Andruletta,
I love the Park Hopper option personally, but I don't always get it. When I am with my young children, I don't find that we really need to park hop, as there is plenty for them to see in one park any given day. In your case I think you could skip it, unless you have a lot of dinner ADRs in Epcot.
As for the first park, your arrival day (the 11th) is sure to be a busy one, as there are a lot of activities, and Saturdays remain pretty busy, even during slower times of the year like then. Still, I would start with the Magic Kingdom. Take in the beautiful holiday decor and set your vacation off on the right note!
As to your dining plans, make sure you make your advanced dining reservations asap. Disney has extended the Free Dining Plan to the time that you are visiting, so that will mean that more people are going to be booking dining reservations than they might have otherwise. If you need a specific recommendation, write me back with;
- Location (park/resort area)
- Meal (Breafast/Lunch/Dinner)
- Type (Table/Quick Service)
- Preferences (Dinner Show/Character/Other)
- Likes and Dislikes
I can go from there to send you some great ideas.
Finally, as to your birthday, just make sure you have gotten a "Celebrating My Birthday" pin from your first park you visit. They are free, and if you wear it all week you will be surprised how special you will feel!
Have a magical vacation!