottom of the entrance mural on the left wall. A side profile of Mickey Mouse is on its lower jaw, under the middle tooth. One of my favorites!

Now for some new images.

Sharon Dale alerted me to three circles arranged correctly on the ground in a mosaic just before the entrance doors to Conservation Station. This Mickey is below and between the elephant tusks and above the second "T" in "STATION". It's not a perfect image, but it's close enough for me!

Sonali showed me a new image in the main lobby of Conservation Station. It's formed from holes in the tree leaves overhead, directly above the first left entrance (as you enter the lobby) to the Song of the Rainforest area. It seems a bit distorted to me, so I put it in the Questionable section of my website for folks to vote on it. What do you think?

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets (Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secre)

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickey's)

Now and then, I'm enlightened about an awesome new Hidden Mickey. At least, new to me.

Kelly McAdams wrote to me about a classic Mickey image in Tony's Town Square Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom. I'll admit, I get really excited when folks direct me to any new Hidden Mickey images. However, some images are more intriguing than others.

This one in Tony's is spectacular! It's a tiny imprint on a black tile on the floor in front of the bureau to the immediate right as you enter the restaurant. Look to the lower right corner of the tile as you face the bureau. I have no idea how long this Hidden Mickey has been there; it may have been placed recently. It's a perfect classic Mickey, and it's likely to remain for a long time.

A cast member in Tony's told me that the roses in the rear left of the restaurant formed a Hidden Mickey. The photo shows that the roses are all about the same size. As you know, I have trouble accepting three same-size circles as classic Mickeys. Mickey's head is larger than his ears! However, I understand the CM's dilemma: how can you tell an excited child that a three-circle image is not a Hidden Mickey?

Christina Santoro wrote me about an image in the Crystal Arts Shop on Main Street. It's in the upper section of the left rear wall of the store. It's a "positional" Mickey, in that you must stand right below it to spot the classic Mickey relationship.

I've been told that the CM's in the shop made this arrangement of articles on purpose to form a Hidden Mickey image. I'm normally not fond of positional images, but I'll put these photos on my website soon, in the Questionable section, to let the voters decide. Let me know what you think.

I tend to wait a while to see if missing Hidden Mickeys reappear.

Alas, I think that the classic Mickey on the rose stem in the display window of the Uptown Jewelers Store is gone for good. Display window Hidden Mickeys are especially vulnerable, as displays are constantly changing. Find this image in the Lost section of my website.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

New Hidden Mickeys can appear anywhere on Disney property at any time. Your best bet is to check out a refurbished area or a new attraction.

Toy Story Midway Mania, a new attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios, doesn't disappoint!

A compelling new classic Mickey image is near the end of the Standby queue (the attraction also has FASTPASS and Single Rider queues).

It's on the wall past the large map of the U.S.A. below a green dinosaur and a red fish, near the floor and behind the handrails on the left side of the queue. So far, 14 folks have written to me about this cool image, but Matt Hochberg, Jesse Kline, and Jennifer Bogdan described it to me first.

Orlando Attractions Magazine and Jake Thompson wrote to me about another Hidden Mickey on the ride.

Look for the words "Circus Fun!" on the wall to your right as you rotate into position for the last screen stop. The dot below the exclamation point is a decent classic Mickey.

I was on the ride with Amy from Massachusetts when we spotted this Hidden Mickey, and she was in position to snap the photo for me. Thanks, Amy!

You can see this third image at loading and unloading, and you can study it as you take the exit walkway. Three ovals encircle Toy Story characters on the wall to the left of the ride vehicles.

Matt Hochberg, Alexis, and Frank Marando described this image to me, and it seems close for a classic Mickey image. Let me know what you think!

The walls, ceiling and floor inside Toy Story Midway Mania are blanketed with colorful images. Undoubtedly, more Hidden Mickeys are waiting for us to find them!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

Vickie and I recently met up with old friends from Oklahoma. Dick and Debi hadn't been to WDW since 2001, so they were excited about experiencing new attractions and old favorites. T

Their son Brian, a graduate student, accompanied them for this special trip to Florida. We met up at the Flying Fish Cafe at the BoardWalk for the first evening. Vickie and my son Steven joined the group.

The photo of all of us (from the left, me, Steven, Brian, Debi, Dick, and Vickie) is a bit blurred; I think I made the cast member nervous? No, I'm just kidding. Most CM's don't know who I am, unless I tell them that I wrote the Hidden Mickeys book. Thankfully, every CM I've talked with knows about my book!

