… had me mostly misty-eyed.
It’s true; I officially cried at least five times while visiting the New Fantasyland expansion at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Now considering that it was MY first time at a Disney resort, I expected that my emotions would run high. And while I experienced everything from euphoria and nostalgia to simple child-like wonder, I couldn’t deny the lump in my throat on several occasions. With a casual dab at the corners of my eyes, I always smiled through the happy tears.
Want to hear more about the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history? Oh, I’ll get to that another day. Today I’d love to share with you my Top Five Misty-Eyed Moments at Magic Kingdom.
1. That Humble Little Abode Known as Cinderella’s Castle
Perhaps this one is a given; setting eyes on Cinderella’s Castle for the very first time is enough to make any girl teary with joy. How I dreamed of this castle as a young girl! Whenever life was difficult, I could always escape to this magical place; dreaming of my Prince Charming waiting high up in the fortress. The iconic castle comes alive during the Christmas season with 200,000 Castle Dream Lights and Celebrate the Magic – a new nighttime spectacular featuring projection mappings, pyrotechnics and lighting. And then, it’s finished with a luminous fireworks display. Yes, I was crying – but so was everybody else. It truly is magical.
2. Going Down in History: The Opening of the New Fantasyland
Amidst the fanfare – Jordin Sparks serenading the audience, Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs officially opening the park – a very poignant thought occurred to me. As the crowd cheered and the confetti floated to the floor, I realized that my family was part of history. Years from now, when the boys are older and the Fantasyland expansion is just another part of Magic Kingdom, I’ll be able to tell them that they were there. They were there when it all began; they were one of the first little children to ride Dumbo, The Flying Elephant; they were one of the first to sit next to the beautiful Princess Ariel. When the trumpets sounded and the fireworks shot into the sky, we were there, making history. Being able to give my children that experience – and the memories captured on camera – makes me burst with emotion time and time again.
3. Living in the Moment – From Age 2 to 102
Before leaving for Disney World, I often questioned if the boys were too young to fully appreciate the experience. “Reid’s too young to remember any of it”, I complained. However, once we arrived at Magic Kingdom, I realized that all of my pre-conceived notions were dead wrong. Because it’s not about what they’ll remember; it’s about what they are experiencing in the moment. Seeing the joy on Reid’s face as he traveled along The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh made my eyes glisten with happiness. Hearing Ryder scream “I want to do that again!” after racing through the Tomorrowland Speedway confirmed that Disney World is for all ages, from 2 to 102. We were surrounded by families of all ages and sizes, taking in the magic and splendour in their own way. No matter how old your children are – or how old you are – it’s always the perfect time to visit.
4. Two Little Boys and a Beautiful Princess
As we walked along Fantasyland, little Reid kept telling us that he wanted to see the “beautiful fish”. Confused, we tried to find Dory from Finding Nemo, and then showed him pictures of Flounder. “No, no, no!” he cried. “I want the Bootiful Fish!” he said, pointing at Ariel’s Grotto. Ah! The Little Mermaid! We journeyed under the sea and stood in a short line to meet Reid’s new favourite character. Once inside, he became bashful; putting his head down and hiding behind me. It was so enduring! His first crush – on a Princess, no less! After a little coaxing he gave her a huge hug and then sat down beside her, grinning from ear to ear. (Ryder, who’s too cool for school, was also convinced to get in the picture, though he was decidedly less impressed.) Watching Reid blush, smile and flirt was definitely a tear-jerking moment – but can you blame me? My little boy is growing up!
5. The Conversation that Changed My Perspective
Riding home from Magic Kingdom back to our hotel, I fell into conversation with another mom. Her daughters were 15 and 17, and she told me that she had been saving for fifteen years to experience Walt Disney World with her family. Every overtime hour she worked; every bonus or holiday pay she received, she put it away to the Disney fund. And now, after many long years, here they were. It was in that moment that I felt incredibly humbled; I was at Disney World on a press trip, riding alongside someone who was at Disney World as part of a life dream. It brought forth the incredible realization that for so many families, a trip to Disney represents years of hopes, dreams and savings – all for a chance to experience the fairy tale elegance and enchantment. It truly became both our “happily ever afters” – and gave me a new appreciation of just how fortunate my family was. Cue the tears!
And that, friends, is how I spent about 10% of my vacation in a teary (but happy) state. Our trip to Disney World brought about so many magical moments that we’ll never forget. I’ll be back later this week with a rundown of some of my favourite features of the new Fantasyland, including attractions, dining, shopping, character interactions, recreation and more.
Want to start planning your vacation? Visit www.disneyworld.ca.
Fantastic photos! Look at those smiles and blue skies! That’s too cute about the beautiful fish – Arial is a favorite in our home. Would love to visit Disneyland CA again! Thanks for sharing your trip!
