My Happy Place

Everyone has a happy place. You know, the place where you take a deep breath, feel excited and relaxed at the same time; at peace with the world and everything in it. You’re where you want to be. Time doesn’t matter. Energy seems to come from nowhere. There’s a smile on your face, a spring in your step, and a focus in your eyes. You know this place inside and out. It’s like an old friend.

For me, this place is the Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Florida! Not Disneyland, California. No, siree. Disneyland’s parking lot entryway doesn’t compare to the magical and enchanted way you enter and feel when you walk through the gateway to Disney World, Florida. My happy place! 

Just when I hear the name mentioned, Magic Kingdom, my heart starts going pitter-patter.  I start looking at my calendar for open blocks of time to see if I could squeeze a trip in during the summer, spring break, or even Groundhog Day.  I am mesmerized by the magnificence of Cinderella’s Castle, and the pristine walkways that beckon me to buy souvenirs on Main Street, USA. 

I’m pulled towards the screams as I enter Tomorrowland and see the patrons lined up to ride Space Mountain. But instead, I choose to ride the free, no-line, and oh-so-satisfying Carousel of Progress. Did you know it’s been said that this was Walt Disney’s favorite ride and it will never be permanently shut down? 

But my all-time favorite ride is the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square. You can’t go during the day. Oh, no. You have to wait until twilight. As you enter past the black, wrought-iron fence, you are ushered inside a small room with a group of other patrons where portraits of people grow longer, or does the ceiling grow? I don’t know. But not knowing is half the fun.

 The best part, however, is watching the ghosts dance in the ballroom below while safely riding in your cart with your close friend or family member by your side. It’s always a surprise who (or what) ends up in your cart with you at the happiest place in the world, Disney World, Magic Kingdom, Florida. 

Where’s your happy place?