The next day, I joined the group at opening (9 a.m.) of the Magic Kingdom. We used FASTPASS to our advantage and hopped onto any major attraction with a short wait during the morning hours. We didn't have lunch reservations, so I recommended snacks inside the old Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland. We were pleasantly surprised! The sandwich portions were generous, and we satisfied our hunger in air conditioned comfort.

Later in the afternoon, we headed to Epcot. The wait for Soarin' was too long, and all FASTPASSES had been distributed for that day. My friends would enjoy Soarin' later in the week. Dinner was at San Angel Inn (one of my favorites). Like many WDW veterans, I have my favorite spots for viewing IllumiNations. If I have time, I check out the small alcove behind the Yorkshire County Fish Shop in the United Kingdom Pavilion; it's usually rented beforehand and roped off. Alas, the rope wasn't up! We walked leisurely down to the small area and stood behind the benches near the fence to watch the spectacular show, which seems to erupt right in front of you!

A few days later, I returned to Epcot for research (someone's got to do it!). In the late afternoon, I listened to a great band at America Gardens Theatre, a tribute band for the Bee Gees.

I met Vickie and some local good friends, Jimmy, Ginny and Jake at the Portobello Yacht Club Restaurant at Pleasure Island. After dinner, we checked out some Hidden Mickeys at Downtown Disney. Frank Tonra III wrote me about a rat with a Mickey hat in a display window on the side of the World of Disney store.

Jake and Jimmy are pointing to a map on the rear wall of this display window. Mickey and other character images are on the map.

This type of map has been in Pirates displays around WDW. We'll see if the rat with the hat and the pirate's map last a while. As you know, displays in WDW windows change periodically.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

My sister, Donna, recently visited WDW with a few of her friends from Texas. I met up with them at Planet Hollywood for dinner one evening. In the photo, from the left, are Donna, Debbie, Shelly, Jim and Michelle. During our meal, we talked about Hidden Mickeys, and I think I won over a few converts that night!

A few days later, Donna, Debbie and I enjoyed a Bon Jovi tribute band at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot. These guys were terrific musicians! Donna pointed out a classic Mickey image on the side of the stage. It's almost a decorative image, but I think it's "hidden" enough; most folks probably don't notice it.

The next day, Donna and I tried out the Wave, a new restaurant on the first floor of the Contemporary Resort. Andy Jackson wrote me about a classic Mickey image made of wine bottles at the rear of the bar area. He says it was purposefully created by the Cast Members there to be a Hidden Mickey. Pretty cool!

The food theming at the Wave is interesting; it's all about antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids, sustainable fishing, and organic food and alcohol. (It's the first time I've encountered organic vodka!). Anyway, I enjoyed my fish dish, and after dinner we wandered over to the Magic Kingdom for some more Hidden Mickey hunting.

We struck gold in a display window on the right side of Sir Mickey's Store. Kyla (and her mother Jen) Patton and Ryan and Fairen Frisinger wrote me about a classic Mickey made of buttons in that display window. Check it out!

And to top it off, Donna spotted new classic Mickeys in a painting on the rear wall of the display, along the border of the archer's collar! But you know about display window Hidden Mickeys, right? We'll have to see if they stay in place for a while.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

My wife Vickie and I strolled around the BoardWalk area recently on a warm Florida afternoon. Inside the BoardWalk Bakery, I ordered an espresso and Vickie a bottled water. I'd spotted two Mickey images in the past, on two aprons hanging on the right wall, and they're still in place. Vickie thinks they're more like decor Mickeys rather than Hidden. What do you think?

I looked for a Mickey sugar bowl that was in place several years ago on a high shelf directly opposite the entrance doors of the Bakery. Alas, it's still lost!

We drove over to Disney's Hollywood Studios later in the afternoon. My sister Donna had e-mailed me a few weeks ago that one of her favorite Hidden Mickeys was lost: the "Monet" Mickey in a display window at the end of the Streets of America!

Vickie and I confirmed that indeed it wasn't there! Another lost gem, but I hope only temporarily. Some Hidden Mickey images do reappear, and I'll wait to see if the Imagineers replace the Monet Mickey.

We checked out a Mickey sighting along the entrance queue of Lights, Motors, Action Extreme Stunt Show. I think it's a cool image.

