I know. I launch more things than NASA. But still….SOMETHING NEW!!!

I am very proud to announce today a new project. Introducing…

 

Hey look it’s me!

Suzanne, Lisa and I (along with the approval of the Disneyland peeps) have started making ‘mini-vids’ that feature our ‘Top 5’s’ on a variety of subjects.

Want to see it in action?

Please visit 3Dlandmoms.com now!

The very very end of my latest video (about Main Street) is just so funny to me. Mainly because you can hear my ‘camera woman’ giggling with me.

Remember to subscribe to the blog or to the You Tube channel to see the new videos as they post.

(um, yeah and we are on Facebook and Twitter. Cuz well, that’s what we do)

We have so many great ones planned. And we love suggestions too.

So if you have an idea for a ‘Top 5’ drop us an email and let us know.

Suz, Lisa and I have had the privilege of working closely with the Disneyland Press and Marketing team for years now. We are often invited to exclusive events and behind the scenes press promo days. In addition to that ‘official status’ we all honestly adore Disneyland, and frequent the park as often as possible. We are all OC natives and happily we are great friends as well. It was because of all these reasons we wanted to take on the official title of The Three Disneyland Moms. (although there are plenty of other Disneyland moms out there!). We want to share with everyone the little things we know and love about OUR Disneyland. And we hope you will enjoy it as well.

That awesome Halloween party? It is changing a little…

I have attended the Trick or Treat event held each year held at California Adventure and this year it is changing for the better in my opinion. It will be more exclusive (read: a little higher price) but that means smaller crowds and better STUFF and over-all experience. Oh and the best part? It is in DISNEYLAND this year. Read all the official info below….

Mickey’s Halloween Party moves to Disneyland park this Halloween season. The private, costumed trick-or-treat party that guests enjoyed at Disney’s California Adventure park and was formerly known as Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party has moved to Disneyland park. The new event has some new, really cool benefits:

• Access to Disneyland park – With a ticket to Mickey’s Halloween Party, you’ll get access to nearly all the attractions Disneyland park has to offer—from the classic attractions in Fantasyland to the Halloween-themed attractions like Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion Holiday.
• Earlier access – You can start the party early at Disneyland park at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and 4:00 p.m. on Fridays. The official event starts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and 7:00 p.m. on Fridays, and Halloween.
• Tons of treats – We’re adding even more trick-or-treat locations – more treats!
• Exclusive access to Halloween Screams – Mickey’s Halloween Party guests will have exclusive access to one of the most popular fireworks spectaculars ever – Halloween Screams!

Mickey’s Halloween Party will be offered on Halloween night and every Tuesday and Friday in October. Annual Passholders can purchase tickets starting June 4 – for more information, click here. General sales will begin July 16 – for more information, click here.

Event Dates

• October 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29 and 31

Times

• Tuesday Nights: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• Fridays and Halloween Night: 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Advance Purchase Ticket Prices*

• $49 Special Discount for These Dates
  October 1, 5, 12, 19 and 26

Day-of-Event Ticket Prices*

• $54 If Purchased and Used on These Dates:
  October 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22 and 26
• $59 If Purchased and Used on These Dates:
  October 29 and 31

All Dates

• Ages Two and Under: No Charge!

Special Annual Passholder Prices

Time Travel

Of all the home movies out there of early Disneyland. This (both part 1 and 2) are my favorite.

And yes, that is Walt Disney in there.

Sure Disneyland is magical now.

But can you imagine just how amazing it must have been THEN?

My first love. Was a mouse.

When I was 4 years old, turning 5 I had a Mickey Mouse birthday party. Not Disney. But Mickey Mouse. He was my favorite then, and still is….

There was a cake with Mickey on it. (As this blurry, grainy photo shows.)

All followed by a trip to Disneyland.

Which was a huge huge treat for me. There were no annual passes then…and to get to go to Disneyland even ONCE a year was…magical.

