Everything Hurts & I Need A Bathroom! A First Timer's Guide to 2018's Disneyland (COMPLETE)

Hook Tripped A Child, I'm Actually Snow White BUT REMEMBER TO LOOK AT THE GOAT!
January 10th, 2018

I left off with us just getting off of Space Mountain and planning on meeting up with my friend, Kinzie!

Kinzie had continued to text me while we were on the ride until she finally said "I'll just wait here." After we got off, I called her and tracked her down to right in front of the Pizza Port. Hugs were exchanged, I introduced Raven and her to each other. Both Raven and Kinzie were feeling a bit famished and since Pizza Port was right there, we decided to head in. I wasn't feeling all that hungry yet so I went to get a table while they all ordered.

While at the table on my own, I decided to do some Instagramming to catch up on my day. Being a full-time Disneygrammer along with trying to enjoy your vacation is some really hard work, lemme tell ya...

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Eventually they caught up with me with their meals and we got our first moment of the day to relax (sorry no pics of what they got. I apologize.) Kinzie and I caught up since it had been a little over a month since we last saw each other. Then I told her about Raven & I ours day as well as tried to give her a newbies intro into FastPass & MaxPass. It was a bit difficult but we got Kinzie on track with us. We also came to discover that she didn't have a Park Hopper pass just a one day one so that basically made our decision for us on that we were going to stay in Disneyland (a smart choice in retrospect). We hadn't made new FPs after getting off SM so we decided to do them now. I saw the Matterhorn had some coming soon so we all snagged some of those. The time was relatively sooner than we expected so as soon as they were both finished eating, we were up and off to the Matterhorn.

The waits were now really starting to build up. By the time we had managed to find our way out of the slowly congesting Tomorrowland to the Matterhorn, it had a wait all around the side of the mountain, ensuring us we had made the right choice by getting our FPs when we did for it considering we never got to ride it earlier in the day. As we were rounding the corner to get to the main entrance (there might be two tracks but just like Space at WDW, Matterhorn only has ONE FastPass), I decided to stop a moment to get a quick pic of the mountain.



Eventually we found the weirdly elusive FP entrance. We still had a minute or two until it was our time so we chilled out front then went right on to swipe in. In the queue, we were all fairly entertained by the Swiss accent of the safety spiel guy in line. I tried to imitate it but ended up making some weird turns into German accents and other European accents that did not fit. I don't even know, but Matterhorn has a bit of a wild line so it made the time go by. I barely even paid attention to which side of the moment we were on. I think it was Tomorrowland. We eventually got both sides but I'm getting ahead of myself.

I DO remember getting the front row for my first ride! I believe Kinzie was right behind me with Raven in the back of the front bobsled. I was so pumped for that and this ride. I'd always heard mixed reviews, generally the negative being about the bumpiness of the ride, which usually is something that doesn't bother me so I was SURE I was going to love it.

And what do you know? I DID.

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Take this lightly but it almost did everything that Expedition Everest is failing to do right now. They had such cool effects with their Yeti including TWO Yetis that ACTUALLY MOVE. Seriously, this had me shook. Yeah, it was BUMPY, but omg it was SO MUCH FUN. And I thought I'd be prepared for the splashdown break but it got me WET. Luckily the day was at its warmest so I wasn't shivering, but again SHOOK.

Once we got off, we immediately went to finding another FastPass to book. We saw Big Thunder had one in about two hours so we got that one. In the mean time, we decided to continue wandering around Fantasyland. We were checking the app for wait times and saw that a lot of the FLand dark rides were pretty quiet so we were going to head that way. However as we were about to do that, Raven grabbed my arm and dragged me over towards Small World and was like "I have a surprise." I was very confused. Kinzie looked confused, but grinned because she knew how much I hated being out-of-the-loop.

On the way over, I lucky guessed and asked, "Is Peter Pan coming out?"

Raven flatly said, "Yes."

If y'all didn't follow my previous TR, Peter Pan is my FAVORITE. Favorite to meet, favorite character. I'm all about the green bean lost boy and I was SOOOOOO excited to meet him and maybe get him to give me a tour of Fantasyland since he just goes where pleaseths around here. Apparently the Disneyland app said he'd be out by Small World in like ten minutes so we went over to the sitting area by the little pond to wait. There was definitely a little crew of people waiting to meet him and we all were awkwardly made eye contact while waiting as if fighting for who would get to talk with him first and the longest. Pan fans are weird.

Things were about to get weirder though.

A small crew of two girls and two guys came by, all about our age, and had one of them sit down and video them doing... I don't know what. I'm still trying to figure out what was happening. Luckily I also stealthily pulled up my snap to get my own little clip of what was happening. Maybe you'll have a better idea for what these three were doing.

