“I just want to say congrats on starting the blog. I’ve been curious about doing one myself but don’t know where to begin; maybe I’ll be inspired by your blog to try it out.” ~Brian Martin 2.28.10
“I am really looking forward to reading about your journey as it unfolds.” ~Christi Bunn 3.1.10
“Love your blog- what a great and exciting adventure you’re having! ~ Beth Wolfe 3.3.10
“My wife and I are planning on moving after the kids get out of school. Three and a half more years. Interested in reading how your adventure goes. Thanks. ” ~Mike Christoferson 3.5.2010
“You are heaven-sent and I love you!! I am currently a cast member, and I cannot begin to tell you that if every guest who came to WDW or Disneyland read this article, the parks would be a happier, safer, better place for everyone!!” ~Sidney 3.6.2010
“Great tips.” ~Greg aka Doc 4.5.2010
“This page is exciting! I am graduating HS in 2012 and i’d love to move to florida if I could find a good inexpensive college and a affordable apartment. I’ll check the blog for updates. I love it!“ ~Joshua Stevens 4.8.2010
“Excellent explanation of the Disney meal plans.” ~Mary Lou 4.9.2010
“Thanks so much for this blog!!” ~Tara 4.9.2010
“Looking forward to my next stay – and your next blog!” ~Sarah 4.9.2010
“This post made my day! We’re heading down May 8th, which is in your blessed heaven times. I’m never sure with May, but you, my friends, are amazing. ºoº” ~Sarah 4.13.2010
“This a great blog! You touched on some many of the issues that annoy me when going to WDW.” ~Kathy 4.15.2010
“Feel free to contact me, if you like, with any questions. Having already gone through all this & hearing from co-workers what they went through, I’m more than happy to help someone avoid some of the pitfalls we encountered. Happy planning – hope to see you @ Disney in November. We’ll be there as always.” ~Marianne 4.25.2010
“Good luck in your journey for relocating to Florida! I know I’ve been here almost my entire life and don’t want to leave!” ~Angala 4.26.2010
“A wonderful column, thanks! As I wrote earlier, my wife and I are following a similar plan, albeit for 2013, and to read these gems makes that not seem so far away.” ~Mark Vitek 4.26.2010
“I like your plan and you seem to have everything covered.” ~Susan McNaught 4.27.2010
“This is all so exciting and I wish you the best of luck with relocating!! Thanks again for including all of us on your journey. It almost feels as if I’m relocating along with you (Don’t I wish!).” ~ Tara 4.28.2010
“Gosh, you just made my day! ….Thanks for this post! It put me at ease…we’ve got a lot to do!” ~Sarah 5.3.2010
“I LOVED this post! Currently, we’re at the 6 months and 10 days mark. AND … My husband told me tonight that we just might be going (again) in February 2011!! He’s caught the Disney Bug in a BIG way and says that for now, it’s the ONLY place he wants to vacation.” ~Tara 5.17.2010
“Great, great ideas!! Hooray for your down payment!” ~Tara 5.26.2010
“I couldn’t agree with you more! I do the Disney music all the time when things are stressful at work and it always makes it better! I think there is pixie dust mixed in with those notes!!” ~Kim Restagno 5.27.2010
“Love this- I’ve been destressing with Disney all my life.” “Love this idea – wish I’d thought of it.” ~Marianne Potrzeba 5.27.2010
“Amen!!! I feel the same way! No matter how far away our next Disney vacation is, it just makes me happy to think about it.” ~Terri Michalenko 5.28.2010
“Good for you! That’s exactly what hubby & I did 12 years ago. Packed up & moved from NY to Orlando just to be near the Mouse House.” ~Barbara Naness 6.5.2010
“Thank you for this. My family and I keep vascilating on moving to Orlando. We hate the winter where we are and love Disney, but when summer rolls around and I look at my friends I change my mind again. In our process of deciding it’s nice to hear your thoughts on moving, and your excitement!” ~Katerina 6.6.2010
“You have inspired me! I have been thinking about relocating to the Orlando area for some time now, but always saw it as a distant dream… but after reading your blog I am going to make it a goal. I’m actually going to dedicate part of my blog to my future plans! Keep writing so I can keep working toward my goal!” ~Roslyn Cooper 6.6.2010
“I couldn’t have put it better myself Jesse! Have fun in Florida and at Disney World!” ~Brian 6.6.2010
“Very well written and wonderfully stated!!” ~Mark Vitek 6.6.2010
“Great post! There are many times we put on the Disney Music just to take us away! We also like to think about where we would eat if we were there right now.” ~Bruce G 6.6.2010
“I love reading your blog,, you have a lovely family, and i enjoy hearing their views on your big move. My husband Dan and I often talk about moving to our “dream”, I work with mr/mh people in a group home, they are wonderful people, my ideal job at Disney would be working at helping handicapped people enjoy their time there, Our 13 year old grandson, lives with us, so we cant move till he grad.in 5 years,, but will be watching, and learning with you. thank you for writing your blog.” ~ Kathy B. 6.12.2010
“Great story Belle!! Wonderful to hear it from your point of view!” ~Kelly Lins 6.14.2010
“Well put Jessie! Thanks for sharing your joy with us!” ~ Kelly Lins 6.14.2010
“Wow!! I am so happy for you and your family. …. Anyway GOOD LUCK and I look forward to hearing more about you upcoming venture. (((HUGS)))” ~Vicki Delien 6.20.2010
“What a great story and I’m so glad you and your family had this experience, especially Jessie. I”m a cancer survivor of 12 years and it was very scary, so I can only imagine how scary it was for Jessie at her age. You both deserved this trip as much as your kids for the heartbreaking moments you endured as parents with a sick child. Thank you so much for sharing this story.” ~Beverly 6.20.2010
“I cry every time I read your story. God Bless You!” ~Amy Henkel 6.21.2010
“Great story! I started to cry of course! Love you guys! Love my “little” Jessie!” ~Kelly Lins 6.21. 2010
“What a great story! It is those characters that become parts of your life, obviously some more than others, they stay with you for a lifetime, tug on your heart, get you through even the hardest times… Disney, no one does it better…Thank you for sharing such a personal story.“ ~Amy Sinclair 6.21.2010
“Thanks for sharing this amazing story. It brought a great smile to my face.” ~Marie Montgomery 6.21.2010
“Excellent post! What an exceptional moment and what a memory that will be for ‘Jessie’ … and for you as well.” ~Greg aka Doc 6.25.2010
“Thank you very much for sharing the story.” ~Ray Pilgrim 6.28.2010
“Losing the job may be the closing of a door but I’d say that your already well plotted out move to Florida is a big ‘ole bay window!” ~Katerina 6.28.2010
“Hey, heard you on BOGP today, and now you’re in my feed. I’m a local already, and wanted to say let me know if I can help out at all.” ~Todd Perlmutter 6.28.2010
“I wish you and your family the best of luck!” ~Kissimmee Office Leasing 6.28.2010
“I’m mostly a lurker here, but have been following your story with interest.” ~Debra Peterson 6.30.2010
“I’ve been following your blog from near the beginning…and am a big believer in things happen for a reason. While I am sure it is not ideal that Carl lost his job, there is a bigger plan and I say go with it…this may be God’s way of saying–’go for it’ Best of luck!!” ~Amy Joy 7.21.2010
“What a great story. Thanks for sharing something so personal and special. I always try to remember when one door closes another door will open…..Faith and Trust will take you right where you need to be! ” ~Kim Restagno 7.3.2010
“I will keep you in prayer, and just know that things like this happen to everyone, even those in ministry. I want God to make a message out of my mess! There are no easy answers, just keep pressing on, keep applying and most of all KEEP BELIEVING! “ ~John, Youth Pastor 7.4.2010
“I heard your show on BOGP and immediately subscribed to your blog! My husband and I have talked about moving to FL (currently in CT) and I was excited to hear your story! I’m sending you Pixie Dust in hopes this will all work out soon. Keep up the great work with the blog…this is going to be a great resource for a lot of people.” ~Sarah M 7.5.2010
“I’ve recently been following your blog. I’m very interested because in about 3 years, I plan to be exactly where you are now. I hope things work out well and am looking forward to your next post.“ ~Dana 7.7.2010
“So just keep on living your dream and let us know – we will love to keep on reading! Sunny greetings from a German Disney enthusiast.” ~Angelika 7.8.2010
“Even if you think it was a sign that now was supposed to be the time, it obviously isn’t the right time.
My Mom says. “Everythng Happens for a reason.” God has your plan and will help you with it. Keep the Faith, Trust in each other and believe inthe Pixie Dust.” ~Bruce G 7.9.2010
“I have been following your dreams and aspirations since very near the beginning. It is an inspiration; both the smooth patches of sharing the dream and the rough patches of what it takes to make the dream come true. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers as you continue forward. I am also struck by the number of comments that include the thoughts of other who share your dream; that of relocating to the Walt Disney World area. As helpful as your “relocation information” tab is, I think it would be wonderful to have someplace where so many like-minded people could chat or message each other. There are bound to be so many questions out there and it would be a way for people who are serious about relocating to share information, resources and information. Thank you for what you’re doing and best Wishes! in the days and weeks ahead. And, as Uncle Walt said, “Keep moving forward.” ~Greg aka Doc 7.10.2010
“Wow… what can I say? I cannot express how incredibly humbled and grateful I am for such a wonderful post, and your comments about my show and me personally. I certainly remember meeting you and your wonderful family at the Studios a while back (and yes – I loved the shirt!) I love your Top 5 lists, too! I hope to have the pleasure of seeing and thanking you all again in Walt Disney World soon!!! P.S. I love the Mike, Pam and Rikki from BOGP, too! Thanks for including me in such great company!” ~Lou Mongello 7.19.2010
“Wow! That is such a great plan! I wish I had the guts to move down there!” ~Nellabeaner 7.22.2010
“Hurray! You all sound so excited! I’m happy for you!” ~Karen 7.22.2010
“Congrats on making the big decision!!!“ ~Kelly Smith 7.22.2010
“Yay!!! We’re playing with the decision to move to Orlando in 2012, so I’m SUPER excited to watch your posts on the move!! Under a year is SO awesome, have a GREAT time in November and enjoy your last year away from the Mouse.” ~Lindsay 7.22.2010
“Congratulations on the decision! I can imagine that you are all beside yourself with anticipation. I am looking forward to seeing how the move progresses both before and after. Remember, there are a number of us who are living vicariously through you in all this!Best wishes in the months ahead!” ~Greg aka Doc 7.22.10
“Whoo-Hoo! Congratulations! You will love the Wine and Food Feastival, in the Fall. Keep us posted. “ ~Bruce 7.22.2010
“Congratulations! I know you have been trying to figure this out, and am glad you’re happy with the new plan. Thanks, as always, for keeping us posted!!” ~Brian Hubbard 7.22.2010
“Woohoo!! how exciting!!Looking forward to your updates!” ~Terri Dobbins 7.22.2010
“That is great news! Congrats! So happy for your family. I hope you will tell us about life near the mouse when you get there!” ~Sweet Moments Bakery 7.22.10
“Congrats! I am so excited for you guys! You’ll have to keep me up to date on everything your doing to get ready now that your so close to moving! I am hoping to move in 2013/2014! It seems like forever away!” ~Rosyln Cooper 7.23.2010
“Congratulations to you all!! I’m so, so happy for you! xoxo“ ~Tara 7.23.2010
“Congrats on the definite move date! How exciting!” ~Amy Eastman 7.25.2010
“Good ones! My favorites are the theater in the back of the exposition hall on Main Street U.S.A. and if its just the adults, the lounge on the 4th floor of the Contemporary Resort. Best of luck to you all in the next year!” ~Sarah 7.27.10
“I’m so glad that you posted about this. Some people get the World and then just get so upset when they don’t get absolutely everything they want.” ~Jessica 7.29.10
“WOW!! I can’t believe you wrote this entire list, but then again…I can. i love seeing your posts and enjoy them so much. I would love to move back down south. i keep bugging hubby all the time about it..he’s a huge Mouse fanatic so i atleast got that on my side as one reason to go..LOL.. I haven’t been able to experience any of the romantic views/sites in or around Disney at all so needless to say I am jealous..I wish you all the best of luck. Keep posting!! (((HUGS))) to all of you.” ~Vicki Delien 8.8.2010
“Love love LOVE this post! You guys have given us the reality check we needed to say “why aren’t WE moving to Orlando?!” thanks for the blog and the inspiration! (we’re planning to move Oct 2012!)” ~Lindsay 8.9.2010
“How sweet of you to mention my blog! I follow you on facebook, as well, and continue to root for you as roll with the punches and follow your dreams!” ~Shannon Sullivan 8.10.10
“I’m currently back tracking through your blog and so far, I love it! I’m hoping to be able to use some of it to convince hubby that we need to move to FL.” ~Danette 8.11.10
“I too would love to move to Florida! We’ve been talking about it more and more since we’ve been going to WDW every year for the past 4 yrs! Have a safe move!” ~Sharline 8.20.10
“When you hold your first Relocated Tourist Meet(#159) I want to be there; even if I don’t live in the area. So, give plenty of advance notice.” ~Greg Grimsley aka Doc 8.23.2010
“Great to Read the Blog Tonight! Congrats again on the Job, Full Spead Ahead!” ~Bruce 8.29.2010
“Congrats, Carl, on your new job! It’s perfect that you will be able to work anywhere. Have a great week!” ~Brian Hubbard 8.30.2010
“I am enjoying sharing in your journey. Continued best wishes in the process! You’re going to have a bunch of folks who are going to want to meet up with you in the parks once you’re locals!” ~Amy Eastman 9.2.2010
“Fantastic list! May I suggest another?
