West Coast Adventures: Land of Disney!

Here's what we have to say about Disneyland:

HUGE thumbs up!

High on our West Coast travel wish list: Disneyland. We hadn't been since moving to Vegas, John is old enough to appreciate some Disney characters and movies, we live 4 hours away for only another two months... so we jumped at the opportunity to go!

It was AMAZING. I love Disneyland as an adult, but I LOVE Disneyland as a parent. Watching John's face was simply priceless. It was an entirely different experience: anticipating a nap, extra motivation to avoid lines, seeking out stroller parking, etc., but the experience was that much fuller watching John love it.

One of his top favorite rides (and first ride of the day): Nemo

Entering the sub

GLUED against the glass for the entire 14 minute ride. He loves the movie, so naturally loved the view, and I love the fact that the duration of the ride was longer than the line!

Another favorite: the Jungle Cruise. Suddenly not just filler for the Fast Pass wait for Indiana Jones, this boat ride surrounded by wild animals was a repeat hit.

It's a Small World was also very exciting. Peter Pan was fun, but was a bit too quick for John to absorb and enjoy.

But the ultimate favorite was definitely Dumbo! Here's a clip from the end of the ride, when John just couldn't contain his excitement:

The lines were the biggest challenge. We did well planning, timing, and Fast Passing our way through as many lines as possible, but a Friday at Disneyland is busy [yes, Matt opted for Disneyland over two hours in clinic :)]. By mid-day, we were totally worn out from holding our 30-lb boy! But we passed the time well, trying on each other's sunglasses:

And having fun trying to make John laugh.

The parade and Fantasmic were awesome! We all loved both spectacles.

John's favorite character is Mickey Mouse (mi-ee mou). In any gift shop, he would try to pick up every Mickey Mouse doll and give each a hug.
Sucker first-time parents, we gave in to the cuteness and bought a $5 plastic Mickey. Someone was very happy about that.
That little Mickey made all remaining lines very easy!
And it never left his side. John napped for almost 2 hours (we can thank Pirates of the Caribbean for being the best snooze-inducer), but fought falling asleep at night until 9:30!

Truly a *magical* day. Disney sure knows how to put together a great experience for all ages!