Click to watch!


Yeah, I'm... confusion.

Anyways, the waiting continued... and continued... and continued... and CONTINUED.

No Peter.

We were even more confusion than before at this point. I mean, it was the first time we were using the app for set times for characters so they might not be accurate, but Raven, a native, was also wondering what was up. I eventually made the executive decision to go elsewhere in five minutes since we were totally wasting time just sitting there.

Five minutes went by...

Still no Peter.

We got up to go and began walking away when I spotted a little green ginger running our way. We stopped and right as Peter shot me with finger guns with two lost boys in tow.

Yup, we found him and...

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Captain Hook too!

I think the videos I took are more fun to watch to explain the situation than me just writing so enjoy Timmy & co.'s encounter with a loose Pan at Disneyland.

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Like we said, Peter wasn't out for a M&G. He was out to play with the younger ones. I know he sometimes does this with the older kids, but there were a lot of kids younger than 12 around so it was in my better interest to just watch and I mean, as you can tell, it was QUITE entertaining. We decided then though that we would check back on my favorite lost boy another day or later when he wasn't doing his own thing.

It was back to the heart of Fantasyland for some darker entertainment faire. Pinocchio's Daring Journey and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride were the two dark rides in Disneyland's Fantasyland that weren't currently at MK or that I hadn't ridden there (I had visited MK before Snow White's Scary Adventures closed and got to ride it) so those were our two options. Pinocchio had the shorter wait so off to Pleasure Island, we went!

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I had just missed when the Blue Fairy disappears. Honestly the best part of the ride.

I thought it was really cute. Cute I say lightly because Pinocchio is honestly one of if not THE most terrifying Disney film (That Coachman will haunt my nightmares forever), but it was enjoyable. Very classic Disney dark ride. Not topping my love of the PERFECTION that is Haunted Mansion, but again very cute and fun.

We still had some time before our FP at Big Thunder, but not too much so we were trying to figure out what to do that wasn't just sitting around. I wanted pics by Snow White's Wishing Well so we headed over thattaways. When we got over, Aurora was out meeting guests. Aurora's one of my faves as I've mentioned so I totally would've jumped in, but not only was the line a bit long the CM manning it was steadfast holding the end of it and turning people away. No meeting Aurora right then, but nobody was in the Wishing Well area so I got to have a photoshoot fit for a fair princess, no people blocking the shots.









My favorite has to be the first one of me looking down the Wishing Well. It was a tight squeeze there cause Aurora was meeting her loyal subjects right next to it, but we managed. All the other shots I feel like my smile looks forced. Oh well, at least I have the first one.

Once we had finished our quick little photoshoot we began making our way on over to Frontierland to go ride Big Thunder. Raven took us into Fantasyland since it would be a bit quicker and we had time so maybe we could go meet up with some other characters. Unfortunately, we didn't see anyone of interest on our way over. However, Raven led us right to where the entrance to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge was going to be. We even managed to find a hole in the tarp covering the gaps in the wood to see what was going on. Nothing interesting if you're wondering, just construction workers strolling around, but I guess that's still cool.

There also was a sign advertising for the new Disneyland land so I had to get a pic. Unfortunately Kinzie's not a photographer and Raven was too busy trying to get what she could from the little peephole.



Don't worry, Raven eventually grabbed the camera and got a decent shot.



That's better.

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Sorry, couldn't resist.

Anyways, we rounded the corner past the Big Thunder wall to Rainbow Ridge and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad itself. We timed it perfectly and were able to go right on into the FP line. I was really excited to ride this one as I've heard it's MUCH better than WDW's especially after the effects they added during the last refurb. Really was hoping those would make it to WDW's but no. Typical.

Anyways, let's take a ride with Timmy & co. on BTMRR!

Click to watch!


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Consensus? Yes, SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much better than WDW's. More thrilling. The effects are awesome. It also felt a little longer for some reason. AND THE GOAT TRICK. OMG YAS IT WORKED. I was definitely STANNING this one after that ride. Would have to come back at night and ride again from the back. The best spot and best time for BTMRR.

After we got off, we went on the Disneyland app to see what other rides I wanted to conquer. All my must-dos were pretty covered in terms of attractions. We hadn't been to every land though. I was curious to see Critter Country though so we started heading that way. As we meandered out of Frontierland, we ran into the Disneyland band casually coming through. Kinzie got very excited when they came through bringing back more childhood memories of being stalked by them lol One even waved at her as we passed.

Click to watch!


