Thanksgiving, Disney Style

For Thanksgiving, I love nothing more than to be surrounded by family and stuffed to the gills with turkey and all the fixins.

This year, however, we decided to stay home while our families were in other locales, both cold and warm. What to do? Go to Disneyland, of course. The benefits of annual passes and living only 15 minutes from the Happiest Place on Earth were never more apparent than on November 25, 2010.

The morning dawned crisp, cool, and sunny. Perfect weather for a day at the Park.



The crowds we had heard would descend upon the Magic Kingdom on Thanksgiving Day? Yes, they were there, but honestly, the massive lines for rides were focused on the big coasters. We only waited 5-10 minutes for every single kiddie ride. And California Great Adventure park, adjacent to Disneyland? Practically deserted, but with plenty for us to do.

Immediately upon arrival, we happened upon a quick photo op with a Chipmunk.



Then on to our traditional first ride, It's a Small World (less than 5 minute wait time, seriously).


[notice the time on the castle clock - yes, we are that insane family that arrives right when the park first opens - Mama takes full credit for those crazy genes]

The entire ride was decked out for the holidays. Well, one holiday in particular, involving a bearded man and his reindeer. Still, a few holiday neutral wishes were included.


Over at California Great Adventure, we saw shows for High School Musical, Mickey and Friends, and Disney Dance Crew, involving a seriously fly Mickey poppin' and lockin'.



Once of Lauren's favorite rides? Bumper cars. She loved them so much Mama and Daddy each took her for a spin.





As the sun began its initial descent, we hightailed it back to the main park to secure prime curbside seats for the Holiday Parade. Sporting Minnie princess ears, we waited for the fun to begin.





The first float slowly rolled down Main Street U.S.A.



Needless to say, our little dreamer was swept up in the fantasy of it all.



After a non-traditional dinner of Chinese food (a big hit with Miss L), we skipped on home, our bellies and hearts full of thanks. Not just for a wonderful day, but for all of the blessings in our lives.