Number 17

In 1990, I went on my first trip to Disney World. I was five years old, I didn’t know what Disney World was, but my parents made it sound super awesome. We stayed at the Grand Floridian. About the only thing I remember from that first trip was meeting Mary Poppins, I just about died. I believe that’s also when Goofy or Pluto stepped on my foot. I don’t remember that happening though.

Our second trip was in ’91. We stayed at the Polynesian, it was Halloween and I was very sick.

Trips three and four were at the Caribbean. I really liked their triple-decker peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

We stayed at the Grand Floridian again and and then the Wilderness Lodge.

’96 We stayed at the Boardwalk for the first time, but without my mom because she had to work.

In ’97 we stayed offsite. This was a mistake we would never repeat again. Splendid China doesn’t do it for me.

Trip #9 we stayed at the Boardwalk villas and somehow convinced my mom to buy into DVC after our trip.

We went on a Disney Cruise in 2000 (This isn’t included in the trip count) and after struggling when I returned to my classes, I kindly requested to never miss school for vacation again.

The next 6 trips, we stayed at the Boardwalk. Rachelle came with us on trips, 10, 11, 12 and 12. My dad missed 11 due to work and Carolyn came on 13.

Bryan proposed on trip 14 in 2008, and we went on our Honeymoon in 2010. Trip 16 was also in 2010, but we stayed at Saratoga since the Boardwalk was booked.

This trip we’re staying two days at Saratoga and the rest at the Boardwalk. People ask me if I get tired of Disney. Going there today is a completely different experience than 20 years ago. The parks are different, I’m different, the people I’m going with are different. Last time The Festival of the Masters was my favorite thing we saw. 10 year ago that would have bored me to death. I’m a munch more adventurous eater and more into fitness than I was when I was younger. Going with Rachelle, we had fun talking along with the trolls on the Norway ride. With Bryan, we have fun hunting down characters. Every trip brings new experiences :D Can’t wait!