We continued on from Frontierland into New Orleans Square, where I got a better look at the place. Honestly I fell in love pretty instantly. New Orleans is at the top of my list of cities I hope to visit with San Fran a close second. The food is the main draw there because I LOVE Creole cuisine. Gumbo, beignets, jambalaya, GIMME IT ALL. Then, Mardi Gras and the French-inspired architecture... I was in heaven, even just walking on by Disney's slice of New Orleans. The bliss was short lived because then we were at MY MANSION.

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Only one solution to be locked out from my beloved ghoulish abode.





Nah, I want to be rehired by Disney not BANNED FOR LIFE (It's a thing. IT IS.)

At least I got to see some of the outer Haunted Mansion Holiday decor before it was all fully down. After that little photo shoot and near felony though, it was all grim grinning Timmy.

BUT IT WAS TIME FOR CRITTER COUNTRY, A NEVER BEFORE SEEN LAND FOR PRINCE TIMOTHY!! LET'S GET THOSE REAL GRINS GOING AGAIN!


Continued Here
 
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Those Peter Pan videos are too cute. You had such fun character interaction/watching!

And the climbing the fence to Haunted Mansion made me laugh out loud. May be me on our trip because so much is going to be down...
 
Captain Hook tripping the kid...:lmao::lmao:I lost it.
I don't care what anyone else thinks... it was funny. :duck:
Haunted Mansion was closed when we were there also! B-U-M-M-E-R. I would've given you a boost up that gate if you would've agreed to pull me up afterwards. HM was on my must-do list. (And it still is.)
Loving the TR and your videos.
Can't wait to read more... brang it on.
 


I was witting on the back side of Plaza Inn when I was there (about a week before you), and Peter and Hook came out. Hook went to take someone's lunch and Peter scolded, "No! Wait til they're not looking!"

Big Thunder is my fave. What's the 'goat trick'?
 
Those Peter Pan videos are too cute. You had such fun character interaction/watching!

And the climbing the fence to Haunted Mansion made me laugh out loud. May be me on our trip because so much is going to be down...

It was so entertaining! I wish we could've just spent all day chasing him around, but maybe some other time hehe

Ugh, SO MUCH WAS DOWN FOR ME. I'm so ready to go back so I can ride everything that was closed, especially Mansion.

Captain Hook tripping the kid...:lmao::lmao:I lost it.
I don't care what anyone else thinks... it was funny. :duck:
Haunted Mansion was closed when we were there also! B-U-M-M-E-R. I would've given you a boost up that gate if you would've agreed to pull me up afterwards. HM was on my must-do list. (And it still is.)
Loving the TR and your videos.
Can't wait to read more... brang it on.

It was so funny. I was quietly giggling. There was so much commotion everything was hilarious.

Aww darn, wish you were there, I would've taken you up on that. Hopefully we'll get to go back soon and get to ride it the proper way.

Thank you, glad you're enjoying it so far! :mickeyjum

You guys were really making great use of MaxPass and getting on all the good rides! So fun to see Peter & Captain Hook out interacting!

MaxPass was such a blessing. 10/10 highly recommend. And omg they were so cute, I def need to actually meet them next time.

I was witting on the back side of Plaza Inn when I was there (about a week before you), and Peter and Hook came out. Hook went to take someone's lunch and Peter scolded, "No! Wait til they're not looking!"

Big Thunder is my fave. What's the 'goat trick'?

OMG that's hysterical. That's probz the best place to wait for characters since they all tend to go by there.

And the Goat trick is that there is a goat with dynamite in his mouth that stands on a hill overlooking one of the drops (if I recall correctly, it's the one that's completely outside). If you look directly at him, it makes the drop feel much faster. It's pretty cool.
 
Dear Lord, I was WAITING, silly autocorrect...

I love that goat. My DD13 thinks he's the one who set the dynamite... and based on his crafty look, I'd say she could be right! I'm totally going to try just staring at him now. I usually end up taking photos of Galaxy's Edge (SW Land really) construction at that point. I'll remember it for when I go back in the fall!
 


Being a full-time Disneygrammer along with trying to enjoy your vacation is some really hard work, lemme tell ya...

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Wow, it must be so tough! A Disneygrammer never rests!

I DO remember getting the front row for my first ride!

Yay!!

I was SURE I was going to love it.

And what do you know? I DID.

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Awesome! :hyper:

Raven grabbed my arm and dragged me over towards Small World and was like "I have a surprise." I was very confused. Kinzie looked confused, but grinned because she knew how much I hated being out-of-the-loop.

On the way over, I lucky guessed and asked, "Is Peter Pan coming out?"

Raven flatly said, "Yes."

Haha poor Raven, just wanted to surprise you. But so exciting!

Captain Hook too!

:hyper: omg yay!

I know he sometimes does this with the older kids, but there were a lot of kids younger than 12 around so it was in my better interest to just watch and I mean, as you can tell, it was QUITE entertaining.

