Disneyland

We recently returned from a family vacation to Disneyland.  We'd been talking it about for a couple of years and this October the time was right and we have Grandma and Grandpa 'son' to thank for making it happen.

We woke the kids up bright and early, presented them with Mickey and Minnie shirts and goodie bags, drove to the airport and were off to Disneyland.  It was a complete surprise for the kiddos. Despite their rather 'lack-luster' response to going at 5:00 AM, they quickly got excited and were ready to hit the ground running.

We had 4 fun-filled days between Disneyland and California Adventure and were able to see and do everything that was on our list.  It was a truly magical vacation. The kids were in awe of everything, so excited to be in Disneyland, go on the rides, see the lights and decorations and of course meet the characters.  Oh man, did we meet characters--from classic characters to princesses--Carmen wanted to see them all.  The kids had autograph books and we stood in line a fair amount for our photo ops.  But, they were into it, excited about it and proud to show off their signatures.

Much to my surprise, both kids like the 'big' rides.  We did Space Mountain (mom not a fan), and Splash Mountain twice.  Max was in the very front and promptly got soaked (but with a smile).  Both like the Haunted Mansion, were giddy to do anything where they could drive and pretty much anything that went fast.  We ended up doing several rides twice.

We enjoyed treats in the park, swimming at our hotel pool, enjoying the beautiful weather, and being together the four of us.  The trip came at a perfect time.  For us, it really was the 'happiest place on earth.'

Here are a few highlights:

The Mater ride was Carmen's favorite.

Look out Mickey, Max has ears too.

Jungle cruise family pic.

Getting goofy with Goofy.

Magical Mickey.

Minnie at her house.

Splash Mountain.

The brave award goes to Max.

Front and center.

Post Splash Mountain.

Max soaked from head-to-toe.

 A rare run-in with Fairy Godmother.

The Castle.

Carmen was fascinated.

Dumbo.

My favorite ride as a kiddo.

 A stop at the souvenir shop post Star Tours.

 Dole Whips--one of many treats.

Front-row seats to the daytime parade.

Lots of singing, dancing, music.

The Force is strong.

Clean-up on Aisle #1.

Um, Max may have pulled all of the Mickey's off the shelf.

 Modeling ears.

Magical at night.

Thanks for a fun trip!  We'll be back for another visit.