Vacation is over…

Well hello there – long time no see! I’m sure you’re all wondering how our short vacation to Disneyland went and the answer is AmAziNg!

Michael and I had such a good time that we’re already planning our next trip to Disney World in Florida. Ha! We got to Anaheim late Friday night, so we didn’t have much time to sleep in preparation for the beating we put our bodies through. Getting up at 6 in the morning to walk the entire day while eating less than Paleo fare can definitely take a toll on you. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Saturday we spent the day wondering around the Disneyland park soaking up some sun, riding rides, and eating some delicious treats.

Everything tastes better when it’s shaped like Mickey, and these biegnets are no exception! (Yes, I know biegnets aren’t Paleo, but yum)
  

Michael kicking my butt on the Buzz Lightyear ride.

In line for Mr. Toads Wild Ride.

Sunday we moved over to California Adventure to see what all the hype over the new Cars Land was about. I’ve never actually seen the movie Cars, but I can imagine that if I was an 8 year old boy I would’ve been in heaven.

Cars Land was cool but I was just happy being in a Disney park that I’ve never been to before. It was an interesting experience having to actually use a map for change.

Sunday night we had reservations to eat at Napa Rose, a 4 diamond restaurant in the Grand Californian Hotel. I couldn’t resist ordering the 4 course tasting menu, although Michael’s wallet probably wished I had. It may have been expensive, but it was so worth the experience. Check it out:

Grilled Wild Snapper and Nova Scotia Lobster Fennel Puree, Roasted Winter Squash and Lobster Sauce

Tart of Artichoke Hearts, Sundried Tomatoes and Carmody Cheese, Grilled Winter White Asparagus and Meyer Lemon Balsamic

Pan Roasted Petite Filet Mignon of Angus Beef, Whipped Sweet Potato, Apple Relish on a Sunset Chili – Rose Petal Essence

Raspberry Vairhona Chocolate Crunch with Tangerine Sauce and Almond Pudding Accented with Fresh Tahitian Vanilla Bean

Looking at these food pictures makes me want to eat there again, it was so good. If you’re at Disney and in the market for some high class cuisine, then I definitely suggest checking out Napa Rose.

You can’t tell from this picture, but I’m thoroughly stuffed!

We spent Monday morning hitting some of the attractions we liked the most and doing some souvenir shopping. I had to buy my niece a classic Disneyland shirt because it’s practically a requirement.

And just like that, the trip was over. I wish I could put into words why I enjoy Disney so much. I was talking to Michael about it today at lunch and it’s strange, because it’s not like I’m overly excited while we’re at the parks. I have fun riding the rides and eating the food, but I think it’s more about the nostalgia of it that I like so much. When I’m there I feel connected to my parents and my sister, my childhood, and the future family that Michael and I will someday bring. It’s seriously one of my happiest places on earth and I can’t wait to share that with my kids. Oh Disney, how I miss thee already…