Thank you Kat! Indeed, we had the most wonderful weather for the entire trip! And I’m seriously wondering if it’s appropriate to purchase Reid an Ariel doll for Christmas ;)
Oh Lena I LOVED reading about your very first experience at the most Magical Place on earth! I’ve never seen the Castle lit up like that! WOW! I think the part of your post that hit home the most was sweet number three. Living in the moment. We took our girls to Disney when they were wee and I have to admit I was a little saddened to think they wouldn’t remember the magic…but it isn’t always about the memories is it? It is about living in the moment and enjoying every second. Life is so fragile and love that you are soaking up every second of joy!
Steph, the castle was MAJESTIC. Truly, it was breathtaking! And I’m glad you agree with me re: #3. I remember chatting with you before the trip, thinking my boys were too young. Now I know that it’s not about what they’ll remember in 20 years, but what they are experiencing RIGHT NOW.
Wow! Looks like you all had an amazing time. It’s no wonder you became teary eyed! Disney is such a magical place.
It really is! Truth be told, there were more than 5 teary-eyed moments!
I just saw this post again and felt myself get emotional at the first picture of the castle. That really is a wonderful picture.
Great post! Sounds like you guys had a blast. Reid and Ariel are too cute! I love your 5th moment too – what a sweet mom! Pretty much the only family trip we took was to Disneyland in California when I was in grade 4… I’m pretty sure it took quite a bit of saving for my parents to make that work too! :)
Totally get it! And I should have elaborated further – it’s not just the fact that families save up for Disney, but that they WANT to save for it. The could be saving for a new car, a new home, etc… but instead choose to come visit Mickey, because yes, it’s THAT awesome!
I love your photos. Fun times.
Thank you Shirley!
i can imagine the vast array of emotions that such a trip would bring on! Thanks for these photos!
You’re welcome Anne! Thank you for stopping by!
I can’t wait to get my crew there! Although we were planning for 2013, I’m aiming for 2014 so that our “surprise” is out of the baby stage;) I admit that I’m emotional by nature (I cry through commercials and lullabies) so I can only imagine how I’ll be going for the first time! I just loved that you brought the raw emotion out of the trip, instead of just focussing on the typical awe and amazement you usually read about!
Yes, agreed that while travelling with a baby is infinitely easier than travelling with a toddler, you don’t want to worry about multiple feedings and diaper changes while you’re trying to enjoy the park! And thank you for your kind comments about my post!
I agree. Lena has a great way of inserting emotion into her pieces vs the plain old reviews I see on other mom sites. Well done! Looks like you all had a blast.
Looks like you had an awesome time! I can’t wait to go back this summer!
We absolutely did – and thrilled you’ll be going this summer! Have so much fun!
Sounds like super fun! You make me wanna go! :) and yes the double stroller would be awesome there :)
I think everyone should go at least once ;)
Would love to te my kids one day! Glad you had fun!
Thank you Jen! It’s just one of those places where if you pay attention to sales, take advantage of coupons and meal plans, everyone can afford! Good luck!
Looked like so much for. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Kristina! It was beyond fun – best trip of our lives!
one of these days I would love to go.. magical
One of these days, I hope you can go Candi! I still have the “Disney Afterglow” a week later – am totally thinking of returning in 2014!
I am hoping to take my grandson to Disney Land a place I was never able to go as a child due to finances
I think that’s a sound plan Laurel! He will love it – and how lucky he is to have such a loving and generous grandmother!
That is so sweet about the woman that saved for years to take her children. Disney really is a magical trip, but is SO expensive.
The cost can certainly add up, Janet. Thankfully there are so many options available that can help save money (driving vs flying, staying off the resort, stocking up on staples and buying groceries, etc). Good luck!
Love your pictures, it is a magical place. We took our kids when they were small and we many great memories.
That’s so wonderful, Huguette! Looking forward to sharing our memories with the boys too :)
Your story of the family who saved for years to be there had ME tearing up! We’re expecting our first mere weeks, and only now do I understand all of the people willing to trek to Disney to experience a child’s wildest fantasy. What a wonderful memory for your family :) Your pictures are gorgeous!
Thank you Jen :) It truly is such a magical place, and now that I’ve been there, I totally understand the fascination!
Love the pictures
Thanks Debbie!
Those pictures look amazing!! We went there a couple years back and had so much fun. Disney really is magical that’s for sure :)
Thank you Valerie! We are already talking about when to take our next trip!
Glad you got to go & experience it with your boys!!
Indeed! Thanks so much Nat – it’s an experience we’ll never forget!
I still get weepy every time I go. Love Disney World! :)
Hahaha thanks for all the pre-trip chats where you warned me about the sea of strollers. You were right, BTW!
Oh my goodness! How fun! Just reading your post and looking at your pictures brought back memories of our trip to WDW this past May. Love it!
