Better Late Than Never

Our day was so fun-filled and extended yesterday, that I didn't have an ounce of energy left to post last night.  However, after a sound night of sleep, I'm back at it this morning.

After the girls finished school, we picked up Sil's mom and all went to Disneyland.  Here are my lovely companions as we take the tram to the entrance:

Our first stop was the "Moments with Mr. Lincoln" attraction - the animatronics were amazing.  Then we visited the Captain EO Tribute - it took me back to my very first visit to Disney World in 1987.  Seeing Michael Jackson so young and pre-cosmetic surgery craziness made me sad again that his life was cut short and filled with such drama and heartache.

Next, Sara and I decided to take a spin on Space Mountain:

I had forgotten how fast and fun that ride is - definitely worth the trip.

By then it was time to start finding a good spot for the parade - we took the opportunity before sunset to get some group photos in:

Then, Sil went to the car for our heavier coats, Jena held our spot and Sara, grandma and I did a little Main Street shopping.  We all made it back in time for the parade, which is completely different at Christmas-time.

It was fun, but by the end we were all starving, so we made haste to find dinner - yummy Creole food at Cafe Orleans, including an appetizer of parmesan garlic french fries - YUM!

After dinner we went to the Haunted Mansion, which is also transformed for the holidays with a "Nightmare Before Christmas" theme:

Then we headed to the last ride of the night, Small World.  This is the other ride that is transformed for Christmas - inside and out.  Here is a shot of the lights on the outside:

And some festive additions inside:

Finally, we grabbed some warm beverages and treats, shopped a little more of Main Street, then headed home.

Huge thanks to Silvana for taking us all to Disneyland and also for the great photos from her camera (my pocket camera didn't do well after dark)!