I like to say I blame my Dad for the reason I am a Disney nerd. Yes, I said it, I am a nerd but only when it comes to all things Disney. Why is this? Well, it is simple, I grew up knowing the magic of Disney.
My first trip to a Disney Park was when I was 8 years old. My parents saved up money for years and we took a trip to Walt Disney World. Now, back then, there was only The Magic Kingdom, EPCOT and River Country (the old water park). I remember going to all 3 parks. Back then, Magic Kingdom and River Country were my favorites. EPCOT was just boring to me. Man, have those times changed. Lol! We had a great family vacation, but this was just the beginning…
My Dad’s job moved us out to Anaheim just months after our trip to Walt Disney World. We lived 15 minutes from Disneyland. I spent many days in the park, I could probably quote the Main Street Electric Parade soundtrack because I heard It so many times. But I didn’t really appreciate what I had in my backyard till many years later. Now that I am an adult, I feel very fortunate that my father’s job moved us from one side of the country to the other and back again because I can say I have seen most of the United States that many haven’t been able to experience.
Living in Anaheim in my early teen years, I feel as if I grew up on Main Street. Those years are the years when I really became who I am today. I fell in love with Disney and I didn’t let moving to Georgia a few years later change that. Yes, Disneyland was no longer in view from my house, but I had all the great memories I spent with my parents and my friends who joined us. Any time I missed it, all I had to do is close my eyes and imagine myself walking under the train tracks, smelling the fresh popped popcorn, and hearing the laughter and joyful sounds of families spending time together as well as the distant sounds of the Main Street music. As I turn the corner around the Emporium looking down the street, I would get a glimpse of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and know I was home. Even if it wasn’t in person, I felt like I was where I belonged.
Years later, right before my Senior year in high school, my parents decided it was time to go back to the magic. That is when my Disney bug really bit. I cried when I walked under the train tracks this time because I knew I was home again. All the sights, smells and sounds were all the same. It was as if we were in a time machine and I was back at Disneyland but better, I was home again. Right then, I made a pack with myself that I would never let myself forget the feeling of magic provided by the Disney family.
So, here I am today, trying to figure out this whole blog thing. I hope my quick story of how my life was influenced by Disney keeps you coming back for more. My plan is to make this blog about all the sights, sounds and the smells of Disney. I am looking at reviewing attractions, shows, and food that will help you plan your Magical Day at Disney.
Have a magical day!
Lisa
Magical Day Diaries 