Kim's Corner
Page 2 of 10

I think that my favorite of Disneyland's support brochures is Disneyland Today - I get one every time I enter the park - although I could probably navigate the place blindfolded. I like being able to look back on them and remember parades that no longer run - attractions that no longer exist - and shops that have become something else entirely. Like guidebooks, these brochures are a reference and capture the park at a specific date and time. From entertainment schedules to attractions and from shops to restaurants - these give-away brochures are a way to watch the park change. From year to year you can flip through the maps and see the changes that have taken place within the park as attractions have been added - or removed - sponsors change - or remain and the promotions hype one aspect of the marketplace or another. You can also watch America change - when the "healthy" menus were begun and when smoking was relegated to "sections" - reflect the pervading social morays of the times.

I also like the little pieces that make Disneyland quintessentially Disneyland. From locker keys (now obsolete) to coffee cups there are thousands of little details that you can - quite literally - overlook - unless you collect them. The park is a conglomeration of layers of design each made up of small pieces, which combine to create the environment that is enveloping - welcoming - safe. Comfort is almost everywhere - even in the artwork on the fast pass tickets is rich with easily over-looked detail. There is a reassurance in the feeling that there was care taken on something that won't be kept for more than two or three hours by 95% of those who get them.

I think that's why I collect the details - the care taken to create them is something I can't over-look. I'm not the only one.

With the 50th coming up quickly - I still have the tickets and schedule from Disneyland's 30th - paper ages pretty well - but must be cared properly to maintain a "mint" condition.
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I was the 247,781,968th guest to enter the park - cool. This ticket is one of my favorite paper items - more for the memories of the day and the friends I spent it with then for the ticket itself.
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