About Me:
Prior to being a full-time mommy to two
children, I was a children’s minister. My responsibilities included developing programs,
curriculum and activities for hundreds of kids and their families at churches
across the country. I’ve always been excited to plan special events but planning for a vacation to Disney is my favorite! I am also an avid blogger, voracious reader,
sometimes crafter and lover of all things chocolate.
About My Family: My husband and I spent our honeymoon at Disney 11 years ago. Since then we have traveled all over the country, visiting 32 states and living in five. We waited seven years to have children – now we have two young children, a princess and a pirate! They are destined to be great Disney fans as they have already been on a Disney Cruise and visited Walt Disney World and Disneyland … not to mention all the Playhouse Disney that shows in our house!
About My Disney Experience: My first trip to Walt Disney World was at 3 years old and I’ve been smitten ever since! Many special occasions have been celebrated at the Park including my High School graduation, my honeymoon and a family celebration for 25. A big chunk of my Disney knowledge came about when I was a resident of Celebration, FL. Living so close allowed me to visit Disney year-round and discover many of its secret treasures. Walt Disney World to me is more than a park, more than an experience; it’s a place that brings families together – creating precious memories that last a lifetime.
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Other Q&A's from this Panelist
We are taking our daughters ages 11 and 7 for a first time visit to Disneyworld Aug 5 (arrive 7PM) – Aug 10 (depart 4PM). We know it's a really busy time. Could you give us an itinerary for the parks inc. fireworks? We have 7 day tickets w/ water park opti
- Asked by Zanetta from TX on 6/30/2011

Hi Zanetta!
Oh, your first trip! I just get excited thinking about it!
If you are getting in at 7pm on your first day, I'd book a really fun meal at a resort--maybe Chef Mickey's at The Contemporary or Ohana's at the Polynesian.
The next...
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- Answered by Amanda W., GA
We are making our first trip to Disney this Aug..I was told that there is a book that I MUST read that tells all about Disney..I cant remember the name of the book...I was thinking it was something like " the untold secrets of Disney"
is this correct?
- Asked by Betty from TN on 7/1/2011

Hi Betty!
I just googled "untold secrets of Disney" and couldn't find a book with that name. (Of course, my googling skills may not be that great!) But after a search through Amazon I found, "The Hidden Magic of Disney" by Susan Veness. It looks...
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- Answered by Amanda W., GA
In your opinion what is the best deluxe hotel/villa hotel for a family of four (two teens)? We dont want to stay @ GF, and price isnta factor. We luv BL/Contemp 4 location/dining, BCR 4 location/pool/atmosphere,Poly 4 atmosphere/location, AKL 4 theme. !!
- Asked by Christina from CA on 7/1/2011

Christina!
Sounds like you already have some great thoughts! I've stayed at The Contemporary and Beach Club Resort. I just covet a night at Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Polynesian!
But here's my thoughts...
If you guys are planning on...
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- Answered by Amanda W., GA
I will be making a trip to celebrate my daughter's 4th birthday - it'll be my husband and I, my daughter and 19 month old son. What park, other than magic kingdom, would be a good all day option for us?
- Asked by Jennifer from NY on 6/30/2011

Hi Jennifer!
I love celebrating birthdays at Disney World! I mean, does it get any better than that?!
My personal favorite for a 2nd park for kids is the Animal Kingdom. It's my kids' favorite because their favorite shows are there (Festival...
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- Answered by Amanda W., GA
Hi, we will be traveling to WDW this Christmas with 2 children.son/4 & daughter/7. We have booked Christmas dinner at Cinderellas Happily Ever After Dinner,1900 Park Fare. I am just wondering if this is a good choice or if you would recommand something
- Asked by Troy from ON on 6/30/2011

Oh Troy! Christmas at Disney World! How awesome! I've been to Disney during December (in fact, we're going this year!) but never right ON Christmas. Your holiday will be magical!
I think you've made a great choice for Christmas dinner! 1900 Park...
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- Answered by Amanda W., GA