Disney & I: It’s a Long Story
I’ve traveled a lot—Disney World, cruises, all over the U.S. and Canada.
But Disney?
Disney is my personality trait at this point.
When I say I’ve done Disney in every stage of life… I mean every stage.
As a child and young adult…
I started going to Disney World in 1975—yes, I hear it too, that date is loud.
I was one of the first guests at the Grand Floridian (which I still casually bring up whenever possible).
In college, I was accepted into the Disney College Program. I worked at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant—serving burgers in a fake drive-in theater.
Me and Mickey, 1993.
Disney College Program graduate.
And then in 1999, I got married at the Polynesian… on a hill… overlooking Cinderella Castle.
It was magical. It was hot. I was melting… but my flowers? Absolutely gorgeous!
As a mom…
My kids are incredible humans—with medical needs that made travel a little more… layered. Layered is another word for very, very stressful!
A picture is worth a thousand words… and I still have thoughts.
So I became that planner.
The one with backup plans for the backup plans.
Snacks. Strategies. Exit routes. Emotional support everything.
We went to Disney World every week.
Yes. Weekly. (I have no regrets.)
They also gone on 15 Disney cruises… which feels both impressive and slightly crazy!
Left: The first cruise L (the smaller one) actually enjoyed—we all noticed immediately.
Right: Palo! L finally made it past the age requirement and was ready to celebrate.
As an empty nester…
I still go to Disney World once a week—because it’s where everything just feels right.
My husband and I have now been on 27 Disney cruises ( which seems even crazier) and have sailed on every ship.
We’ve stayed at (almost) every hotel.
We’ve eaten at (definitely too many) restaurants.
Oh my! Dave and I have changed quite a bit!
Picture on the left: Dave and I eating at the Californian Grill at The Contemporary Resort in 1999. We were so worried that we couldn’t afford dinner.
Picture on the right: A selfie after brunch at Summerhouse on the Lake at Disney Springs in March 2026,
So yes… I have some Disney experience.
Which is exactly why this blog exists.
Because I don’t just go to Disney—I notice it.
The magic, the chaos, the tiny details, the “why is this line like this” moments, and the little things that make it all feel okay.
I know Disney.
And that’s where the thoughts come from.
And this?
This is only the Disney part of the story.
