How was the weather? Was it cold (from a South Texan's point of view)? Was it a good time to take the kids, agewise? We're planning on taking a trip to DW in 2 or 3 years, when our kids will be approx. the same ages as yours are now, and was wondering if the timing was right or if you think it would've been better to wait till your trio was a bit older? Hope you had a great time!

Gloria

Mom to five girls: ages 12, 10, and 9/9/9

Gloria,
It was positively awesome!!! They were the perfect ages to make this their first WDW visit
We rented a home ten minutes away (www.vbro.com or www.vacationhomes.com) It was our saving grace--we could eat at home, or at least store the food. At night we had ample room to hang out or go swimming in the heated pool. It was less expensive than a low-end hotel, and far more child friendly.

Let's see: Disney. Get a game plan before you begin the day to make the most of each park. Don't be afraid to let the children experience EPCOT--it was Michael's favorite park! The triplets and Seski adored eating in Norway (World Showcase/EPCOT). We never used a stroller. It was a lot of work sheep-herding the gang, but so worth it! Going in October should be more manageable than the holidays. The next time we go will be during fall break (Oct) when it isn't quite so crowded. One ide to look into is a personal tour guide. I don't know the cost, but you get to bump to the head of every line with your tour guide. Quite the timesaver--and they carry your camera bags, etc!!

We did three long half days (6 hours); a couple of 8-10 hr days and two 12-14 hr days. It was a stretch for the children to hang tough, but we changed venues a few times. Maybe Magic Kingdom, the tram to EPCOT, and then back to MK for the end of the day SpectroMagic light show. We varied busy days with show/parade watching days. The kids were so thrilled to be with their favorite characters

Hope your experience is as fabulous as ours !!! Will share a few photos if I can find them on the laptop




Drill Sergeant Diva,
Academy of Toddler Mayhem
...hup, two, three,four
singing, playing, toys galore...

Tracey

Michael (11)
Francesca (10)
Matthew, Alexis & Gabrielle (8)
Torunn (Norwegian DD,20)
Johannes (German DS,17)

Sounds like you had a wonderful time! We were thinking of maybe staying at the Disney World Fort Wilderness Campground but will look into the websites that you mentioned. With a family of seven, renting a home might make more sense. Thanks for the info. Looking forward to pictures! -- Gloria

Mom to five girls: ages 12, 10, and 9/9/9