For my 26th birthday, Tyson surprised me with a trip to the happiest place on earth, coupled with a new dress and fancy hat.
I enjoy Disneyland, like the rest of the world. He doesn't. So the real surprise was that he initiated a trip for the sake of his girls! Such a sacrificial man. (Read in cheeky tone.)
It was Baby Girl Mo's first trip and man, it was a whole new experience walking into this place with mom glasses on. I over packed the diaper bag and we paid way too much money for an overpriced pair of Minnie ears, a churro, a hamburger with extra pickles, a large water, and an amazing ice cream sundae. Everyone eats all day when at Disney right?
The best part of the trip was about 6:31PM, when the parade started and my daughter's eyes experienced a whole new level of amazement. She danced, smiled, laughed, but mostly stared in awe. Or at least I think she was in awe. I can't really tell what she's thinking yet. But it looked about right.
I don't think Disneyland is a necessity in life, by any means. But there is something to this magical land that has captured the hearts and memories, of children and adults alike, from all over the world. And while the glitter may fade and birthday's will end, these moments, ones like Ty and I playfully fighting in Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters, or ones of my girl pinching Minnie's nose and giggling, those moments I will hold tightly and look over fondly for years to come.
Ty, thanks for starting my 27th year of life in such a magical way. I love you.
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Some have asked about baby-friendly rides at Disneyland, so I've listed the ones we enjoyed with baby (she's 8 months):
DISNEYLAND
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Some have asked about baby-friendly rides at Disneyland, so I've listed the ones we enjoyed with baby (she's 8 months):
DISNEYLAND
CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE
*There are a TON more rides that are baby friendly, we just ran out of time. See list and qualifiers here.
EXTRA TIPS FOR DOING DISNEY WITH BABY
- If you have a flatbed stroller, bring it. | It was so nice to change diapers in our own stroller instead of the bathroom stalls. It was also convenient for naps.
- Don't over think the clothing situation. | Simplify by bringing 2 full body onsies instead of multiple shirts and pants.
- Bring 1 medium weight blanket. | Use to cover stroller if it gets warm and to cover baby when it gets cold. It will get cold at night.
- Get a "1st Time" or "Birthday" button! | You can get them at City Hall, Chamber of Commerce, or the red umbrella on Main Street in Disney. Red umbrella is your best bet.
- Bring a meal. | There is a designated "lunch table" area right outside the park gates where you and your family can enjoy your own sack lunches. We didn't do this, but we will next time.
- Condense, Condense, Condense | We used this Munchkin Powdered Formula Dispenser to make 3, 8oz, bottles during the day. So much easier than bringing 5 bottles with dry formula.
- Be Easy | Too many parents' experiences are tainted by the hustle of doing everything, and that's not fun for anyone. Do what you can with what you have and eat ice-cream! If your kid has a blowout in the middle of the parade (not that mine did...) don't stress. Laugh and change in your flatbed stroller ;)