Around that time I drew this Mickey. Maybe in the excitement and anticipation on the days before my birthday visit  or maybe in the days after when I was still thinking about the day. I am marveling at the detail to a nose line, and yet Mickey’s arms are as long as an orangutan. But I love this little artwork. Reminds me how much I have loved Mickey and Disneyland all my life.

Prices raised. Yup.

  I am sure you heard.

Disneyland is raising their prices tomorrow.

Two great posts on this can be read here and here.

My thoughts (some of which were left in the comments on one of the sites linked above)

“They will continue to raise prices until a marked lack of attendance will tell them they may have gone too far. Actually their official quote on the news today was "the new prices reflect what the market will bare". Meaning, the prices reflect what people will pay.

 

It is their business. And they can do as they please. I find it funny how mad people get over this...like Disneyland owes them less expensive entrance or that maybe Disney is  not entitled to make their business model as profitable as possible. We get mad and act like we are all related to Walt Disney or something..... In the end Disneyland does not owe us an affordable visit. They don’t owe us anything at all.

Every business has a right to make it as profitable as possible. And raising prices is allowing them to increase their profit margins. That is the American way. That is good business. It should be noted that  Disney DOES do a lot of good for our community and charities with their profits. And don't forget higher prices are sure to equal shorter ride lines.

So see? There is a silver lining.

That said…. I will not be renewing my 4 premium passes this year (would be close to $2000). We will do Knott's (which is about $250 for 4 of us). And I will rely on press events to get my Disney fix.

I am more than heartbroken over this. As it will considerably effect my coverage of the park at The Daily Disney, The Glamorous Life Association and other websites. But I have to be realistic. I am sure Walt would understand. After all I have to analyze the cost benefit ratio for all the major expenses for my family. Because my family is MY BUSINESS. And I have to watch  my profit margin.”

He was third on the list. But I love him.

I adore this photo by Lawrence Schiller. It is now on display at the Orange County Museum of Art in Newport Beach as part of their latest exhibit on portraits called “15 Minutes of Fame”. Clearly Walt has had more than 15 minutes. Oh but what I wouldn’t give for 15 minutes with the man. Reminds me of something; when I was around 7 my teacher asked us to write about the 3 people we would most like to meet in heaven and why (very un PC. But hey it was the 70’s) and I wrote “Abraham Lincoln to thank him for all he did, and an Egypt person who built the pyramids to ask them how they did it and Mr. Disney because he just seems like a real fun person. And I love him.”

Hey OCMA. I would give my eye-teeth for a print of this photo. Any plans for that???

First Timers visit Disneyland!

Nothing I love more than a Disney Virgin. Wait- that sounded wrong...What I mean is........ nothing I love more than someone who has NEVER BEEN TO DISNEYLAND. I love taking them to the park...and they get to hear me talk about Disney history all.day.long. At one point even I was sick of listening to myself. But I couldn't stop. 

So I made a little video...it has a few tips for first timers.

Interview with Thurl Ravenscroft…

A interesting interview with Thurl Ravenscroft.

THE voice of Disneyland.

And he also has possibly the best name ever.

Oh Mickey you’re so fine.

Suz and I with one of our favorite guys…

He is such a playa. 

(Taken at the World of Color Premier party)

One last World of Color post. Maybe.

So let’s talk World of Color shall we? First I posted sneak peek photos from the dress rehearsal held on June 1st.

Then I posted about the red blue carpet celebrities, followed with a few videos from the premier day.

Now EVEN MORE coverage. Because I am sure you want to know ALL ABOUT IT.

