Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Trip Report: A Perfect Day, Pt. 3



While I reserved a seat in Town Square for the daily Flag Lowering Ceremony, I let mom and hubby cool off inside the Opera House, entertained by Steve Martin's 50th Anniversary Disneyland movie. They loved it!



The Flag Lowering Ceremony is one of those special attractions that elevates Disneyland above all other theme parks. An honestly touching piece of Americana, it is a truly patriotic salute to our country and those who gave of themselves through military service. My stepfather, formerly in the army, was asked to be part of the ceremony. It is something that was very meaningful for him and I am sure will be fodder for his coffee shop buddies back home in Philly!

For the summer, the music is provided by the All American College Band, sponsored by Yamaha, rather than the usual Disneyland Band.







The Dapper Dans were also on hand, providing the appropriate vocal harmonies for the ceremony.



As the flags were lowered, my stepfather held his salute:





Kudos to Disneyland for continuing this fantastic daily tradition.



It had been a very full day, so before dinner, we headed back to the Anabella Hotel to relax for a bit. The Monorail gave our feet a rest as rode it back into Disneyland and then hopped onto the Fred Gurley at the Tomorrowland Station to take us to New Orleans Square & Club 33.





On the way I shot the Kalamazoo Handcar at the Main Street Station:



Yup...it's the same handcar:



As usual, the ambiance of Club 33 was superb.



By the first course, a deliciously unique Gazpacho, mom and hubby were hooked. It was a great experience and a perfect ending to the perfect day.



Before heading back to San Diego in the morning, we had to have a little more Disney magic. Breakfast at the Storyteller Cafe, located in the Disney Grand Californian Hotel, was perfect. Mom had a special escort to the table.





You just never know who might drop by the table at Storyteller:



I love the large paintings that decorate the restaurant; very reminiscent of N.C. Wyeth:



And so ends the perfect day at Disneyland. Not surprisingly, mom and hubby are already looking forward to returning next year! See more vintage and contemporary Disneyland photos at my main website.

6 comments:

Melissa said...

Photbombing Bear nFTW!

Thufer said...

Impressive Day. Involved Parents, Disneyland and yes; Club 33. What an excellent memory and I again say thank you for sharing your day.

Major Pepperidge said...

I'll bet that the flag ceremony was one of the highlights for your stepdad!

Momma Nic said...

I always think at the flag ceremony that it is because we have the flag ceremony, that we can also have a Disneyland. Thanks for sharing your day with us all.

SundayNight said...

Really enjoyed this series. Thanks for taking us all along.

JG said...

What Momma Nic said.

Dave, thank you for sharing. Glad you had a good time with your family.

JG