Remembering a Wish! Day 4

How could I not finish talking about our amazing trip to Disneyland. Of course we feel sadness and shed some tears when thinking about our last trip as a family of four. However, more joy comes when revisiting those memories. It makes me happy to talk about Jonas. To hear others talk about Jonas and the things they remember about him, makes it easier. I felt like bringing back a little sunshine into these dreary days by continuing to share our Make-A-Wish trip.

After the traditional photo in front of Mickey and meeting a favorite, Geppetto, for the first time, we started the day in Fantasyland riding Jonas' favorite rides. I still remember the first time we ever went to Disneyland, I would practice with Jonas riding these particular rides. Having him sit on my lap moving him around like we were on Dumbo or Tea Cups. I guess I thought that way he would do a better job and not be afraid. Not that there is anything to be afraid about, but I was doing all that I could to make it a positive experience. I think it worked because his face would light up and he always did his very best breathing, not choking and really enjoying the experience. I have to add that these rides wouldn't have been possible for Jonas this last time if it weren't for his Trilogy! He could comfortably breath and focus all of his attention on the ride. So AWESOME!!! Thank you again Peterson Medical! What a miracle!

Classic Dumbo!

The Amazing Casey Jr. Train

The thrilling Tea Cups. I think more than the ride, Jonas loved the music that plays while riding. He sure loved his Alice in Wonderland!

In keeping with the tradition of this trip and doing something new, we met Rapunzel! None of us knew much about her since the movie hadn't come out yet, but we all knew that she was pretty. I so love when cast members are kind and considerate. This line to see Rapunzel was longer than we would have liked and they saw Jonas and swept him right up to the front. He was his usual shy self and didn't give her much love, but a little smirk. Hey not bad from him!

Even more new than meeting a character was visiting a location that we will probably never be able to visit again.
The Wishing Lounge.
It's amazing the places you've never known to exist in a very frequented location. Oh and that reminds me of another new place we went, which was right next to the lounge....The Baby Center and Lost Children station.
We actually warmed up Maggie's bottle here and if I would have still been pumping, they have little rooms for you to nurse or pump in privacy! Cool!

So back to the Wishing Lounge.. this is a special place for children who've made their wish to relax and take a break. We were so excited to get in and then so excited once we were done, we forgot to take a picture of the door. A special invitation is required to get in, and then you are welcomed there anytime throughout your stay. They had endless snacks and drinks and even a TV you could watch a movie on. We feed Maggie, changed a couple diapers, chatted with the Lounge worker, and then went on our way. It was neat to see, but we are not about resting! We go, go, go! I think Jonas was ok with that, except I'm sure if I would have put on a movie he would have stayed.

It had an Aladdin theme...the Genie is the official Make-A-Wish granter at Disneyland.

We took advantage of being close to the hotel and each night went back to change for the cooler weather at night. Kind of hard to see, but the Grand has a beautiful lobby. Jonas was mesmerized by the large and detailed ceilings. Lots to look at from his perspective. Maggie seemed to love it too!

Another first...using the Bjorn with Maggie. She loved looking out in front of her and being held at the same time. Jonas was never strong enough in his neck to use this.

Geez, looking back at this day we had a lot of first! I had to convince Whit to let us do this first and obviously I won. In California Adventure there is a HUGE Ferris wheel. Some of the carts aren't stable and are basically a huge swing. To be honest it's scary, but I wanted Jonas to try it. He was a little dare devil and I knew he would love it and if he didn't well, he's resilient. People he loved it!!! He squealed the whole time. I was firmly holding his shoulder to try and give him a sense of security, which was more for myself. Whit did say that he had a bit of a "um, are we OK guys" at the beginning of the swing, but it quickly turned to a look of enjoyment! Wish I could have been in both places at once!

Two buddies winding down at the end of the day...Jonas is explaining the joy of the night lights of Disneyland. Always a highlight to walk around at night at take in the lights!

It was a great day! I still can't believe how well these two did together, especially at night. Love them, love this, will always cherish these memories of the two of them. Although short, very powerful!
Love you Jonas!!