We Made It!

Everyone knows how much I love Disneyland. When we hear about people going on trips there, the kids worry that I'll be sad - that's how silly I am about it. I particularly wanted to go before Maggie outgrew the princess phase. So when sweet Greg and Rhonda gave us the opportunity to go, I was thrilled! It was heaven.

I have to admit that Disneyland can be a bit stressful. I was constantly worried about getting to the next ride before the Fast Pass expired or eating quickly before finding a spot for a show, etc. But there really is something magical about the whole place. Maybe because so much of our childhood memories are tied up in Disney movies and their characters. And then I have memories of going with my family when I was young (3rd grade, 7th grade, and college) and taking my kids in turn. Plus, Disney does everything so well: happy music, cleanliness, attention to detail, etc.

When we arrived in the park, we saw Goofy. First, he acted like he looking in a mirror with Eli. Then he showed each of the kids the pose he wanted them to do. When they were ready, he counted one, two, three, and then....

.....stuck his behind out at me as I took the picture. The kids loved it!

Here, then, is the real thing. Love the poses.

Mickey was boring in comparison. :) It seemed like there were a lot more character sightings this trip.

My favorite!

I made appointments beforehand to have the girls' hair done at Anna and Elsa's Boutique. We had to go over to Downtown Disney, and it took a chunk out of our day, but I think it was worth it. (John and the boys stayed in the park and went on rides.)

Years ago, some friends showed us pictures of their trip to Disneyworld, and the thing that really caught Tori's attention was the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Their girls had been treated like princesses there, and had their hair done, etc. So I immediately thought of that when we started planning this trip. However, it was expensive, and Tori didn't like their hairstyle options we saw online. Then I saw something about Anna and Elsa's place. It was half as much, and they did the cute coronation styles from the movie. Score!

I got to sit on a couch in front of them with the other parents. We chatted and complimented each other's girls - and took pictures. It was at least as much fun for me. :)

They even got some light make-up and nail polish put on. This was big-time.

There was so much gel stuff in their hair, it took several washings to get it out. But it held well!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was a favorite with the older three. (John and Maggie were watching a princess parade.)

At the last second, Goofy photobombed this picture with Pluto. He was in fine form that day.

We already had a picture with Pluto, but he was there with no line......

While the older three kids went to see Fantasmic with John, I took Maggie on some rides in Fantasyland.

Fun souvenirs!