20051213

Disneyland

Leave it Walt to have the foresight. In the year 2005, the city of Los Angeles will be so dirty and crime ridden that it's residents will fork over $50 a piece to hide safely behind the walls of an amusement park. I always thought Disneyland was quite frankly, gay. As an adult I see it's value. In Disneyland, the streets are clean, there is no graffiti, no homelessness. There is constant stimulation that involves neither alcohol nor drugs. People smile, hold doors open for each other and when a situation warrants strangers say "excuse me" or "i'm sorry". No television sets with CNN or Fox News depressing us. Just sunshine (hey it's still Southern California) in December, colors, sounds, and an oversized mouse hugging kids. Yeah, the product tie-ins are a bit much and the consumerism can't be overlooked. But I can't be that cynical. And if escaping into this unreality for a day makes me feel better then so be it. Besides by the time we got back home and were reminded of Tookie Williams, the war in Iraq, and countless other realities I was ready to turn around and ride space Mountain one more time.

Avery and some character from Little Mermaid (I think)

(Christmas, not Holiday, Tree)

(Lesli and Avery at the Haunted House)

(Me at Space Mountain)

Just some practical tips: go early, use the fast passes, bring your own snacks, stay for the fireworks...