Trip Report - September 11, 2008

Going to Disneyland on September 11th was a little odd, but all the guests seemed to be having a grand time. The crowds were thin all day. When I arrive at the parking lot the attendant told me it would be a light day, 29 thousand expected for both parks, how do they know that?

New Guide cover, I think it’s super!






Too bad the map inside still has the old Monorail. Well, I guess the old Monorail is still clunking around the beam for a while longer.






I was greeted by these two while trying to take a photo of the flag pole. The “heads” sure look neat up close, I bet those cost some serious $$$.






The flag at half-staff with a grey overcast sky in the background, somber indeed.






This is the way I like Adventureland, where you can actually see the ground.






My favorite first stop when I arrive at the park at opening, the River Belle.






Yummy stuff. I always try and time it just right to get my pancakes fresh of the griddle.






Oh boy, the best $11 breakfast I’ve found at any Disney property.






Yawn…






That one raft kept circling the Island at a pretty good rate of speed, I want to do that!






I’ve seen this carriage before, what it ever used as an attraction?






This one I’m pretty sure was used as an attraction at one time. It’s great they still have these things, I would die to see all the stuff they have back stage and in storage!






Let’s talk bridge for a moment. I did a post back in July comparing one of the bridges from the hub to the Plaza gardens. Comparing it with older photos, it seems to be very original. In the previous Plaza Gardens bridge post (link) you can see the floor boards of the bridge appear to be very old and worn (millions of feet will do that).

Maybe it’s just pure coincidence or maybe the Mouse reads my blog, but that little worn bridge is now covered and under construction!






Here’s a peak behind the curtain, yup, they are replacing the floor boards!






Here’s a quick video where you can hear the saws and hammers banging. Also notice the other wooden bridge to the north of this one.

This bridge escaped my notice on my last visit, but check it out, it looks pretty worn out too. The maintenance guys better take up shop here next.






Actually, this bridge looks in worse shape than the other one.







Since I seem to be pointing out some maintenance issues, this is disturbing. This shot of the Monorail is just to give you a reference point.






I sure HOPE that’s just paint that’s cracked.






The whole beam in this spot shakes pretty good when the monorail rolls over this area. Note to self; do not eat under the beam.






Time for Lunch (yes I like to eat at Disneyland). Rancho del Zocalo is one of my favorites. I just love the food and the atmosphere. Did I mention there were no crowds?







Lots of pretty flowers.






Soft Chicken Tacos Monterey, another deal at just $12 including drink (with AP discount).






Three Fences is doing well. It could use a visit from the gardening folks pretty soon.






What in the heck is with this? Someone take that can of blue paint away from the maintenance people!






Is this a promise or a question?






Esmeralda is looking well.






Here’s the prophecies she read for me.





The Dapper Dans are singing there hearts out, boy do they sound good with that hidden sound system!





I hope you enjoyed the trip as viewed from my odd perspective. See you tomorrow on Bonus Sunday!