My first memory was at the age of 5. After a fun day on the beach we climbed up the stairs to buy soft-serve ice cream, chocolate-covered bananas, cotton candy, candied apples, churros, soft salted hot pretzels, and fresh saltwater taffy. I was mesmerized by the taffy tumbler stretching the taffy. I thought that the spin art paint booth was one of the coolest attractions on the Boardwalk. At night my Dad took my hand and pulled me toward the Giant Dipper. I was terrified. My Dad gave me some calm encouragement and told me it would be so much fun. I was trembling with fear as the train was pulled up the incline to the top for the first drop. As soon as the train plummeted down the first and highest drop; my fear immediately pulled a 360 turning into an adrenaline rush of fun and excitement speeding over the other inclines, descents and turns until it made its return to the station! I had so much fun on the Giant Dipper. I also enjoyed the Jet Star and Wild Mouse with my Mom. I look forward to sharing my 8 year-old son’s first experience at the Boardwalk. Santa Cruz has such a nice, colorful, mellow atmosphere and we like watching the seagulls, pelicans, seals, and sea otters. I have been there through my childhood, teens, and adulthood, and I’ve never once had a negative visit.