That's too bad that you didn't get an actual meet, but this is really cute.

Consensus? Yes, SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much better than WDW's. More thrilling. The effects are awesome. It also felt a little longer for some reason. AND THE GOAT TRICK. OMG YAS IT WORKED. I was definitely STANNING this one after that ride. Would have to come back at night and ride again from the back. The best spot and best time for BTMRR.

I really want to ride this! I love BTMRR and I think this would be awesome!


I'm so sad for you. :sad1:
 
Wow, it must be so tough! A Disneygrammer never rests!

It's a HARD. KNOCK. LIFE.

Haha poor Raven, just wanted to surprise you. But so exciting!

They were just being extra and sweet. It's VERY hard to surprise me, especially in a Disney park.

That's too bad that you didn't get an actual meet, but this is really cute.

I've met him enough that this was far more entertaining tbh

I really want to ride this! I love BTMRR and I think this would be awesome!

Oh you will be VERY shook by this one and how much better it is in comparison to WDW's. SHOOK.

I'm so sad for you. :sad1:

Well read the next update and you won't feel so sad ;)
 
Oh my I've gotten so far behind. I have been very ill for the last month and trying to do Christmas, work and care for my elderly mother and grandkids. I'm just getting well the last couple weeks so I'm way behind. Just skimming through, things look so exciting from what I've read. I will try to get caught up, but I'm leaving for a trip myself in a couple days, for the next week...not Disney though.
A few comments: Your opinions pretty much coincide with what I commented on in your pre-trip. I love Pirates, it has changed some since it first opened but it's fabulous. As far as New Orleans square, I love it....so much cleaner than the actual N.O. (no offense to anyone from there) and actually the food in the real N.O. is so much better than you could even imagine. (SF, you MUST get there when you can...a fabulous city). I am so sad that you didn't get to go to visit the GGG at HM! To me it's still iconic late Walt and is very realistic when compared to the plantations in Louisiana. We went on a tour once when we were there way back in the early 60's and HM just brings back memories of that (I KNOW I saw some ghosts at those plantations!).
When I get back I'll read and comment more. All in all it looks like a great trip...AND I hear you have even more exciting news.
 
Oh my I've gotten so far behind. I have been very ill for the last month and trying to do Christmas, work and care for my elderly mother and grandkids. I'm just getting well the last couple weeks so I'm way behind. Just skimming through, things look so exciting from what I've read. I will try to get caught up, but I'm leaving for a trip myself in a couple days, for the next week...not Disney though.
A few comments: Your opinions pretty much coincide with what I commented on in your pre-trip. I love Pirates, it has changed some since it first opened but it's fabulous. As far as New Orleans square, I love it....so much cleaner than the actual N.O. (no offense to anyone from there) and actually the food in the real N.O. is so much better than you could even imagine. (SF, you MUST get there when you can...a fabulous city). I am so sad that you didn't get to go to visit the GGG at HM! To me it's still iconic late Walt and is very realistic when compared to the plantations in Louisiana. We went on a tour once when we were there way back in the early 60's and HM just brings back memories of that (I KNOW I saw some ghosts at those plantations!).
When I get back I'll read and comment more. All in all it looks like a great trip...AND I hear you have even more exciting news.

Awww, I'm sorry to hear that. Being sick is never any fun and this flu season has been TERRIBLE. Glad to hear you're feeling better though! Take your time catching up, I'll probably be starting to slow down a lot real soon so you'll have time guaranteed. :thumbsup2

And yeah, pretty much. All of that sounds exactly like I felt. Really hope I'll get to the real NO one day as well as SF. So many places to see with so little money in my pocket lol Def gonna need to get on the OG HM asap, I really do. Good thing I'll be back sooner than everyone thinks hehe ;) Looking forward to more of your comments from catching up :teeth:
 
Hello everyone!

"Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler"
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HAPPY MARDI GRAS!

&

HAPPY GALENTINE'S DAY!
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So much going on today, wow. I'll be in classes most of today so I won't waste time but I have a BIG, HUGE announcement for y'all.

Y'all remember I once did a little thing called the Disney College Program at Disney World? Furthermore, did you know by having completed that I am eligible to do another program that is exclusively over the summer at either Disneyland OR Disney World?

Well I applied for that a little over a week ago today and come last Friday... I got this email!



:tinker:YAS, TIMMY'S GOING BACK TO WORK FOR DISNEY! :tinker:
AND WHAT ELSE? AT DISNEYLAND!!!!!
AND MORE? BACK IN CUSTODIAL!!!

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I was honestly shaking when I found out. It happened so quickly. I waited A MONTH for when I got accepted the first time. Four days was just too quick BUT HERE WE ARE ALREADY READY FOR PART TWO OF MY CM ADVENTURES!!!

