Disney 2012

First, if you love Disney and think only positive thoughts about it...stop reading now.

We decided to take the boys to Disney for Harrison's 4th birthday. We also wanted to do a family vacation before life gets crazy as we live a part for four months and move to Atlanta.

Let me start by saying this...Disney really is unbelievable. In particular, Magic Kingdom...is magical. Here is my list of things that I learned and would pass on as it relates to Disney with kids...
1. Buy a double stroller off of Craigslist no matter how old your kids are. In fact, if they have one that has room for an adult in the middle, buy that one. You may use it. We did get a double stroller off of Craigslist and it was a Godsend.
2. Stay on a Disney property. It really does make the experience. It is so nice to have a pool/activities to come back after a day at the park. If you can swing it...stay in a resort on the monorail.
3. Wherever you stay, get a room with a balcony so you can escape the kids after they go to bed. We were trapped in a room and while going to bed by nine was nice, Adam and I could've used some decompression time. Especially since I don't recall going to the bathroom alone once.
4. Book a character breakfast at the park you want to go to to eat at 8-8:10 am...then you will be at the park before everyone else gets there, which is really nice. And you can be done with the park just after lunch (when the crowds get crazy).
5. Learn everything you can about Fast Passes...when you can get them (when you can't). Because let's be real...why in the world could you ever justify standing in line for 45 minutes for a ride that lasts two minutes? Lots of people do which I think is absolutely asinine.
6. Here are things that I know about me: I hate to stand in line...I hate extreme heat unless I'm by a pool or beach. So for me, I could not go to Disney later than March. Oh, and add to the strong dislike list...lots of people. I've heard February and October are the best months to visit. I have to believe that. I would likely stab someone in the summer.
7. Taking a 14 month old is not the end of the world. It was fine. Just make sure that bambino can nap in a stroller.
8. Take more snacks than you think you need. And juice boxes.
9. Tell me if you want to do more than two days at parks. We were certainly ready to cash in our chips after two.
10. The dining plan is a good thing. The food is still terrible at the parks.
11. The parades are worth the watch. Harrison thought he was seeing celebrities.
12. Call me. I have lots more advice

Don't get me wrong. I thought Disney was great. I, however, am not itching to go back. I'm actually hoping I only have to go two more times (and crossing my fingers for one more time). I know my kids are at tough ages to go. But the crowds, the lines, the terrible food. I don't love spending money on that type of thing. Lesson learned. Still...every parent needs to take their kids.