the happiest place on earth

We are Disney enthusiasts. You know, those people who absolutely love everything about Disneyland... the lines, the people, the parking, running to get a fast pass, the churro carts (yep, we know the location and hours of every one!), the rides (over and over and over again!) and, of course, THE Mouse!

Richard and I were recently at Disneyland... all alone... without children... or grandchildren. And contrary to what our children told us before we left, we had a fabulous time! Besides riding rides and running for fast passes, we took time to stroll through ALL the shops, sit on a bench and people-watch and really enjoy the sights and sounds in "the Happiest Place on Earth." Throughout this trip, I learned some Disney truths:

1. No matter how old you are, there is nothing like the thrill of going through the turnstile at the front of Disneyland on the first day of your Disney vacation and seeing the back of the train station and the flower beds shaped like Mickey.

"It [Disneyland] has that thing- the imagination and the feeling of happy excitement- 

that I knew when I was a kid."

~ Walt Disney

2. It's okay to act nutty wacky silly child-like.

"Laughter is America's most important export."

~ Walt Disney

3. Even if it is scorching hot (and it was!) in October, a little pixie dust will make it "fall!"

"It's kind of fun to do the impossible."

~ Walt Disney

4. Dreams really do come true! (Notice the scores!!!)

"All of our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them." 

~ Walt Disney

5. Without a doubt, it's all about the mouse!

"I only hope we don't lose sight f one thing- that it was all started by a mouse."

~ Walt Disney

6. Disneyland fireworks are the BEST anywhere. Period.

"Disneyland is a show."

~ Walt Disney

7. Even when you don't go with other people, you will see friends at Disneyland. (This time we were able to meet up with Janne's friend who I only knew through Facebook. We enjoyed spending some time with her and her sweet family!)

"We believed in our idea- a family park where parents and children [and friends!] 

could have fun together."

~ Walt Disney