It's on the right side of the entrance walkway. As you walk around the first building, look in the middle set of windows at a red tool chest to find the black classic Mickey magnet. (Thanks to Denise O, Elton Hughes and Jill Sullivan, and Jennifer Lynch).

Vickie and I then relaxed with an excellent meal at the Hollywood Brown Derby Restaurant, one of my favorites!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

Tropical Storm Fay visited central Florida on Tuesday, August 19, crossing (west to east) south of Orlando. She stuck around the east coast a few days and then on August 21 crossed Florida again (east to west) north of Orlando. I checked out the Magic Kingdom late afternoon of August 21. As you can see in the photo, lots of guests were there, although the MK seemed a bit less crowded than usual. The cloudy sky drizzled rain and mist much of the day, and gusts of wind blew hats off. It was a good poncho sales day for WDW!

I stopped by the Polynesian Resort to check out a Hidden Mickey sighting. Andrew and Matthew Nypower wrote to me about a classic Mickey image on the back of the Tiki statue outside the Tiki Boutique shop on the first floor. Many folks stop here for photos with the smiling Tiki guy. Sure enough, on his back is a cool (slightly distorted) classic Mickey!

The next day, Fay lightened up a bit. There were fewer ponchos in evidence at Epcot in the United Kingdom pavilion, although the walking paths were still moist.

Louise Herrick had informed me last year, along with a few other folks, that the classic Mickey on the Asepso box (along the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail in Disney's Animal Kingdom) had returned. It's still there, thank goodness. The reason I mention Louise is that she wrote me a story about her 6 year old son, who had a great time searching for Hidden Mickeys at WDW. One night, while Louise and her family were comfortably asleep in their Disney resort, her son yelled out in his sleep: "I've found a Hidden Mickey!" Actually, that happens on occasion to me, too!

A while back, I wrote about the tree grove classic Mickey near WDW. Several people have asked me for more information about this amazing classic Mickey image. A friend of mine, Jim, researched its history. This tree grove Mickey was not present before 1990; it appeared sometime between January 23, 1990 and March 5, 1994. It is 7.7 miles northwest from the center of the Magic Kingdom, and it's in Lake County on private property (not officially on Disney property).

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEarsNet.com

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I just returned from a 5-day cruise on the Disney Magic. Deb Wills and I were the hosts for our group.

On the second day, I gave an introductory talk on Hidden Mickeys in the Buena Vista Theater. I encouraged everyone to search the ship for Hidden Mickeys.

The next three days, I led 5 Hidden Mickey hunts on the ship and 1 hunt on Castaway Cay. On every tour, we found one or more new Hidden Mickeys! That was a reflection of the persistence and the discriminating eyes of our group.

We started each hunt on Deck 10, overlooking the bow classic Mickey. Linda Mac took this photo.

We found two new classic Mickeys on Castaway Cay! The first one is on a barrel at the first photo area as you leave the ship. This image is formed by three coconuts; it's not a perfect classic Mickey, but it's close enough! Linda Mac and Deb did not see this image on the barrel last December.

Another classic Mickey is inside the waiting area for the tram to Serenity Bay Beach. Several of our group say that this image is new, maybe within the last year or so.

Two other cool Hidden Characters on the ship were Mickey (a Steamboat Willie version) on a pail in a wall drawing on Deck 5:

and Donald Duck on a pail in a mural at the Port Adventures counter on Deck 3:

The last day, I gave a wrap-up session and showed the audience many of the Hidden Mickeys we'd found during the cruise. We voted on several marginal images, and I'll soon post these and all the Hidden Mickeys we found on my website.

The Magic cruise was a wonderful experience! I connected again with many terrific folks that I've met before, and I was honored to meet new Disney friends. What an amazing community! Many thanks to AllEars and the MEI-Travel team for putting this cruise together!

I enjoy the music of the Epcot Festivals, so I visit whenever I can to hear great musicians from the (recent) past.

I had the opportunity to catch a performance by David Sanborn, a well-known jazz saxophonist. The America Gardens Theatre was already full of jazz fans when I arrived. After his first few sax notes, the place was rocking! It was a terrific performance by him and his group of fine musicians. The audience was bobbing along to the beat and gave him a standing ovation at the end of the 30-minute performance.

Before Mr. Sanborn's concert, I'd checked out an image in Camp Dolphin, the kid's club in the Dolphin Resort. It's not alway convenient to visit WDW kid's clubs to find Hidden Mickeys; the best time is just after opening when they're not too crowded.

