Disney Land Fun

Spring is here and Spring Break is upon us. Many of you must be thinking about a quickie vacation. Over at Life As Mom, others are linking up their Disney vacations. If you have been or thinking about it, share your thoughts!

We've been in Florida for 4 years and have yet to visit Disney World. Since we are in the northwest, it would take us the same time to get there than if we still lived in Virginia! But, lucky for our kids, my parents live an hour and a half from Disney LAND. So, when we went to California last summer for vacation, they finally got to see the home of the Big Mouse.

Since our kids were only 4 and 6 last year, and being their first time there, we had to take it easy. Big rides were out of our league as was lots of walking. So we opted for many simple and entertaining activities.
The parade was a highlight because they got to see all their favorite characters and dance with them. Yes, it's ok to play in the street!
I've always loved It's A Small World, well, any ride that let's you sit down gets a star in my book. Plus, again, they got to see lots of characters. Preschoolers don't care if it's the mannequin model.
Everytime my son, then 4, saw Woody, his little eyes would light up and he'd wave, "Hi Woody, I'm over here."
The teacup: my kids' first ride! I had no idea how many rides for younger kids get overlooked. They're quite fun!
We took the River Cruise at sundown. It was already cooler by that time. My kids thought they were in a real jungle!Escape the heat by visiting character's houses! Plus you get the treat of having your picture taken with them at the end. It was one line you wouldn't get bored standing for an hour.
Star Wars was fun to watch. Kids can participate too. Did I mention, you get to sit down for this one too?
We saw the fireworks on our way to the parking lot. By the end of the trip, we were all exhausted! In the car, our daughter always falls asleep like this: looking like her head is broken. You see a real wonder and excitement in younger children when they visit Disney. It's inspiring to see it through their innocence. Given another opportunity, we'd love to go back. I'd love to spend the night and go two days. Traffic there, let's just say, is unique and unpredictable. Less driving is better!

As for some frugal tips:
1. There are no Dollar Trees in that part of California. So stock-up back home for souvenirs and leave them in the car. Wal-Mart didn't have a lot of varieties.

2. If you are planning to buy food there, bring smelling salts. You will faint from the prices! I almost cried having to pay $12 for 1 meal. It is so NOT frugal. Bring what you can carry without getting tired.

3. We didn't rent strollers but our kids had their own backpacks for snacks. Forget the purse, we also had our backpacks.

4. Our girl dressed up in her princess outfit (with pants underneath) and that made her feel very special. One 3 year old came up to her and said, "Hi Cinderella!" It was so precious!

5. Take the monorail and train. The kids think it's just one of the rides.

6. Accept the fact that you won't get to see everything. Just try to have fun an create memories!