Setting Expectations for a Magical Disney World Vacation

Just this last week, my husband and I put together a slideshow of past Disney vacation photos for our son's birthday. We were looking for photos that really reflected Disney's theme of "Celebrate You" this year. Photos of us laughing, being silly, enjoying the parks and just happy to be together. When we all sat back and watched the three minute collection of memories click past, I was overwhelmed with how joyful and perfect our vacations seemed to be.

So not the case.

We can always count on at least one meltdown from our son. We know there will be at least one heat induced argument between my husband and me. Sore feet, sunburns, long lines, mediocre food, and less than magical moments pop up on every trip. And some are even captured as permanent vacation memories on our camera. But at the end of the day, the happiness and magic overcome the bumps along the way and we're left with enough positive energy to drive us to the next trip. So how do we ensure we'll have the best vacation we possibly can? We manage our expectations realistically.

Pixie dust is in the eye of the beholder. Walt Disney World exists on the expectation of magic. Heroes, princesses, fairies, and pirates live together with romance and adventure. Everyone has a smile on their face at all times. Rides are thrilling, ice cream never melts and magical moments happen all the time. Wonderful? Yes. Reality. Heck, no. Expecting that perfection will exist the moment you set foot on Disney World property will set you up for failure. Stop looking for the free night in Cinderella's Castle or even the free ice cream bar and just take in the little things. Your daughter's face when she sees Cinderella for the first time. Your son's exhilaration when he topples down Splash Mountain. The icy tartness of frozen lemonade in the heat. Your family laughing together at Festival of the Lion King. If you aren't looking for the big moments, the little ones will make the magic happen.

Let it go. We know our son will have a temper tantrum at some point. We anticipate it; in fact we even take bets on when it will happen. When that inevitable meltdown finally happens, my husband and I check who came closest to the right time, snap a photo of the pouting and the frowning, and take a few moments for the winner to rub in the victory to the loser. The focus is still on fun and not on the tantrum. Suddenly our son is more interested in who won and he has forgotten the problem that made him so upset. And instead of focusing on how spoiled or irrational he is acting (like we would at home), we move on. We simply let it go and move on. And something that could ruin a large portion of our day becomes a blip on the radar. Will this work for everything? Of course not. But when the problems arise, simply take a deep breath and pause for a moment. And try to let it go.

Be prepared. It's Florida. That means that the majority of the year it will be hot. And it's a popular vacation destination. So rides will have lines; guests will forget their deodorant and your normally patient family will have some minor explosions. Prepare yourselves as best you can. Dress for the weather. Learn how to use Fastpass for the lines. Think of games to entertain the kids while waiting for rides, attractions or meals. Do your research to find out what things are Can't Miss and what things are Need to Miss. Don't plan to be a Commando Tourist, but know enough to smooth any preventable wrinkles. Having dining reservations and planned down time can really make the difference between a disappointing vacation and a family magical memory.

Capture the magic. Make sure to capture photos and video of as many memories and smiles as you can. Know that you will look back at these memories and relive the trip over and over. Digital cameras are great. Bring a few extra memory cards and take shots of everything. But at the same time, savor the moment while you are there. Lots of pictures are wonderful, but don't see your vacation only through the lens. And make sure you are in some of the photos too!

Walt Disney World is a vacation destination full of expectations. As children we dream of the magic. As adults, we look to find a doorway back into our childhood innocence. And for the most part, Disney gives us this path. Just remember that preparing yourself, not sweating the small stuff and being open to all forms of magic will make your trip that much better. And take some time to just watch your children. Chances are they will only remember the amazing and the incredible and the magic. And that creates the best vacation memories of all.