California Adventures

We had the opportunity to go to California for our family vacation and play at the beach and spend 3 days at Disneyland/California Adventure.  Thanks to a gracious family who let us stay in their home and to the military for offering a 3 day park hopper between D and CA, we had a blast!  Doug's oldest brother's family and Mom and Dad McArthur were there as well.

All the kids (cousins) excited to play at Disney!

 The new carsland.

 Flying rocketships.

 Nemo's underwater adventure.

 Tea cups

 Colt's favorite was the kiddie roller coaster that we stood in line for 30 minutes each time in the 100 degree weather....what we do to hear our kid say "aaaaaaaaaaaaaawesome!!!!!"

Jax made a lot of wishes in the wishing wells while we were there.

 Our daily naps were had in the air conditioned Mr. Lincoln theater hall.

 This vocal group performed a'capela patriotic songs that were mesmerizing...such talent!!!

 Watching the parade.

Our favorite- Mary Poppins!!!

 Checking out the map...making a plan.

Colt loved driving a car!

 Splash Mountain was really fun...we tried to sneak Colt on it but they caught us right before we got on the ride.  Doug's mom had a laugh that she and Doug had the same facial expression. Doug said his was intention though =),

 Talon loved the fast ones like Thunder Mountain...Jax not so much.

 Buzz Lightyear 3-D shooting was another favorite.  Doug was quite competitive =).

 Our view from our Ferris Wheel car. A 4.4 earthquake occurred while we were on the ride and had no idea.  They shut all the rides down after we got off for a short while.

 Jax warmed up to this ride and we did it 5 times!  It was definitely the favorite- Grizzly Bear Rapids.

Jedi Knight Training...we were thrilled when they picked both Jax and Tal to participate.  They LOVED it and even got to fight Darth Vader.

 Now "Certified" to fight the dark force with GOOD.

 Then they made their very own lightsabers.

 Colt and I danced at the dance party filled with bubbles and characters.

 Meeting Pluto and Goofy.

 Oh yes, corn dogs for Doug.

 Grandma and Grandpa Mac were so much fun to have around.  They rode rides with the boys, took many pictures (most of these pics they took), helped carry tired boys, and would take turns watching Colt when he wasn't tall enough so Doug and I could take the taller two.  We love the joy they find in our kids!

Beautiful water light show in front of Mickey.
It was magical and we had a great time.  Next time we go back, everyone needs to be 42" so we can do all the rides together. All the smiles made it a wonderful experience and we're so thankful we were able to go.

BTW, Talon's kindergarten teacher called and asked where he was since he did not make their first day of school.  I told her we were at Disneyland...sometimes that's more important right?  =)