Countdown to Disney

Just under 4 months until our first ever family vacation! It seems like just yesterday we cracked the plan to save up and go. In reality? Almost 18 months ago. Its been a long time coming, but we're finally starting to nail down some specifics. We promised ourselves we would only go if we could pay cash for everything - no charging it and figuring it out later. Putting aside a little each paycheck has really racked up and we're almost at our goal!

Thanks to a Southwest sale, we were able to get our plane tickets for $600! And since bags fly free, that's a huge savings from what I originally budgeted for travel ($1,000 for flight and baggage) and that's always nice. The best part? Non stop flights. ::phew:: I had nightmares of running through Charlotte or Atlanta with two kids and all our luggage. Nope - two quick hours on one plane and we're there.

I've been scoping out tips and travel advice and realized there are A LOT of websites dedicated to all things Disney. Especially saving money and traveling with little kids. I've been collecting all of the good sites and posts I find on my Disney Pinterest board if you're in need of some Disney info.

From what I've read, here are some of my favorite (random) tips so far...

• Bring or buy food to make breakfast and snacks. Save your meal plan for the bigger meals to get more bang for your buck.
• To save on luggage space, you can buy diapers and baby food on Amazon and have them delivered to your resort. They will be available for pick up when you arrive. 
• Bring a wearable carrier for small children since you can't use your stroller through airport security or on the Disney transportation shuttles.
• Bring glow sticks or light up toys to distract toddlers from wanting the expensive ones sold at the fireworks show.
• At the beginning of the day, take a picture of your kids with your cell phone. If they wander away, you will be able to show security exactly what they look like.

There are a ton more out there - books and books of them even. Thank goodness for the internet! How did our parents and grandparents plan anything?! ;-)

Another thing I wanted to do before the big trip was to try out our double stroller. We'd used it here and there, but not on a big day trip. Well, let me tell you - that thing is large and in charge. We recently went to the zoo and was able to maneuver it around the DC Metro, in the city, and around the zoo without a problem. The shades did great in the sun and, unfortunately, rain and both kids napped in their seats comfortably. Sounds Disney worthy to me! Plus, Southwest said we can gate check it without a problem, thank goodness.

We've started telling Charlie that we're going to go visit Mickey, but to be honest, I think he has no idea what we're talking about. He'll get it eventually and if not, he'll definitely get it when he's toe to toe with the big guy himself. I am beyond thrilled that this vacation is happening and can't wait to go as a family. I know chances are Charlie won't remember (and Ginny definitely won't remember), but I know he will have a blast and that's all that matters.


Remaining on the Disney check list...

Research transportation options
Save enough money to pay in cash
Buy plane tickets
Add Ginny to airfare reservations
Test out double stroller
Take off work
Book resort
Find someone to watch the dog (thanks, Mary!)
Make packing lists
Pack
GO! :-)