301. Carrot cake cookies at DHS with Amy and Chris of Growing Up Disney Best wishes on completing your list! Please continue to update us all once you’re having all that fun!” ~Amyand Chris 9.7.2010
“Congratulations Carl!! Ellie, this is such wonderful news, I am so happy for all of you. It is amazing that he can work from home and doesn’t have to find another job when you move. You and Carl are living Bill’s dream, he wants to move by WDW too. Maybe someday.” ~MrsKSomeday 9.7.2010
“Woo-hoooo! Congratulations on the job. Your quest to follow your dream of living near WDW is nothing short of inspiring!” ~Robert from the Snow White Sanctum 9.8.2010
“Oh I am so excited to have found your blog and am wishing you guys ALL THE BEST! Would love to be doing what you are doing….but still have a lot of convincing to do for my husband. Sooo in the meantime, I will live vicariously through your experiences!” ~Nancy from theaffordablemouse.com 9.8.2010
“Happy 17th Anniversary! You two are wonderful people and I hope you have many more years of Happiness and Love. ~Bruce G bruce@unknownmagicwithinwaltdisneyworld.com 9.9. 2010
“What a great story! My husband and I are going to WDW in 18 days to celebrate our 10th anniversary. It will be our first trip without the kids and I have mixed emotions, too. I’m sure we’ll be fine since you both made it. Happy Anniversary!!” ~ Amanda 9.9.2010
“Greetings! This is my first comment here, but I’ve feverishly caught up on your posts. Congrats on making the move that I am certain many of us dream about (including my wife and me, who have followed an eerily familiar path to absolute Disney obsession)…..Thanks for a fantastic resource for escaping the “real world” to ponder and dream about WDW!” ~John 9.14.2010
“Another wonderful blog!” ~Mark Vitek 9.14.2010
“Just started reading your blog and am insanely jealous about your moving plans. I’m looking forward to following the journey!” ~Krystal 9.14.2010
“Hi Ellie! I’m a new follower of your blog- I’m enjoying all of your stories!!” ~Erinlindsayhodge 9.21.2010
“Great blog post!” ~Johnny 9.21.10
“Bravo Ellie! We too have encountered the “Disney is just another ‘amusement’ park” negativity, and there are just some people who don’t get the magic.” ~Mark Vitek 9.24.10
“By the way, I enjoy reading your blog and the fact that you are moving there next year.” ~Roger Miller 9.24.10
“I loved this post!! We do many of these things. We call it “spreading the pixie dust”, we just love helping others have a great vacation!” ~ Tracy B. 9.25.10
“My husband and I do many of these things also. We find that we enjoy ourselves more on our vacations to Disney World by helping others out and spreading the pixie dust. I’m so glad you wrote this blog.” ~Lesa Thompson 9.26.10
“Great blog (as always) & great tips! I do these or recommend these to guests (especially those who are wondering what to do with their DP remainder).” ~Marianne 9.26.2010
“I really enjoyed this blog! I especially loved seeing the photos of your souvenirs. Everything is framed so beautifully, too! I LOVE (I mean love, love, love) the “People Mover” poster in your kitchen.” ~Tara 9.28.2010
“Love all your pics! I especially love the ride posters – I didn’t know about those.” ~Susan McNaught 9.28.2010
“Keep the great blogs a-coming.” ~Mark Vitek 9.30.2010
“What a great article, as usual! the Main Street Electrical parade is cool to see, but I like spectro-magic better.
Have a great trip- Enjoy the Magic!” ~Bruce 10.21.2010
“LOVE your blog! My husband and I hope to semi retire in FL in about a year and you have some awesome information out here. Thanks for all your hard work.” ~Candy 10.22.2010
“What great ideas!! I cannot wait to try them. :0)” ~Kelly 11.1.2010
“I was sitting next to Todd on Jungle Cruise, and he noticed that you weren’t on the boat with us! I was bummed to hear that you weren’t feeling well, it was so much fun hanging out with you!! Great to finally meet you, look forward to chatting with you again soon.” ~Jonathan Grant 11.15.2010
“Dear Ellie, I am deeply saddened that your adventures have not been recently updated. I hope that an evil villain has not taken you captive at one of the Disney Parks and put you under an evil spell. I will patiently wait for a new blog of your adventures! Your pal, Matthew Zidek” ~Matthew Zidek 11. 14.2010
“I am a recent reader to your blog at the insistance of a dear friend of mine, Matthew Zidek. Matt and I met at Penn State and I consider him a friend for life. He really is one of the nicest people ever. So it was so nice to see him mentioned. I love your blog and wish you the best of luck in your move!” ~Emily 11.16.2010
“Your blog always makes me smile. Disney friends are really the best. They “get it”, they get that we love the magic and the wonder and it is ok to feel like a kid when you are there.” ~Mrsksomeday 11.21.2010
“Dear Ellie, just a short note to tell you that I love your blog, and am so envious of your count down to move to the Florida area.” ~Kathy Blanchard 11.21.2010
“Thanks for a terrific blog, even tho it left me “homesick” ~Christina 11.24.2010
“Hi there, this is my first comment but I’ve been reading your blog since you started. I’ve so enjoyed your trip post and the thing that made me finally comment was what you wrote on One Man’s Dream. Walt will forever be my hero and when I visit this tribute to him I am always moved to tears. I actually ache wishing I could have met him in person. I believe you get that and I wanted to share that feeling with you! Thank you again!” ~Diane McCornack 11.25.10
“Oh Ellie, I couldn’t agree with you more. The Land is my FAVORITE place in EPCOT. Soarin’, Garden Grill, Living with the Land…all of it. (I always ask for a front row seat for Soarin’ too!) We’re headed to the world in 2 weeks and I can’t wait to spend some time there. =)” ~Erin 11.27.2010
“Hey! This is off topic, but this blog has been nominated for a Disney Driven Life Academy Award. Please ask everyone to vote- Good luck!” ~jlknopp 11.30.2010
“I absolutely cannot wait to meet everyone and for you all to be here!!! Lots of love and hugs!!!!” ~Shelley Caran 12.8.2010
“Thank you for the tips from Spain!! : )” ~Adriana 12.11.2010
“Thank you so much for sharing that…. brings a few tears.” ~Lowell 12.12. 2010
“Amen Disney sister!!!! I agree whole heartedly!!!” ~Sherry Jackson 12.15.2010
“Amen to all of that. I am just glad that I am not the only one.” ~Isabell Blancher 12.15.2010
“Welcome. Love the blog and the family pics. Hope to meet you in person one day.” ~Julie 12.16.2010
“Hey, I recognize you!! This is Greg of the “Disney couple” who sat next to you on the plane. Glad to see your trip went so well. BTW….we’re headed to DisneyLAND in February.” ~Greg 12.22.2010
“Dear Craig, Amy and Family, I can’t believe you are so close to the 5 Month mark! Congratulations! I have enjoyed reading “The Relocated Tourist” so, so much over the year. Your wonderful blog has changed the way I look at Walt Disney World.” ~Tara 12.23.2010
“How exciting! We still recall fondly our big adventure of moving to Florida from the west coast. And while we moved back west to be with friends and family, we often think about moving back to Florida again. Wishing you the best!” ~Kathy Holmes 12.23.2010
“Hi Amy, long time reader, first time poster.. I think the christmas festivities must have got the better of me over here in snowy London! Just wanted to say how much i’m enjoying this commentary on the experiences you’re all going through, i’m sure the last 5 months will fly by and before you know it WI will be but a distant (and happy) memory and FL will be where it’s at. I hope you’ll continue to post when you all arrive, this is by far the most enthusiastic Disney blog i subscribe to, not being able to get to WDW as much as i’d like (every 2 years or so, if we’re lucky) it’s things like this that keep the Disney flame alive in me. Happy Christmas to you allm have a safe and happy one. ~Dave Forbes 12.23.2010
“How clever is that? We did a photopass Christmas card the past 2 years – may have to do the calendar next year. Love it!” ~Kathy Holmes 12.27.2010
“Nice coming out post. Look forward to meeting you all in person. And to Amy/Ellie – It’ll be great having you as part of our team at WDW. You’ll be an asset!” ~Marianne Potrzeba 12.29.2010
“I’m super excited for you and admire you following your dream. How exciting for your family!” ~Angela Nock 12.30.2010
“Amy, I am so excited for your family and I hope you know I am jealous! just know I will be asking you alot of questions on how to make a move like that happen. I have to say Happy New years to your family from mine. I am so truly grateful for you sharing your adventures. and hope that someday we will be neighbors in FL and can share memories of fireworks, parades & meets of WDW.(HUGS).” ~Shelley Jones 1.1.2011
“Oh my gosh that is such a GREAT idea! You can look at your pictures all year long. What fun!!!” ~Jessica 11.4.2011
“I am so happy for you guys. I don’t know how you are able to do this but I give you and your family alot of credit. This has to be hard on your girls too. you are always in my thoughts here and I hope for the best for all of you.” ~Vicki Delien 11.4.2011
“Again a beautiful update. Something that I learned from TGMis “Friends are the family that you choose” ~Thadine 1.5.2011
“The Prince found his princess & the Princess has captured her princes heart! I love it guys! You 2 have found a special place in my heart and by watching the amazing journey of your dreams coming true has allowed me to dream too!” ~Shelley Jones 1.8.2011
“Hi, Amy, and all potential relocators ! I started reading this blog when I learned about it via the Be Our Guest podcast, but haven’t posted a comment before (though Amy recently accepted my friend request on facebook . This blog has been invaluable in the practical aspects and the emotional aspects as my husband and I hope to relocate this year as well.” ~Wendy 1.9.2011
“Beautiful article Craig! God bless you guys for many more happy years to come.” ~Thadine 1.9.2011
“…Congrats again! Would love to meet up with ya once you’re settled in!” ~Jen Brinkman 1.9.2011
“I am so glad that I have met you and others so when that day comes that I will have those new friends already in place that they will not be new, they will be family!” ~ Shelley Jones 11.9.2011
“By the way I love your idea of making the shirts for your little princess!!! May borrow that idea!” ~Thadine 1.11.2011
“But I love the idea of making your own for a special celebration. What fun!!!” ~Jessica 1.12.2011
“Can I just say ditto to every one of these as reasons for our move as well? 
