At Disneyland? Relax and Breathe

One thing people tend to notice at Disneyland, especially during the summer or Holidays, is the crowds. Yes, there are often a LOT of people around you. You might be hot, tired, hungry, and tired of standing in long lines. You might feel overwhelmed if your toddler is throwing the third tantrum of the day and you have no idea where to find something he will eat. You might be rushing from attraction to attraction so quickly that you are missing some of the very best "stuff" that Disneyland has to offer.

My advice? Stop and Breathe. Take a nice deep breath, look around, and remember that you are in Disneyland. You may have waited months or years for this moment. Take a few moments and look at whatever is right around you. Really look. Check out the details of the wrought iron gate, or planter, or flowers, or wall that is right there. Absorb the fact that it is probably absolutely the perfect whatever-it-is for that location. Realize that it is there for your enjoyment. Enjoy it! People are in Disneyland to have fun, and if you are not having fun, change what you are doing so you can have fun. Realize it will be more fun to sit and eat a Micky-shaped ice cream bar and watch people pass by than to run from Main Street to Splash Mountain while your child is crying about the ice cream you just said no to in your attempt at being efficient.

While you are sitting, watching, you never know what you might see. It might be that very moment that Mickey strolls by and you get a perfect chance for an autograph and photo (granted, your child is now covered in melted chocolate), or you look up and notice a group of characters scaling the Matterhorn. It's worth it to take the time to stop, breathe, and absorb the Magic!