We (Ok, I) plan to nth degree but only because I like to do so. But I consider all my spreadsheets and careful research to be only a "default plan" meaning that is is what we will set out to do on a given day if no one else has come up with a better plan!
This way, there are no blanks stares when we discuss we are going to do when we set off in the morning. If mood or weather necessitates a change, we change, or even go in slightly different directions.
We do make an ADR or two, but actively plan some meals in our rental home, and don't mind letting our noses and stomachs tell us when and where to eat otherwise. We are huge fans of the Disney Food Blog, and can probably recite menu choices from an unsettling number of places. Nowadays, the
MDE app takes away all the guesswork, anyway.
We take breaks when we need them. Even 5 minutes off your feet with a free ice water can help. If you need longer, take longer... you will enjoy yourselves so much more if no one ever reaches the too hungry/too tired/too thirsty stage.
We enjoy our Disney traditions, and will even ride those horrible speedway cars but we also try to get in a new and special activity each trip. Last time, it was Sea Raycers on Bay Lake. THis time, surfing lessons at Typhoon Lagoon!
We are absolutely suckers for the MK parties and for the first time ever, we will attend
MNSSHP and
MVMCP during the same trip. Always a dream!
Most of all, we believe these vacations are as much a state of mind as any other factor. There are 6 of us who vacation together, three generations. We consciously commit to being considerate of one another, and keeping in mind that if no one is sick or hurt, nothing is really wrong. Everything else is just a detail and we can work our way around any details. There is not much that doesn't look better with a Mickey ice cream in your hand.