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Sunday Squeeze – Baloo, Reto’s friend



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 Today’s Sunday Squeeze is brought to you by Reto Kurmann, a friend of the site who lives in Switzerland!

This photo was taken in early November 2010 at the Animal Kingdom. I was on my 2nd Walt Disney World vacation and since Baloo is my HUGE favorite character, kind of a childhood hero, I went to see him every day at least once. I wanted to do more than just pose for a standard picture and get his autograph. I had a copy of a Jungle Book storybook with me. “Papa Bear” really appreciated that and I got some great photos of him reading his story with me. Of course, he also signed the book.  Since Baloo hardly ever had a line due to his remote location, I was able to meet him several times during my week-long visit. Got some great comments from CMs and other guests too. These were truly magical moments to me, being able to spend some real quality time with Baloo. I even let WDW Guest Communications know about that and sent them a letter with the photos.

 

The second magical moment also took place in November 2010, again with Baloo. He recognized me every time I went to him because I’ve met him so many times during that week. One day, when he came out for another set, I approached him and asked him, if he would walk hand-in-paw with me to his meeting location. He agreed, took my hand and so I strolled with Baloo on my side through the “jungle” of the Animal Kingdom.  I felt like Mowgli. :-)

 

The third magical moment: Baloo and I danced together  in the Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! Street Party. One day, a Photopass photographer located in the hub noticed that and took some pics of me dancing with Baloo. I didn’t notice that photos were being taken of me and I was quite surprised and happy when the Photopass CM handed me the card after I hugged Baloo.

(Thanks for sharing your special moments Reto!  Do you have special moments with characters to share?)

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Elisabeth

Tuesday 23rd of October 2012

This guy's post made me cry. It is so sweet. And he traveled so far. My son was four years old when he met his hero Baloo. My son is now 24, and he is taking me to Disney on my 51st birthday in January. I am going to find Baloo or die trying. A 20 year 'reunion' photo with my son is my dream. I'll be wearing waterproof mascara and packing a box of Kleenex! Thanks so much for your information!

kennythepirate

Tuesday 23rd of October 2012

You can find Baloo at Animal Kingdom, no need to die

KtP

trixie

Sunday 6th of May 2012

That's why Disney Rocks! So happy that you had an awesome time with Baloo!

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