The Cast Members are generally helpful and often excited about this temporary diversion from their usual activities. Sharon Dale had sent me an image from inside Camp Dolphin, but her Hidden Mickey had disappeared. Instead, a CM showed me a new image in a picture on a wall to the left as you enter through the front door. Mickey is giving Pluto a bath, and three floating soap bubbles form a sideways classic Mickey.

After the concert, I walked to the Germany Pavilion to study an image in the rear of the courtyard. Jennifer Moon had described this image, which is a three-circle formation in the ironwork support behind the bell on the front of the clock tower. I think it's a decent classic Mickey! Let me know what you think.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

One recent sunny day, I drove to the Animal Kingdom Lodge to check out some old and new Hidden Mickeys. Keep in mind that over 30 Mickey images are hiding in and around this unique resort. I found a few cool new images, thanks to submitters to my website!

I'd been looking for this terrific Hidden Mickey for a long time. In retrospect, I'd not been able to spot it because I was always searching for it at dusk or later. This day, I was at the area in the bright sunlight, and a helpful Cast Member knew right where it was.

To find it, walk outside the rear of the main lobby and to the very back of the Arusha Rock Overlook. In the right middle of the rock wall opposite the Animal Overlook sign and about 5 and 1/2 feet above the ground is a tiny light brown, salmon-colored classic Mickey. It's to the right of a vertical crack in the rock, behind the Cast Member's umbrella. Spotting it is worth the effort! (Thanks to Stephen Lovelette).

If you can enter Jiko Restaurant, stroll to the third table on your left, next to the glass windows. Look outside to the shallow pool area and find the first rock island from the left with one pillar jutting out of it. A classic Mickey image is in the side of the rock. Kudos to the Disney rock sculptors! (Thanks to Robert Grohman).

On the third floor, check out the first short hallway to the right of the main Zebra Trail hallway. An upside-down classic Mickey design hangs on the wall at the end of the hall. (Thanks to David and Celia Berset).

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is an entertaining place to spend an afternoon and evening. Searching out the Hidden Mickeys here can add to the fun!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I enjoy visiting Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Some folks don't consider that this park has a full day's worth of activities, but I beg to differ. The Animal Kingdom has plenty to offer, especially if you can slow down and observe the animals after first enjoying the headliner attractions.

I like to spend time in The Oasis. This area with its tranquil animals has a relaxing effect on me. I wandered along the trails and said hello to the Scarlet Macaws.

and the Patagonian Cavy (a long-legged rodent)

>

and two chattering Black Neck Swans.

These trails are usually not crowded, so The Oasis is a great place to unwind.

I strolled over to Camp Minnie-Mickey.

Bradley Lewis submitted to me a photo of a distorted Mickey image, formed by pebbles in the cement. It's near the bridge over the creek before the Lion King Theater. Go to the second fence section between the creek and the cabin in front of Grandmother Willow's Grove (theater). Stand near a bench and close to Donald Duck, who's fishing in the creek. I'll put this image on my website, in the Questionable section. Let me know what you think.

Disney's Animal Kingdom is filled with rocks and pebbles embedded in the walkways, posts, walls, benches and other structures. Which three-pebble images are Hidden Mickeys? I try to imagine if a specific image is purposeful, placed by an Imagineer, or is it just a random collection of rocks? Sometimes that's a difficult decision!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I had the pleasure of spending time at WDW with family and friends during Thanksgiving week. We enjoyed a few of the Christmas decorations in the parks and resorts; more and more of them appear as the week unfolds.

Most of the decked out Christmas trees and elaborate gingerbread displays have decorative and hidden Mickeys. I snapped this photo of a Hidden Mickey on the Epcot holiday tree, which is located between Future World and World Showcase.

I met my sister and cousins from Texas at the Grand Floridian Cafe for breakfast. My server put a cinnamon classic Mickey on my cappuccino. Check it out!

After breakfast, we rode the monorail over to the Magic Kingdom. My sister Donna showed me a tiny classic Mickey she'd found along the entrance area of Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor. It's in a window display of a city, on the rear of the wall to the right just past the entrance doors to the second room. The classic Mickey is under the apex of the triangular roof segment on the building in the front center of the window display.

