Walt Disney World holds a special place in my heart. I traveled there several times as a kid and absolutely loved it. So after my first daughter was born, I couldn’t wait to experience the magic and wonder through her eyes. I pored through book after book and Web site after Web site, hungry for all the knowledge I could find to plan the perfect trip for our family. We booked our first trip when she was two years old. We had a countdown chart, watched YouTube videos and Disney movies, and talked about all the characters we would meet. Then two weeks before we were scheduled to leave for our dream vacation, my dad passed away unexpectedly. I considered cancelling our trip, but I knew my dad would have wanted us to go. So with a broken heart and a broken spirit, we continued with our plans.
 

Upon arrival at our resort, Port Orleans French Quarter, we were greeted by name by a Cast Member as we exited Disney’s Magical Express. She welcomed us warmly, gave us Mardi Gras beads, took a family photo, and helped us check into the hotel. It was as if she somehow sensed my fragile state and wanted to do everything she could to make us feel at home. This magical vacation gave us much-needed family time to escape from the stresses and sadness back home and allowed me to both grieve and begin to heal in a place where I had wonderful family memories. As we walked down the pathway in Frontierland one day, the song “Happy Trails” started playing, and I knew we were right where we were supposed to be at that moment. That was one of my dad’s favorite songs and the last song played at his memorial service. I could feel him smiling down on us, and it was a moment I’ll never forget. After all, isn’t that what Disney is all about? It’s about those moments and feelings that are so magical they could only happen at the Happiest Place on Earth.
 

We have returned to Walt Disney World multiple times with our girls since that first family trip, and I fall in love with it all over again every time. We also visited Disneyland Resort in the Spring of 2019 (my second visit) and enjoyed the gorgeous California weather and experiencing some attractions that are only available at Disneyland Resort.
 

Whether you’re introducing your children to Disney parks or cruises for the first time, returning for another visit, or just looking to escape from the stresses at home, I would love to share my experience and training to help you plan the most magical vacation possible for your family. Plus, why would you want to wake up at 5:00 am to book dining reservations when I can do that for you?!

 

jill@dreamdepartures.com

210-748-5117