I'm not sure what the plan is yet for how I'm going to document. My instas will definitely be consistently updated (@thatdisneykween and @amagnoliainmay), but... I'm considering another project to keep me occupied while on the West Coast this summer. Stay tuned for that. All will come together on May 21st when I arrive for an extended stay in Cali.

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Until then, let's finish what we already started and continue along with my first day ever at Disneyland (and what an aptly named chapter we have following this announcement! Wow.)

A Quick Reminder That I Used to Have The Best Boss EVER

January 10th, 2018

As I mentioned previously, we were on our way to Critter Country to change our Grim Grinning day into a Zip-A-Dee-Doh-Dah one!



Unfortunately, Splash Mountain was under refurbishment (and likewise, it was MUCH too cold out to ride) so no Zip-A-Dee-Doh-Dah day, but that's not ALL there was to Critter Country. They have their own version of Winnie the Pooh over here and with little wait, we decided to hop in line for a rare non-FP ride today. While we were in line, I checked my phone to see @Lesley Wake had texted me to say she was coming to Disneyland today! We had planned to meet up that Friday, my last day in the parks, but she was in the mood for some Disneyland magic. Meanwhile, Kinzie and Raven had decided to look at other attractions to get FPs for. We hadn't been to Toontown yet so Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin seemed like a good choice so I let her know that we were going to head that way after we got off Pooh then I pocketed my phone right as we were getting loaded on.

I don't have any pics or vids of Pooh since a) I forgot to save them off my snap and b) it's basically the same as MK's. HOWEVER, I do think MK's is better. First, because MK has the cool interactive queue, but also there definitely were some scenes missing on this ride or they were in an order that didn't exactly make sense like it does at MK's. Like the Tigger scene is completely gone so you don't get to bounce with Tigger, which was ALWAYS my favorite part of MK's. Honestly, that made it all a let-down. However, Raven reminded me that this used to be where Disneyland's Country Bear Jamboree (one of my FAVES at Magic Kingdom) was and right before you go through owl's house, if you look behind you, you can see the three moose mounted on the wall. I looked and audibly screamed. Uggggghhhh I MISS CBJ SO SO MUCH! It was nice to have a little piece of home or at least an homage to a former attraction. Too bad Disneyland couldn't have just kept their CBJ alongside MK's *sad sigh*.

We got off and we all decided it was time for a snack. Pooh's Corner was right next to the attraction so we decided to go get some candy. Right as we walked in though, I heard my name. I turned around and there was Miss Lesley! I told her to meet us in Toontown so I was shocked to see her catch up with so quick. We went right in for hugs like every casual DISer friend and I introduced her to Raven & Kinzie. We were all rearing for some sugar so then we hopped in line to get some goodies. Lesley opted out, but we weren't too long in line. Raven & I both got the classic Mickey rice krispy, the one where they decorate it to look like his classic outfit and Kinzie got the M&M one drizzled with chocolate.

After we got out of line, we all got to catching up with Lesley. Apparently I was super late in reading her texts as she was already in the park by the time I texted her and she was following my Insta so she guessed we'd be in Critter Country and voila, she found us! She also made herself her own Roger Rabbit FP so we could all head over together. Officially, the party of 3 becoming a party of 4! What a squad! We began talking about how I was feeling about Disneyland so far in comparison to my much larger Disney World home. I began regaling the crowd with my usual CP stories and mentioned Raven was a CP too (which is how we met) and Lesley then remembered she had some Disney Programs Alumni pins on hand. Originally one was meant for @Newsies (who I may or may not just tagged because she hasn't kept up with this report), but she unfortunately didn't end up going to Disneyland with her college friend so she gave it to Raven instead. They were both super cute and we thanked Lesley for such a sweet gift. Then Raven & I took a cute little selfie of us with the pins.



I put mine proudly on my bag strap, just out of convenience while Raven did the smart thing and put it in her pocket.

We then headed outside to start to make our way over to Toontown. Before we did, I had to get a pic of us in front of Pooh's corner eating our Mickey Rice Krispies. Luckily Lesley was more than happy to oblige to take the pic for us. However, right as we were getting our treats out, mine slide off its popsicle stick into the bag. Thank goodness it happened before I took it out, but omg it was hilarious when I just slid out the stick and not the Rice Krispie. It was an easy fix and we got an extra cute pic if I do say so myself.



Then, we continued on our way to Toontown. There wasn't much that happened along this walk. Lesley & Raven immediately bonded over their AP passes, which Lesley actually has a Premier pass which was super cool. She alerted us to the fact she was actually already going back to WDW in March and hinted at that recently revealed trip to Disneyland Paris. We all then were talking about Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea, which is my number one for international parks I want to visit. Kinzie then chimed in because she LOVES Tokyo and has been. We all got along just fine, talking about Disney and life and adult humor (yeah, even in a Disney park, it's there). Before long, we had ended up at Toontown.