World of Color on the premier night was a fantastic show, and felt very very different than the dress rehearsal. I was assured not much had been changed but there were some differences. For starters the show opened with a wonderful video mash-up including the voice of Walt himself with his iconic World of Disney opener. It set the stage for a perfect show, and placed it in relationship to all the other creations that have come from Disney since those early days. The second change was  despite a little wind the show was sent into FULL strength mode (rehearsal night was using a wind ‘setting’ keeping some of the fountains from hitting their peaks). But the biggest difference in my experience? Where I stood. Since I had already been privileged to see the show days early, I decided to take a spot a little further back this time. And honestly (despite having the stupid, stupid trellis thing blocking my view) the show was much better at a distance.

Since I was less concerned about looking at the technical side of the show, taking notes, photos and all the rest…I really got to ‘dive in’ (pun intended) this amazing display of light, color, water, fire and beauty. When it all comes together, like it did on premier night- the experience is amazing. The show has a very real dramatic arc, which has you surprised, laughing and yes, even crying. A show that most certainly will make Disney California Adventure a nighttime destination for all resort guests. I can only imagine thrill a guest that watches the first showing to then see the stunning Magical fireworks show light up the sky as they make their way over to GlowFest street party in the Hollywood part of the park will experience. It is sure to bring smiles to all.

So there you have it. My last post on World of Color.

Well, maybe. I plan to take the kids back this summer to experience the show and GlowFest.

I am very curious about their opinion on it all. But something tells me they are gonna be begging to see it again and again.

(Opps. This is definitely not my last WOC post, because my on camera interviews with Bob Iger and Tom Staggs are coming as well. Yeah- the interviews where I ask them if they read blogs. Cuz that is all we really wanna know right?)

Something for your viewing pleasure….

How about some interesting things to learn about GlowFest? Followed by an AMAZING performance by none other than Jodi Benson?

Okay. Here you go!

(official official review of The World of Color is in the works. Promise)

Disneyland makes me 6 again. And again and again and again.

Every Disney blogger needs her magic wand and tiara.

I am thinking of wearing mine to the grocery store.

And then the first time someone says something, I will just look at them and say

“What?”

World of Color Blue-unless-I-am-colorblind RED carpet.

 

Last night I was honored to be invited to attend the premier of The World Of Color show at Disney’s California Adventure.

First came the ‘red carpet’ with loads of stars including; Jason Segel, Teri Hatcher, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Lee Curtis, Geena Davis, John Stamos, all the Modern Family kids and many more.

But my favorite was my new boyfriend Bob Iger.

I was able to interview Bob Iger (Disney CEO) & Tom Staggs (Chairman of Parks and  Resorts).

And yes, I asked them both about reading blogs…..which was based on a readers question “do you use what you see on the blogs and forums as input in decision making”.

You will have to wait for their answers…but it was interesting to say the least. I am actually heading back into the park right now (it is a 2 day event) so the video footage of the interviews will be up soon.

Meanwhile enjoy some photos….

Teri offered to take photos with about 50 people on the carpet. It was adorable. She was great to talk to as well. AND? She has a blog that she pimped TO US. Awesome Teri.

And Jason? Um, shave much?

  

It’s a bit alarming I was most excited about seeing little Nolan Gould (Modern Family). He has the best comic timing and is ADORABLE in person too.

 

Jamie came running back to tell Geena a secret of some kind. They were cracking each other up.

My new BFF, Mr. Bob Iger. Hey Bob give me a call and we will get you going on that blog thing we talked about K?

 

I am sure by now you have seen my earlier review of the World of Color show.

But I am surprised to tell you, last night I had a totally different experience. I will be chatting more about that over at The Daily Disney tomorrow. With additional photos and video footage.

Ever wonder what it is like to have Disney close down the park and turn it into a club-like party?

Well this is what it is like. Lounges, shag carpets, live band, glowing and free-flowing cocktails and in general?

Magical.

Drinking Disney.

 

 

Without a doubt my favorite bar at the Disneyland Resort is found in the Grand California. And my favorite cocktail is the Raspberry Rain. While you are there, try the quesadilla. It is truly out of this world good.

