our first day...

I thought I would break up our trip into 3 days. That way I'm not too overwhelmed, and YOU don't have to look at 5o pictures in a row. This 1st picture is right after we got to the hotel. YIPEE! We're here!

Just before heading over...and ready to burst.

I won't describe every single picture, but rather share my memories of the day. Stuff I really want to be able to remember. The energy every morning was intoxicating. The kids would wake up daily at 6:30 am, but the park didn't open until 10 am. SO...we would pack our lunches, get ready, go to our continental breakfast, and try not to pass out from excitement.

I have to admit that I was a bit concerned that first day. How would I be able to hold up? 6+ months pregnant, swelling, cramping, sheer exhaustion. I personally think I did OK...though Davey may tell you otherwise. The kids were ready to break down those gates. You could see the adventures waiting for you just inside...hear the music...smell the food. The music. It was everywhere. And loud. And SO happy. I think the music is half of the charm of Disneyland.

As soon as we got in, we stopped to buy Mickey ears for everyone (the decision making was anything but quick) then it immediately started to rain. We knew there was a chance of rain in the forecast, but thought surely it would stop soon. It didn't.

It rained on and off for the whole day. The WHOLE day. Not just drizzling either...raining. Everyone's spirits were still pretty high though, until about 1/2way through the day. We were all wet...and cold. You couldn't really head to the other side of the park without planning on getting soaked. We did the best we could. I wore a plastic baggie looking poncho the whole day (left my wonderful yellow ones from Michelle in the hotel by accident). You would have to cover the stroller with another one every time you went inside for a ride or show...and it was still soaked when you came back out. The saddest thing about the day was that NO characters were out. I don't think we saw any (made up for it later though :)). Davey wore his birthday button, but people were too concerned with staying dry to pay him much attention. SO...he wore it Thursday too! :) Emily's hat was crooked...the whole time. I was in love with her in those ears. I have about 20 pictures to prove it.

New Orleans square was easily my favorite place there. I just loved the look of it, the sounds, the smells. LOVED it. Molly really hung on to her smiles. She just wouldn't give them to me. She was happy, dancing, twirling, just not smiling for the camera. Dave talked to her about showing her "all day" smile when Mommy wanted to take a picture. It helped a bit. :)

ALL DAY SMILE!

Molly was in heaven meeting the princesses! I loved watching her face when she would meet one. Almost as if she couldn't really believe they were standing right there in front of her. It was AWE and I loved it. She would hop and spin and squeal while waiting in line. Smiles faded though when Belle came in behind us but we weren't allowed to go back to meet her. So, so sad for little Molly.

At the end of the day...we were ready to go home, but SO anxious for tomorrow. A happy, happy, magical place. It really is. Everyone says it, but it really is. Day 2 to come soon. :)