Forever Magical
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Disneyland Memories

Editor's Note: This article was written shortly after the Disneyland sign was torn down on June 14th.

Seeing the Disneyland marquee laying on the ground it finally hit me how much Disneyland has changed for me. Growing up we visited Disneyland four times a year. My family would go three times and I would go one other time with a friend’s family. Our trips to Disneyland were always fantastic journeys. We’d all pile into the car early in the morning, groggy since we had been unable to sleep much the night before in anticipation. We wore our favorite t-shirts and most comfortable shoes. Travelling the 5 south, the first reassuring landmark was a rundown Assyrian looking structure, now the renovated Citadel Outlet stores. Then the 605, usually 15 minutes left if there was no traffic. Next we would wait for the large American flag signaling that the start of search for the Matterhorn should begin. As we got older we discovered which seats in the car provided the first view.

I always hated the way the walk to the tram was so short in the morning and so much longer at night. Years later I finally realized pickup and drop-off didn't occur in the same locations. Get off the tram and wait in line to buy tickets, check to make sure our favorite attractions were not closed. A quick check of the map to see what time Main Street Electrical Parade was and we were on our way to Fantasyland.

Throughout the day eating was an annoyance. I couldn’t understand people who ate at a sit-down restaurant. I inhaled my hamburger and fries and was ready for the next attraction in minutes. My favorite rides were America Sings and Adventures through Inner Space. On the way out we would always go see Mr. Lincoln. It made my Dad happy.

I no longer travel the 5 south to Disneyland. My visits to the Park are 4 to 5 times per week. But I must admit that I still look for the Matterhorn as I drive up West Street. I met my best friend, my husband, at Disneyland. I often visit the Park without going on any attractions. We’ll sit and listen to Rod Miller at the Corner Café or catch one of the numerous live performances available. I am thankful for those sit-down restaurants now. In fact we often eat at the Disneyland Pacific Hotel which means a monorail or tram ride back and forth. Disneyland trips no longer consist of a list to be checked off. Disneyland has become a place to meet new people, experience new music and cultures, and mostly experience life in a way that I wish more readily available outside the berm.

-- Rebekah Moseley (August 1, 1999)