Monday, October 24, 2011

Great Memories; Past and Present

We went to Disneyland for the girls' birthdays this weekend, as we have every year for the last 8 years. They participated in one of the children's events, and were the biggest kids in the group. When did that happen?

I remember the trips where I'd be afraid they'd get lost in the crowd. I remember fighting through the throngs with the stroller, waiting in the long lines for the kiddie rides where there are no fast passes available.

Now, just the two of them will go on some rides and stay in touch via cell phone. We know when to hold hands and navigate our way through the crowds, and they want to skip the parades and fireworks just as much as I do. We were all ready to leave at the same time, no one upset that we didn't get to a certain ride, no threats given that if they didn't behave, we'd leave.

I had all these memories of previous trips this time around; when they danced with Mary Poppins and the High School Musical show, the first picture we took with Minnie Mouse, the day Riley was finally tall enough for Soarin'.

I was most struck, however, by the fact that I don't miss that. The memories are enough. I can appreciate the memories, but I also appreciate who they are today.

And I appreciate what hasn't changed. Like these annual trips to Disneyland that always end with churros.

4 comments:

BigLittleWolf said...

I love how there is something to enjoy in each stage. It makes letting go of some of the innocence of earlier stages so much easier.

Glad you all had a great time.

Tara R. said...

Sounds like a great birthday celebration!

Missy June said...

What a wonderful place to be where you can cherish the past and thoroughly enjoy the present. Have a great birthday celebration!

Erica said...

I have been wanting to get an annual Disneyland tradition started for our family too. Growing up in So. Cal., my family went each year around my birthday. This post reminds me to get on the ball!