We had a fun day at the Magic Kingdom, using FASTPASS to our advantage and stuffing ourselves with soup, sandwiches and ice cream at the Plaza Restaurant for lunch. We screamed on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad as the Wishes fireworks lit up the night sky. (I like to ride Big Thunder at night!) This photo shows (from the right) Sherry, Olan, Donna, Camp, Carson, and Landon waiting near Liberty Tree Tavern for the second SpectroMagic parade. The kids' parents, Amy and Kevin, stood near the rope with me. (The later parade is almost always less crowded than the earlier one).

Sharon Dale wrote to me about a possible Hidden Mickey in SpectroMagic.

Does the Cinderella carriage form an upside down classic Mickey? I'll put it to a vote on my website; let me know what you think!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I had a great time meeting up with the rest of the All Ears team at the Gaylord Palms Resort on Friday evening of MouseFest. This was a perfect venue for dinner and mingling. After dinner, those of us from the south donned parkas (the Northerners would have been comfortable in swimsuits!) to walk through the Ice artistic display, a unique and awe-inspiring collection of ice sculptures.

My Hidden Mickeys Hunt the next morning at 8 a.m. was attended by old and new friends. We met in front of Spoodles Restaurant and explored the resorts and restaurants in the Epcot Resorts around Crescent Lake for about one hour. Our first stop on the tour was the lobby of the BoardWalk Resort to spot the classic Mickeys on the carousel horse. These Hidden Mickeys have not been moved for years, so I think they're here to stay.

Our group then wandered along the BoardWalk and over to the Beach Club Resort. I pointed out that hundreds of folks walk right by a waving Mickey in a sand castle on the wall beside Cape May Cafe without seeing him.]

I asked the group to vote on a Hidden Mickey submission by Jennifer Keller. It's a group of shells below the Ariel statue in front of the Beach Club Villas entrance. Our folks were split down the middle on this image, so I'll put it on my website for a vote. Let me know what you think.

Thankfully, the globe in the Yacht Club lobby was not moved backstage this holiday season but was still in view in the hall in front of the Fittings & Fairings shop. I showed the group a marvelous Hidden Mickey on the globe. The story goes that a child poked a hole in the globe with a pencil, and the hole was covered with a blue classic Mickey!

Wouldn't you know it, a member of our Hidden Mickeys hunt (I didn't get your name, so please write me) found a new Hidden Mickey! As we were strolling from the Beach Club to the Yacht Club, he spotted a classic Mickey on a curtain inside the Ariel's special meeting area. You can find it by standing at the door to Ariel's from inside Martha's Vineyard lounge. The Hidden Mickey is on a mural or curtain material on an inside wall to the right.

MouseFest provides an opportunity to reconnect with Disney friends and meet new ones. I look forward to MouseFest every year, and I hope this event continues for a long time.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

Central Florida has enjoyed glorious weather most of this December, so I looked forward to my several days of holiday Hidden Mickeys research. In fact, on a comfortable, sunny Florida day at Walt Disney World, I'm easily distracted and often forget the purpose of my visit!

Craig Canady, Alan, and Bill Griffin sent me Hidden Mickey images on the tires of the Grand Marshal's vehicle, the car that carries the Grand Marshal guests before every afternoon parade in the Magic Kingdom. I also spotted some classic Mickeys on the front bumper of this attractive replica of an antique touring car.

The main parade follows the Grand Marshall's vehicle. Throughout the parade, cast members ride on "art" bikes. The Moriarty family and Rebecca Webster spotted some paint splotches on the bike palettes that resemble classic Mickeys. What do you think?

Jonathan Peczinka found a baggage ticket with an image that looks somewhat like Mickey. It's in the right front of the front window upstairs at the Main Street Train Station. Do you like this image as a Hidden Mickey?

I finally took the time to stroll along the long walkway in front of the Magic Kingdom. Paved with personalized bricks, the trail stretches toward the Grand Floridian Resort and ends at a small canal. Across the canal, a backstage dirt path snakes toward the resort. I don't believe Disney wants folks to linger or picnic here, because the sidewalk is devoid of chairs, benches and trash cans. The photos were taken at the end of the walkway.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I was at WDW looking for Hidden Mickeys while thousands were running the Disney marathon and half marathon. I was fortunate to track down Lou Mongello at the Contemporary Resort, and we sampled the food at the new Contempo Cafe (where the Concourse Steakhouse used to be located). At this new eatery, you place your order at a touchscreen kiosk, pay for your food, and then pick it up at the counter when it's ready. The food was delightful; the Contempo Cafe is a level above the usual counter-service restaurant.

