Things Kids Say: August 2013

Don't hurt yourself.

"I didn't. I just need to squish it a little."
~Bug

To Mama:
"It's time to be quiet. I'm serious."

~Bug

"Where are we going." 

Home

"Good. I need more sleep."

~Bug

"How do you play paper cut scissors?"

~Bug

"What is that?"

A wind sock

"Does it tickle you?"

~Bug

After putting jewelry on me:

"What is on it?"

Dimonds

Looks closely at the stones

"Nope. They're circles!!!"

~Bug

grabbing mamaw's breasts
"These are your buttons. They don't have stuff in them. Mommy drank it all."
~Bug

"Will you buy this for me?"
Do you have money for it?
"I don't have enough money." 
~Bug

While waiting in line for a ride.
"Did you hear what they said? There's no eating or drinking or stuff."
~Bug

I need my Pool Suit!
~Bug

Sitting behind her little brother:
"I'll catch him if he goes backwards because I'm squishy."
~Bug

"I don't like the game where you eat your boogers." 
~Gator to Bug

"Can I give him his dirty bear? The one he gets on his face?"
~Bug talking about a fuzzy bear that 'sheds' when played with

Mouse Ears

I love so many things about Disneyland but oddly enough I think one of my favorite things is the personalization with mouse ears. I have to admit, I really want to buy a pair myself but I can't justify $20 for something I'll wear for 3 days or less. This trip is about Bug, not me and I don't need ears; I'm just going to admire the awesome variety walking around and secretly covet my favorite pair when I see it walk past me.

Secretly, part of my reason for not getting one for myself is because I feeling indecisive. Do I go for the headband style in my favorite color but obnoxious crown?

Perhaps the Pirate headband that is more my style and leaves room for any hairstyle but doesn't match any cloths I brought.

Or my favorite hat with all the right decorations and everything in my kind of style but not the right color? Now if only this hat came in burgundy...well actually I'm glad it's not in burgundy or purple because then I'd be $20 something poorer and then I'd have a hat to store in my closet that was only worn a couple times....

Funny enough the pull of the ears was too much for Bug as well. After just 2 days she decided she needed to spend her money on a set. Turns out I'm glad she chose and not me because I would have been wrong. It worked out perfectly for her, she picked a flowey princess headband.

It made her feel like she had magic Rapunzel hair. More Disney magic. I love this place

Solo in Disneyland

Take every opportunity. That's what I'm doing so here I am in Disneyland with a 4 year old dead set on meeting all the princesses and a 6 month old baby strapped to my chest.  This should be a breeze, ha!

Besides being up late last night and up early this morning it's a really good day. The weather is perfect, the walk felt short, and even though I didn't have an early entry ticket they let me in early anyway! What great luck!!!

The kids and I headed straight to Fantasy Faire since I've heard that the lines to meet the princesses get insanely long. Turns out when you get there that early, it's not open yet. Oops.

It all worked out though, Bug and I took a few pictures before heading to get on a couple rides. The Toy Story ride in Disneyland is not half as fun as the one in California Adventure. More difficult, darker, a bit jerkier. Oddly enough, the lines for that get crazy pretty quick too.

After how big of a hit the spinning ladybug was yesterday taking Bug on the teacups just seemed the right choice. Turns out it was one of the best rides of the trip. She just giggled and giggled and giggled. Probably my favorite moment ever.

Right across the way were the Storybook Canal Boats. They were cute, but not as great as I was hoping. I was told they are better at night when they are all lit up (I can only imagine, it would be awesome) but I enjoyed it all the same. I think Bug really liked seeing what the princess castles really looked like. While on the boats Bug caught sight of Casey' Jr's train and she really wanted to go on it, so we did. There was something so enjoyable about letting her make all the choices. We did what she wanted to do and when.

I'm sure it'll get easier to navigate but today I'm confused as we to find the way around. I'm very thankful that the employees are quite friendly, at least the ones I've interacted with. I don't understand why Pixie Hollow is at the base of the Matterhorn or why Merida is literally across the path from It's a Small World. Even worse, Rapunzel is behind the castle. I'm confused. So very confused.

Turns out Pixie Hollow gets crazy lines too. It's such a relief that Moose is content to just sleep in the carrier. I look a bit ridiculous but luckily for me I've never been one to care about that too much. Bug is doing fantastic with her patience. I did not realize that Princess Hunting is an all day affair. The crowds aren't insane, but it is beyond my normal comfort level. While waiting for Tinkerbell and Rosetta the employee explained to Bug how while we make our way through the line we get sprinkled with pixie dust and start shrinking which is why the grass is bigger than us and the fairies are the same size. Tinkerbell seemed confused that Bug didn't have wings which they realized means she must be a princess. Always modest, Bug told them she's not a really real princess, just dressed up like one. I love her!