My FP, this time around since we still weren't connected, was later than everyone else in the squad, but it was time for everyone else's so we immediately went over. I didn't think twice we were having such a good conversation until I was the last one to scan in and it went blue. Bless the Cast Member, don't remember his name, but he let me re-scan and it went green so I went on in. It took a moment so I had to squeeze in front of a mother and son that had slid in front of me to catch up with the rest of them. They had already decided Lesley & I would ride together while Kinzie & Raven would ride. Raven isn't big on spinning while Lesley & I were so it worked out in my favor. I also didn't realize this ride spun, which made me excited. Right then though, my DCP pin that was on my strap fell off. Wow, I just got a nice gift and it fell off right in front of the person who gave it to me. After being berated by Kinzie for this one, I put it away and continued on down the queue like nothing really happened.

This was another ride I hadn't gotten any pics or vids on. I've never seen Who Framed Roger Rabbit? so I couldn't really follow along so Lesley and I were just spinning like crazy. A little too crazy because I ended up walking my thumb on the safety bar in the process and it was numb and sore for about an hour after. The ride was really fun and cool though. Very modern and new age compared to most Disney dark rides, at least of the ones we rode that day. I would've done without hurting my thumb, but we had fun and that's what matters.

After we got off, I could tell the day was weighing on me as it was on most everyone else so we took a breather to let us contemplate what to do next. They primarily wanted me to get food since I hadn't really eaten, but I was feeling fine so I nixed that. Kinzie really wanted to ride the Gadget's Go Coaster, which is basically the Barnstormer of Disneyland for my fellow WDW folk, but she was the only one so that wasn't happening. We checked the Disneyland app and saw the wait to go meet Mickey, the big bossman was kinda short. Obviously when you come to Disney, you've GOT to go meet the Micks, especially as a former cast member so it was decided. Time to go meet Mickey!

Before we continue with our Toontown adventures, I should mention that although I was in MK back when their Toontown existed, I never got to see it. I don't know how we missed it since I spent most of my time on that trip in Magic Kingdom, we never got over to Toontown so I was really happy to be seeing an actual Toontown and a lot of the similar landmarks that were there at Disneyland. Mickey's house being a really neat one so I was definitely freaking out over the queue as we entered, too much so I didn't get many pictures in here either, most of which were not saved.

I was really loving everything about it. Unfortunately, once we hit the actual line of people waiting to meet Mickey, Raven said, "This does not look like the 30 minute wait that was posted." Oh well, if there was any queue to get stuck in, it was definitely the one that walks you through Mickey's house. As we just scooted along through the rest of his house, I remembered I needed a pic of Lesley and I to commemorate our DISMeet so we took a moment to get that.



As we moved along, we began back on our topic of WDW versus Disneyland. I hadn't gotten around to Lesley's trip report since I was in school when I began following her PTR so she was giving us the low-down on things. She was raving about Flight of Passage and Avatarland, which I both had yet to see. Raven went to WDW back in November, a little after Lesley so she was concurring. Kinzie was so lost, but we were all saying she needs to get her butt to Florida asap. I met Kinzie following my CP so unfortunately couldn't hold that over her head. She still needs to come to Florida though.

Lesley also alerted us to the fact that MaxPass people can get PhotoPass for free. I didn't know so that made us excited since Raven was saving all the photos we were getting on her AP. Guess I'd be taking all the Mickey ones.

As we went along through the house, we came across some trick mirrors. I liked this one the most so I made us all get a pic with it.


#SkinnyLegends

Eventually, we were in the pre-show room where they play all of the new Mickey cartoons, which had varying responses from all of us. I personally enjoy them as I could NOT stand the CGI'd Fab Five that were present in the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and liked that these new cartoons seemed to hail back more to classic animation as well as more accessible storylines rather than really directing the demographic to children (which is very anti-Walt imo). Kinzie however was not a fan and really couldn't get it. We also got into how this style of animation is going to be used in the new Mickey ride at Studios, which I already refuse to ride. You do not take away my beloved Great Movie Ride and expect me to ride its predecessor that HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE GRAUMANS CHINESE THEATER OR THE ORIGINAL INTENTION OF STUDIOS, but I digress.

