The one thing that I have noticed this past year is that Disney appears to be changing their "strategy" with regards to the Disney pins at Walt Disney World. I have noticed that they have eliminated (i) the surprise pins (ii) new cast lanyard pins (iii) pin events other than the Pin Celebration at Epcot.

The surprise pins have now been replaced by an "announced" surprise pins that even have the word "surprise" on them. Cast lanyard pins from a few years ago are now being released with the "mickey heads" on them where there were none before with the older pins. Needless to say, hardcore pin collectors are not amused with all this. That might explain why this last pin celebration event at Epcot was not a sell-out like that one before.

On the other hand, I've noticed a larger variety and more thoughtful design of limited edition pins and open edition rack pins. I guess if they are trying to get more of the casual pin collectors to buy pins rather than the smaller number of hardcore pin collectors and traders, this strategy would make more sense.

This pin is an example of what I just said. It's an open edition pin, and it is GLORIOUS! I'm always a sucker for pins that have the Fab 5 in them, and this one fits the bill. Besides, it is a lot of fun and simply adorable! It is being relased tomorrow, but it will be months (252 days to be exact) before I get there and could get a handful of this.

Zz.