Maybe I can just copy and paste into our list? ;-D Love this list!!!!!!!” ~Mark Vitek 1.12.2011
“Hi Amy! Having lived in Florida and worked at Disney, I am enjoying so much reading your blog and reliving adventures I had and of course, missing living in Florida very much. I understand completely your posts and find myself saying, “that’s me!” ~Christina 1.12.2011
“I always felt so alone with my urge to move to Florida. Friends and family around me don’t share my Disney passion. I love reading your blog, love it that I can relate to all that you are writing. Hope we can meet in person some day.” ~Thadine 1.12. 2011
“Yes..yes….yes!!! We love matching shirts!! We only discovered doing this though on our most recent trip. We used the Disboards as well!! Love it!” ~Kelly 1.13.2011
“Hi! Love the latest blog!” ~Bill Aiken 1.16.2011
“Great blog Ames! Very special message! ~Kelly Lins 1.16.2011
“I understand how you feel! We have had over 110 inches of snow so far this year and these winter seasons have just worn my wife and I down. But with each box we pack and each bag of stuff we donate we can see it all coming together. Soon we put our house on the market and then the real waiting begins!” ~Bill Aiken 1.18.2011
“Thank you so much for posting so honestly, Amy… while I await the same journey soon, reading your similar emotions makes me feel less guilty for sometimes wanting to rush through these next 3-4 months of my life. I want to be thankful for the time I have left here with friends (though I, too, am DONE with the snow already!!!), but there are some–and honestly, most–days when I just want to get a move on it!” ~Wendy 1.21.2011
“Thanks for this! I totally spent an entire morning last week watching all my WDW promotional videos from the past 10 years. It felt warm =D” ~Katerina 1.22.2011
Amy,
Reading this was honestly such a huge relief! I’m NOT alone in how much I want to go back home!
“We’ll cope, both of us, even with our poor Florida-prepped cars getting stuck in the endless white stuff!” ~Sarah 1.24.2011
“I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who does this.” ~Dennis 1.26.2011
“You also brought up something very important about being a ride chicken: never tell your Disney friends you haven’t ridden something.” ~Amanda 1.26.2011
“I am super impressed with you!” ~Chelle 1.28.2011
“Great job on the issues of being both a good host and a good guest.” ~LadyDooley 1.29.2011
“All in all I think you have made great points in the post and it commitment on both sides to make it an enjoyable stay.” ~Shelley Jones 1.29.2011
“I enjoyed reading this post. The things you wrote are so true. We don’t have the space in our home to host people, but I love to tour around with them and show them places here on the island. I hope I will get to meet you in December, even if it’s just for ice cream.” ~Thadine 1.30.2011
“I am so glad you posted this! I am looking for a place for when I go down for the college program (hopefully). I need a place where I can have my fur babies.” ~Cassidy 1.30.2011
“Love following your blog, Amy.” ~Marilyn 1.31.2011
“Good tip about email being correct and current.” ~The Edmondton Tourist 2.1.2011
“Great tips. I’d also suggest watching facebook and twitter if you fan/follow any Disney people.” ~Hedy 2.1.2011
“I found you on Facebook a couple days ago and just finished reading your entire blog. It’s wonderful and I am here to tell you, your dreams CAN come true. We just did it May, 2010 and I still can’t believe we live in this beautiful state! As far as Space Bags go, they are great for moving but will also come in handy after the move. Coming from central PA and a house with a huge basement, we have adopted a saying here…”it’s all about the storage.” ) Also, have you thought about moving using PODS? We did and it worked out really well for us. If you’d like info, let me know. I’d be happy to share our experience. Congratulations and I look forward to reading your continuing adventure!” ~Teddy 2.2.2011
“Thanks for bringing back some memories of my birthday trip of last year. Perfect timing!” ~Robin Howard 2.11.2011
“Have been reading your blog for a few months and enjoying it.” ~Debbie 2.4.2011
“I was just reading your blog for the first time and I just want you to know that I really enjoyed reading it!
Keep the updates coming!” ~Christopher Jones 2.7.2011
“Amy great entry! You touched on so many of the fears we had while planning the move.” ~Dawn 2.10.2011
“I have truly enjoyed reading about your most amazing journey. And, I’m very fortunate to have finally met you at Lou’s November 2010 Meet of the Month and can’t wait for you and your family to finally arrive here in Central Florida. I am very honored to be able to call you my good friend. Be patient. The day will arrive sooner than you think! Until then, keep up the awesome work on this amazing blog!” ~Your friend, Scott Otis 2.12.2011
“I think I gained twenty pounds just looking at the pictures! What a delicious post!” ~Tara 2.13.2011
“I love, love, LOVE this list! As always, I’m so delighted and excited for you!” ~ Tara 2.13.2011
“I loved reading this post. I have always had a soft spot for Goofy. He reminds me of my dad because they are both super tall and super…goofy!!” ~Cassidy 2.15.2011
“We miss you already! But honestly I’m so proud of you and excited for you and your decision about what to do. (You are also making me realize how much I miss blogging!)” ~Janet Moran 2.15.2011
“Amy, WOW that is full of emotions. I know when I just left my position 2 weeks ago because I had to due to the re-alignment in my company, it was so hard to say good bye. I struggled for days but I had to really see that this move was 1 more day closer to my dream.” ~Shelley Jones 2.20.2011
“What an amazing talent Kyra and Emily posses! These are wonderful pieces! Love love love all of them.” ~Courtney 2.22.2011
“Love This..you sure know how to make someone laugh girl..sorry you guys got slammed..we got half of what you got here..” ~Vicki Delien 2.23.2011
“Really amazing artwork girls!!! Your parents must be so proud of you both! My daughter also loves to draw and I will definately show her this post! Hopefully she’ll be inspired to do some Disney drawings of her own!” ~Sue McNaught 2.23.2011
“We went through many of these issues when we moved from MI to SC. Thankfully you have some time to plan; I had just under two weeks to plan, find a house, pack everything we owned and move across the country. Hugs to you – I hope the move is awesome and better than you anticipated.” ~Lynn 2.23.2011
“I adore the Kyo!
Fruit’s basket is such a cute show!
And all the Disney pictures are wonderful! I’m so jealous of their drawing skills!” ~Meg 2.24.2011
“These remaining 100 days will fly by.
Mark my words!!!” ~Thadine 2.24.2011
HAPPY 1st Birthday Relocated tourist! It is so amazing to see how quickly time has went by but I have to say I am so grateful to be part of your family through this journey!
“I actually got emotional reading this post and I was brought to tears of joy seeing all the wonderful things you are doing with your blog and how you have reached out to others with your helpfulness! I also have to say that the ideas that you come up with are so creative!” ~Shelley Jones 2.24.2011
“Happy, happy, birthday! Living your dream is what it’s all about and you and your family are doing just that. All the best to you!” ~Teddy Beaver 2.24.2011
“I love the idea of the paper chain. The girls will have fun with that!! We do that for a countdown for Christmas and each link has a different activity to do each day.
Congratulations on your birthiversary! And all the best to you and your family as you prepare for the big day!” ~Sue McNaught 2.24.2011
“Happy Birthday!!!! See you guys real soon!” ~Sharon B. 2.24.2011
“Awesome post! I have been following your blog for a lil while now, and I am so proud of you guys following your dream!! I wish I were one of your daughters so I could move with you!! Happy anniversary!! great job!! looking forward to seeing the next year!” ~Jamie Robbins 2.24.2011
“This post has me CRAVING the World more than ever!!! Great tips, especially the AK Safari tip. I have never thought to get there first thing.” ~Cassidy 2.28.2011
“Great job making head way!! It must be really starting to feel real now!” ~Kelly Lins 3.2.2011
“I love all the hats! Sometimes it’s better to take a picture in the sillier ones, and then you can have the memory without the clutter. Good idea!” ~Jessica 3.2.2011
“I wish you the very best, and am so happy to share in your adventure through your blog. Keep up the great tips and posts!” ~Deb 3.2.2011
“Oh man, we are in the same place as you! We have been stuck inside since november here in NY… After a long day of standing at work I am just too tired to even wrap my mind around cooking. So what happens? =Drive thru on the way home. I can’t wait for the weather to break so we can get back outside! That is a huge reason we are re-locating very soon! I wish I could give you some advice about keeping fast (easy) food at bay but I have nothing. We can’t wait to see you in florida later this year though!” ~Bill Aiken 3.6.2011
“Amy, this post literally inspired me to go through my clothes. I gave up an AMAZING dress I wore to my Sophomore homecoming that I will NEVER wear again. Have been holding onto that for like 5 years. I also gave up a pair of teeny tiny jeans that I could wear as a Freshman in high school that I don’t think I will EVER fit in again! That was very hard to let go…I had always saved them for they day that I might fit into them, but size 0 isn’t really realistic for most of us…! I am taking my things to a place called Rag-O-Rama that gives cash or store credit for clothes that you bring in. I hope to make a little extra cash! Thanks for a motivating post!” ~Cassidy 3.9.2011
“Very well put. We are having to reign in our own expectations after recently deciding to: a) Each start and focus on our businesses and b) Get to Celebration, FL as soon as we possibly can and never leave. Truly, though, you raise good points. We must keep our expectations realistic, particularly when they concern something like Disney World — dear to our hearts and an integral part of our lives, much as our careers are. It’s easy to get carried away and, as you mentioned, be disappointed when reality doesn’t match up or, worse, we fail to realize something because the bar was set unattainably high. In any case, it’s wonderful to follow along as YOUR expectations come to fruition and learn from you along the way. All the best!” ~John 3.10.2011
“Amy, I always enjoy your post and for me I learn so much from them. For the time I have been reading I have been able to realize that it is great to dream and at the same time to realize that I have to place things in prespective.” ~Shelley 3.10.2011
“Thank you so much Amy and Craig! Truly an honor to be part of Fridays with Friends!” ~Bonnie Clark 3.10.2011
“I love this post. I sometimes get carried away thinking that living in Orlando will be a piece of cake, a magical experience .But there are so much things to consider. In my case so much more than in your case.I love the way how you guys are handling your relocation.You are very organized, you think things through. If my wish ever comes true I know your blog will be my biggest help!” ~Thadine 3.11.2011
“What a fantastic and inspiring post! You hit the cornerstones right on! Thanks for continuing to share this journey!” ~Charles Aguillon ~3.20.2011
“Super post, Amy!!! Without Christ we wouldn’t have the courage to step out. Praying for your move and the accompanying adjustments to go smoothly.” ~Marilyn Johnson 3.20.2011
“We leave in 3 hours!! So excited!! Especially since more snow is forecasted here..Not disappointed we’re missing that! Thanks for your help Amy and for helping us keep up our spirits throughout the past year while we’ve been planning this vacation..WDW here we come!!” Terri ~3.21.2011
“Thanks so much for writing about courage and exactly where that comes from – our LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST!! As we are at the ‘thinking about’ stage of a major relocation, which has included de-cluttering and downsizing our ‘junk collection’, I am inspired by you and your family as you make this move ‘before us’. It will be cool when we get to the ‘it’s real, we’re moving’ stage and start looking at housing options, etc. Thanks for being an inspiration to me! Love you girlfriend!” ~Kathyrn 3.21.2011
“Amy, I have tears in my eyes as I read this. I remember our dream – our older son had just gone to his heavenly home, we were leaving our younger son and grandchildren in Illinois – moving to a state we had dreamed of for many years yet still questioning if it was really going to happen. Was this the Lord mvoing us or was it us wanting it to be Him moving us? Would we get to Florida and be so homesick for Iillinois that we would move back? Would we miss the seasons? What about finding a new church? What about finding a new doctor. grocery stores, our everyday norm would be gone. We went through the same anxiety as you and Craig are going through now. However, when you know you’re in the Lord’s will and realize it’s the enemy that is putting all of these doubts in you, you will succeed. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” The NIV says “make your paths straight.” We ae praying for you as you go through this. If you ever need to talk – let me know. We’ve “been there, done that” and would do it again in a heartbeat.” ~Marliyn 3.21.2011