Disney’s World of Color (sneak peek)

I know why you are here. You heard a rumor I was asked to attend a dress rehearsal for the new World Of Color show at California Adventure last night, and you want the DETAILS. Well since the show doesn’t officially open until June 10th (I will be there for that as well) I am not really permitted to say much now. But I was given permission to post these dress rehearsal photos I took. So let’s take a look…

 

And I can tell you all kinds of info about ways to watch the show….

There are three ways to see the show. You can go to get a fast pass (will be at the Grizzly Rapids) early in the day (it will not prevent you from getting other fast passes) and this will guarantee you a spot in one of the designated viewing areas. Or you can reserve (thru 714-781-DINE) a price-fix meal with either Ariel’s Grotto or the Wine Country Trattoria. But the way I am MOST excited about is the the ability to purchase a ‘picnic’ meal ONLINE (you pick up anytime between 2 and 8pm). The cost is $14.95 and it also guarantees you a spot in the designated viewing areas as well. And the little picnic boxes? Amazing. Fresh salmon, tiramisu, spring rolls and so much more (one for the kids too of course).

Reservations are being taken NOW.

    And for another teaser (I am such a tease) Look at these glowing cocktails!

I will write more about another great night time event this summer. GlowFest.

And I can not wait to experience and tell you all about it in detail soon…

Dole Whip love.

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Without a doubt the most unique and cult-like popular treat at Disneyland is the Dole Whip found ONLY in the Tiki Room courtyard.

It is cold, sweet, pineapple goodness.

And yes, you can buy one and enjoy it while watching the Tiki Room show.

Never had one? Well, that sounds like a perfect excuse to go to Disneyland if you ask me.

When the park is TOO CROWDED

As season ticket holders, we often show up to Disneyland without much care or thought to the busiest days of the year. Which means we can show up when it is just so insanely busy that you have no patience to wait in line for an hour to go on a ride you have done 9 million times. When we walk up to a line like that I will look at the kids and say “aw, let’s leave it for the tourists” and keep walking. But what do we do since we are already in the park and are looking for some Disney fun?

Here  are three of our favorite things to do…

Candy Palace/Penny Arcade:

First we watch them making fudge and other yummies right there in the window. Then I get generous and buy 3 sticks of rock candy for $3.95 (best deal in the place) and give the kids all my pennies. They can spend an hour just watching all the penny movies and listening to the historical automated organ in the background.

 

Tom Sawyer Island (which isn’t called that anymore but I will always always call it that. So there)

Unfortunately on this day…IT WAS CLOSED. The entire Rivers of America was closed. But normally we grab a lunch and head over to the island and explore caves, rope bridges and the tree house. The kids get a sense of freedom running from one end to the other while I sit in the shade. It is a childhood wonderland over there. Old School fun. Just running and pretending. The way Walt would have liked it I think.

The Main Street Magic Shop

Yup. They still have great magicians performing counter top tricks for all the customers. It is front row entertainment. Although I would prefer a little less hard sell, it can still keep the kids entertained for quite a while…and it takes me back to my own childhood visits. It really is a magical stop in the park. And I especially love that my kids tell me that Steve Martin used to work there. In case your wondering they still sell fake rocks, whoopie cushions and invisible dog leashes. The good stuff never changes.

Knocking on Opportunity

 

 

Today at Disneyland the boys thought they would knock on the Casting Agent’s door and see if they could get hired to be their next Disney stars. No one answered. So the boys thought they would just hang out and pose for photos for the paparazzi (um, ME) on the steps.

Nothing wrong with dreaming. Especially when you are at Disneyland.

Where it feels like anything is possible.

Make your plans now. Lot’s of good stuff at Disney to do…

The fifth annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival celebrates “The Art of Flavor” April 16-May 31, 2010, at the Disneyland Resort.

