The Happiest Place on Earth

...Lucy proved that motto to be true the second she saw Sleeping Beauty's castle glistening in the distance. Whether throwing her arms high in the air on Space Mountain or walking up bravely with her autograph book to talk to the Princesses, Lucy's time in Disneyland was truly magical.

Now, I am not saying that there weren't massive lines to wait in, 4 days worth of eating greasy park food, and whiny pleading at the gigantic Disney store, but with the help of my parents (who spoiled us all rotten), it was a very enjoyable family vacation.

Kate's post and talking to Joia about their upcoming trip inspired me to take a moment back in time and post our Disneyland adventures....

The anticipation...

One very happy girl... Lucy and Owen love their Beepa and Bubba...And dad and mom too...One of the main reasons we went to Disneyland in the first place was due to Lucy's obsession with the Princesses. Between 2 trips to Princess Fantasy Fair and breakfast at Ariel's Grotto, we certainly got our fix.Lucy was a little less sure about the Fairies...

And wouldn't go anywhere near the Disney characters ...For as much as Lucy loves the glitz & glam associated with princesses, she also has an adventurous streak. She loved all of the roller coasters, but Big Thunder Mountain was her favorite!Beepa was Lucy's roller coaster buddy...Pirates of the Caribbean made a big impression on Lucy, so we had to buy the sword.

Yo ho yo ho...Owen and Bubba opted for the more mellow rides. like the carousel...And of course Small World, which was Owen's (and Bubba's) favorite ride...With the exception of the Dumbo ride, Fantasy Land had few rides that didn't terrify Lucy. I don't blame her - I was scared of the Snow White ride too. Toon Town!...My neck still aches from Lucy's crazy driving on Autopia...We met up with my Auntie Jackie, Uncle Dick, cousin Lisa, her husband Norbert, and their 2 kids Emily and Evan. Lucy still talks about Cousin Emily to this day - she was in awe..Owen got to try all kinds of new foods in Disneyland and California Adventures. He ate this whole hot dog at 9 months old!... Beepa was our unsung hero of Disneyland - he stood in long princess lines, waited patiently outside every gift shop, and entertained Lucy every time she almost had a meltdown. Thanks Beepa!...

Good night Disneyland!