"To all who come to this happy place; welcome." - excerpt from Walt Disney's 1955 Opening Day Speech.

My first visit to Disneyland was in 1969. I was a baby. Subsequent visits were like a fairy tale. A magical world of amusement rides, sweet treats and characters who came to life. 

Fast forward 45 years - Christmas time. My first visit during the holidays and I looked forward to feeling the magic again. But what I found that warm December day was an empty shell. The big business of Disney Inc. outrageous parking and entrance fees, rude employees and poor cleanliness standards. It has become a sea of child strollers, designer handbags and corporate sponsored attractions.

We agreed we would not return until our granddaughter is older. Hopefully I can find the magic again with her help.