The last time I went to Disneyland, I wasn't sure I would ever return. The residual Covid precautions cloaked the magic I was used to experiencing there. Today's visit made me remember why the Magic Kingdom is so magical to me.

My Park Pal Suzanne had arranged this special excursion with her son, Dan, who treated us as his guests. How wonderful is that?
We were here to celebrate Disneyland's 70th birthday and my almost 64th. What a party and we have so many photos to prove it.
This was the intimacy I was missing at my last visit. I view each of the characters as childhood friends. I'm so happy the hugging has returned.



My first Disney coffee in four years. Yum!

There was only one ride I wanted to go on in Disneyland so we headed to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Suzanne was up for anything. She is a true (and patient) friend.
Rise of the Resistance is described as "An Attraction on a Scale That Is Impressive, Most Impressive". It really is unlike anything I've ever experienced. I was continuously surprised.
"The Resistance needs your help! Hidden in the forest outside Black Spire Outpost, the Resistance is gathering recruits for a secret mission. With the First Order desperate to extinguish the spark of the Resistance, the mission is bound to have unexpected twists and turns. When your transport is captured by an imposing First Order Star Destroyer filled with legions of stormtroopers—and even Kylo Ren!—you’re going to need all the help you can get. Fortunately, a covert team of Resistance fighters—including Rey and BB-8—is at the ready to give you a fighting chance to escape… and a chance for the Resistance to rise."

As we headed back to Main Street we stumbled upon the Disneyland Band performing and then, at the conclusion, Mickey and Friends appeared.


We were then invited to join a parade to the entrance. Who doesn't love a parade?


This could not have been a more perfect send-off.