Daily

• Complimentary demonstrations featuring culinary experts and celebrity chefs, including Guy Fieri, Cat Cora and Robert Irvine
• Seminars that feature wine, beer and spirits

(Festival Showplace, Hollywood Pictures Backlot; Sunshine Plaza; Golden Vine Winery and Pacific Wharf areas)

Signature Events* (additional fee required)

Taste Food-Wine-Life May 29, 7:00–10:00 p.m.

Eat, drink and celebrate in an immersive party for all the senses! Presented in “grand-tasting” style, this event offers delectable creations from Disney chefs, outstanding wines and live entertainment. Theme park admission not required.

Festival Wine Walks and Beer Walks  Daily

Enjoy tastings of your favorites, and discover the flavor of new wines and beers as you stroll through Stage 12, at the Festival Showplace.

Winemaker Dinners  Fridays: April 23, 30, May 14 and 21

6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Award-winning wines paired with delectable culinary creations at Steakhouse 55, with Chef Jason Martin

New! Brewmaster Dinner Friday May 7

6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Join experts from Karl Strauss Brewing Company for delicious food paired with beers, at Steakhouse 55.

New! Riedel Glass Tasting  Saturdays, April 24, May 28

6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

In this fascinating class led by an expert from Riedel, learn why the glass matters when it comes to wine tasting. Guests at this event will go home with a tasting set of four Riedel Vinum series lead crystal wine glasses.

Sweet Sundays April 18, May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Enjoy Sunday morning buffets featuring elegant dessert items from acclaimed pastry chefs, at the Festival Showplace inside Disney’s California Adventure.

Taste Wine Like an Expert Saturdays: May 1, 8, 15 and 22

2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Entertaining education with Sommelier Joy Cushing of Napa Rose restaurant

Napa Rose Cooking School Saturdays: April 17, May 1, 8, 15, and 22

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Executive Chef Andrew Sutton of Napa Rose leads guests in preparing a four-course gourmet meal. Guests receive a commemorative chef’s coat, embroidered with the Festival logo.

*Additional fee required for signature events. Most events held in Disney’s California Adventure® Park require Theme Park admission which is not included in the price of the event.  For details and ticket information, go to www.disneyland.com/foodandwine

A visit to Walt’s original garage!

Got a minute? Or maybe 9? My latest OC & ME video is up….

CLICK HERE

And it showcases my visit to a very cool historical property in Garden Grove.

And without a doubt the best part about the place is Walt Disney’s original garage. Fully restored and full of memorabilia.

To my great surprise Disney (the company) does not help fund or support the restoration or up-keep of the garage.

Which is a shame since it really is a piece of their history, that needs to be cared for and preserved.

Did you know Walt originally wanted to build his ‘park’ in the city of Garden Grove?

Turns out the city said no (yeah, they are still kicking themselves) so he went to Anaheim.

Some come watch, and leave me a comment about what you think…

Thanks!

Seemed like a good idea at the time…

 

It was a crazy idea, take the kids to Disneyland in the middle of a bad rain storm. After convincing my too cool for school kids that rain poncho’s were VERY cool and fashionable- off we went. Things were manageable, and actually fun for a while. And I marveled at all the other insane people at the park that day too. Then, just before the kids ran off to ride Autotopia, a DOWNPOUR came. And never left. See the photo of the Disneyland guy standing there in the rain? He had his eyes closed. Like he was wishing he would open them and be in his dry warm home. So the boys rode while holding an umbrella and insisted it was fun and they weren’t cold. They aren’t the best liars…so we headed for the front gate. And that was when he heard the announcement “due to extreme weather conditions, Disneyland will be closing early today”. Apparently even Disneyland thought we were a little insane to be there.

 

That is not a scratchy photo. That is RAIN pouring down. WOW. 

 

By the time we made it back to the car we were SOAKED. Even with the ponchos, jackets and umbrellas. Just soaked. Well, except my feet. Seriously- can I give a shout out to Sorel for these killer boots? (this is a better photo of them). And since it will be raining ALL WEEK I plan to wear these boots every waking moment.

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