Back in January, as I turned the big 3-0, I decided to do something a little different for my birthday. Since my debut, I had always done two things: a family gathering, and a themed party for friends. I had been throwing themed parties for 12 years, and I knew that it was time for a change. That and the fact that I practically do these parties for a living made me decide to skip the party this year, stick to the traditional family gathering, and go on a trip with my two best girls instead.

And if you know me well – or hey, if you know me even just a little, you know I’d choose to celebrate in the Happiest Place on Earth.

And let me tell you, that was the Best. Decision. Ever.

Planning

Since this was our first Disneyland trip together, and we planned it a little last minute, we figured we’d start small. And since we had all been to Hong Kong before, we decided to stay on property for the entirety of our vacation. We found a package at Hong Kong Disneyland called the “Three Magical Days Disney Getaway Package” that was easily customisable to our budget. (Since the package is still available, I have it linked for you.)

Once we booked our Disney package and our flight, I went straight into outfit planning. As a Christmas surprise, and as a thank you for joining me on my little birthday adventure, I put together Disney Kits for my girls – outfits, Disneybounds, and Minnie Ears that I had made for each day we were there.

Getting There

We ran into quite a few bumps on the road to our magical vacation. After some minor incidents, I came down with dengue the day before our flight. I won’t get into the pesky details, but thanks to Disney’s kindness, we had no problems rebooking our trip to the last week of January. And after a few restless weeks and one sleepless, excited night, we were finally on a plane to see our favourite Mouse.

Once we got to the hotel, we were led straight to the baggage counter, where we could leave our bags while we enjoyed our day at the parks. Out of excitement and overwhelming happiness, we hopped onto the shuttle without a second thought and headed straight to Disneyland without picking up our tickets. Oops. Once we realised our mistake, we circled right back around, and decided to take on the day a little calmer. Lol.

Disney Explorer’s Lodge

So back we went, and when we stepped into our hotel for the first time, oh boy. What a beaut.

After admiring the intricate detail that went into the design of the lodge, we headed to the lobby like adults, and during the time it took for us to calm ourselves, our room had been prepared and we were able to check in early.

Even though we didn’t make our original travel dates, because it was still my birthday month, Disney still surprised me with a free room upgrade and birthday decorations in our hotel room. They also gave me a birthday pin which I wore with glowing pride.

We freshened up, took deep breaths, and headed out to Disneyland better prepared for the day, decked in what else? Rose gold. Hey – my birthday, my color amiright? Lol.

Disneyland Day 1

I have to say, entering my favourite place in the world with two of my favourite people in the world, was pretty much one of the best feelings ever. There’s nothing quite like walking down Main Street and getting your first look at that castle. No matter how many times I see it, it just never gets old. And seeing it with these two? Wow. Magic.

After making one full round through the park, and after getting our photos done at the castle, we headed to Mystic Point for lunch. In true Disney fashion, all the tables were full. So I asked the girls to buy food, while I did the classic stare down with anyone who looked like they were almost done eating. But before I could even resort to the smoulder – Flynn Ryder style, the restaurant manager spotted me (and my birthday pin) and found a table for us in less than five minutes. Sometimes it pays to get older.

Lunch was delicious, and the company was perfect. Towards the end of the meal, I was met with another surprise from the Disney cast members. Fried Ice cream, Mickey watermelon slices, a song, and so much happiness I just about cried. And I did.

The rest of the day went by in a blur of rides, parades, popcorn, and character meet and greets. It was amazing.

We met Chewbacca, who gives the best hugs.

We cried, laughed, ate, danced, and sang with Mickey and friends at the Flights of Fantasy parade.

I waltzed with Beast, my first and true love.

We explored Mystic Manor, which is hands down our favourite ride. Had to do it more than once!

We discovered how small the world really is.

I got arrested by Captain Phasma, which was both terrifying and exciting.

We hung out with some of Andy’s toys.

We had delicious Mickey treats along Main Street.

And even got a nice spot for the Paint the Night Parade.

All in all, we had a pretty awesome, pretty crazy, pretty perfect first day.

And just when I thought nothing could top the day we just had, we came back to our hotel to find this:

A birthday message from the Mouse himself.

Can’t get any better than that.

“I hope we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.”

– Walt Disney

But you know, there’s always Day 2. And that’s coming tomorrow! Stay tuned!