I had been to the park many times in my youth, but had not visited since senior year of high school (I will leave it to the reader's imagination to decide how long ago that may be). Josh, on the other hand, had NEVER been to any Disney park, ever. A travesty from his youth, something that had to be remedied.
I was wondering if the park would still hold that immense sense of wonder and excitement it had when I was young. After all, I've been through a lot of "real world" experience since then. But yes, it is still magical. Even with crying children and snarky teenagers and over-priced food. The rides have become even better in the past decade. And California Adventure is a whole new world (haha) that mixes fantastic new rides with beer vendors. Finally. I teared up several times, and had a smile on my face after every single ride and show.
But the best part was when Josh got to meet Donald Duck. THE duck to end all ducks. Not only did he meet Donald, but he shared a duck dance with the guy (it involves a lot of tail waggles). After the pictures were over and we were walking away, we were both struck with the same thought. We always thought Donald would be taller.
A grand adventure deserves a grand wine. Try something like Veuve Cliquot La Grande Dame 1993 ($290). When we bought this wine at our local liquor store, the cashier had to ask "You do know how much this costs, right?". Yes, yes we do. And yes, it was worth every penny.
Score: 5s all around.
Recommended: Yes. With a Disney vacation. And a duck.