“Wow! You truly are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing this with us. I know you will fulfill your dream and there are many of us in Florida eagerly awaiting your arrival. Do take good care of yourself, though.” ~Scott Otis 3.22.2011
“Amy, You and your family continue to be a wonderful source of inspiration! God bless all of you.” ~Tara 3.2011
“I always laugh when people talk about missing the seasons. How do they know I want the season changes. I love Spring and Summer and hate the winter, therefore a climate that is 90% Spring/Summer weather is my perfect environment. Shorts and T-shirts year round is great. Don’t give up on your dreams especially since others don’t have the same dream.” ~Chris Hill 3.23.2011
“Glad your health scare was nothing serious. You DO continue to inspire. And when it’s my turn in a few years to relocate to FL, I will probably look up your blog. I for one will not miss the seasons. And I really need to be closer to the World!” ~Jim 3.23.2011
“Oh, my word… I LOVED this post! Everyone makes fun of me for loving this ride so much . To be honest, I think I love it because it’s one of the attractions I can actively remember from when I went as a kid for the first time (pre-Three Caballeros” . How I adore when it takes you by the volcano and you see all the lights twinkling from San Angel Inn. Nice to see someone give this one a shout out ! Thanks, Amy!!” ~Wendy 3.26.2011
“Amy, I’ve enjoyed following your blog for some time, but haven’t commented until this one. It was so beautiful! Thanks for sharing your thoughts about Walt, and what you’d say to him in heaven. I especially love the phrase “Christ has, and always will, direct my paths, but I will be ever so grateful to you, for directing my dreams.” I love that! Thanks for sharing the journey of your move to Florida.” ~Jan 3.28.2011
“I love this post, Amy! I emailed the link to my husband to read while he is at work.. we have never been to this attraction but it is a must on our next trip..thank you for sharing!” ~Angie DeRosier 3.28.2011
“Beautiful sentiments and oh-so-true! Having covered the whole gamet of these feelings, I can tell you that “living the dream” is real and attainable and it’s LOVELY. Hang on tight, hold on to each other and enjoy the ride!” ~Teddy Beaver 4.2.2011
“The dream coming true is even better than the dream!!! We cried when we left Chicago and friends and family. But, as soon as we crossed the Florida state line, we knew we had come home and our dream was coming true! Each day we thank the Lord for bringing us down here and giving us our dream.” ~Marilyn Johnson 4.2.2011
“Great post Amy! I am always seeing hidden Mickeys here in my hometown of Greenville, SC. Our Downtown area actuall has a thing called “Mice on Main”. Hidden downtown are nine bronze mice for you to find!” ~Scott Land 4.2.2011
“I love love love Tangled. It’s now my favorite Disney movie. I can understand your feelings. Even I am excited that your date is getting near. I put it on my calendar.” ~Thadine 4.4.2011
“I’m so excited for you guys! This list, however, reminds me of many things that I WILL be doing, now that I’ve moved out of Florida. Frowny face.” ~Jonathan Grant 4.4.2011
“So terribly jealous I can’t stand it. We’ve set our sites on “next year” as the get-to-Celebration-at-any-cost date — now it’s just a matter of clearing as much debt and saving as much as we can. Good luck and God bless as you approach “M-Day” (move, Mouse, etc.) — we’ve moved across the country and back 3 times in the last 4 years, so we understand your pain. Keep your chins up and your dreams at the forefront — it’ll be over and you’ll be soaking up the Florida rays sooner than you can imagine!” ~John 4.14.2011
“Wow, what a beautiful post. I’m something of a sentimental packrat, and I don’t know how I’ll deal with getting rid of all my mementos from the kids’ schooldays, past WDW trips, etc. I really like your idea about making new memories! And leaving a church can be hard, too. I still miss the one we left 14 years ago when we moved to Michigan! But what we have here is good. Thanks for all your wonderful posts! They should be a book some day.” ~Jan 4.14.2011
“I’m sure with that positive attitude you will find that the sacrifices, while real, will be worth it. You are not leaving the Lord, you are just finding a new place to worship Him. You are not giving up family and friends, you will just have to change the way you communicate with them. You are not wiping the memories from your mind, you are just getting rid of the tangible form of the memories. When Jack and I moved to Celebration, we tried to make sure that we treated everything as an adventure. That made is easier to concentrate on the positives of the move rather than dwell on the negative aspects of it. It looks like you have the right adventuresome attitude to fly through any temporary sad parts.” ~Rene Baron 4.16.2011
“Great article! I have also been decluttering around here and asking the same question – why do we have all this? My three kids have more toys than they will ever need and it seems every inch of storage space is filled with something. I have taken a lot of time recently to just start cleaning out and giving things away. It is such a great feeling! Even better, all these things I have held onto for so long, when I passed them on to someone else, I haven’t once “needed” them. How about that?” ~Beth 4.17.2011
“I love this! and the pictures are hilarious! Thanks for putting a smile on my face today.” ~Angie 4.18.2011
“I am SO excited for the day when you can say “WE ARE HERE. WE DID IT!” I can not waiiiit to read that on your blog You are SO incredibly close!” ~Cassidy 4.19.2011
“I wanted to let you guys know that you have made a difference to me. My best friend and I have an apartment, and a month from today we’ll start the 24-hour drive back home – permanently. Thank you for giving me the courage to just do it, even straight out of college!” ~Sarah 4.21.2011
“Your organization is crazy and amazing!!!! I think I am going to do a back flip when you get to 30 days!!!!! I can’t wait!!!!!” ~Shelley Caran 4.28.2011
“WOW!!! Reading this really does seem like things are speeding up… it has been pretty cool following your journey and cheering you on, even though we are strangers. All best to you (and some extra sprinkles of pixie dust) in the weeks ahead!!” ~ Wendy 4.28.2011
“I am continually amazed at how much you are doing to make this dream a reality. Keep moving forward! Soon, you will be here in Central Florida! Woo hoo!!!” ~Scott Otis 4.28.2011
“Amy, I have been so far behind on reading the blog, but I have to say that when i get the chance I enjoy what you write and at times I feel like you are writing for me. I will say you had me almost in tears reading this post and its like Matt & I are starting the journey that you and Craig are accomplishing. I know why I admire you so much for sharing your feelings and opening up your family to all of us. “ ~Shelley Jones 5.1.2011
“Hi Amy, I “know you” as one of the WDW Radio Box People!
I’m so excited to have stumbled across your blog and I look forward to reading about your new adventure! I’ve added you to my blog list…” ~Kathleen Kelly 5.4.2011
“Being a sappy guy who wears his heart on his sleeve, I am not ashamed to tell you that the beautiful way you wrote your post had tears welling in my eyes as well. The emotion of the moment was so incredible, be safe on your trip to Florida! Remember, my family will be there from June 17-24 so if you want to meet my family, just shoot me an email and we’ll work out the details! Safe travels,” ~Mike 5.9.2011
“Wicked awesome, Amy! So glad things are coming together so nicely — you and yours certainly deserve it! God bless as you wrap things up and finally get where you’re supposed to be!” ~John 5.10.2011
“Awesome! Don’t you love it when things just fall into place?” ~Jonathan Grant 5.10.2011
“Congratulations! We haven’t even met and I’m excited for you! Hopefully we’ll be doing what you’re doing in a few years.” ~Jim O. 5.10.2011
“This is so great! CONGRATTTTTS! It must feel so good to know you are going to be leaving soon and live so close to the magic. I am hoping to get down there in the fall as well. I just graduated college and would love to get on Disney web design team one day. My plan is to save up this summer by working and move in the fall to Orlando. Probably near the Clermont area. I have been watching your blogs for awhile, I love them. I remember you all from Magictrips forums back in the day I am wdwlarkey22 there! I am so excited for your family, what a great move! Can’t wait to read the next blog. =}” ~wdwlarkey 5.10.2011
“Oh how wonderful for you guys!!! I am so excited for you and your family! If I were ever fortunate enough to make the move to Florida, Celebration is the place I would want to be! Or in your case “very, very, very close to Celebration”. How absolutely fabulous for the Petermann’s!” ~Lisa Niles 5.10.2011
“Now Zoe will have another big kid to know at the school next year!!!! I cannot tell you how over the moon I am!!!!! Love you all!!!!!!!!” ~Shelley Caran 5.10.2011
“Wow as I read the post I can feel my emotions feeling up for you and how amazing you are! You have blessed so many peoples lives and to see you getting to that finish line to your dream just warms my heart.” ~Shelley Jones 5.10.2011
“Absolutely FABULOUS!!! I am soooo happy for you and your family. Sounds like God is in charge and He is 100 percent with you. What a wonderful amazing plan He has mapped out!” ~Teddy Beaver 5.10.2011
“Congratulations! We will be neighbors. I am in Celebration also. The kids will love the schools. You will love the town.” ~Rene Baron 5.11.2011
“Your blog is so inspiring and informative! It has helped me A LOT with my own check list for my upcoming move. Your confidence and excitement is so awesome. Congrats on finding a home and being so close to fulfilling your dream!” ~Courtney 5.11.2011
“Great advice Amy.. and yes.. KEEP MOVING FORWARD =)” ~wdwlarkey 5.11.2011
“You’ll do great Ames! Don’t worry about goodbyes either. We’ll always be here for you.” ~Kelly Lins 5.12.2011
“Preach on!” ~Angela 5.12.2011
“We really do have alot more in common than I thought. Thank you for sharing such personal & heartfelt information about you & your family. I greatly appreciate it.” ~Vicki Delien 5.14.2011
“I’m from New Jersey, so you know I’m chuckling at your title! Thank you for letting us share your feelings of reflection as you approach the brink and prepare to take your leap of faith!” ~Kathleen Kelly 5.14.2011
“Even though I have lived as close as Tampa to Orlando growing up, the city of Orlando still fascinates me. I revel in all the back roads that the locals know to get around the city faster and avoid the tourist areas. We look forward to all your little “discoveries” around the city to make our visits from Fort Myers more interesting. Please let us know if you find a great Cuban Restaurant as this is our families favorite type of food! We wish you a smooth and drama-free move into your “whole new world”!!” ~Robin Ecklin 5.17.2011
“Amy, I cant tell u how much I enjoy ur blogs! I’ve been reading for a while now & I’m soo excited for all of you & your huge adventure, it really has come round so fast…. I could hardly dream of ever getting to visit Florida, never mind to relocate….it’s a very long way from the UK! But I did get there for our honeymoon in 2007 & I soon realised I would have to visit again & we did in 2008! So dreams do come true! I’m so happy you let all of your readers share in yours coming true too! x” ~Becky 5.17.2011
“Very, very nice! This is truly WHY! Thank you for sharing these meaningful photos with us.” ~Scott Otis 5.17.2011
“This list is great and was similar to the list we had when we moved here three years ago. I look forward to meeting you at some time and welcome you and your family to Florida. We don’t live very far from where you will be located.” ~Angela 5.17.2011
“Smiles and laughter. That is what it is all about. The opportunity to have many many more smiles and moments of laughter.” ~Greg 5.17.2011
“Thank you for sharing something so dear to your hearts..very well put..love the pics, as always.” ~Vicki Delien 5.17.2011
”You’ve met the Robinsons??! I am so envious. Lovely collection of fun, happy memories. Good luck with your sale and safe travels!” ~Lucinda 5.18.2011
I love your blogs and your insight on things. We are also planning to move to FLA before the end of the year. My mom has lived next door to us for 22 years. I see her every day. The move is going to be really hard.