We did not get back to Fantasy Faire in time to see the any of the princesses without a line marked at over an hour wait but we did aim to get there in time for the show. Unfortunately it turns out if you get there on time, you have to wait outside craning your neck to see over the people who thought ahead. She really wanted to see the show (it was enjoyable and cute) so I held her up so she could see. I've been really good about keeping Moose covered with a blanket however it seems while holding her, or adjusting, or something I let one of his legs become exposed and it got a little burn. At least I'm consistent about burning my kids at delicate ages...

After the show we saw Rapunzel and Flynn Ryder but they wouldn't let us go say hi even though other guests were already there. When they left Bug started flipping that we needed to follow them so we could say hi. I chased (after getting the stroller) as best I could, but I lost them. We wandered around looking for them and just as I was about to give up I found her tower where we could get in line to meet her. It got really hot, but we made it before they closed the line. Wheh! Rapunzel was really sweet and was excited to have a whole page to draw on. Bug was soooo excited and happy to talk to her.

Moose and Moose on the rivers of America

After all the excitement of the morning, or at least all the waiting, we decided to head to New Orleans Square to try the Mickey Beignets and Mint Julips (virgin). I wasn't impressed, they were just like the Beignets I made at home. The day started warming up but I convinced Bug to let us wait to meet Tigger and Eeyore. I told her how they are some of my favorite characters and she got really excited. Too excited. She was climbing (flipping) on the bars and flipped right into the rocks. I calmed her down just before it was our turn. Then I guess it was Tigger and Eeyore's break because they left (we were next) and Pooh came out. She was not happy. From there it turned into "I want to go back to the hotel with Mamaw!".

I was disappointed and a little sad that we didn't last long enough to see the parade- we did get to see a crazy guy get arrested ("Disneyland is censoring your! They don't want you to take pictures! They are working with the Aliens!!!") - but it was a nice day alone with the kids. They both did great.

Even though Mamaw was supposed to be at work until dinner we chose to head back to the hotel anyway. Turned out for us that Mamaw came home early so we all went out for an adventure this evening. Portillo's here we come! Having an extra hand is so much better!

Downtown Disney

Naturally, Disney would have something to do when you're not in one of the two parks. And naturally, downtown Disney is right in the middle of the parks.

To get in you have to pass through the same security gate outside the park. I honestly have no idea what it actually accomplishes but I suppose a false sense of security is better than no security at all. 

In the front of downtown Disney is the biggest Disney store I've ever seen in my life. I'd swear it's a block long. At least the size of 4 or 5 stores combined. I feel silly for not realizing that Disney had that many products to sell to the public. Even fancy purses.

Downtown Disney is a shopping center for just about anything your heart desires. The street venders had the feeling of Disney to them. There was a calligrapher that did letters out of princesses and had I been able to figure out where and why I'd hang it, I probably would have purchased it for Bug (who hadn't noticed it). Personally, I'm not a big fan of shopping but I had a good time looking at the plethora of Disney items. My kids sure enjoyed it too and both of them walked away with new toys: Hello Jessie and Woody dolls!

Finding food was more interesting given the numerous choices to be had. The price tag was more than I'm typically comfortable with but I suppose it was similar if not slightly better than inside the parks. We settled on a New Orleans themed fast food joint. The food was satisfying enough but at the sit-down restaurant end of it we purchased dessert and that was divine. I had chocolate brioche bread pudding. 

The only complication of our day was when Bug had to use the restroom during dinner. The sign clearly stated no restroom for customers and the closest one I knew of wasn't very close. The manager of the restaurant had been taking out the trash when he passed us and overheard our conversation. I was thrilled when he offered to let Bug use the employee bathroom. 

I think it's fair to say this has been my first experience somewhere that all the employees genuinely seem happy to be working. It makes a difference for me to be willing to spend my money. 

California Adventure

Ohmagawd, OhMaGawd, OHMAGAWD! I am in Disney's California Adventure. We are in Disney's California Adventure!

I feel like a kid in a candy store. I had fun admiring the themed buildings at Knott's Berry but now after seeing this that seemed like a waste of time. This place is incredible. I am actually understanding Disney Magic, it's here.

We've been inside the gates just a few minutes and already I've met Goofy and I feel like I've left and gone to yesteryear. I suppose I have. And this. Is. Awesome.

Before coming I signed up for Touring Plans so we could maximize our enjoyment of the park with minimal work. Boy Howdy did it prove to be worth every penny and then some.

I know I'm a dork but all the amazing backdrops for photo ops thrill me. Bug, not so much. Luckily,  our first stop was Bug Land to ride Heimlichs Chew Chew train. Who knew a little train with funny sounds and smells could be so enjoyable even with a baby strapped to my chest. This is promising to be a great day.

Fast Passes are wonderful. They are making the day so easy and with our Touring Plan it's like the park is set up for our personal pleasure. Just as we finish in a area, we get to the parade at the perfect time which ends in time for our fast passes and then we're done in perfect time for a show. I'm seriously loving it.

