Disneyland! (a look back at fall, part one)

One of the obvious reasons for keeping a family blog is to have a record of all the happenings, milestones, etc. as they happen. I love looking back and reading what I have written, get a feeling of the mood at any given point in our lives, and seeing the photos of the girls and how much they have grown or changed. The problem with this is that when life gets busy, the blog sometimes gets put on the backburner. So, in an effort to keep a chronicle of our lives, I am going to post some of the biggies from the past few months.

We decided to take a Disneyland trip the week of Thanksgiving. This was a slightly impromptu decision, but nevertheless a good one. John and I have a history at Disneyland. We were engaged there, we both get the same carefree feeling when we spend time there, there is just something about it that is magical for us. I want my kids to share in that excitement and fun, so I think we will be taking many a vacation there in the coming years :)

Believe it or not, as much as I love it it, I had never been to California Adventures... so we got a two-day park-hopper pass and did the whole kit and caboodle! Both girls did a pretty fantastic job, Claire had her moments, but I really couldn't blame her. We wore them out! Hannah did every single big ride at the main park except Space Mountain (which is the only one she isn't tall enough for). So , she did Matterhorn (Twice!), Thunder Mountain railroad, Splash Mountain, and Indiana Jones! This is where it paid off to have a tall child! Claire was only tall enough to do the Matterhorn. She did great! Although the second time I asked her how much she liked it afterwards, and she replied, "I closed my eyes". It was too cute and sad and funny all rolled into one.

My Dad was able to join us on the trip, and it was great to have him there. Not only was he an extra set of eyes for the girls, but he is part of the reason I love the park so much. Growing up he and my Mom always made the whole Disneyland thing so special for us. I think he still really enjoys it! Plus, there is just no better feeling as a parent than seeing your children filled with pure JOY. I assume that goes for grandchildren as well.

So, here are a few photos from the trip...

I should add too, that this was the first time I had ever been in the winter when the park was all dolled up. Loved it even more! :)