“My mom has a computer and is not afraid to use it!! She can even Instant Message so it will not be hard to keep in touch daily/weekly. I always stress the positive. We are hoping she will visit for the winter. We live in New England and the snow can be very stressfull, as I’m sure you are fully aware 
.Good luck on selling all your “stuff”. Take Care.” ~Linda 5.20.2011
“It was great to meet you today after living so close all this time. I totally understand about not wanting to leave your mom. My mom and dad divorced when I was 2 and its has been me and my mom forever. However my mom fells the same about Disney World as I do and would mostly follow us if/when we would make the journey south. Live your dream Amy, it would make your mom happy!” ~Shanna 5.20.2011
“I just have to add, your mom said it best. ——You really can’t stay somewhere just because it’s too painful to leave. I bet she shows up in Florida often. You’re so blessed. So am I.” ~Ann 5.20.2011
“Wow, I’m exhausted just reading that. You guys did an amazing job! So happy you’re one more step down the road.” Jen H. 5.20.2011
“Good luck with the next few days as you get everything into the vehicles and start your journey down to Orlando. I do want to say thank you, you have been one of the people who has made me realize my dream again, my whole reason for moving down to Orlando. Just by reading your families dreams and your commitment to see it through. Yesterday I had my traditions class and I couldn’t stop smiling. I am following my dream again and I took the first step, which always seems to be the hardest. So, again, thank you!” ~Heather 5.22.2011
“SO happy yall have your dream come true. This shows great hope for us who are having a challenging time and hope some day it will happen to us. So happy for you.” ~Isabell 5.22.2011
“Y’all are going to be just fine, AFP. I’ve faced the rush of the move with my wife three times now, each time before treks of at least 1500 miles — it’s too strange a jumble of emotions and fears and joys and anticipation to describe properly. God, I believe, eases our hearts and minds when we need it most, much as laughing gas makes the trip to the dentist a bit easier to handle. Not to compare the Almighty to laughing gas, but, er, well, I just hope He has a sense of humor…. You and yours are on the brink of a fantastic journey filled with love and pixie dust. There will be aches and pains of many kinds over the coming days, weeks, months, and maybe even longer, but they will grow lesser and less important. You already have friends waiting to welcome you to Florida, you have family and friends at home in Wisconsin wishing you well and sending their love, and you have each other to turn to and lean on in both the best and worst of times. You couldn’t ask, from my humble perspective, for a better circumstance in which to make such a joyous transition. Savor these moments (and the peace you’ve found in them) — the fun is JUST about to really begin! God bless as your family comes to the end of one journey and the beginning of the next!” ~John DeLancey 5.23.2011
“I’ve been following your blog ever since I heard your interview on the Be Our Guest Podcast, and it’s echoed so many of my own dreams. Today, when I clicked on this page and saw “Soarin’ to Florida 10 Days,” I actually got a little teary–you’re almost there!! And I hope to see you there. Thanks for letting us follow along, and God bless the Petermanns…” ~Wendy 5.24.2011
Amy, Thank you so much for writing this and being willing to share the good and the bad, the joy and the sorrows, and more importantly being the ray of sunshine when it feels like it’s too far out of reach…” ~Angie DeRosier 5.25.2011
“Congratulations! I have been reading your blog for a while now and I am so excited for you guys. I hope that soon I will be on the same journey moving to Florida. I’ll be sure to wave and say a prayer for you guys as you drive through Atlanta next week. I can’t wait to see how everything unfolds for you. Enjoy the ride!!” ~Beth Moser 5.26.2011
“Craig & Amy, This is such an exciting time..I am on the edge of my seat even here in Idaho, waiting to see the pictures & updates of your roadtrip to Orlando, so I can only imagine your excitement!!!… I am sooo looking forward to being able to follow along on the blog even after you move into the new house, and see pictures of your dreams coming true! this is amazing & wonderful and thank you for sharing it! And I’ve been dying to ask you….how often do you guys plan to visit WDW? It’s crazy that you are going to be close enough to literally go whenever you want!” ~Angie DeRosier 5.26.2011
“So excited for you sweetie!! You gonna drive past me here in Illinois *in some form or other* so wave at me!! You’re gonna have to message me how you are going! I cant wait to follow your journey!! Love ya!” ~Jamie L. 5.26.2011
“Amy, thank you for being so honest in these blogs…. I have laughed with you and cried with you (especially at today’s mention of you and your Mom in tears in the car). I wish you, Craig and your girls all the very best in your new future and look forward to reading about your 3 day drive and see how you are settling in. I am also a UK reader, living in South Wales and we are saving like mad to come back to WDW in Sept 2012 as we had such an amazing time on our first visit last year. With love and best wishes” Tracey 5.26.2011
“You and your family are amazing. I cannot wait to meet y’all some day soon!!!” ~Cassidy 5.26.2011
“Wow..Amy, I’m just glad I had “stumbled” upon your blog over a year ago & decided to keep up with it. You have given so much insight to things and how to never give up on dreams & keep moving forward. I am lucky to have the pleasure of knowing someone so kind & loving as yourself. I wish you and your family the best within your move & after being settled in sunny FL. I am hoping that we too can move down that way..its always been my dream to live somewhere where its not freezing & lots of snow. Good luck to you & your family & safe travels when you leave WI. Keep the blogs coming…we all live vicariously through them..lol.. (((BIG HUGS))) to the Petermann family.” ~Vicki D. 5.26.2011
“Thank YOU for taking us all on your amazing journey through such a special and important time in your lives. I’m so lucky to have been a part of it. Hopefully we’ll be able to officially meet at the parks one of these days. I also hope your blog continues – I want to hear about all of your adventures post-move.” Lynn 5.26.2011
“You guys have added belief to our dream.. it’s amazing to see you guys *really* doing this and be able to say “I think WE can ACTUALLY do this!” ~Angie DeRosier 5.26.2011
“God has brought a special group of People together, look forward to the future all because it only gets better:) Thanks to Amy and all here dedication to involving us in her families dream.” ~Jeremy 5.26.2011
“Amy, The same goes for you! You have been an amazing person, woman and most off a friend. I still remember the day you reached out to me in an email asking to be part of your friday friends. I was so over whelmed with excitment to be a part of that but it opened a new chapter of me learning so many tips from you. Then to have you open up your home & heart has given me to love you even more and have a great respect for your organizational skills.I am so excited for the day when we will both be on Fl soil and can dream of future magical experiances. XOXOX!” ~Shelley J 5.26.2011
“Oh man! You made me cry! There will never be another Amy either! I very much treasure ALL of our times together Ames! Our evening remembering old haunts was the perfect way to spend our last time hanging out before you move! I loved every minute! Love you always my sister!” ~Kelly Lins 5.28.2011
“What a sweet post. I have followed your posts in this process and have thoroghly enjoyed them, but this one had me in tears. God is good… His blessings are the best ones. Happy birthday to your 11 year-old blessing! She is beautiful. And as you set out on your new adventure this week, may your journey bring everything you have hoped for! Blessings”
Christi Bunn 5.30.2011
“Amy,
First let me say how happy I am for you and your family, and proud of you for taking such a great leap of faith, following your dream, and moving to Florida. I know (from experience) that it’s not as easy as it sounds, can be pretty scary at times, and yet is incredibly exciting! I think you will look back on it as the best thing you could have done for your family. Let me also tell you how grateful, humbled, and flattered I am about your kind words. To be mentioned in the same breath as Walt, and someone who may have had even the slightest influence in you pursuing YOUR passion, puts a huge smile on my face. I look forward to seeing, hugging and celebrating with you when you arrive at your new home here in Florida, and close to our shared passion – Walt Disney World! I promise you that the smiles you have experienced in the past will not fade with repeated visits over time, but increase as you continue to grow in your appreciation for what Disney means to us all. Congrats again!!!!” Your friend, Lou 6.1.2011
I feel so lucky to have been able to follow you on this journey toward your dream for the little while that I have, thankful to have been your Facebook friend, and SO excited for you and your family. My teenage son and I were talking about how amazing it must be to be able to say, “Let’s go to Yorkshire County Fish & Chips for dinner,” or “We’re not doing anything tomorrow, want to go ride Mission: Space and Test Track a couple dozen times?” You have a lot of fans out here — we’re all mostly sick with jealousy, of course, but still avid fans. Here’s to a smooth drive, and the joy of waking up as a Florida resident. Think of all of us when you hear WDW fireworks from your backyard for the first time.” ~Gina 6.1.2011
“I have read all the posts with happy anticipation for you, but this one made me tear up! Take wings and fly, but leave some of your roots where you are.” ~Becky 6.2.2011
“Im glad that we got to meet before you moved. I am honored that you call me friend. Thank you! I wont say goodbye, just see you later. Just remember the old World of Motion song, “It fun to be free, to be on the move..”. Cant wait to hear about your journey home. Crossing fingers that I can see you in October.” ~Shanna 6.2.2011
“Oh – what a special blog…..I’m in tears. I’m happy for you. Excited for you. Sad that we didn’t get to meet up this week. Looking forward to your trip updates and your first days in FL. Funny how I almost said “your first days at WDW”…..cuz that’s what I think of when I think of FL…..and I know you will be spending as much time there as you possibly can. Safe travels, my friend. Wisconsin will always have their arms open for you to return long term or just for a visit. And, as I usually tell all my friends that are going to be going to WDW…….please have a Mickey bar for me. ((hugs))” ~Billie 6.2.2011
“Great post Amy! Have a safe journey to your new home!” ~Tiffany 6.3.2011
“I have just stumbled upon your blog via @UMWDW and I’m so excited I have! God bless as you make this transition. I moved to Central Florida from PA in 2003, and although the transition is not always guilt-free, livin here is one of my very favorite things about my life! Please please please email me if you have any questions about NonDisney CFL stuff once you get here. I have only read today’s blog, so I’m sure you’ve done extensive research and have contacts here- but I also know one more friend never hurts. we are in Davenport, on the west side of The World and just love it. Best of luck on your journey!! <3″ ~Karen 6.3.2011
“Eeek! So beyond excited for you guys! You’re gonna LOVE Florida! I know Mickey Mouse and the gang are standing on top of the EPCOT globe just waving you on! You gave me the energy to have a great day today! Be safe and make wise traffic decisions!” ~Robin 6.4.2011
Amy – I am soooo incredibly happy for you guys…you dared to dream big and look at you! You did it!!! Seriously, I was almost in tears reading your post and feeling your excitement and emotions. Loving all the updates and you taking the time to keep us posted. I am enjoying all the photos you’re posting too, but especially loving the ones of your huge smiles on your faces – warms my heart! Enjoy your new home and may God continue to bless you guys!!! Sending hugs!” ~Catherine 6.7.2011
What an amazing journey!
I’ve followed from the start, haven’t posted much but took in every word.
Sharing the same dream, I got all emotional when I read about you pulling into the driveway and knowing that you were HOME.
I am truly happy for all of you and so grateful that you shared your dream with all of us.
Here’s to making new memories and a lifetime of happiness!” ~Sherri 6.7.2011
“Well thanks for that blog post Amy, I’m now sitting crying at my desk at work!! I’m so happy for you and can hardly believe that a family could be brave enough to make this change to their lives. Congrats again!!