Bug loved King Triton's Carousel and every time we'd pass the far wall (where King Triton is) she'd get super excited and point to him. Took me 3 passes before I figured out what she was saying or pointing to.

We got lucky and Moose loves rides. Even the dark ones. We got to do the Toy Story *shooting* ride which was so much fun. We did try to do it a second time but Bug really had to go potty and we didn't have someone to hold our place in line and it was too long to return to the end and still get to our show.

I am super grateful that I'm able to do some adult rides too. California Adventure is so much fun! While Mom and Debby were in line to go on it the chitlens and I were just hanging out when Bug spotted Woody across the boardwalk. She got super excited and started pointing to him wanting to go say hi. I was not expecting her to get excited over anything but princesses especially when she was so mad having to be near Goofy (which she later wanted to go back and do over). It was cute and I was so happy that she got so comfortable so quick.

I really loved the parade. Moose was asleep but he woke up when all the loud music started. I have to admit I was terribly lost many times in the park but the themed buildings are so fun to look at I don't even mind when I'm lost.

On our way to see the Aladdin show Bug saw Jake and totally *girl groupie style* freaked out wanting us to turn around so she could meet him. I didn't even know she had a little crush on him.

As our major splurge I knew I wanted to have a character meal so Bug could meet a bunch of princesses for sure. I was really surprised at the quality of the food, it was delicious. I upset Bug just before Cinderella (the first princess) got to our table so she wanted nothing to do with her. She was happier by the next princess and then was upset that she didn't get a picture with Cinderella (theme of the day) but they were really great about letting us come back later so she could spend a moment with her. Disney really cares about making your day magical.

At the end of the night we got spots on the bridge to watch World of Color. It was amazing. The show was great, watching it with my children was the most special gift I could have received.

I had promised Bug that we'd do the Under the Sea ride (may have forgotten about it) so we went to ride it after World of Color. We were up early, and it was late when the show ended, and there was some drama before we got on the ride so by the time we got through the line (very short) Bug fell asleep. She didn't wake up for the ride either. I was sad for her but truth be told it was quite hilarious.

Knotts Berry Farm

Tickets have been purchased, car has been packed, let's get this show on the road.

First stop: Knotts Berry Farm- because 4 days in Disneyland may not be enough (totally kidding).

Growing up I always heard about Knott's Berry Farm. The extent of my knowledge was that they made yummy jam. I figured the farm was just that: where they made jam. As an adult I've seen ticket coupons for the place but never bothered to investigate the place farther.

Turns out it is quite the theme park for the crowd that likes fast adventure rides. Could be fun, but not for a 3 year old who isn't tall enough and certainly not for an infant. That leaves a few snoopy side shows, and a stage coach that gets robbed. The waters were insanely priced, like first born child priced, and the food wasn't appealing. Luckily, we planned on eating at the diner outside the park.

A few hours of wandering around was enough for us before getting our chicken dinner. Me oh my those portions were huge.  Pretty tasty though.

Drowsy Driving

School has started with a hiccup. I ordered the wrong textbook and I'm leaving for vacation but still have an assignment due while I'm away. Oops. I'm so glad Amazon has quick shipping but now I have to read the chapter, pack three bags of clothes, and organize all the food. By 4am. Good thing I don't plan on sleeping much.

I managed to get a couple of hours of sleep before we hit the road for Aniheim. It's dark and chilly at this hour, I kind of like it. I know I'm tired and not fit to drive so I'm not however, apparently there is a trucker on the road that didn't get that memo.

First bus ride!

While driving down I5 outside of Colinga near sunrise we noticed a semi truck that keeps swerving all over the road. For safety sake we pass him only to notice that the driver is clearly falling asleep: closing his eyes and bobbing his head. I don't work in dispatch so I want to call local Highway Patrol but the ex-dispatcher in the car is positive that someone else will have called. Well, isn't that always true. We all think someone is sure to have done it, so nobody ever does it. I think all my guilting won (or they just wanted to shut me up) because I kept asking how'd we feel if we saw on the news tonight that a truck driver feel asleep at the wheel and killed a family. That's always how it goes you know, it's always the perfect Jones family with their 2 and a half kids that gets killed by the irresponsible person leaving just the oldest child maimed for life physically and now an orphan.

3 of us are sharing this bed...

Fate must have been on our side because there is a highway patrolmen on the side of the road finishing a traffic stop. We pull over so mom can run back and warn him about the straying truck that will be passing soon. Too soon. Debby and I watched as the truck literally almost plowed into the police car with my mother standing in front of it. You know that place where the tow truck drivers call the kill zone because it's in between two vehicles and if someone hits the back car (most likely place to hit) then the person in the middle will get squished to death? Yea, that place. It was scary but the semi truck pulled away in time to miss them, mom warned the patrolman, and he took off like a speeding bullet getting him off the road. Good deed for the day done.

Our reward: we can see the park from the Hotel! We even get to go explore Downtown Disney this evening to exchange my ticket for an extra day.