Happiest Place On Earth

We just returned from Disneyland with some of our children and grandchildren. I have heard some people laugh that we will need a vacation from our vacation with family. I must admit that Lynn and I did completely wear ourselves out, but we couldn't have had a better time and would do it again in a heartbeat.

Maybe it is because people let their inner child show there, or maybe because it is a safe place to let your imagination go wild, but I have many wonderful memories at Disneyland and Disney World. My parents took our family multiple times while we were growing up and combining that experience with many other trips we took are part of the reason we are a close-knit group. Lynn also cherishes the memories he has of family trips, including the time his family arrived at Disneyland August 6, 1970, the day there was a Hippy Sit In, so the park had to close. Disappointment didn't stop their bonding and sharing an important memory.

In a talk given in October 2014 by Elder L Tom Perry, he quoted President Gordon B Hinckley to give us instruction on Finding Lasting Peace and Building Eternal Families.“Women who make a house a home make a far greater contribution to society than those who command large armies or stand at the head of impressive corporations. Who can put a price tag on the influence a mother has on her children, a grandmother on her posterity, or aunts and sisters on their extended family?" Later on Elder Perry states, "Fathers build family traditions by being involved in helping plan vacation trips and outings that will involve all of the family members. Memories of these special times together will never be forgotten by their children." We are so grateful for the advice and instruction given to us by Elder Perry.

I am grateful for a sweet husband who enjoys planning for vacations with our family as much as I do. His excitement and joy in visiting the Magic Kingdom hasn't changed in our 32 years together, 4 children, and 11 grandchildren. Walt Disney's vision for a magical place where children and parents can have fun and make memories together is still a reality, and we hope in this 60th anniversary year that it will go on for another 60 years and continue to be a joyous place for our family to bond together.