What happens when you combine Disney Vacation Club ownership, the Princess Half Marathon, and traveling with two toddlers? Pure magic, with a healthy dash of organized chaos! 

In this captivating episode, we chat with Kallie, a dedicated listener who turned her runDisney passion into the perfect excuse for her family's "welcome home" trip as new DVC owners. With her husband, two young children (ages 2 and 4), and the grandparents in tow, she embarked on a whirlwind February weekend at Disney's Riviera Resort.

Kallie takes us through her meticulous planning - from securing race registration to booking character dining for her daughter's birthday at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. Her family's adventures span Magic Kingdom madness with little ones, navigating EPCOT's Festival of the Arts, and the surreal experience of waking at 2:45 AM for a half marathon while on vacation.

What makes this story particularly special is how Kallie balances adult Disney dreams with creating magical moments for her children. Her "standard view" room overlooking EPCOT fireworks becomes the backdrop for nightly adult relaxation after putting the kids to bed. And of course the grandparents provide crucial support, allowing Kallie, her husband, and their older son to occasionally experience attractions not suitable for toddlers.

The episode offers practical wisdom for any Disney traveler - from using backpacks instead of loose items when folding strollers for bus transportation to the unexpected delight of Riviera's signature cookies (complete with pistachios, walnuts, and dried cherries). Kallie's infectious enthusiasm for Disney, from her childhood visits to now creating memories with her own children, reminds us why these vacations hold such special places in our hearts.

Whether you're considering DVC ownership, planning a runDisney event, or simply wondering how to survive Disney World with small children, this episode delivers inspiration, practical tips, and the reassurance that with proper planning (and perhaps a few grandparents), Disney magic is accessible at every stage of life.

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Adventures & Mousecapades is a passion project from Alicea & Nathan Novak - two Seattleites addicted to The Mouse. We are not affiliated with Disney, nor are we travel agents. Opinions are our own.

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