Eventually, we had made it to the front and were told Mickey was shooting some scenes for his next big movie. We all were trying to guess which movie it would be and what Mickey would be wearing. I was hoping for Steamboat Willie black-and-white Mickey because my roommate from my CP had said he would lose his mind if I got a photo of him in that. I was hoping for that or his band concert outfit since those are quite rare. When we were let into the room, we were slightly disappointed to see him in his more classic Mickey suit. It was ok with me. He only meets at the Character Spot in Epcot in that outfit at Disney World and Character Spot is a bit of a mess for me so I never met him there enough so I was really excited for this. The group consensus was I would meet him by myself since apparently it was a big deal after meeting him a KATRILLION times in Disney World that I'd meet him alone in Disneyland for the first time. Not that I'm complaining I love meeting Mickey on my lonesome, but logic (and I met him alone a lot).

Still, it was definitely one of the best meets of the trip.

We were the second group in line and I very excitedly ran up to Mickey for a big hug.



I began telling him that I was so happy to see my old boss and went in about my program and all of that. He got very excited and was asking about where I worked, what I thought of Disneyland, how I was hoping to work here in the summer, etc. Mickey was just so LIT for me. It was super cute. He was giving me a million hugs and kisses and everyone was dying over it. Raven was in tears. It was honestly adorable. He also loved my shirt obviously and my Ears. Eventually, the attendant had to diverge our attention away from each other to get our photo.







After that last photo, the M&G opened up to the squad. I tried to get the photos of just Mickey and I saved, but ran into some issues (what I needed to scan, how to scan, Photopass at Disneyland yadayadayada). It was all an easy fix and they just handed me a card that ended up having all our photos on it after this meet.

Everyone in the squad got a hug and a kiss from the bossman then Mickey got very infatuated with Lesley's shirt which had Disney emojis all over it. It was very cute.

After we all got the PERFECT squad photo, even if Raven was looking away in it, and felt thoroughly magical...



Mickey went around to give everyone a hug goodbye, leaving me for last to which he near tackled me with a long warm hug. Ahhhhh, the M&Gs this trip were the best. Thanks for nearly leaving me in tears yet again, Mickey.

Once we got out, I was starting to feel a bit hungry. Kinzie still was adamantly wanting to ride Gadget's Go since she used to ride it a lot as a kid, but nobody was faltering, not even me. I just was not in the mood for a Barnstormer type coaster, not worth a wait in my opinion. We considered seeing Goofy and Pluto or going into one of the other walkthrough buildings, but I could definitely feel my stomach starting to growl. I needed food. Eventually the decision landed in my favor, the non-Californian, once again and so we headed on out of Toontown.

Before we left, I made a point to go get some photos with the Jolly Trolley. I don't know why I decided to stand on one foot for all of them, BUT HERE WE ARE!







After that, we were off for some much needed nourishment! Stay tuned for that.


Continued Here
 
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While we were in line, I checked my phone to see @Lesley Wake had texted me to say she was coming to Disneyland today! We had planned to meet up that Friday, my last day in the parks, but she was in the mood for some Disneyland magic.
Yeah, sucky day and all! It ended up being the perfect remedy! Disney magic with some new friends! :worship:

After we got out of line, we all got to catching up with Lesley. Apparently I was super late in reading her texts as she was already in the park by the time I texted her and she was following my Insta so she guessed we'd be in Critter Country and voila, she found us! She also made herself her own Roger Rabbit FP so we could all head over together. Officially, the party of 3 becoming a party of 4! What a squad!
Yup, I'm a very good stalker!:thumbsup2

We all got along just fine, talking about Disney and life and adult humor (yeah, even in a Disney park, it's there).
OMG-that was hilarious! :rotfl:

As we just scooted along through the rest of his house, I remembered I needed a pic of Lesley and I to commemorate our DISMeet so we took a moment to get that.
It turned out really cute!

Mickey went around to give everyone a hug goodbye, leaving me for last to which he near tackled me with a long warm hug. Ahhhhh, the M&Gs this trip were the best. Thanks for nearly leaving me in tears yet again, Mickey.
Yeah, that was a pretty fun meet! And the handler and Mickey were pretty excited to have young adults who were also so happy to see him and interact! :wave:

Once we got out, I was starting to feel a bit hungry. Kinzie still was adamantly wanting to ride Gadget's Go since she used to ride it a lot as a kid, but nobody was faltering, not even me. I just was not in the mood for a Barnstormer type coaster, not worth a wait in my opinion.
I would have been willing, but not with a 45 minute wait. No way! :crazy2:
 
:tinker:YAS, TIMMY'S GOING BACK TO WORK FOR DISNEY! :tinker:
AND WHAT ELSE? AT DISNEYLAND!!!!!
AND MORE? BACK IN CUSTODIAL!!!

Oh mu goodness, Timmy! This is amazing!! I'm so excited for you!

