Hi Lilli & Jason,

The countdown continues!!! We went twice, but for the sake of this countdown, we are talking about the first time. That because both times were quite similar but the first time, we didn’t know what to expect and were quite pleasantly surprised!

There are few things that I enjoy more than arriving at a location for the first time. No matter how much buzz there is about the location, there will always be the unexpected. The first time is always like being in a wonderland. Lilli, you and I have arrived at such locations many times during our yacht racing career including Alometos Bay, Lake Skinner, and Long Beach Harbor. The waters of the race courses are much different, yacht clubs are different, launching procedures are much different etc. We get to meet local racers of reputation that we have heard much about. Lilli, do you remember the first time you stepped out of airport in San Francisco? Or South Bend? The first exposure is always a memorable experience.

We arrived on time and parked (after paying our $7.00). I was first impressed with the long walk to the main gate. We walked down a long corridor of a mall with shops and eateries on either side. All were closed at that time in the morning. It seemed like it took about 10 minutes before we got to the main gate. It seemed to go on forever, in fact, I don’t think that we ever walked the whole distance of that walkway on either of our visits there. I wonder how big it really is?

Once inside, the place quickly surpassed my expectations. It was a visual wonderland. I was very impressed with the layout of the place. It is built onto the side of a mountain with 3 distinct plateaus. The elevation difference between the upper level and the lowest level is several hundred feet. Most of the rides and attractions offered both amusement and an education of how films are created. The 45 minute tram ride through the movie studios and landscapes was very impressive.

On the way out, the mall was full of people. There were local rock bands spread out about every 100 yards down the corridor. We came to realize that teenagers will pay the $7.00 to park just to hang out therefor the evening. We stopped to eat at the Hard Rock Café there and after that, headed home.

It was an unforgettable day. A full day for the senses.

God bless you both!!

Dado