About Me:
I’m a writer and stay-at-home mom. I grew up on California’s central coast, but nowadays, Arizona is home. Because my primary role is that of “mom,” keeping up with my children accounts for the majority of my time. When I can find a spare minute, though, I enjoy reading the latest Jodi Picoult novel or trying out a new recipe. I can also be frequently be found with my nose buried in my laptop, blogging! I freely admit to being the kind of person who flosses daily and balances my checkbook to the penny. My inclination to over-attentiveness serves me well though my Type-A personality is the backbone that keeps our family on time and task. I work as a freelance writer and my articles have been published in national magazines as well as in various regional publications.
About My Family: I’m married to a rocket scientist, who, unlike a stereotypical one, is as fun-loving and carefree as they come – think “Hakuna Matata.” I have three daughters, ages 15, 12 and 10, and a three-year-old son. The personalities that make up our family run the gamut from shy and quiet to outrageously outgoing. My oldest daughter is convinced that she is Cinderella's long lost sister. My 12 year-old is an eternally inquisitive fiery redhead (as stubborn as Ariel no doubt!). My youngest daughter was blessed with an extra chromosome; we have yet to figure out if her charming ways are enhanced or inhibited by the fact that she has Down syndrome. Last, but certainly not least, is my son whose boundless energy keeps me on my toes day in and day out! Disney destinations always top our list of vacation hot spots. Keep an eye out for us in the parks or on the ships; we'll be the ones with the matching Disney shirts, singing along word-for-word to the attraction/parade soundtracks!
About My Disney Experience: My love for the resort, together with my perfectionist ways, led me to become an expert on many aspects of Walt Disney World travel. In planning multiple Grand Gathering vacations, including details for special needs and senior citizen family members, I’ve garnered insight into valuable travel tips. The regular trips my family took to Disneyland growing up rooted a love for Disney parks deep into my heart. Now, I’m so happy to have the opportunity to create those same priceless memories with my own four children at Walt Disney World. My year spend as a Moms Panelist was absolutely magical! In addition to making great friends, I thoroughly enjoyed playing “Internet Fairy Godmother” and spreading some virtual pixie dust in the form of vacation tips that helped other families plan amazing Disney vacations!
Other Q&A's from this Panelist
Hi. my soon to be husband and I are going to disney wold for our honeymoon. We are staying at the Polynesian Resort. I am trying to find out if they will offer us a late check out time. Due to our transportation arrangement we are not leaving until 6PM
- Asked by melissa from PA on 1/28/2010
The resort hotels at Walt Disney World do offer late check-out, though it is not guaranteed. You'll have to give the front desk a call on the day you wish to check out and ask if it's something that might be available to you that day. ... read more
- Answered by Darcie M., AZ
We are a family of 5 with different needs. Ages are 4 yr old, 8 yr old with Aspegers (loves rides) and a 13 year old. What are some things that we can do all together. The 13 year wants to do some "kiddie" rides with her younger brother.
- Asked by Christine from ON on 1/29/2010
One of the most fabulous things about Walt Disney World is that there truly is something there for everyone. Truly. We, too, are a family with a relatively large age range (including a child with Down syndrome). Our visits to... read more
- Answered by Darcie M., AZ
3 adult ladies what about the nightlife, what is there to do without kids and husbands?
- Asked by Kathy from IL on 1/30/2010
In short, there is plenty to do without kids and husbands! Here are a few of my favorite options:
Jellyrolls at Disney's Boardwalk Inn - Jellyrolls is a dueling piano bar and it's always a lot of fun. Two things to keep in mind: they... read more
- Answered by Darcie M., AZ
We'll be staying at Shades of Green at WDW ~ I know we can use the Disney Transportation once we're there but can we also use the dining facilities throughout the WDW and will we need a stroller for the 2 1/2 yr old or just a harness?
- Asked by Pearl on 1/31/2010
And and all guests are more than welcome to dine in any of the hundreds of Walt Disney World restaurants. It's a good idea to make advanced dining reservations. You do so by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
As for the stroller, I would bet that... read more
- Answered by Darcie M., AZ
hi moms! my husband and i are staying at the beach club in may. where do you suggest we keep our room key, flip flops, and any other belongings when we go swimming in stormalong bay? thanks!
- Asked by Trisha from ON on 2/2/2010
You will find that many people leave their belongings at a nearby table or lounge chair while they swim. Depending on how active you plan to be in the water, that may be a feasible option for you. If you plan to simply wade in waist-deep... read more
- Answered by Darcie M., AZ