Adventure and fantasy in California's O.C.

Jeanne Harnois visited Orange County, Calif.

Where did you go? The "O.C.," Orange County, Calif. My mother was going to a conference, so my father and I tagged along to keep her company. That's right - she worked; we played.

Where did you stay? The Anabella in Anaheim, a Spanish mission-style hotel.

What did you do? We spent an afternoon at Disneyland's California Adventure theme park. We went on a white-water rafting ride (yes, we got soaked) and to Soaring Over California, where, thanks to Disney magic and wind machines, you experience a condor's-eye view of California - from the vineyards to the coast to the skyline at night. We also took a walking tour of Old Towne Orange, looking at early-20th century architecture: Buildings that once housed churches and theaters are now home to cafes and antique shops.

Where did you eat? Pirate's Adventure, an interactive dinner theater featuring acrobatic pirates and a captured princess. Think Cirque de Soleil on the high seas, with a dash of "Animal House."

Any final thoughts? They say it never rains in California. They're right. It pours. The first day it rained nonstop!

• Where have you been? What did you do? Write us at Weekend