BTW, have you visited the Celebration History Center? We spent a wonderful day in Celebration last December and the history center is run by some lovely volunteers….they might have some ‘locals’ tips for the Celebration High School ‘issue’ xx” ~Emma 6.8.2011
Wow, just wow! I have been following you along your journey all these months and months and you’re finally here. I am just truly happy and excited for you! I look forward to reading about what’s next for you as you settle in as new FL residents.” ~Jim 6.8.2011
Best post EVER!!! Thank you for opening up and sharing your lives with us! It is so fascinating to read your posts and the amazing perspective you have on this entire experience. I can’t wait until our next Disney vacation… we WILL be meeting up!” ~Lisa Niles 6.8.2011
“So awesome, you are Floridians now!” ~wdwlarkey 6.8.2011
I began reading your post this morning and couldn’t wait to get into my office to finish it! I had been waiting for your cable hook-up. Wow! What a great first day! That is is type of first day I would love to have, when and if my dream to relocate ever comes true. I have so enjoyed your journey and look forward to “The Continuing Adventures of…” Keep all the great advice coming! There are some of us who are chasing dreams. All the best as you continue to settle in and may God bless your home.” ~Greg 6.8.2011
“Well now you’ve got me crying…. Not to state the obvious, but I am so happy your family made it home safely and has enjoyed (most) of your first moments in Florida. We can certainly relate to the “black cloud syndrome,” and I only hope that, should the day come for us to make the move (that’s the plan), it goes so smoothly. Now y’all go play — you’ve got a mighty awesome playground to do it in!” ~John DeLancey 6.8.2011
”I cried as I read your blog today! Our dream of moving to the Orlando, Florida, area is still four years away. I hope my husband and I have as much courage, faith, and perseverance, as you and your beautiful family. I’ll be looking forward to your blog posts about the DMV and anything else that will help us when we become relocated tourists. Love, hugs, and pixie dust!” ~Lesa 6.8.2011
I hope everything works out for you all! I have been reading your posts for a while now, and I think you all deserve all of the happiness that you can get. As for the school, at the end of the year, sometimes people can get a little touchy. I am a high school teacher, and it is completely unacceptable for a representative of a school to be so rude to you. Anyway, things will work out, and you can solace yourself with a trip to the Magic Kingdom and some ice cream. My husband and I want to move to Florida too, and reading your posts gives us the courage to keep moving forward to pursue our dreams. Good luck!” ~Jennifer 6.8.2011
“Awww lovely post Amy, I’ve been trying to read it all day on my phone between jobs, but enjoyed it so much more in full tonight! Glad ur having a fab time, hope Kyra feels better about school soon xx” ~Becky 6.8.2011
“Amy I cried all the way through this post!! I am so thrilled for you guys and excited to live vicariously through this process with you!!! I hope you have a great week!” ~Lindsay 6.8.2011
“I just recently found your blog when looking for some inspiration for my own move to Disney World. Reading about your story, your dream has made me and my husband so excited about doing the same thing. Our story is a little bit different as we are currently international students from Sweden living in Las Vegas and we have tried for a couple of years now to apply to a college in Orlando but something always goes wrong. I can totally relate to that rain cloud feeling. But we continue trying and are right now in the process of getting all of our admission papers approved for the school. Unfortunately today we had a setback with some of the papers and reading about your experience just made me so happy after being depressed the whole day!
Disney to me stands for happiness, dreams and reaching your goals and every time anything Disney happens I feel that way. I now can include your blog into that category because it makes me feel the same way. It makes me happy, makes me dream and inspires me to reach toward my goals! Thank you and your whole family for that!
Looking forward to the next post!” ~Corinne 6.8.2011
I have to say that reading your blog has given us ideas on how and when we should be planning a move to WDW. Glad that you are sharing not only the upside of moving but also the headache inducing ones. Best of luck for all things to come!‘ ~Shanna 6.9.2011
Wow! What an amazing first 5 days! I especially enjoyed reading about the trip today Epcot at the end. Welcome home, Petermann’s.” ~Scott Otis 6.9.2011
I have been reading your blog for a while now, and I want to just say congrats to you guys for making your dream come true. We are also a family of Disney lovers, having taken many trips over the last 6 or 7 years to visit the Happiest Place on Earth. We have talked many times about making the move, but then we start worrying about the economy and being in a new place with no family or friends around. But you guys have shown that if it is something you truly want, then you can and will make it happen. Your blog has also been informative about how and what you needed to do to make the move, so if we do make up our minds that we are going to make our dreams happen too, I will appreciate all you guys have shared.” ~David 6.9.2011
Holy Smokes! Over the past couple days I have read every entry on your blog! Wow and HUGE congrats!!!! Amazing— your dream has come true!” ~Kim 6.10.2011
Reading this so reminds me of when I moved to Orlando. I only lived there from about 1983-1986 but it’s so similar. This was where I had my first apartment after college, so I learned the furniture stores, bought a bed, and a couch.
My favorite evening was go head over to EPCOT and have dinner at the Yakitori House and sit up on the patio with the lanterns and the waterfall. You’re well on your way to discovering the Floridian’s Disney World!
Congratulations!” ~Janet Sala 6.10.2011
Loved reading this… and have loved seeing all your photos from your journey on FB. You ARE the Relocated Tourist. The “WDWorld” is your oyster…. so happy for you. Loving the story and the pictures. God is good! Blessings” ~Christi Bunn 6.10.2011
I’ve been reading your blog for a couple months & I love living vicariously through your words and photos! Please keep up the good work as it is just as important for us to understand the realities of a relocation as it is the realization of a dream! Wishing you & your family the best.” ~DeeAnn 6.11.2011
I love reading your blog! We (me, my daughter and my mom) are moving to the Orlando area early next year. We’ve been thinking about it for a few years, and have just decided it’s time to get on with it. Your blog is SO inspiring!” ~Deirdre 6.11.2011
Another wonderful post, Amy!!! You look so beautiful and happy in all your pictures! what a truly great group of disney friends you have and how wonderful that it is helping to ease your relocation to Florida…. thank you again for sharing all the fun with all of us.” ~Angie 6.13.2011
Isn’t it strange how much everything changes once you have a permanent place to call home down here? Happy to see that ya’ll are settling in well. We will have to get together one of these days and hang out. When you and Dawn are out come try to find me at DAK!!!!” ~Sharon 6.13.2011
Great blog. Thank you for the info. I like the way you keep referring to yourself as a “resident”. Are you still trying to convince yourself? LOL. Love the blogs. Keep up the good work. We may one day decide to pick up and move too. We just build what we call our retirement home so it might take a few years to convince ourselves to make that jump.~David R from Louisiana 6.14.2011
Gosh Amy , What a wonderful night for you and our hubby!! Thank you for sharing it with us!! Its fun to watch you live your dream!! You know, after struggling for 15 years I forgot how to dream.It took everything I had to just survive..But with the guidance of God and wonderful friends he’s put in my life again not only can I dream again but have such joy enjoying the dreams of others. Your blog always makes me smile. You have such a wonderful family and I’m truly thankful you are willing to share your moments with others! God bless you!” ~Terri 6.17.2011
“This is exactly why God inventes Skype and chat and instant messaging systems…so we don’t feel so lost and alone when we’re far from home. A quick click or two on the computer and you’re face to face with those you are missing!
Hang in there and just know it’s all normal.
*hugs*
p.s. I really appreciate your honest posts, the good and the bad. I need to hear it all as we prepare our lives with the possibility of moving to the Disney area in Florida” ~Patti 6.18.2011
At this point in our preparation to move I was hoping to avoid the bad but I grimmaced and opened this blog anyway to face the music. I’m sorry for your pain but thank you for putting it out there so that we can be prepared for every aspect of our move.” ~Susan 6.18.2011
I am happy Craig felt better after his scare! May I say what a great joy it is to read your adventures, it’s like your excitment just leaps right off the screen and into my body , and I find myself smiling!” ~Kristina 6.19.2011
You are right, Amy. You do seem to be blessed. But, I truly believe that to be blessed you need to BE a blessing to others. You certainly seem to bring the blessings to your family and those close to you. Wishing you a magical day in this wonderful new world you have ahead of you. Enjoy it to the fullest. Happy Birthday, and pixie dust is being sent your way.” ~Debbie Hein 6.21.2011
Amy,
I absolutely love reading your blog – your gift for writing is amazing. Hopefully at some point we will get to meet in person” ~Marilyn 6.21.2011
One word – Inspirational!
Two words – You rock!!
Three words – Happy Birthday Amy!!!
xxx” ~Tracey Farley 6.22.2011
“HaPpY BiRtHdAy Amy!! Thank you for writing the blog. You are an inspiration. My dream is to also move close to WDW. I currently live in NC. My first WDW dream came true when I was married there, now I gotta work on my next dream.” ~Lynn Brooks 6.22.2011
I truly love the blog, it is a piece of magic that you share that I hang on word by word and picture after picture. I so adore you and how you are like a little girl in enjoying what life has to offer and for me I hope to experiance that when we get to visit and then we we can get to move there.” ~Shelley Jones 6.23.2011
Love Merch Mondays! Your blog is the next best thing to being there! Thanks, Amy! Enjoy!” ~Terri 6.27.2011
I’m not sure how anyone can hate on you guys for living your dream. You have so much courage to set off into the unknown. I have been so impressed by your hard work, research, and willingness to make some tough choices and sacrifices to make this dream come true. I know that I cannot do what you are doing, so I am thrilled to be experiencing it vicariously through your blog and Facebook posts. Don’t worry about the haters – the rest of us love hearing about how you are making your dreams come true!” ~Sally 6.27.2011
I love your blogs, Amy! It always brings a smile to my face. God bless you & your family for living your dream!! It’s very brave of you & I admire you greatly. Take care & have a super Monday!!!” ~Katie 6.27.2011
We love following the Petermanns BECAUSE you are living your dream. You should never have to listen to jealous people with that kind of attitude. However, you guys are Disney online celebrities so you will get your share of “snarky” people. Please keep doing what you are doing and know that you are making a difference in other peoples lives. Reading and watching your family on this wonderful journey of achieving and living your dream gives us hope that we will one day do the same. Thank you for having the courage and strength to get through the tough times and actully get to where you are now! Your family is a great example of what is possible!!!!” ~Dave 6.27.2011
I love your blog and always smile when I see your fb status saying there is a new one! And I think you would make an excellent CM! Good luck following your dreams and don’t let what anyone says bring you down! Have a Magical Day!” ~6.27.2011
Love your posts Amy! Life is all about choices and you made yours. You’ve sacrificed, worked hard, set goals and turned your dreams into your reality… Do not let other people’s jealousy get in the way of all the good you have coming! Enjoy all you can, while you can. I only wish I had the courage to make some of the choices you have. All the best to you and your family Amy!!!” ~Lisa 6.27.2011
Everyday I can’t wait until I get to check if there is a new blog post…I look forward to them THAT MUCH! I make my Mom sit down while I read her every word. Since we are moving to the area after the first of the year, your blog is like a “how-to” guide for us. I love how you cover it all, from buying mattresses to of course Disney World!
We’ve just recently started telling some of our store neighbors (we own a store here in my town) that we are moving to Florida, close to Disney World, and it’s amazing how many of them have said “Eeww, why?” (or a variation.) I just tell them it’s what WE want, the life we want to live. I guess part of why I love your blog so much is that you GET that, you understand the “why” and you’re actually living it. I am so very happy for your family, and happy to be able to read your blog for pointers. You living YOUR dream is helping my family prepare to move and live OUR dream. Thank you so very much for your blogs!” ~Deirdre 6.27.2011
Right on… Go Amy and the Petermanns! I love reading the blogs, they are so fun! Soarin is one of my favs too and I love the LAND ride. Its just a nice relaxing ride to rest your feet and smell the plants in the greenhouse. (LOL for some reason it smells really good in there!) The dog animatronic in the farm scene reminds me of my dog that passed away recently so I named him Buddy <3….. lol. anyway, hang in there things will get better for you all, you are still adjusting to this new awesome life in O-TOWN! I can’t wait to relocate myself down there. I am saving up now! thanks again for sharing with us. ~wdwlarkey 6.28.2011
Thank you for this article. My dream is to move to Orlando, but I also think what will I do without my parents just 20 mins away especially since I have 3 small kids, a 11 yr old, 3 yr old and a 1 yr old. I am so happy that you are living your dream. I hope to one day be able to live my dream also. ~Lynn Green Brooks 6.28.2011
Thanks for being so honest in this post. I wondered if at some point some of these issues would come up. Mine would be wanting to go in the parks and spend like I was on vacation when I’m not. I’m sure given some time all of these issues will work themselves out.” ~Edward Owen 6.29.2011
Amy i sooo love reading the blog and wish we could do what u did Live the dream but as we r in the UK i can’t see it happening so i am living vicariously through you. It will be hard but i know u will get there. To me i think that because its summer vacation time it may be a little harder cos without school yet there is the lack of routine to make it ‘normal’ and u r very lucky to have the AP’s to be able to visit the parks all the time. So thats like the vacation part and may be contributing to a few of the thoughts u r having. I am sure it will settle down soon but for now loving the park updates and remember u can bring in the coke and ask for cups of ice at the counter service places to save some money” ~Wendy 6.29.2011
Love love love this article. You all had a magical day. So happy for you guys. ~Lynn Green Brooks 6.29.2011
I just started reading your blog and I love it! Someone on D-Cot gave me a link and I am so glad I found you. I am trying to go back and read some of the older posts but that will take a while. Thanks so much for sharing your story with us! ~Becky B 6.29.2011
How fun!!! It always puts a smile on my face to read about your day!! How exciting to meet Rapunzel and Flynn!! Do you know, was he leaving the meet and greet for today only or is that something more permanent..I hope not because we were hoping to meet him this Sept..Thanks again for such a wonderful blog!! ~Terri Dobbins 6.29.2011
You all are so lucky to be living your dreams. It is clear that you have worked really hard to get where you are, and you should get to enjoy all for which you have worked so diligently to achieve. My husband and I are seriously working toward a move to Florida as well because we really love Disney World, and we want to be close to the parks. I would love to become a castmember, and we are not afraid of the hard work that it will take to help us live our dreams. However, not many people really understand why we want to do what we want to do. I have heard so many negative comments about how stupid our goals are or that we are just ridiculous for wanting to live near Disney. I really hate when people make such comments because it is just so hurtful. Oh well, people will always be mean when they are unhappy with their own lives or jealous of someone else’s goals and dreams. Amy, I wish you and your family the best of luck, and I hope that everything is as magical as you have hoped it would be. We will be in Disney next week, and I hope we see you all when we are there. Keep living your dream! ~Jennifer 6.30.2011
The subject of this blog is one that I wanted to hear badly. I’m expecting that when we move there will be many moments where I question if we did the right thing, especially when there are kids involved. If my daughter is bullied, is it because we moved or would it have happened anywhere? Could I have prevented it? I’ve come to the conclusion that some kids are just cruel between the ages of 11 and 17 and it’s going to happen no matter where we live. How does one handle being able to visit WDW daily without incurring alot of cost related to food and drink? Just as you have done, you go home for dinner or lunch but it’s so easy to be tempted by the smell of a churro, the site of Beaches & Cream, or the though of how much easier it would be to just eat there. Then there are the cocktails that are 7.00-11.00/piece. There’s really no way to get around that except to save it for special occassions or limit yourself to one. Can I consider one frozen margarita to be lunch? Maybe I can save that way LOL. I bring up food and drink because that’s an expense one doesn’t normally incur in daily home life. I mean, even if you eat out at lunch every day because you work, that is lunch for only one person. When it’s you and your children, that’s 3 and the cost is more like 30.00 vs. 7.00 or 8.00. You put it very well saying that the mindset is of being on vacation so you’re normally inclined to pay the price. That’s just one more change in thought I will gladly have to go through:) ~Susan Visconti 6.30.2011
all I can say is… amen!
