If you are looking to get in the holiday spirit, Disney World will whirl you into a magic dreamland of garland, lights, and festive cheer.

From the enormous Christmas trees, comparable to the height of Disney’s castle, to the sounds of “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” by Bing Crosby- the air is filled with cheer.

Disney already has the magical feels, but multiply that tenfold when you add Christmas to the atmosphere.

We entered the gates of Fort Wilderness (Disney World’s campground resort) in awe of the enormity of the place. There are multiple pods of hundreds of campsites, each spread out giving a good amount of living space for each camper.

We were pleased to actually feel as if we were part of the “wilderness.”

As this was our first trip to the campground, we weren’t really sure what to expect. We were placed on a small marsh, unfortunately, we had to ask to move to prevent L from going straight for the water at the first turn of our heads. We probably should avoid any more life and death situations for awhile… at least while the rooster mark is still fresh.

All political views aside, I love having everyone wearing masks this time of year. This, of course, is my own personal opinion and I judge no others, as I hope they return the favor.

Having a child with asthma, we really struggle this time of year with illness.The steroids, he often must takes, lower his immune system resulting in months of fighting off illness.Whether it’s the masks, the increased sanitization of places and hands, the lack of much contact with others or a combination of all three. I can say that my children have remained healthier this year than any year prior.

COVID is a nightmare and I have no intention of undermining that point, I only hope to find some bright things to focus on to keep our heads up in this frightful mess.

I say this all to get to the point of how amazing Disney has done in creating what we felt to be a “safe space.”

Honestly, we felt safer at Disney World than we do at the local small town Walmart.

I was worried about taking Disney transportation and almost had us drive to each location. I’m thankful I didn’t because Disney rocked the transportation aspect. Each section of bus seats has a divider, everyone must be over 6ft apart and, bonus, properly wearing masks. The boat transportation has signs on the ground indicating 6ft for distancing, as does each line for all the rides. The few indoor attractions that remain open, they specify that no one eats or drinks in order to avoid anyone taking off their masks.

Overall, we were greatly pleased with our stay and the joy on our kids’ faces was priceless.

Well, F’s anyway…

We decided to check out Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Magic Kingdom, many times on our two days there.

It’s described as a 3D movie. However, it provides a 4D experience and is completely enthralling for a 4-year-old. F was reaching up to grab jewels that hung in the air and even yelled “who spit on me?!” when water sprayed from the screen.

Donald duck loses his magic hat and chases it throughout the short film. F walked out of there with a whole new view on Donald.

“I love Donald Duck, he’s funny like me!”

Needless to say, he left Disney wearing a Donald Duck shirt yelling “You talking to me?”, carrying Donald Duck, and slapping himself silly with his new Donald Duck slap bracelet.

A new obsession has officially begun.

L, on the other hand, was unphased by Disney.

In general, L prefers naps (no matter their location) and doing his own thing (bonus- if mom and dad don’t like it).

He did not want to be stuck in the stroller or held in line. He didn’t want to watch parades or ride rides. He would have been thrilled to have a soft bed and his music box to play with for the entirety of the day. He’s chill to say the least. While he didn’t complain because that’s not really his style. His lack of emotion about the whole thing made it’s statement, much to our amusement.

Our time at Disney was exciting, fun, and festive!

Our second day at the park F and I couldn’t stop. The park hours are currently shortened, so we were supposed to leave by 8pm. After an entire day at Magic Kingdom, we decided to head to Disney Springs. We just HAD to check out that Lego store.

As my husband said, I really like to get the most of of our money. Just kidding, I re-phrased that to sound much nicer.

Anyways, we made our way into “F heaven” and made our way out with lighter pockets. I figured, we took so many toys from them to make this move, we can at least treat them at Disney and get a few small toys.

We saw a man walking by wearing a shirt that said in all Disney script “Most Expensive Day Ever.” Yeah, I feel that.

Despite it, we had a blast. Absorbed every moment, for they are only this small and excited for so long.

I’ll keep this close to my heart. As we stood in line, I mentioned to F that we should ride the big roller coaster. He said no, but I tried convincing him otherwise. He stood silently for some time, so much so, that I forgot what we had been talking about. He said “Mommy, I really don’t want to hurt your feelings, but I don’t want to go on that big roller coaster- it’s scary.”

Wow. This kid, at 4 years, is looking out for MY feelings. My sweet boy, I wouldn’t trade these moments for the world, roller coaster-or not.

We have replaced our home with a small camper, rid many toys, and decreased so much interaction with technology.

In place, we are gaining so much more.

The rest of the week, we replaced the hustle and bustle with sea breeze and sun at Cape Canaveral.

Now, we are off to the Florida Keys. With COVID numbers so high, we have decided to stay put for awhile in a place where we can enjoy the outdoors.

I hope you all stay safe and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. See you soon.