I tracked down a few decent Hidden Mickeys at the Magic Kingdom that folks had sent to me. Paul Klein informed me about an image inside the Main Street Bakery, along the left side of the entrance queue. It's a Mickey-shaped serving platter partially hidden in the upper left of a display case. Other plate arrangements in the display cabinet aren't proportioned properly to be Hidden Mickeys.

The hanging coins and jewels in the gift shop near the exit from the Pirates of the Caribbean ride continue to intrigue Hidden Mickey hunters. Victoria Newhuis sent me an image from the jewel collection, which is located just as you exit the ride into the gift shop. These jewels form a sideways classic Mickey and are perched along the rim of the hanging plate, near a large green gem.

A bunch of folks (Sharon Dale, Peter Caldwell, Erin Blackwell, Kyle Lighting, and Martha Tischler) spotted classic Mickey music stands along the upper shelves near the ceiling of the gift shop at the exit of Mickey's PhilharMagic. I usually wait a while to see if Mickey images in shops will stick around. I hope this Hidden Mickey is here to stay!

I might try to run a Disney race one of these years, but for now I'd rather search for Hidden Mickeys!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

One evening, I met Jim and Mark, two friends and neighbors of mine, at the California Grill Restaurant. It was their first time to dine there.

We had reservations for 9 p.m. or so, but we arrived at opening (5:30 p.m.) in hopes of getting an earlier seating. It worked! After about 40 minutes, we were seated in the table area to the right, where we had a great view of Cinderella Castle.

As you can see in the photo, Mark and Jim (with the red wine) were impressed with this fine venue.

After sunset, we walked to the outside viewing area overlooking the Magic Kingdom from 15 floors up. We watched Cinderella Castle change colors.

We had a panoramic view of the Wishes fireworks show.

We all had good food and a fun evening at the California Grill!

Although it was Saturday night and I knew it would be crowded, I suggested we meet up at Jellyrolls on the BoardWalk. Sure enough, it was standing room only inside the dueling pianos club. At least, Mark and Jim now know about this great night spot, and we'll return soon when it's not so crowded.

The next day, I rode Pirates of the Caribbean several times looking for Hidden Mickeys.

Several locks on the left side at the end of the boat ride are decent classic (three-circle) Mickeys and are more convincing Mickey images than the lock on the jail cell door (to the right of the boat). This lock with a key is on the left door at the entrance opening of the treasure room. (Thanks to Sharon Dale, and Kristy, Scott, Jim and Kim Todd)

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I like to check out old favorite Hidden Mickeys, just to be sure they're still around. (It gives me another reason to experience the Disney attractions!) In Splash Mountain, the fishing bobber classic Mickey is right where it supposed to be.

The reclining Mickey near the end of Splash Mountain is brighter than ever. Thanks, Imagineers! Remember that this Hidden Mickey is also visible from the Walt Disney World Railroad train as it passes through the Mountain.

Sharon Dale informed me about Hidden Mickeys in the new afternoon parade at the Magic Kingdom, Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it!.

Look for classic Mickeys in the confetti decorations along the sides and back of the Grand Marshal guest automobile:

and on Mickey's float:

I didn't see the art cyclists and their palettes with classic Mickey paint spots, so I may have to move those images to the Lost section of my website, unless Disney brings them back!

The new parade has many of the floats from the previous parade, and you'll now enjoy energetic dancers between floats and a new musical score.

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

As Disney veterans know, it's hard to imagine an experience more enjoyable than showing a Disney park to someone who's never been. Especially if it's a good friend!

A few weeks ago, Nona, a friend of ours for many years, visited Orlando and Walt Disney World for the first time. My wife Vickie and I were honored to be her chaperones. Where to begin? Magic Kingdom, of course! In the photo, Nona is wearing her "1st Visit" button, which we picked up at City Hall. Vickie is smiling beside her.

We rode the Headliner attractions first; Nona really enjoyed Splash Mountain. Of course, I pointed out Hidden Mickeys here and there (if I could get her attention between laughs and giggles). We drove to Disney's Hollywood Studios that first afternoon. Nona is a fan of American Idol, so we had to try out the new attraction: The American Idol Experience. She was impressed and told me that the Disney show was a very good reproduction of the television event. We had a blast!

