About Me:
My name is Jodi. I grew up in Rhode Island, but now call Massachusetts home. I’m the original Type-A, multitasking mom, who plans things from start to finish and always has more than one ball in the air! I recently gave up my full-time job to find more balance in my life. I now work part-time as director of finance for a nonprofit firm, edit and write for two websites, and am a part-time stay-at-home mom. I have a background in economics and finance and enjoy helping families find ways to stretch their vacation dollars.
About My Family: My husband and I have been married for over eight years and we have two small children – a spirited, princess-loving 4 year old girl and an energetic, Mickey-loving 2 year old boy. Both my husband and I grew up experiencing annual family vacations and continuing that tradition with our own family is important to us. We’ve found that Walt Disney World makes traveling with small children so easy. Our children have enjoyed meeting characters, watching performances and riding attractions.
About My Disney Experience: My family first visited the Magic Kingdom when I was only 5 years old. After that, whether it was by plane, train or car (and we’ve done it all), we visited many times. Now that I have my own family, my husband and I have taken our children annually for the past few years. Our family’s favorite resort is the Animal Kingdom Lodge, where my children loved watching the animals right from our hotel room. I really look forward to helping parents everywhere plan a vacation within their budget that will truly create lifelong memories.
Other Q&A's from this Panelist
This will be our first time visiting Disney and we are staying at the Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista! Do you recommend renting a car even though they have a shuttle to and from the Theme Parks?
- Asked by kim on 2/8/2010
Hi Kim - you should find out how often the shuttle runs at your hotel. I know that some run only a few times per day, and so if you want flexibility, renting a car may be the way to go. It really depends on your plans, and how flexible... read more
- Answered by Jodi G., MA
Love the Moms Panel! Can the $750 gift card offer be used to pay for gratuities and alcohol at the resorts and the parks? Are there places where the gift card can't be used in the World? Is it only accepted where credit cards are accepted? Thanks so much!
- Asked by Stephanie from MI on 2/8/2010
Hi Stephanie - The $750 gift card offer is a great promotion, isn't it? You can use it at most locations throughout Walt Disney World and it can be used for gratuities and alcohol. Here's a link to the official Disney Gift Card Web site,... read more
- Answered by Jodi G., MA
How is it to stay@ animal Kingdom is it over rated
- Asked by staci from IL on 2/8/2010
Hi Staci - I stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge several times with my family, and we absolutely love it. My only issue would be that the rooms are a bit on the small side, but otherwise, I really love it. I'd definitely recommend staying... read more
- Answered by Jodi G., MA
We are making reservations at the Key West Resort. Can we use the pools at other resorts?
- Asked by Gretchen from PA on 2/9/2010
Hi Gretchen - in general, you are not allowed to use the pools at other resorts, unless the pool at your resort is being refurbished. There are exceptions for DVC members, however.
Have a great vacation! read more
- Answered by Jodi G., MA
First trip to WDW August, 2010--will be making resort reservations, including dining plan, in April, but want to make ADRs now. Can I make my ADRs now, and then transfer them to my dining plan once my resort reservation is made? Thanks!
- Asked by Janet from ON on 2/9/2010
Hi Janet - you can make reservations 180 days in advance using your name, without having booked a vacation package. Most locations don't require a deposit or prepayment (but some do).
Those reservations will stay valid even once you do... read more
- Answered by Jodi G., MA