Disney in a Downpour

The first time I was at Disneyland, I was 10 years old, and we went in the rain. This weekend, we repeated the experience. It was great...after we took a break from the park and let C have her nap, and stopped at Target to buy a new umbrella, a new outfit and rain coat for C, shoes for me (I'd only taken my sandals!) and a smaller travel-sling to carry diapers (etc) around with us. During the first go-round at the theme park, my feet were soaked and C was shivering. However, the second go-round left C with giggles and grins and cries of "more!" and "again!" and "fun!" Because of the rain, the crowds were really light, and we didn't have to wait long for any of the events and rides. One of our first stops was the Princess Fantasy Faire, where little princesses could get their pictures taken with three of the Disney Princesses. This venue thing is a great idea on Disney's part. Last time we were there, the Princesses would come out for an hour or so, but the line for each was out of control. I'm sure that way some families did nothing all day but scout the appearance sites and stand in line to see the Princesses. Now, the line for the Princesses is continuous, with the Princesses rotating through the day, and each little girl gets 3 princesses at one shot. Much more convenient. C, however was less than impressed with the live princesses, prefering images to the real thing.

On the other hand, C was thoroughly enamored with the rides! She is old enough now that she can voice preferences, and she asked to ride the "horse" (Carousel) and "elephant" (Dumbo) twice. She saw the rockets on the Astro Orbiter and asked to ride the "plane". The really great thing about the light crowd was that when she asked to do things, we were able to just go get on that ride before the inkling passed. We also went on the Small World ride, and although she started out on the seat, she quickly clambored up onto F's lap so she could see all the displays. The awe I saw in her face is indescribable. Of course, I couldn't get a picture of it because flash photography isn't allowed inside the ride. All in all, I know she enjoyed herself, and that made the whole day worthwhile.