Check out a new Hidden Mickey on the stage. A classic Mickey image is on the light brown arch in the stage backdrop, between the second and third round archway lights (counting from the lower right of the arch). (Thanks to Joe Franceschino, Jordan and Kenya Swiss, Jason trendymagic, Matt Hochberg, Sharon Stevenson, and Marie and Bruce Daigneault)

Over the next few days, Nona experienced great cuisine at the Plaza Restaurant, 50's Prime Time Cafe, Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian, Jiko, California Grill, Sci-Fi Dine-In, Flying Fish, and San Angel Inn. Whew! I wonder if she put on a few pounds? Late one night, Vickie took her to Jellyrolls for a rousing good time.

Epcot was also a big hit with Nona. I had to show her one of my favorite Hidden Mickeys on a fish in the Northwest Mercantile shop in the Canada Pavilion.

IllumiNations and the American Adventure show impressed her, and her last delightful experience before leaving for the airport was the Voices of Liberty singing group.

I hope Nona returns some day and brings along her husband Buzz and sons Jacob, Joseph and Jordan. By the way, Jacob bought her plane ticket to Orlando as a Christmas gift, so she could visit her old friends and enjoy Disney World. Thanks, Jacob!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I joined my sister Donna and a few friends recently at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Debbie and Randy are old friends of Donna's, and they came to Disney World for a short visit with their grandson Charlie.

Donna made her own travel plans without their knowledge and surprised them on their arrival day to Disney World! That's pixie dust for you!

We enjoyed Voyage of The Little Mermaid and then dinner at 50's Prime Time Cafe. From left to right in the photo are Debbie, Charlie, Randy and Donna. (Notice the decorative Mickey on the red utensil holder near Donna.)

Like many Disney veterans, I relish new experiences in the Land of Magic. Carol and Bob allowed me such an experience.

They escorted me through a side door of the Test Track pavilion and up a private elevator to a lounge area overlooking Future World. This lounge is for General Motors employees (such as Bob) and their families and guests. On one side are windows with views of parts of the Test Track ride, such as the vehicle entry into the environmental heat chamber.

On the opposite side of the lounge is an awesome overlook of the center of Future World. After relaxing for a while in the lounge, you receive a special pass to the ride. Another special elevator takes you down to the loading area for direct access to the ride vehicles. Makes you feel a bit special! Carol, Bob and their grandson Curtis are in the photo with Spaceship Earth in the background.

Marie and Bruce Daigneault and Matthew Clemons let me know about an interesting Hidden Mickey image in the Spaceship Earth ride.

As soon as you enter the large computer room, look to the right of your vehicle and find an orange mug on a desk. You'll see one side of a Mickey Mouse sticker on the mug. That's a good Hidden Mickey in itself, but here's the really cool part.

As you pass by this desk, look back to your right to the large mirror at the rear of the room. You can spot the full Mickey sticker on the mug! A Hidden Mickey times two! As you can see, it's difficult to get a decent photo of this Mickey. I think it's a terrific effect! Circles highlight the mug and its mirror image in the second photo.

I've been working all of my spare time recently on the update for the Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book. Epcot has been my emphasis for the last few weeks. Of course, I take a short break here and there to enjoy the Epcot offerings. My friend and neighbor Jim and I sang along with The Turtles at the Flower and Garden Festival. Great fun! In the photo, Jim is on the right.

Now and then, Disney removes or changes Hidden Mickeys.

I discovered two at Epcot that had changed locations. One is the rock Mickey on the floor of the aquarium at The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion. Julie Chappa informed me that this Mickey had moved. Indeed, Disney removed the original one and created another classic Mickey made of rocks that can be spotted in a different location halfway around the observation walkway on the upper level. The photo shows the new Mickey. To Disney's credit, this Mickey concept has been preserved (for the present).

In addition, the brass plate classic Mickey in Morocco has changed doors! For years, it's been on the outside green door of the Souk-Al-Magreb shop on the promenade. Recently, I saw it on the nearby red door of the shop. At least, Disney is not removing this Mickey image, just changing its location!

I was dismayed to find that the rock Mickey (in the photo below) on the bottom floor of the Manatee Tank of the Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion had disappeared! It appears that the rocks have either been moved or covered by sand or dirt. Rock Mickey images such as this one (as well as other types of movable Mickey images) must be maintained by Disney personnel or they might be disturbed or lost. Let me know if it reappears!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

Recently, I was reminded that Hidden Mickey images, even some really good ones, may disappear. When areas are refurbished, Disney can decide to remove perfectly decent Hidden Mickeys. I was searching out Hidden Mickeys at Disney's Hollywood Studios and discovered that several were gone.

