A Fantastic Start to our Vacation ~ Aug.30 -Sept.1st

After many phone calls of why a spontaneously planned trip together would be so awesome, my dreams came true with my parents and sister Ann and her three children agreeing to join the five of us to visit Disneyland. (Unfortunately Ann's hubby Steve was not able to be as spontaneous with his work schedule.) My Dad was understandably apprehensive given his limited mobility from his leg accident last February, 2014. He eventually succumbed to our reasoning that you could sit around at home, or in the warmth of southern California with all of us... which would be more fun? :) Soon enough, we were on our way...

Ann flew in the day before and so we met at the three bedroom townhouse in Anaheim that we were sharing. It was an exciting reunion for the cousins, and we couldn't wait to visit Disneyland the next day. Meanwhile, there were many fun costumes to try on in the closets.

 Abby and Nora, AKA Woody and Buzz Lightyear.

We were dropped off in groups as our van fit seven. We learned how to navigate the handicapped accesses, and found out later that there were definite perks to being with Dad. We could all join the line-up with him at separate entrances, which was often a shorter wait. Everyone was very kind.

 Navigating the crowds... the boys were so helpful pushing strollers or the wheelchair.

Once we regrouped, Adventureland was our first stop. I became the tour guide, having been there five years ago and having read up on plans. This worked well seeing as I'm naturally bossy. ;)

 Ann & Isabelle

 Abby, Thomas & Nora

 Dad's group went on the boat first. We later figured out we could go with him as a group of 11.

 In line for Big Thunder Railway

 It was a bit scary for Nora but she held on tight.

 With my honey on Winnie-the-Pooh's ride

Even though I've done Splash Mountain before, I always think my response will be different somehow. Nope, scream every time! The kids were really brave, especially Nora!

 Aiden was such a thrill-seeker!

Finding a shady spot to watch the parade was a nice break. It was almost more fun watching the kids' expressions than watching who went by...

 Parades might not quite be Thomas and Lewis' favourite things...

 Finishing the day off with fireworks makes you so happy, it almost feels like Chrismas. :)

The next day we toured California Adventure Park, with having obtained our Fastpass tickets to get on the Cars ride right away as they were distributed so quickly. In the meantime, there was so much else to see.

 Mater's Junkyard.

 Soarin' over California

  Dad was such a good sport, and tried many things with us.

 Soon after this, Nora declared Donald as her favourite.

 You could not pay me to ever do this ride again!

 Nora survived the 4D Bug's Life movie better than expected.

Aiden was not so impressed after. saying "I did not like that at all!!" 

Off one group went to Cars Land to use our fastpass tickets... it was awesome.

 The Canyon track was so well done.

 Wandering around Hollywood Land.

The other half of our group went to Radiator Springs Racers after us, and we didn't really tell Dad how rough it could be. But they all survived. :)

 Cars Land was as charming as everyone had said it was.

We enjoyed an afternoon performance of Aladdin, a definite highlight for the adults. Aiden would have preferred more rides but it was a good break from the sun.

 So glad our parents came with us.

 Those who weren't afraid of the water went rafting.

 Happy to rest.

 Entertaining to watch. 

 The kids got soaked!

The parade here is definitely a highlight... so many characters in fantastic costumes.

We enjoyed our various dinners along the Pacific Wharf, which brought back pleasant memories of San Francisco. It was a lovely time.

 We finished off the evening by watching World of Colour... fantastic!