Disneyland 2010
Before too many weeks and months pass [it will be a month tomorrow], it’s about time I posted on my most recent trip, which was to Disneyland in California.
Like Going Home
Most of you may already know that I grew up in Orange County, in a town called Garden Grove, CA. So anytime I go back to visit – especially a Disney trip – it’s like going home for me. The hotel we stayed at – the Hilton Garden Inn on Harbor Blvd – was literally a 10 minute walk to my mom’s last place she lived in on Chapman Ave. [which is just a two minute walk to the Hi-Crest Liquor store].
As we drove into the hotel parking lot, I had some memories come back as I saw the Toys R Us that I used to go to a lot as a kid – but instead of the familiar view of the logo, I saw this:
What’s left of the Toys R Us sign
Just a shell of the Toys R Us I used to shop for toys
Sad, huh. Not sure what they are going to do with this building, but a part of my childhood is gone.
Disney
What?? No Roger Rabbit ride this trip? I guess I can deal with that
Ok, wipe away the tears of sadness and let’s move onto something awesome… Disneyland!
This was one of those family trips, with my wife, my daughter, my step daughter, her daughter and boyfriend and her boyfriend’s niece… oh, and myself. And now, without further delays, enjoy the photos from our time at Disney.
Look at that excitement!
That smile says Disney magic!
Two excited girls waiting to go ride the rides
Me and the girls in front of Mickey Pumpkin
Space Mountain taken over by ghosts (I wasn’t frightened)
Star Tours reopens in 2011 – I can’t wait!!
First Time Rider
First time rider smile
One moment to celebrate on this trip was my daughter’s first time riding Space Mountain. Yes, even at the age of 19, she had never been on this ride, either being too young/not tall enough [she made several trips as a child] or when she was tall enough to ride, it was down for refurbishment. And yes, she loved the ride.
Do you think we’re having fun? I think so.
Everyone.. raise your hands.. c’mon Reba and Marty…
Mickey is the leader of the band on Main Street
Damn Hooter for eating that map
elecTRONica comes to California Adventure
All Good Things Must Come To An End
And we ended it all with shopping at Downtown Disney, including a visit to the LEGO store [I had to make it here since missing the one in Sacramento]
I so wish I had one of these near my house
And on that note, in the classic Disney words spoken, “See you real soon…“
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Looks like an awesome time!
Too bad Space Mountain sucks. 🙂
Thanks. Space Mountain sucks? Them’s fighting words… 😉
What a cool time, and a good-lookin’ family. I’m overdue for some roller coasters.
Thanks, Karl. It was a cool time.
The whole Disneyland area has changed SO much. I barely recognized it when I was there last.
Yeah, I remember the whole parking lot where California Adventure is now and having the tram drop you off up front. And Downtown Disney was just a road, with the view of the Disneyland Hotel in sight. I don’t mind progress, but it’s a bit much for me and my memories of growing up there.
We haven’t been to Disneyland since the boy was 12, over 7 years ago! I should take my husband since I don’t think he’s ever been. Glad you had fun!
You should. It’s really fun… expensive, but fun (get a park hopper pass to make it worth the while).
Aww! It looks like you had so much fun! I would love to go there!
When’s the last time you went to Disneyland? It’s a fun place to go for any age.
Looks like you had a blast mate. We went about a year ago and had the best time ever. I can’t wait to go back.
I remember reading your post and seeing the cool pics you posted about the great time you had. It’s such a fun place.