While I've been to
Disneyland more times then I can count, I went on my first Solo trip back in September. You are going to have a great time.
I would highly recommend getting MaxPass so you can make the most of your time there. Also if you get MaxPass make sure to use it to get your free digital picture downloads with PhotoPass photographers and for on ride photos.
Also use single rider lines, but be smart about them! If you get in a single rider line and there are 50 people in front of you know you might be smarter using MaxPass to just get a fastpass for a later time. (For example I've seen people wait 60 minutes in the single rider line at Splash Mt. when the posted wait time for the regular line was 45 minutes and the fastpass time was just a little over an hour out.)
I put together a video of my tips for solo trips (I know you said you didn't like videos for learning but hopefully it isn't too painful)
And for Character meals as others have said, if you want lots of Characters go to Plaza Inn, if you are ok with fewer (but more unique) characters but want excellent food quality go with Storytellers cafe:
You'll have a great time! Solo trips can be really fun. Make sure to take the time to just take in some of the things that you love most that you might not do if you were with a group rushing around the park.