That’s so awesome Jeannie! So happy I was able to take you on a trip down memory lane!
WOW! That is amazing! What a great experience for the entire family!
It really was Christine!
how exciting!1 i cannot wait to go and see the new fantasyland and dine at the beast castle!!! what a spectacular trip your family had!
It was amazing Joanna! There was an insane lineup for the restaurant, but then again, we were there opening weekend!
I don’t think the inability to remember it as an adult qualifies a child as “too young,” but I sometimes think, when I see children either sound asleep or wanting to be that maybe waiting another year would have been better. Not for the child’s sake, so much as knowing that the parents can’t take a sleeping child on all the rides.
That’s a very true statement, Ginger! I think ages 2+ is perfect – any younger and you have to deal with naps, as you mentioned! Thankfully our little guy only napped on the bus to/from the parks!
i love Disney World at this time! were you there for the Christmas party also? Cannot wait to read your review!
Teresa, we opted to see Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba so we missed the Christmas Party, but the boys absolutely loved the show so I have no regrets whatsoever!
Kind of neat to be a part of the opening and a piece of history!
It absolutely is, Deb! Makes me emotional just thinking about it!
Lovely photos! The picture of Cinderella’s Castle in the evening looks absolutely amazing…after Sara moved out I held onto some of our favourite Disney Movies…Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and of course…Cinderella.
Thanks Teresa! I’ve owned Disney movies before the boys were born, and I think I’ll always hang on to them. They’re just my favourites, no matter what age!
Wow what an amazing time you had. I’ve never been there and probably never will get a chance to go. Love the pics especially the one with lightning McQueen. My oldest loves cars lol.
Oh Francine, I really hope you have the chance. At 34 years old I went for the first time, and can’t believe I waited so long to experience the magic. Your kids would LOVE it.
That looks like such a great trip!! The first time I went to Disney was my senior year of high school and I loved every bit of it even though I wasn’t a young child. Now I can’t wait to take my own boys there. Hopefully by the time they are 5 and 2 we’ll be on a plane headed to sunny beautiful Florida.
That’s so awesome Becky! And I agree – Disney is for all ages!
Looks like you had a phenomenal trip Lena! Love the photos and as always appreciate your candid and thoughtful approach to reviews. You’re the best out there!
Thank you Carlee! We had a great time – the boys talk about it every day!
This looks fun!
I would absolutely love the opportunity to take my kids to Disney. My problem is that I have such little ones that I just don’t know what is a good age to take them. I know my 5 year old would be heaven, my 2 year old would probably whine while the 6 month old wouldn’t know whats going on…
Well, I think that 5 years old and 2 years old are the perfect age, but I can see why you’d be reluctant to take your 6 month old. You won’t want to have to stay with the stroller while the kiddos have all the fun! How about this – wait until your youngest is 2. Then you should be good to go! Have fun!
What a beautiful post! I love that you brought a personal spin to your review – it really makes me want to take the kids next year! I think I’d have the same emotional reaction as you.
Thank you Daria! I think everyone gets a little emotional when they venture to Disney. Happy you’re thinking of planning a vacation there!
Simply marvelous review! The picture of Reid beside Ariel is too cute, look at his face! It’s beyond endearing. Looks like they loved it. Can’t wait to hear more.
He LOVED it and he still talks about Ariel – oh, I don’t know – 30 times per day!
The picture of the castle is absolutley amazing! Amazing!
Isn’t it great? Husband took that one!
Looks like the entire family had a great time. I love Disney! I’ve been there four times, twice with my kids and twice with my step kids. Lovely story and photos.
Thank you Dawn! Sounds like you’ve had a wonderful dose of the magic – how special for you and your family!
lena i live in canada and we dont drive (we either walk or take a bus). that being said someday i plan to take my kids to canadas wonderland (by bus). i know its not disney but it will still be a great time for the family.
Francine, what really makes Disney special is the time you spend with your family – so like you said, that experience can be duplicated for all families in all places! I think Wonderland is an amazing option that your kids will adore!
Great article .. my daughter never wanted to go there when she was a child – she does not really like rides .. well now that she is 17 she wants to go there so bad !! That is my goal for 2013 .. this time next year I want to be in florida .. its going to be a struggle – i am a single mother working 2 part time jobs and going to school . .. but we have never been on a vacation since I separated
Heather, I admire you for your planning and dedication! I really hope you make it there next year!
The magic of disney…..it is so awesome…..your family must have had a wonderful time, look at the smiles on those cute faces!
Thank you Claudette :) It was our favourite family vacation yet :)
These pictures are absolutely wonderful. It looks like you had a wonderful time. Disney is such a magical place for everyone :)
:) Thanks Caitlin, I couldn’t agree more!
looks like soo much fun! the pictures are fantastic! Cant wait too go!
You’ll love it!
I would love to go with my girls
WOw, Looks like such a great time! <3