Hi, Paula. It is an absolute honor to talk to you today.
First I would like to start off by thanking your son for his service and offering you my most sincere condolences for your loss.
Paula, I too lost a parent when I was just 5 years old, so I can empathize with how your granddaughter is feeling. Another thing we have in common is that after my mother passed away, my father took us to Walt Disney World Resort for what was surely our most memorable vacation.
Paula, I know that every child is different, but experiencing such a magical vacation after my mother passed away brought my spirits up and let me see that there was still joy and magic to be had in the world, even after such a stunning loss. It also sparked a lifetime love of Walt Disney World Resort for our entire family, and now it's a place that we go to connect with one another, especially when we are going through tough times.
While character interactions are still restricted in order to comply with physical distancing guidelines, you can still give your granddaughter a day fit for a princess. I recommend that you surprise her with a new princess gown, with all of the accessories, and bring some make-up from home to create an in-room make-over. Once your princess is dressed and ready to go to the ball (I mean the Magic Kingdom), I recommend that you dine like royalty at
Cinderella's Royal Table. While the princesses are not promenading through the restaurant as they were before, Cinderella herself does tend to make an appearance to greet her courtiers. When I was a little girl, there was no more magical experience than getting to go inside the castle. It really is a memory I will always cherish.
If your granddaughter has a taste for adventure, like my little girl does, you can offer her a day of thrills at Disney's Hollywood Studios where she can see some of her favorite pals from Toy Story, Monsters Inc., and The Incredibles. After you view these cavalcades, head to
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge or
Toy Story Land for some thrills before visiting the land of Arendelle in
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration.
Paula, no matter what your family chooses to do on your magical vacation, this will be a trip that your granddaughter will always remember. I am speaking from experience when I say that a trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth can be life-changing for a little girl.
Please come back here if we can help you plan any aspect of your trip, Paula. We would love to help make your vacation truly magical.
See you real soon.
Sarah B.