Hey! It's been pretty cold in Southern California.
Our last three trips to Disneyland were chilly, making the Christmas atmosphere all the more cozy!
Indeed, we were there this past Saturday.
Arriving at around 5:40 p.m., the wind was blowing and the tram ride from the parking lot was made even colder.
It was the night of the Candlelight Procession on Main Street, so the main entrance and Town Square were a bit of a mess from a traffic standpoint.
Still, it was fabulous to see all the guests bundled in scarves, sweaters, knit caps, gloves and coats.
The line for Small World wrapped round the bullpen set up southeast of the attraction's main entrance.
We waited in it for about 25-30 minutes, but actually had an enjoyable time.
It was great to people watch and the line keeps moving.
Plus, with all the lights and decorations lighting up the area at night there was plenty to see as we waited.
A warm cup of coffee and some Pepperidge Farm gingerbread cookies we brought along with us added to the holiday spirit and atmosphere.
It was crowded, but the crowd was in a cheerful mood.
The littlest ones with their caps, scarves and gloves were fun to watch.
Big eyes looking out from under jacket hoods.
Little booted feet.
Some resembled wayward elves.
Others Christmas fairies.
We enjoyed just walking around the Park and taking it all in.
My youngest daughter joined me for a swing dance over at Plaza Gardens.
The band was great!
We warmed ourselves on the porch of the Rancho del Zocalo over some more coffee (and peppermint bark!).
The heaters they have over there are something.
Heck, we had to shed some scarves and jackets and ultimately moved to a table a bit further away as our chocolate was starting to melt!
Should still be cool at Disneyland this coming weekend, so if you are within range (and aren't blocked out), I would highly recommend stopping by for some true Christmas spirit or pre-Hannukah (Dec. 20 -28th) joy, for that matter.
Hannukah, the eight day festival of light of the Jewish faith tradition, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of purity over adulteration and of spirituality over materiality.
Not so sure Disneyland is an exact fit on that last one, but it sure is full of light these days!!
Anyhow, my best wishes to everyone in this wondrous season!
Many happy returns to the Happiest Place on Earth!
---Mike