never stop being curious, exploring, and skipping! ~Liz Driscoll 6.30.2011
Amy,
You are an inspiration. I have vacationed at Disney World 32 times in 16 years. Have been playing with moving since 1996. Now I graduate college in the spring and we are getting ready to set a date for our dream. It will be a little easier since my son is a CP and will be extending til mid May. After that he will be rooming with a friend until he rents out apartment or house for us. All we have to do is purge, pack, load and unpack. Did I say ALL lol. I hope we have as exciting adventure as you did. I am keeping a journal, not quite tech savvy enough to set up a blog. Maybe soon. I hope to meet you in November when I come to visit my son. Maybe sooner if I can swing it financially. I haven’t worked since Dec. 2009. ~Melissa 7.1.2011
I love how you give purpose to each day in the parks! ~ THAT is a very cool thing to be able to do !!! But after all, you guys have earned it, by being patient & courageous for all the hard work it took to get to where you are now…. great blog as always….♥ ~Angie DeRosier 7.1.2011
We haven’t made the big move yet, but I can’t EVER imagine being sick of it! Love the blog Amy…..keep the articles coming! ~Dave D. 7.1.2011
Amy, keep up the good work, um, fun! I am sure there may be a thing or two that you stop being interested in but WDW on the whole, it would take years to see, do everything so why would you get tired of it.
I am preparing for my 14th visit and I do get people saying “Don’t you want to go somewhere else on vacation?” NO ~Gaylin 7.1.2011
Another great post Amy. It is great to see that you guys truly are becoming the “go to” family when it comes to relocation. I know that someday I will be contacting you for some support when we finally make the big decision. It is nice to know you guys are there. Makes it seem a little less scary! ~Dave Drumheller 7.1.2011
This one really hit it on the head for me! My husband wants to move to Orlando for Disney but also so he can play golf year round. I am the one concerned about Disney losing it’s magic. It has such a special place in my heart and it would kill me if it lost it’s magic. I know how it is easy to lose interest in something that is so accessible to you. I don’t think that could ever happen to me but it makes me afraid of moving there. We are in DVC and visit twice a year. I am always counting down til our next trip (151 days) and it is always magical to me. I really enjoy the resorts and of course wouldn’t stay there if we lived in Orlando. We are thinking of a compromise and becoming snow birds in the next few years!
Keep up the fun and I’ll keep dreaming of living with the mouse! ~Becky B. 7.1.2011
Finding a local hotel to do your laundry was a GREAT idea. I almost always do laundry on vacation, and I am always amazed that the machines are empty. I like packing clean clothes to take home ~Leigh 7.2.2011
Amy, you are my resource! I just read this to my family (my Mom and my daughter..I guess the cats were listening too, ha). Our move will be late Spring/early Summer next year, and all day today we’ve been talking about how it’s our last 4th of July here…next year we’ll be in Florida! I can’t thank you enough for the information you provide, and as our time draws closer I am sure I’ll have a million questions for you. (warning you in advance!) Thanks so much for the inspiration! ~Deidre C. 7.2.2011
That is one of the big reasons we really want to move there. We have made so many friends like you that now reside there. I know we all have lives and we get busy but the fact that someone will think of you and just out of the blue say hey lets hang out is so great! Because you are right we all want to fill like we are accepted and belong. We all just want to have a fun, happy & enjoyable life. Then those that we meet fill and meet those feelings. I so enjoyed the post. ~Shelley Jones 7.3.2011
What a blessing it is to have and meet others in Christ, in or out of Disney! God is so good! I thoroughly enjoyed this blog, a lot! Keep up the terrific work, and know that His Light is shining in and out of you! ~Monica 7.7.2011
I so love reading your blog entries and look forward to meeting yall in person with my family. I really believe that IF you believe hard enough and work hard at it that your dreams will come true. ~Isabell Blancher 7.7.2011
You have no idea how much I preach the second floor of counter services. Big fan of the columbia harbor house second floor ~Billy H. 7.7.2011
What a wonderful post Amy, filled with so much Disney magic. I believe amazing experiences keep heading your way because you seem to share so much positivity and happiness with those around you xx ~Emma Godbold 7.11.2011
You are so right, Amy. We would fly past the shops to get to the rides, then at the end of the day be too exhaused to fully appreciate the shops! So this is now another one for our “To Do” list for next year. Thanks xx ~Tracey Farley 7.11.2011
Love this blog and these items.
There is also a shop in Germany as well as a booth. And if you have friends who love this stuff, but don’t want to go into a park, there is one located in DTD near the WOD. It’s called Arriba Brothers, they also have the glass blowing. ~Heather 7.11.2011
What an awesome opportunity to meet the cast! I teared up reading about why the show is special to your family. Those are the moments and memories that make Disney so special to all of us. It’s like you’re a giant magnet and great people and moments are being drawn to you guys- That’s what happens when you have big hearts ~Serena 7.11.2011
I love your Florida life too. Thanks so much for sharing in such detail that I find myself almost there with you. ~Mya G. 7.11.2011
I love reading about your perspective of moving there! I’m from New Orleans so the heat, the bugs, and the tourists I can deal with, my problem will definitely be the spending money when I move out there…must…learn…self…control…at…Disney…world! ~Erica Marie 7.12.2011
You touched on THREE topics we have been heavily talking about here so I thank you.
Four years ago I started researching areas to live in and had narrowed it down to 5. We are still looking into the same five areas today. Some were near tourist areas and some are farther out. Having never lived in a touristy area, we were brainstorming on what problems that would bring. You’ve given us some solid points to think about.
Glad to hear your leap of faith worked out in home searching. It’s a scary thing to do but sometimes heavily relying on “faith” works out.
The cost of living near WDW is another thing we have been discussing is how much money we would spend. Would we be tempted to buy that $10.00 cocktail at each visit? That could add up quickly. We eat at home often so this would be a big change for us. As we’re some time away from a move, we’re loosely mulling over the topic since it could have a great impact on the budget.
Excellent topics! ~1181 South 7.12.2011
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Wow!!! How much fun is your live living in Mickey’s backyard? So happy for you and your sweet family! Love reading your blog! Makes me happy, too! Enjoy, Amy! You guys deserve it! ~Terri M. 7.12.2011
It’s nice to see you’re not just painting a rosy picture about your move. Thank you for being truthful. It gives those of us who dream of moving there some real world insight. You’re providing a great service for us all believe it or not. ~Jim (Disney05) 7.12.2011
Great blog Amy. I particularly enjoyed reading this one because before we bought into DVC we used to always stay on 192 (with the exception of an occasional splurge on a WDW moderate resort). We used to stay at Fantasy World Resort, at the corner of 192 and Kyng’s Heath Rd. I think it’s a little farther east than the area you describe, but still very close to WDW property.