When the Block Party Bash revved up last year, Hidden Mickeys were in the confetti decorations around the "Block Party Bash" post on the Tip Board.

A Cast Member told me that these Hidden Mickeys were not "official," and that the Manager or Imagineer for the area could remove them at any time. The CM's warning was accurate. I checked the Tip Board recently, and the Hidden Mickeys were gone.

The Studio Backlot Tour was refurbished this winter. The mural backdrop for the Special Effects Water Tank area was repainted, and three decent Hidden Images (two Hidden Mickeys and Clarabelle the Cow) disappeared!

Here is the new one. I couldn't find any Hidden Mickeys in this new mural. If you can, let me know!

For years, classic Mickeys were in the tile floor along the inside entryway to Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. I wasn't fond of these images, since all the circles were the same size, but many guests and Cast Members liked them as Hidden Mickeys.

As you can see, these images were not continued in the new tile floor.

We must stay vigilant about Hidden Mickeys (especially our favorite ones)!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

If you live in Florida, especially if your address is near Walt Disney World, you can expect to be visited often by friends and relatives. Occasionally, you'll be pleasantly surprised by friends from long ago.

Judy, a past college friend of my wife and mine, recently journeyed to central Florida. She was accompanied by her husband Steve, daughter Amy, and grandkids Isaac and Noah. We rendezvoused in the Magic Kingdom, had lunch, and wandered around looking for Hidden Mickeys.

Judy's family met Mickey at the Judge's Tent in Mickey's Toontown Fair. I showed them the classic Mickey images in the apples near the end of the queue under the video screen and inside the blue ribbon on the wall behind Mickey.

In the photo, Steve is holding a shy Noah, and Amy stands left of Judy.

The Hidden Mickeys game interested Isaac from the start. He quickly discerned the difference between Hidden and decorative Mickeys. In the photo, Isaac stands between Mickey and Minnie. Notice the blue classic Mickey in the middle of the blue ribbon on the wall behind Mickey and Minnie in the photos.

We wandered around Tomorrowland and shot targets in Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. The boys got their photos with Buzz Lightyear at his greeting area near the Carousel of Progress.

I pointed out one of my favorite Hidden Mickeys traced in the cement close to a support beam near Astro Orbiter on the side toward Space Mountain, between Cool Scanner and The Lunching Pad. This image always inspires Hidden Mickey hunters, newbies and oldsters alike!

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets

I just finished updating the Disneyland Hidden Mickeys book, so now we're involved with proofing and readying the book for the printer. I want to mention several more compelling Hidden Mickey images at Disneyland.

This classic Mickey image in the cement may be relatively new. In California Adventure's Sunshine Plaza, face away from the Sun Fountain and locate to your right a cement bench that surrounds a planted area. A small classic Mickey is etched in the ground under the right side of the round lip of the bench that juts out. Cast Members and Security Guards nearby may know about this Hidden Mickey, so ask if you need help! (Thanks to Kristi B., Annie Lin, and Phillip Lemon).

The second Hidden Mickey may have been recently placed as well. After the ballroom scene on the Haunted Mansion ride, as soon as you enter the attic, look to the right for a clock on a bureau. It's to the right of the round portrait of a bride and groom and just to the right of a bright orange and blue lamp. A brown classic Mickey is behind the pendulum of the clock. Remember, look for this gem as soon as you enter the attic. (Thanks to Sarah, Alex Goslar, Brad Steinbrenner, Sylvia McNeil and Matt Dickerson, Tamera, and Jennifer Peterson).

You know how excited you feel when you spot a Hidden Mickey that's hard to find? (At least, that's how I feel!)

Well, I finally found this reference to Mickey in Indiana Jones Adventure. Across from the first drinking fountains in the inside Standby queue, Mickey’s initials “M M” in Mara script are on the left wall, just above a horizontal crack in the wall. "M M" is on the far left of the photo below. (Thanks to Luis Valdez).

Read more about Steve's Hidden Mickey finds on AllEars.net

Steve maintains a Catalog of Hidden Mickeys on the Hidden Mickeys Guide.

The Third Edition of Steve's Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys book is available on Amazon.com. Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets

His First Edition of Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys is also available on Amazon.com Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland Resort's Best-Kept Secrets