New Orleans Square

Jazz Hands

I came across this photo recently as I was going through my library. I smile every time I think of Ernie. There was something of heaven in the way he played. His music was gentle and could turn a sour mood sweet in no time. I’m grateful for every moment I got to bask in it.

Roses in Spring

Disneyland, New Orleans Square

Spring is here and I have to say that I’m ready for it. The weather has been warming up a little here in San Diego and the fresh air makes me want to get outside every chance I get.

Birds are singing a merry tune each morning. Flowers along the road on the drive to work are blooming in such vibrant colors. It sets a wonderful tone for the day. And then, of course, they’re there to perk you up on the way home again.

The Flag Over New Orleans

Disneyland, New Orleans Square

This is one of my favorite views in all of Disneyland. I can’t quite put my finger on a single reason. I think it’s more what the pieces add up to.

Last Light in the Garden

Disneyland, New Orleans Square

There are so many vignettes at Disneyland. I don’t know about you but I often find myself creating backstories for them. I assume that’s part of the intent, to evoke a history and draw interaction from guests’ imaginations. To the Imagineers responsible for these scenes — mission accomplished. It’s crazy to stop and consider how much these parts add up to and how many there are in making the whole experience.

Beware of Hitchhiking Ghosts

Disneyland, New Orleans Square

I’m a big believer in finishing strong and I couldn’t imagine a better way to end our Haunted Mansion series than with the hitchhiking ghosts. Phineas, Ezra and Gus comprise one of the biggest takeaway moments—if not the biggest—from the attraction. Are the hitchhiking ghosts really a little matter the ghost host forgot to mention?

Return From the Moldering Sanctum

Disneyland, New Orleans Square

Doom buggies. Their appearance has always seemed coffin-like to me. They are the carriages that carry you into the boundless realm of the supernatural, the moldering sanctum of the spirit world within the Haunted Mansion. Once you board, you are at the mercy of your host, your… ghost host.