Although I love staying at DVC resorts, I kind of miss staying on 192, as hectic as it is. It brings back great memories of vacations past. Your descriptions of the areas we’d pass when driving west on 192 headed to WDW really brought me back. If we relocate to central FL someday, I’m not sure where we’ll end up, but your blog entries since the move make a strong case for Kissimmee. ~Andrew Serio 7.12.2011
Perfect timIng with this post Amy! We are staying at BLT starting Saturday. Great article as usual……see ya Sunday! ~Dave Drumheller 7.12.2011
Awesome blog again! As of today the gas price here in Appleton is $3.59, so not to far off your price down there. The gift shops that you came across are a dime a dozen. I remember seeing a bunch of those in Ft. Myers, FL when I visited my grandparents and that was over 10 years ago. The alligator heads are a popular theme with the gift shops too! Cant wait for more living in Florida adventures. ~Shanna C. 7.12.2011
Hello! I have just found your blog and cannot believe how similar our stories are! I myself just moved to Orlando 2 weeks ago after years of dreaming. I will be starting as a massage therapist in Shades of Green in a few days. If you and your family are ever free I would love to meet up with you. I don’t really know anyone in this area yet and judging by your blog you guys are awesome! Hope to hear back from you ~Jillian Reck 7.13.2011
Love reading your blog-it’s my dream to move down there. My husband would do it if the right opportunity came about, but our kids would be so upset. You inspire me to go and move and live your dream..Wish all of us had that kind of determination! My husband is a general manager of a restaurant and we can never seem to figure out how to search for those types of jobs at Disney…Your blogs make my day! God Bless your family! ~Laurel Sheppard 7.13.2011
Thanks for this section, amy. it’s good to know that it’s not all roses. we know that already, but the specifics add some more realism. more food for thought. ~Cliff Wu 7.13.2011
Amy, thanks for the info. Our family is moving soon to Florida and this information will really help. Thanks! ~Michael Dickerson 7.13.2011
Great information. For those of us who will someday move to FL, this is exactly the information we need. Living on Long Island now, I can see where I will be saving once I get to FL. ~Jim (Disney05) 7.14.2011
Great to have that information! Thanks for sharing that. It’s good to see that while some bills increased, others decreased. It will be interesting to see what your bills are like in the winter compared to WI. ~Sue M. 7.14.2011
Thank you for this excellent info! This is the kind of stuff that is tipping the scales in our favor for moving to FL. We’re from Baltimore and the cost of living here is much higher than FL based on this article. Plus, we’re taking into consideration how much we spend in airfare and hotels to visit WDW twice each year. I think you’ll have some new neighbors next year! ~Shelley 7.14.2011
Great information! We’ve been baking here in TX and I’ve been wondering what the costs would be in FL….It may be cheaper for us to live there! Now if I could only find a job there . ~Robert Acosta 7.14.2011
Thanks for the info. I just noticed that living in FL is not as bad as in NC. The housing may be just a little higher but not much. Crossing my fingers we will be a FL resident in the near future. ~Lynn Brooks 7.14.2011
What a find ! I am so grateful for your blog and that I found it. My partner and I are in our planning stages for our move to Disney, and I have been scouring the internet for information just like what you are writing. I have been writing my own journal with highfalutin dreams to publish it as a memoir, and then I stumbled on your site and discovered that you are a year ahead of us, and we can learn SO MUCH from your experiences!!! Our arrival date is Spring of 2012, so we still have a year and a half-saving every last extra penny we can, but it wasn’t very long ago that I was saying “we are moving in 2 years”. Before you know it, it will be, “we are moving in 1 year”… and I can’t wait. Thanks again for your insight, and sharing this information. I know a lot of people are reading you, but you have 2 people right here who consider your blog entries VITAL! Best!~Mousekateer KEN 7.14.2011
Great and VERY helpful information for folks wanting to relocate! I know that we want to, but just have no idea when we will be able to. Information like this makes it easier to plan for the future, that is for sure! ~Maureen Danforth 7.14.2011
Awesome information!! Thank you so much for your great detective work. It is certainly appreciated! ~Lynn 7.14.2011
The Nemo show is my favorite show in all the parks. I am so happy for you and was in love with that group shot! What a special time. Congrats! I love following your blog. ~Kim 7.15.2011
Thanks for sharing such useful information! This is so important in trying to budget and imagine what your new life will be like. Keep up the fantastic work! ~DeeAnn D. 7.16.2011
Such a great blog post. We have had to use a wheel chair on two trips. And Let me tell you it’s as uncomfortable for us knowing we’re delaying other guests as it is for the guests having to wait for us. ~Jim 7.17.2011
Love this information! We are planning a move before the end of the year. I am looking for a job right now. We live in New England and the only thing that appears to cost more is car insurance. I just need a little more savings. That’s the part I’m having trouble with. Can’t wait for the grocery breakdown. Thank you for helping all of us interested in moving to Florida. This information is priceless. ~Linda 7.17.2011
Wonderful post Amy, you know how envious I am of you getting to see Lou all the time! So many opportunities are opening up for you ~Emma G. 7.17.2011
It was great to meet you guys! Wow, sounds like you had a nonstop Disney day. Hope you continue to enjoy (and spread) the magic! ~Ron Cohee, Imagineer 7.18.2011
Amy, Everytime I read your blog. I am so taken in by all the experiances you have and I long to someday be there too and sharing and making memories with you. Also you are just and amazing person, you are always sharing so much of your self and I am so grateful to even know you. Keep up all the great writing ~Shelley Jones 7.19.2011
thanks for the update, amy, and thanks especially for telling us the good and the bad. there is no perfect place, and if everything you said was good this and good that and nothing wrong, well, then we’d know that there’s something so horribly wrong that you’re not telling us or you’re not seeing everything. ~Cliff Wu 7.19.2011
WOW!! I said it b4 your family is so bold for making the move you did, and the way you write shows how real this is. I wanna be like you when I grow up. ~Paul Lambert 7.19.2011
i cant seem to move past thinking about missing my grandkids enough to seriously think about making “the move”, but your blog give me hope that maybe one day i can and be added to your roster ~Laurie Bishop 7.20.11
I just found your blog. Thanks so much! I am considering the move as well. I have loved in Florida before, and I do have a tip for you. It sounds like you need a dehumidifier. It will draw the moisture out of the air and prevent mildew. ~Kim Bowers 7.20.2011
I love reading all your posts about life in Florida. It makes the time between trips seem not so long. I can’t wait to get to WDW in 28 days, it is cooler in FL than it is here in Kaukauna. With the heat index its going to be about 110 degrees. Keep up the good work Amy! ~Ann Ploetz 7.20.2011
My husband and I have often talked of relocating. I can see the good and bad through your posts. We’re still talking, but you were daring and brave to do it. I am really not a hot weather fan but you seem to be OK with it! ~Becky Wheeler 7.20.2011
Your frankness is what drew most of us to your blog. For those of us thinking about moving, FL or elsewhere, you & your family’s experiences are an inspiration and how-to guide! ~DeeAnn D. 7.20.2011
I like this blog entry. Thanks for being honest! ~Kellie 7.20.2011
Love your site, I got the address from Linkedin discussions about Disney. This is a cool thing you have done, it is a great idea. I will drop you a line when we come down next year. ~Paul Barger 7.20.2011
Hi, I’m a relocated tourist myself! (Except we’re a bit further away from The Mouse..near Tampa.)We’ve been here for almost a year and love it! I also love your blog. ~Sandi W. 7.21.2011
Amy I LOVED this post. I know for you this was related to moving to your happy place yet it could be applied in so many situations in so many lives, as always an uplifting post. Thanks always for sharing your heart. ~Darby 7.23.2011
I’m thinking you should start a career as a motivational speaker. You’re very inspirational. ~Jim (Disney05) 7.23.2011
Can’t wait to read youre next blog, as usual!!! I ld love Survivor -thats so cool that you got to meet Tina..are you following Parvati by any chance? I’m happy to see you & Craig had another wonderful night together. You guys are awesome ~Vicki D. 7.30.2011
Hi Amy…….I just read all of your posts (from the beginning) and am finally “caught up”! I am a travel agent in Central New York and specialize in Disney. I just love your passion for the disney product! My family will be in Disney (staying at Windsor Hills) from August 9 – 16. I would love to meet up with you if you happen to be in the same park as we are to say a quick “hi”! I’ll be there with my husband and my 2 kids who are 12 and 9. Do you think it will be possible?? ~Theresa S. 8.2.2011
Great blog article! I love the music at EPCOT and it is one of the reasons I love WDW. I spend a good amount of time logged into d-cot.com during the day. They have a great selection of WDW park music and it is all on demand! ~Robert Acosta 8.3.2011
I truly enjoy your blog and hope that we can meet. You are living my dream life. ~Lisa Latham 8.5.2011
Love reading your blogs Amy. Too bad we never got to meet up two months ago,but you had just moved there. Hopefully, next time we come in a year or two, we will finally meet! ~Keith Nettles 8.5.2011
I enjoy reading every blog post Amy. Thanks again for a lovely read… ~Kim 8.6.2011
Amy – Thanks so much for this blog! Im moving to Florida in November (woohoo! No more Chicago snow!) and Im understandably freaked out but excited too! Its great to read about how well your family is doing! ~Katie M. 8.6.2011
I enjoy reading your blog! ~Laurie Horsch 8.25.2011
I love your blog – just wanted to tell you that! I dream about moving to Florida every day (and often say to my husband on those “boring” weekends .. “You know if we lived in Orlando we wouldn’t be bored.”). I am still hoping that we can make the move sometime in the next few years…and this pro/con list is spot on. ~Traci 8.26.2011
Great post. My husband and I often discuss moving to Florida, even though we wouldn’t choose to live in Orlando. It would be so nice to be close to everything we love so much and only get to experience once in awhile… living quite a few states to say. I appreciate you keeping it real when you talk about the move. I couldn’t imagine moving when I was a senior in high school, and would have adamantly refused to go I think. Again, my situation was different because my mother’s income was tied to the school and our town. But I’m sure if my parents had the opportunity to move to FL at that point, they would have jumped on it… somehow. In a way, I think this change will be good for your girls because in life, there are tons of changes. I’ve been out of college for four years, my sister is about to graduate next year, and I know that looking for a job in your hometown or a few miles away is not the only option. You have to be open-minded in this economy and sometimes that means making moves you never expected to make. I’m sort of going off on a tangent. Changes always seem tough at first but in the end, they really do teach you a lot. I’m confident in your girls and know they will grow into mature, independent women because of all you have done. …the same will happen for you! (I also agree… I don’t think I could ever replace my girlfriends of 20+ years if I moved. You are right that it takes time and patience. It’s funny how history counts for so much, isn’t it?) Thanks again for sharing. It’s always a treat to see you have a new post up. Good luck with it all and have a great weekend! ~Stelle 8.26.2011
I love your honesty Amy, it makes these blogs worth reading. Life isnt always fun, these things are sent to challenge us and make us stronger people. You are such an inspirational writer and I look forward to your next blog. ~Tracey F. 8.26.2011
Thank you for you honesty Amy…And I know God will be there with you and your family through each up and down..You are a special person and it’s been like finding a rare treasure reading you blogs!! ~Terri 8.26.2011
I love your blog. I follow along with you and your family on your daily lives. I sat on the edge of my computer chair as you left Wi. and waited for every post. glad that you were safe. I seem to start most sentances with “Amy from Wi…..” I now say , “my friend Amy from Florida says….” lol I’m not a good writer, just a fan, and a “blog buddie” who enjoys your views and pics from sunny florida. Yes we dream of moving there too, just not looking forward to leaving our 12 grandkids..we are comming “home ” for a visit in Oct. Maybe we will run into each other… ~Kathy Blanchard 8.26.2011
My family and I are planning on making the move to Florida March of 2012. We’re so excited about it and I use your blog and the links you provide to help make the transition easier for our whole family. Thanks! ~Kim 8.30.2011
Great post! I love reading your blog, the ups AND the downs. That’s a part of life, even at WDW. It is nice to get a realistic view and I don’t at all get the impression you hate it or anything- i just get the impression you are having a great time, enjoying life and adjusting to a new lifestyle, which can bring about its own pains and challenges, even amid the magic. You may live near the magic, but real life still goes on, school, work, traffic etc. So it’s nice to hear it all, good and bad, no sugar coating. Thanks for sharing so much with us. The semester i lived at WDW for the WDWCP was awesome and I often regret I didn’t do more while I was there. Being able to just grab a coke and sit on main street and people watch sounds heavenly (without having to rush because you know you only have so many days here on vacation!) ~Michelle Peters 8.30.2011
As always… I loved the new blog! ~The McBryar Family 8.30.2011
Personally, I appreciate your honesty about the move. Nothing is perfect 100% of the time and it is great that you are putting the trials and tribulations out there along with the happiness and joy so that others can learn from you. I sure know I appreciate it and it will be helpful when my time to move finally comes. Thank you, Amy! ~Maureen 8.30.2011
A Great Post and a Great Website! I have never thought that you were trying to tell people not to move closer to the Mouse. You always give the “real” parts of relocating to Florida. I would rather know it all than just the good stuff. Because if/when we move down, We’ll know what to expect. THANKS, keep up the great work! ~Bruce 8.30.2011
Thanks for sharing Amy. We are planning on moving down to the Orlando area next year. We just sold our house here in Kentucky. Very nervous about the whole move and it helps to see that other people have their cons too. Thanks so much for this blog! ~Byron Fawley 9.4.2011
I have been reading your blog now for a little while. I have enjoyed reading about your move, and look forward to updates. We have a house in the area and would love to move there full time. Right now the house is a short term rental and we go down every few months for a week or two. Some day we will be living our dream too!! But for now I am enjoying your updates and can’t wait for more! ~Lori 9.6.2011
I have truly enjoyed reading about your most amazing journey.
And, I’m very fortunate to have finally met you at Lou’s November 2010 Meet of the Month and can’t wait for you and your family to finally arrive here in Central Florida.
I am very honored to be able to call you my good friend.
Be patient. The day will arrive sooner than you think!
Until then, keep up the awesome work on this amazing blog!
Your friend,
Scott
Hey there I am so glad I found your site, I really found you by accident, while I was looking on Yahoo for something else, Anyways I am here now and would just like to say thanks for a incredible post and a all round entertaining blog (I also love the theme/design), I donít have time to go through it all at the moment but I have bookmarked it and also added your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read a lot more, Please do keep up the superb job.
My family and I are planning on making the move to Florida March of 2012. We’re so excited about it and I use your blog
and the links you provide to help make the transition easier for our whole family. Thanks!
Your blog is awesome. Keep up the great work and having fun. You are quite an inspiration. ALL OF YOU!
Just read about you thru Digital Disney (which I love) and plan on following you as your journey continues. My wife and I have always talked about moving near Disney (we get emotional as well when we leave from vacation) but never the guts or nerves to do it. THANKS and wish you all the best!!!!