Unfortunately, Splash Mountain was under refurbishment (and likewise, it was MUCH too cold out to ride) so no Zip-A-Dee-Doh-Dah day

How disappointing. Splash is my fave.

also there definitely were some scenes missing on this ride or they were in an order that didn't exactly make sense like it does at MK's.

Well...MK's Pooh ride and making sense...that's kind of relative. It's kind of a bit of a runaway train stream of consciousness kinda thing. So if Disneyland is worse, I can only imagine! (I do love this ride though.)

Like the Tigger scene is completely gone so you don't get to bounce with Tigger, which was ALWAYS my favorite part of MK's. Honestly, that made it all a let-down.

No! That's the best part!

They were both super cute and we thanked Lesley for such a sweet gift. Then Raven & I took a cute little selfie of us with the pins.


Aww cute! This is awesome!

I began telling him that I was so happy to see my old boss and went in about my program and all of that. He got very excited and was asking about where I worked, what I thought of Disneyland, how I was hoping to work here in the summer, etc. Mickey was just so LIT for me. It was super cute. He was giving me a million hugs and kisses and everyone was dying over it. Raven was in tears. It was honestly adorable.

Aww this is awesome! Mickey obviously missed you!
 
So excited for you about the DCP! Congrats!

Wow, you really formed quite the crew at DL! Sounds like you all had a lot of fun together!

Absolutely adorable pics with Mickey! The interaction sounds like it was fantastic.
 
Yeah, sucky day and all! It ended up being the perfect remedy! Disney magic with some new friends! :worship:

Yay! But I mean, OF COURSE lol

Yup, I'm a very good stalker!:thumbsup2

Lmao O___o

OMG-that was hilarious! :rotfl:

You'd think us former CMs would be so PC... NOPE.

It turned out really cute!

It did! That Mickey's house lighting lol

Yeah, that was a pretty fun meet! And the handler and Mickey were pretty excited to have young adults who were also so happy to see him and interact! :wave:

It definitely was and everyone in line was also living for us too! A great time had by all. :goodvibes

I would have been willing, but not with a 45 minute wait. No way! :crazy2:

Probably when I'm back for my CP I'll be more willing, but not then. No way, not worth it.

Oh mu goodness, Timmy! This is amazing!! I'm so excited for you!

Thanks so much Meghan! I'm so excited myself, you have no idea. :hyper:

How disappointing. Splash is my fave.

I love Splash too, but no way would I have ridden it with how cold it was out.

Well...MK's Pooh ride and making sense...that's kind of relative. It's kind of a bit of a runaway train stream of consciousness kinda thing. So if Disneyland is worse, I can only imagine! (I do love this ride though.)

I mean, the Pooh films are all kinda like that too, but MK at least starts you on like a normal day in the 100 Acre Wood, which, if my memory serves me right, this Pooh starts on the rainy day or blustery day. It felt way too quick to go right there.

No! That's the best part!

Exactly! It made me sad that it's cut.

Aww cute! This is awesome!

It was such a sweet gift. Spoiler though... mine's no longer in my possession :(

Aww this is awesome! Mickey obviously missed you!

I MISSED HIM! So glad to have him as my boss again this summer. :teeth:

So. Many. YAYS!!! That is so exciting!!!

Sounds like an amazing day so far--how fun that you were able to have a DisMeet on your first trip to DLR!

ALL THE YAYS!!! I still can't believe it's happening, but I'm so ready for that Cast Member life to return to me. BLESS.

It was an amazing day and the DISMeet definitely made it that much better. Love my fellow DISers!
pixiedust:Congrats on your new Disneyland CP adventure! So so so awesome! Love!
Can't wait to read about it!!!

Thank you! I'm so excited! Hopefully I'll be able to document it properly with writing this time. HOPEFULLY. *fingers crossed*

So excited for you about the DCP! Congrats!

Wow, you really formed quite the crew at DL! Sounds like you all had a lot of fun together!

Absolutely adorable pics with Mickey! The interaction sounds like it was fantastic.

Thank you! I'm so excited for me too lol

Yeah! It was a blast with such an enthusiastic crew. Best time.

It WAS. I love my swell mouse boss :goodvibes
 
I mean, the Pooh films are all kinda like that too, but MK at least starts you on like a normal day in the 100 Acre Wood, which, if my memory serves me right, this Pooh starts on the rainy day or blustery day. It felt way too quick to go right there.

There is much truth in this statement. ::yes::
 
Congrats again on your CP! My daughter love to watch YouTube videos about the college program and she knows all about what's available and where. Definitely in her plans for a semester between community college and university. As a mom, though, kinda scary. So I'll be watching your Insta stories to learn more about it.

I do hope we can meet up... I know you'll be busy with start of CP stuff, but oh, the photos we could take...
 

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